What does it mean that broad is the road to destruction?

WHAT DOES THE BIBLE SAY?

In Matthew 7:13–14, Jesus explains two gates leading to two paths, which lead to two alternative eternal states: destruction or life. The way to eternal life is described as a narrow path and a narrow gate. Being narrow means it is hard to find and enter the gate, and the path is difficult. Spiritually speaking, Jesus is referring to the fact that there is only one way to enter heaven: through Him (John 14:6).

Conversely, the broad gate and broad path are extremely easy to pass through. Spiritually speaking, because the broad way does not require submitting to Christ or surrendering self, it is naturally followed by many. Yet this path leads to destruction. Destruction refers to the eternal condemnation waiting at the end of that way (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:9).

The world often teaches that there are many ways to God. However, in this illustration, Jesus reveals that all paths but the way through Him lead to eternal destruction. That is why He said to strive to enter the narrow way because most will not do so (Luke 13:24).

FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT

• The broad road to destruction is not mentioned in the Old Testament.

FROM THE NEW TESTAMENT

• In Matthew 7, Jesus offers exhortations on two types of people: those who will enter the kingdom and those who will not. He begins with this illustration of two different paths (or ways). In Matthew 7:13–14, we read, “Enter by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.”
• Notice that there are two gates and two ways. One is a narrow gate and a narrow path. Being “narrow” refers to how difficult it is to find and enter. Think of a tiny gate in a hedge and a winding path overgrown by bushes. It’s difficult to find and hard to move once inside. Jesus said that it was this small and difficult path that leads to life, by which He meant, eternal life. Elsewhere, Jesus taught, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). Thus, in the Matthew illustration, He is talking about the exclusive way to eternal life that comes only through Himself.
• In contrast, there is the broad gate and the wide path. Imagine a giant gate opening into a large, flat field with a wide, paved road stretching straight ahead. Unlike the narrow gate, this one is very easy to enter, and the path is pleasant. However, at the end of this path is destruction, eternal condemnation (cf. 2 Thessalonians 1:9). Being broad means that entry is unrestricted. Unlike the narrow path, one need not submit to Jesus to enter, so people easily and naturally follow this path.
• By giving this illustration, Jesus was warning that it’s much easier to go to Hell (destruction) than it is to Heaven (life). Indeed, everyone is born already headed there (cf. Romans 3:10–18). Elsewhere, Jesus said, “Strive to enter through the narrow door. For many, I tell you, will seek to enter and will not be able” (Luke 13:24). He was saying that because the narrow road was exclusive, few will be saved from eternal destruction.

IMPLICATIONS FOR TODAY

Everyone’s going somewhere—most just never question the road they’re on.

But most people take the easiest road—going along with what everyone else is doing, avoiding hard conversations, chasing comfort over growth, or choosing what feels good now over what is right and actually leads somewhere meaningful. The broad road is the path of least resistance: the extra shortcut at work that compromises integrity, the relationship you stay in because it’s convenient but not because it's right, the habits you don’t confront because change feels uncomfortable.   The danger with the broad, easy road is that it does not feel dangerous—it's wide, smooth, and crowded with people doing the same thing, which makes us think it is right. But the reality is that it leads us to destruction, whether immediately or in the long run.

The narrow road looks different—it requires saying no when others say yes, choosing discipline over ease, truth over approval or comfort, and long-term purpose over short-term gain. It's harder and lonelier at times, and often misunderstood, but it's the only path that actually leads somewhere worth going. So, we must ask ourselves: is the path we are on shaped by what is easy or by what is right and the truth of where that path actually leads?

The narrow road of following Jesus leads to life and flourishing. He alone cleared the barrier of sin and made it possible for us to be forgiven and freed. If you have not entrusted your life to Him, we encourage you to get off the road to destruction now. Repent of your sins and trust in Jesus’ work. When you do, God will count Jesus’ death as payment for your sin, and you will live with Him forever. That narrow road is an amazing journey!

UNDERSTAND

• The broad road represents the path most people follow because it does not require submission to Christ.
• The broad road is "broad" in the sense that it's inclusive and open to everyone, but it leads to destruction.
• The narrow road is exclusive, requiring submission to Jesus as the only way to God, but it leads to life.

REFLECT

• Where in your life are you choosing what is easy or popular instead of what is right and life-giving?
• What habits, relationships, or decisions might be keeping you on the “broad road” without you realizing it?
• What would it practically look like for you to live on the narrow road, even if it costs you comfort or approval?

ENGAGE

• Why does the “broad road” feel so normal and appealing in everyday life, even when it leads in the wrong direction?
• How can we discern the difference between what is simply difficult and what is actually the narrow path that leads to life?
• What are practical ways Christians can encourage each other to live out our salvation even when it feels isolating or challenging?