Matthew 7:14
KJV
Because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it.
ESV
For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few.
The KJV stands out in Matthew 7:14 with its reading of “narrow”, whereas versions like the ESV and NKJV read “hard” and “difficult”, respectively. According to Scripture, salvation is indeed narrow, being exclusive to Jesus Christ (John 14:6), and not difficult or hard, as it’s a gift from God (Rom. 6:23; Rom. 11:6; Eph. 2:8-9). The KJV’s “narrow” maintains the contrast with the “broad” road (Matthew 7:13), emphasizing the singular path to eternal life.
Scripture quotations marked (ESV) are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. ESV Text Edition: 2025. The ESV text may not be quoted in any publication made available to the public by a Creative Commons license. The ESV may not be translated in whole or in part into any other language. Used by permission. All rights reserved. www.esv.org