Sermon Central
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Charles Blondin
Contributed by Revd. Martin Dale on Oct 21, 2025 (message contributor)
Story:
In the late 19th century (1859), Charles Blondin (born Jean François Gravelet, 28 February 1824 – 22 February 1897)a famous tightrope walker had a tightrope placed across the Niagara Falls in the USA.
He then proceeded to walk across it with a wheelbarrow in front of him.
Having reached the other side, he stepped down to the applause of the crowd.
He went up to members of the crowd and asked:
"Do you believe that I can walk back on that rope without falling off?" "Yes" they each replied.
"Do you really believe I can make" he asked. "Yes" they replied. "We've just seen you do it"
"Then" said Blondin "Will you please step inside my wheelbarrow and come with me".
"Oh no" they replied "It is far too dangerous".
This is the difference between believing in God - and the full commitment that Jesus requires with discipleship.
Stepping into the wheelbarrow means we really commit ourselves to him.
We give up the things of this world – to follow him
That is what entering by the narrow gate is all about
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