Scripture Verse

Strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. Matthew 7:14

Introduction

Words & Mu­sic: George F. Root, in Gos­pel Hymns No. 6, by Ira D. San­key, James Mc­Gra­na­han & George C. Steb­bins (New York & Chi­ca­go, Il­li­nois: Big­low & Main and John Church, 1891), num­ber 6 (🔊 pdf nwc).

portrait
George F. Root
1820–1895

Lyrics

Why do you linger, why do you stay
In the broad road, that most dangerous way?
While right before you, narrow and strait,
Is the bright pathway to Heav’n’s pearly gate?

Refrain

Narrow and strait, narrow and strait,
Is the bright pathway to Heav’n’s pearly gate.

Do you find pleasures, lasting and pure,
In the gay scenes that the thoughtless allure?
While your Redeemer, with love so great,
Points to the way that is narrow and strait?

Refrain

Come, then, belovèd, no longer stay;
Leave the broad highway, O leave it today;
Make your decision, O, do not wait;
Take thou the pathway so narrow and strait.

Refrain