Wicket Gate Explained

Historically speaking….

A wicket gate was a small, narrow door set within or beside a larger gate, allowing controlled, individual entry without opening the main gate. Common in medieval cities, castles, monasteries, and estates, it required intentional, humble passage—often one person at a time—and provided greater security through ease of guarding and monitoring.

Theologically speaking….

A wicket gate is a rich symbol drawn primarily from Jesus’ own words and later illustrated powerfully in John Bunyan’s The Pilgrim’s Progress. It represents Jesus Christ Himself as the entrance into salvation and a true relationship with God.

Jesus said:

“Enter by the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the way that leads to destruction… because narrow is the gate and difficult is the way which leads to life” (Matthew 7:13–14).

He also declared:

“I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved” (John 10:9).

Together, these passages reveal that salvation is not found through many paths, self-effort, or religious performance—but through Jesus Christ.

BIBLE VERSE ANALYSIS

Subject | Verb Tense

MATTHEW 7:13-14

King James Version

Amplified Version

English Standard Version

“Enter ye in at the strait gate: 

for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat:

“Enter through the narrow gate. 

For wide is the gate and broad and easy to travel is the path that leads the way to destruction and eternal loss, and there are many who enter through it.

"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.

Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it."

But small is the gate and narrow and difficult to travel is the path that leads the way to [everlasting] life, and there are few who find it."

For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few."

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BIBLE STUDY HINTS

As you read, invite the Holy Spirit to open your heart and mind to the Scriptures, granting you wisdom and deeper understanding of the passages. Take time to write your thoughts in the margins, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide your reflections. Be intentional in marking words associated with God, Jesus, or the Holy Spirit—place a triangle around them, as they represent the continuous thread of God’s presence throughout the text. Pay special attention to the verb tenses the authors use by circling the verbs in each passage; the timing of these actions is significant.

These symbols will act as visual reminders, drawing your attention back to these key elements whenever you revisit the text. This process will enrich your engagement and ensure that no insight is missed. Remember, when reflecting on your notes, avoid judging the thoughts you’ve written in the past. Every note serves a purpose and is a step in your ongoing faith journey with God.