Will Many Be Saved?

Aug. 24, 2025

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is asked, “Lord, will only a few be saved?” In the present time, there are many who believe that the answer is “Yes, only a few will be saved.” There are many others who believe that all or almost all will be saved. How did Jesus respond?
   
As He often did, He refused to answer the question that He was asked. Jesus always answers the question He wants to answer, staying in control of the narrative. Rather than saying that only a few or almost everyone will be saved, He says, “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will try to enter, but will not be strong enough.”

He is saying that it is very possible not to be saved and that we should make every possible effort to gain salvation. There is a sin known as “presumption,” which is believing that God will save me no matter how I choose to live. So, if I commit this serious sin, it is alright, because God will forgive me, no matter what.
   
We know that our God is compassionate and loving and will not quickly deny anyone the blessings of heaven, but He is not the divine patsy who has no backbone and can be treated with disrespect and contempt. It is possible to lose our salvation, so we must strive to be faithful, confident that if we are serious about following Christ, He will make salvation available to us.
—Fr. Mike Comer