Was going through some old studies and came across this one...
Enter ye in at the strait [stenos] gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:
Mat 7:14 Because
strait is the gate, and
narrow [thlibō]
is the way,
which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.[/list:u]
What is interesting is how this word
thlibo; is used in other verses.
Check it out:
2Co 1:6 And whether we be
afflicted, it is for your consolation and salvation, which is effectual in the enduring of the same sufferings which we also suffer: or whether we be comforted, it is for your consolation and salvation.
2Co 4:8 We are
troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair;
2Co 7:5 For, when we were come into Macedonia, our flesh had no rest, but we were
troubled on every side; without were fightings, within were fears.
1Th 3:4 For verily, when we were with you, we told you before that we should suffer
tribulation; even as it came to pass, and ye know.
2Th 1:7 And to you who are
troubled rest with us, when the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels,
1Ti 5:10 Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the
afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.
Heb 11:37 They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute,
afflicted, tormented;[/list:u]
Now notice this verse:
Act 14:22 Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that
we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God.[/list:u]
Chrissie