GATE
GATE
Understanding the Significance of Gates
To grasp the significance of the title “Gate,” we must recognize how gates functioned in the ancient world. One of the worst tragedies that could befall a walled city was having its gates breached. A broken gate left the city defenseless against marauders. This is illustrated in the story of Samson, who carried off the gates of Gaza, effectively demolishing the city’s defenses (Judges 16:1-3).
Cities of size typically had multiple gates, all of which required protection. Beyond their defensive role, city gates were also centers of social and administrative activity. Elders gathered there to render judgments and conduct business, and prophets announced divine messages at the gates.
The Hebrew word for gates is sa’ar. This term referred not only to city gates but also to temple gates. Psalm 118:19 describes them as the “gates of righteousness,” signifying that by entering the temple, the Israelites accessed God’s presence. Even heaven is depicted with gates; when Jacob dreamed of angels ascending and descending, he awoke and exclaimed, “How awesome is this place! This is none other than the house of God; this is the gate of heaven” (Genesis 28:17 NIV).
In the New Testament, two primary Greek words are used for “gate.” The first, pule, can be translated as “gate” or “city gate.” Jesus used this word when he instructed his followers in Matthew 7:13 to “Enter through the narrow gate.” He used it again in Matthew 16:18 to assure Peter that the gates of hell would never overpower the church. This passage implies that the church is advancing against the gates of hell, which will not withstand it.
The second Greek word is thura, which can mean “door,” “gate,” or “entrance.” This is the term Jesus used when he declared, “I am the gate. Those who enter the sheep pen through me will be saved” (John 10:9).
Praying to Our Gate
“Something there is that doesn’t love a wall.” If the ancient world had encountered Robert Frost’s poetry, they might have scoffed at this line, believing it irrelevant to their time, when walls were crucial for city defense.
When Jesus referred to himself as the gate, he spoke not of city walls but of an enclosure for sheep. This enclosure was not a neat wooden fence surrounding a lush pasture. Shepherding in Israel was rugged, requiring shepherds to lead their sheep to hillsides for grazing. Rather than bringing them home each night, shepherds would keep watch over their sheep. At night, the sheep would be led into an enclosure with walls but no gate. The shepherd would lie down across the opening, effectively becoming the gate, preventing the sheep from wandering off and keeping predators at bay.
By using this imagery, Jesus communicates that he will protect everyone who belongs to him, even at the cost of his life. No matter the tragedies that may come, Jesus will not allow anything or anyone to snatch us from him.
Lord, when we walk through the valley of the shadow of death, we will fear no evil, for even there you will be with us, your rod and your staff to comfort us. Jesus, you are heaven’s Gate, the way to eternal life.
Promises Associated with the Name
“Open the gates of righteousness for me. I will go through them and give thanks to Yah. This is the gate of Yahweh through which righteous people will enter. I give thanks to you because you have answered me. You are my savior.”
— Psalm 118:19-21
“Enter through the narrow gate because the gate and road that lead to destruction are wide. Many enter through the wide gate. But the narrow gate and the road that lead to life are full of trouble. Only a few people find the narrow gate.”
— Matthew 7:13-14
Reflection
The title of Gate emphasizes Jesus as the essential entry point to salvation and eternal life. He serves as our protector, ensuring that we are safe from harm. In a world where we face dangers and uncertainties, Jesus stands as a steadfast guardian, inviting us to enter through him and experience the fullness of life.
As we pray to Jesus, our Gate, we can find assurance in his promise of safety and guidance. He invites us into a relationship where we are welcomed and loved, providing us with peace as we navigate life’s challenges. May we always seek refuge in him, knowing that he will keep us secure and lead us to eternal life.
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