Recent events in the Middle East have focused our attention on the Strait of Hormuz. A strait is “a narrow, naturally formed waterway that connect two larger bodies of water” (National Geographic Society). The Strait of Hormuz is a vital chokepoint connecting the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman.
The “straight and narrow” is descriptive of the Christian’s walk. Our familiarity with this expression is likely the result of hearing Jesus say, “Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the way is broad that leads to destruction, and there are many who enter through it. For the gate is small and the way is narrow that leads to life, and there are few who find it” (Matthew 7:14).
The King James Version uses “strait” to describe the gate through which we enter the narrow way that leads to life. In our language, “straight and narrow” derives from “strait and narrow.” The sense is that we must walk a hard and difficult path as compared to those who choose to walk the “wide”, “broad” and well-traveled path that leads to destruction. While a “straight” path is preferred (Prov. 4:26), in this passage, Jesus is talking about a life that is well-tested by those who would turn us away from following Jesus (Jn. 14:6).
Think about it. We are striving hard to squeeze through the narrow gate so as to follow the path that leads to life eternal. The strait has been mined. Missiles have been launched. But, with faith as our shield, we are “able to extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one” (Eph. 6:16). The victory that overcomes the world is our faith (1 Jn. 5:4). But, we must enter into the fray, trusting Jesus to keep our vessel safe until such time as we drop anchor on the heavenly shore.
— Glen Elliott —