4. The Narrow Door

Question 1

1. Context

Answer 1

• Parable is unique to Luke

• Matthew contains a warning about the broad gate to Hell and the narrow gate to Heaven
• John: Jesus refers to himself as the Gate that leads to salvation

Question 2

2. Meaning

Answer 2

• This is an apocalyptic discourse (owner of the house is God)

• Those who stand outside knocking are souls being judged and wanting to enter the Kingdom of God
• Similar to inferior soils in the Parable of the Sower

Question 3

3. Implications

Answer 3

• Sense of urgency but not specific (imminent or future?)
• Could support either Conzelmann or Marshall

• This leads to a different interpretation…
- House represents church which must close the door to people who converted to Christianity but reverted to paganism and now wish to return to Christianity

Question 4

Summary

Answer 4

1. Context
2. Meaning
3. Implications