Luke 13:22Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

Jesus traveled through towns and communities, teaching as He went. He did not overlook the smaller villages in favor of the larger cities, as those who seek to mislead the humble might do, nor did He focus solely on the cities to gain recognition, as those who desire honor might attempt. Rather, He went everywhere, embodying the role of a compassionate ruler, or more aptly, a caring Father who nurtures all. It cannot be said that He avoided the outer towns, which lacked many knowledgeable in the Law, out of fear of the disapproval of the learned in Jerusalem, or out of dread of the death they might bring. Rather, it is noted that He was 'directing the way' to Jerusalem. For where the number of the afflicted increases, there the healer must also be present (Matt. 9:12).

Humanity has sought to understand salvation, questioning whether many find it (Luke 13:23). In response, Jesus revealed the path to salvation, instructing, "Strive to enter through the narrow gate" (Luke 13:24). How should we respond to this teaching? Gaining insight into how one can attain salvation is essential and meaningful. Jesus intentionally refrains from addressing pointless inquiries. Instead, He focuses on imparting valuable knowledge essential for fulfilling the responsibilities that enable individuals to pass through the narrow gate.

As the Lord continued His journey, He took the opportunity to clarify to His disciples and the crowds that only a small number of the Jewish people would be privileged to enter the kingdom. When someone inquired, “Are there few who will be saved?” the Lord did not provide a straightforward answer of yes or no; instead, He indicated that while many would strive to find Him, it would be too late for them. The gates will be closed, and the celebration will commence without their presence. Therefore, regardless of how constricted the path may seem, we must act swiftly, lest we find ourselves too late for those around us. The first shall be last, and the last shall be first. The Gentiles will come in, while the heirs of the kingdom will be cast out.

Εις Ιερουσαλήμ can signify both intention and trajectory. In this context, it should be interpreted in the latter way, as the path leads to Bethany and subsequently towards Jerusalem.

In anticipation of the upcoming celebration of restoration, Jesus made His way to Jerusalem, journeying through various towns and villages, imparting teachings to the crowds that had gathered around Him.

"By towns and communities": in Galilee, where much of what has been described transpired, as can be seen from the more detailed references in the Gospel accounts of Matthew and Mark. - "Guiding the path to Jerusalem": via Perea, or the so-called region beyond the Jordan, as also indicated by the corresponding texts in the other Gospels, and from the fact that during the last Passover, the Lord journeyed through Jericho (Lk. 18:35-Lk. 19:1), which was situated on the beyond-Jordan route from Galilee to Jerusalem (cf. Lk. 5:26, Lk. 9:43).

As the Divine Teacher of heavenly knowledge, the Lord was accessible to all who pursued His guidance or sought resolutions for their uncertainties. When addressing personal inquiries, He often redirected His discourse for the collective enlightenment of those around Him. Observing, likely influenced by the Lord’s rebukes aimed at the unbelieving Jews, that true justification before God involved more than mere physical lineage from Abraham, and recognizing that many who remain in disbelief would not find salvation, an individual approached the Savior with the inquiry: Lord, are there few who are saved?