Christian Quote by Symeon the New Theologian
“Since 'the kingdom of heaven suffers violence and the violent take it by force' (Mt. 11:12), and it is impossible for the faithful to enter it by any other way, unless they come through the narrow gate of trials and tribulations, the divine oracle rightly commands us, saying: 'Strive to enter by the narrow door' (Lk. 13:24). Again He says, 'By your endurance you will gain your souls' (Lk. 21:19), and, 'Through many tribulations we must enter the kingdom of heaven' (Acts 14:22).”
About This Quote
Source Treatise: The Ascetical Homilies, Symeon the New Theologian, 10th century
Entering the kingdom requires enduring trials, perseverance, and choosing the narrow, difficult path.
In simple terms: Faith demands hardship and steadfastness.
Key Takeaway
Embrace challenges for spiritual growth.
Themes
spirituality
perseverance
faith
Mood
contemplative
hopeful
Type
religious
philosophical
When to use this quote
- pilgrimage
- personal trials
- ethical decision making
- spiritual discipline
Key Concepts
theology
asceticism
divine promise
Questions to Reflect On
- What trials are you willing to endure?
- How does perseverance shape your faith?
A Different Perspective
Not all will accept suffering as a path to salvation.
![“Radio stations have constructed a narrow door[way], and that's because they don't understand how complex and paradoxical our snap judgments are. It's hard to measure new songs.” quote by Malcolm Gladwell](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/478/malcolm-gladwell-348_complexes_radio-stations-have-constructed-a-narrow_2513107.jpg)
![“by the narrow gate. For the gate is wide and the way is easy [1] that leads to destruction, and those who enter by it are many. 14For the gate is narrow and h the way is hard that leads to life, and i those who find it are few.” quote by Anonymous](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/dae/anonymous-1_life_by-the-narrow-gate-for-the-gate-is-wide_1798762.jpg)
![“A Barna poll shows that for every American who believes he or she is going to Hell, there are 120 who believe they’re going to Heaven.[4] Yet Christ said otherwise: “Enter through the narrow gate. For wide is the gate and broad is the road that leads to destruction, and many enter through it. But…” quote by Randy Alcorn](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/90d/randy-alcorn-1180_quote_a-barna-poll-shows-that-for-every-americ_1695573.jpg)
