Luke 13:23Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

The ship is steered to the appropriate harbor by its rudder; similarly, the Word of God takes hold of the human spirit and guides it flawlessly towards all that is essential for salvation. Thus, it has been declared by one of the holy prophets, ‘Take with you words,’ specifically those inspired by the Holy Spirit, for no rational individual would claim that this refers to the utterances of the wise of this age. Their words lead humanity into the depths of destruction, promoting polytheism and enticing people towards earthly desires and empty worldly distractions. In contrast, the words of God illuminate the path to a more virtuous existence, igniting within us a passion that encourages us to actively pursue all the deeds through which we can share in eternal life. Therefore, let us listen attentively to the words of the Savior, which He spoke to those desirous of understanding, though few of them find salvation.

A certain individual addressed Him, saying, "Master, is it not true that many will be granted salvation?" Here, "addressed" replaces "asked." However, He responded to them, (see 24).

Notes: Some commentators, including Euthymius, interpret the preposition εἰ (translated as "whether") as the interrogative particle ἆρα ("whether"). We have not included this in the translation. This example illustrates the use of the preposition 'εἰ' to introduce a direct inquiry, which is uncommon in Classical Greek but observed in the New Testament. It may suggest an implied but missing verb such as "I wonder" or "I seek to know."

As the Lord continued His journey, He took the opportunity to convey to the disciples and the crowd that only a small number of the Jews would be privileged to enter the kingdom. When someone inquired, "Are there few who will be saved?" the Lord refrained from giving a straightforward yes or no. Instead, He indicated that many would strive to find Him, yet they would find it too late. The doors will be closed, and the celebration will commence without them. Therefore, regardless of how challenging the path may seem, we must act swiftly. If we do not, we might miss the opportunity for our neighbors. Those who are first will become last, and those who are last will become first. The Gentiles will be welcomed in, while the children of the kingdom will be cast out.

The individual who inquired of Jesus Christ regarding the limited number of the saved is not identified by Eu, nor is the reason behind this inquiry made clear.

In light of the parable that has just been shared, it is likely that an individual posed this inquiry to Jesus: Are there not many who will be saved? The Evangelist does not specify when, where, or by whom this question was raised, yet it seems fitting to relate it to the discussion following the parable of the invited guests, as referenced in Luke 14:24. The query pertains to whether many will be saved, meaning those who are permitted to enter or deemed worthy of the kingdom of the Messiah, the kingdom of God, and heaven.

The identity of the individual posing the question in the Gospel account remains unclear, as does his motivation and intent behind the inquiry; it is also not indicated that he was on foot at that moment. It is possible that the questioner had been made aware of the stringent demands set by the Savior for those desiring to enter the kingdom of the Messiah. The term "saved" refers to being granted access into this kingdom, deserving of entry therein. When the Lord responded, He addressed all those present rather than conferring special attention solely on the questioner. In line with His usual practice, He replied to a theoretical inquiry with practical guidance.

As the Divine Instructor of heavenly wisdom, the Lord was accessible to all who sought His guidance or the resolution of their doubts. In addressing private inquiries, He often directed His words toward the collective benefit of those present. Noticing, perhaps due to the Lord's admonitions toward the faithless Jews, that justification before God transcends merely having a physical lineage from Abraham, and understanding that many who remain in unbelief will not receive salvation, one approached the Savior, asking, "Lord, are there few who are saved?" In His response, aimed not just at the que