The Strait Gate and the Minority Discipleship

We’ve all felt it – that subtle pressure, that quiet discouragement, that internal wrestling when our convictions differ from the prevailing currents, even within the Church. It's easy to assume that righteousness guarantees acceptance, but the Savior’s words in Matthew 7 are a stark reminder: “Enter ye in at the straight gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat, because straight is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it” (Matthew 7:13-14). The discomfort arises not from a lack of faith, but from a faithful adherence to the covenants.

Recently, listening to the Cwic Media podcast, “Come Follow Me LDS,” the hosts eloquently unpacked this principle.

They didn't shy away from the implications. Being on the strait and narrow isn't about finding a comfortable niche; it's about recognizing that, by definition, you will often be a minority. This isn't a condemnation, but a vital piece of the disciple’s toolkit.

The implications extend beyond the visible boundaries of the Church. We’re not merely navigating disagreements with the world; we’re contending with ideologies that seek to reshape our values, to subtly shift our priorities, to redefine what constitutes righteousness. The podcast rightly warns us to “beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves” (Matthew 7:15). This isn't limited to those who preach a different gospel; it's about recognizing the subtle manipulations that occur in every sphere of life – politics, family, work, even within our own congregations.

How do we discern these wolves? The answer, as Christ taught, lies in observing the fruits. “You shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?” (Matthew 7:16). It's not enough to listen to eloquent arguments; we must examine the consequences, the outcomes, the long-term effects of embracing a particular ideology or following a particular leader. This requires a deep, abiding faith—a willingness to trust the Spirit even when it leads us down paths less traveled.

The iron rod, as described in 1 Nephi 11, isn’t a symbol of easy progress; it's a guide through a wilderness of darkness, a constant reminder that the path to eternal life is narrow and requires unwavering commitment. The Nephites who grasped the rod experienced opposition, they felt the mist of darkness, but they persevered because they held fast to the truth. Similarly, we must cultivate resilience, a steadfastness of purpose that allows us to endure the inevitable opposition that arises when we strive to live righteously.

This isn't a call to isolation, but a call to discernment. It’s a challenge to maintain prophetic perspective, to seek counsel from trusted brethren, and to rely on the Spirit to guide our steps. It's a reminder that true discipleship demands more than mere agreement; it demands unwavering obedience, even when it means standing alone.

May we all strengthen our grip on the iron rod, and find solace in the knowledge that we are not alone, even in our minority.