Note 2 at Lk. 13:24: The Greek word used for "strive" in this verse is "agonizomai." It means "to struggle; to compete for a prize; to contend with an adversary; to endeavor to accomplish something; fight; labor fervently." It definitely implies that there is effort involved in obtaining salvation. True salvation is not just mental assent but a real heart-felt commitment.

The effort implied here is not for the purpose of earning salvation. That is a free gift (Rom. 5:15); but we do have to fight the good fight of faith (1 Tim. 6:12). Faith in Jesus' goodness is what saves us--not our own goodness-- and Satan is constantly trying to destroy our faith. We have to earnestly contend for the faith (Jude 3).

Note 3 at Lk. 13:24: Jesus said that many will seek to enter salvation and will not be able to. There are many reasons for this but none of those reasons are because God refused salvation to anyone. "The grace of God that brings salvation has appeared to all men . . ." (Ti. 2:11) and God is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" (2 Pet. 3:9).

As Jesus goes on to explain in verse 25, some will not really seek salvation until it is too late. Others "have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God's righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God" (Rom. 10:2-3). Others may give lip service but they do not believe from their heart (Lk. 6:46; Rom. 10:10).

We can rest assured that all those who hunger and thirst after righteousness shall be filled (Mt. 5:6). "Whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved" (Rom. 10:13).