“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it.”
Matthew 7:13-14
Whenever I read this passage, the phrase, “highway to hell,” reminds me of AD/DC’s 1979 classic song, “Highway to Hell.” In interviews, the band said they were referring to the grueling tour schedule that they had to play concerts and promote their albums.
The lyrics to the song, though, are deeper than just the band singing about the tough life of being in a rock and roll band. “Goin’ down, Party time, My friends are gonna be there too. I’m on the highway to hell.”
“Hey satan, Payin’ my dues, Playin’ in a rockin’ band, Hey mumma, Look at me. I’m on the way to the promised land. I’m on the highway to hell” (Highway to Hell: Angus McKinnon Young, Ronald Belford Scott, Malcolm Mitchell Young, 1979)
This song is still a hit 30+ years later and is still being recorded by other bands. I think the reason this song maintains its popularity and continues to be sung is that it captures the worldview of so many people. There is the idea that we can live however we want to in this life and just keep right on partying in hell.
Hell is not a pleasant subject but it is one that Jesus spoke of on more than one occasion. Whether we believe what the Bible says about a literal hell with fire or whether we believe that is just a metaphor, hell is always described as eternal separation from God. There is nothing in the Scriptures to indicate that hell is going to be a fun place where we can party with our friends.
A more literal translation of “The highway to hell” in this passage in Matthew would be, “The road that leads to destruction.” It may look like the road we want to be on. It may look like the party road. The end of the road, however, is eternal destruction and separation from God.
The other gate is much narrower and not as easy to see. The other road is more challenging and difficult. It’s destination, though, is a rich and meaningful life here and eternal life with our Heavenly Father. May God help us to find that narrow gate that leads to life and may we help others to find it as well!
David and Annie are serving the Lord in Brazil. They are training leaders and helping plant churches. You can be a part of their ministry. Just click here to get involved. Obrigado!
