Great Expectations I: Gatekeepers
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Gatekeeper, gatekeeper, I'm the Big Bad Wolf, let me in
Gatekeeper, gatekeeper, I'm one of the beautiful people, let me in
Gatekeeper, gatekeeper, I have a Platinum American Express Card, let me in
Gatekeeper, gatekeeper, I'm down on my knees, let me in
Gatekeeper, gatekeeper, hear my humble plea "Please, oh please, just let me in"
(Steve Matthews)
Who is a Gate-keeper?
The Pharisees, Sadducees, and Teachers of the Law in Jesus’ time were gatekeepers—custodians of the Kingdom's treasure. They were meant to stand at the gate and welcome willing hearts, to guide the weak and the hungry into a place of abundance. They were also expected to defend the gate, even against powerful “wolves,” regardless of status or influence.
Yet, Jesus’ verdict on their gatekeeping was severe:
You shut the door of the kingdom of heaven in people’s faces. You yourselves do not enter, nor will you let those enter who are trying to....Matthew 23:13What a sobering judgment. Not only did they fail to experience the Kingdom of God themselves, but they also prevented others from entering. Was this wickedness, negligence, or simply ignorance of their true responsibility?
The Role of a Gatekeeper
A gatekeeper preserves the integrity of what lies beyond the gate—often something valuable, sacred, or significant. It may be resources, relationships, or access to influential spaces that must be guarded.
However, a gatekeeper is not merely a guard. They are also a guide and a support system—someone who prepares and helps others gain access to what lies beyond the gate.
It is, therefore, tragic that those entrusted with such responsibility in Jesus’ time failed so miserably. Jesus truly had great expectations of them, but they neither understood their role nor did they have great expectations for themselves; therefore, they miserably failed at their assignment.
Expectations of a gatekeeper
From Jesus’ words in Matthew 23:13, it is clear that this kind of gatekeeper is not a typical security officer or receptionist. This is a role of deep responsibility and spiritual significance.
From Jesus' teaching, we can draw three key expectations:
The gatekeeper must personally know and experience what lies beyond the gate.
The gatekeeper must be actively involved at the gate, guiding and supporting others.
The gatekeeper must uphold standards and establish pathways that preserve the integrity of the gate.
Examples of Gatekeepers in History
There have been many influential figures who acted as gatekeepers in different contexts, but few meet all three criteria outlined by Jesus.
Mansa Musa, one of the wealthiest men in history, demonstrated extraordinary generosity during his journey from Mali to Cairo. His actions reflect the second expectation—helping others access resources through the gate—but generosity alone does not fulfil the full responsibility of a gatekeeper, particularly in maintaining standards or systems.
Similarly, White House Chiefs of Staff are often referred to as “gatekeepers” because they control access to the President of the United States. In "The Gatekeepers" by Chris Whipple, figures like James Baker, Leon Panetta, and Rahm Emanuel are shown to have immense influence over policy and decision-making. While they fulfil aspects of managing access and shaping systems, they do not fully meet the deeper criteria described by Jesus—they were neither the source of authority nor did they raise others to that same level.
A Biblical Example: Samuel
One biblical figure who comes close to fulfilling these criteria is Samuel.
Samuel was mentored by Eli and witnessed both the failures and consequences of bad leadership in Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas. These early experiences shaped his understanding of responsibility.
As a judge, Samuel fulfilled the first criterion, having direct experience with God’s leadership.
He was deeply hands-on, confronting sin—even in his own household—and intervening in national leadership by rebuking Saul and anointing David.
He upheld God’s standards, ensuring that leadership aligned with divine principles.
Samuel anointed multiple leaders and consistently acted to preserve the integrity of God’s purpose. In many ways, he embodied the role of a true gatekeeper.
The Ultimate Gatekeeper: Jesus Christ
Ultimately, no one fully embodies these three criteria except Jesus Christ.
He perfectly fulfils the first criterion—having experienced the fullness of God as both fully God and fully man. Colossians 2:9
He fulfils the second criterion—actively interceding for humanity and continually drawing people into the Kingdom. 2 Cor. 2:15-17
He fulfils the third criterion—being the very standard and fulfilment of God’s will and promises. Eph. 2:20, 1 Pt. 2:4
Jesus is not just a gatekeeper; He is the gate itself—the one who grants access to salvation and sustains the order of God’s Kingdom.
The Calling of Every Christian
Every Christian is called to be a gatekeeper. Mtt. 28:19-20. Selah
To follow Christ is to experience His presence and then help others encounter Him. It is to live in a way that reflects His truth while preserving the integrity of the salvation we have received.
It is not enough to know Christ. A true gatekeeper:
Lives out the testimony of Christ. Rev. 12:11
Guides others toward Him. 2 Tim 2:2
Maintains integrity and character. 1 Tim. 4:12
This is both a responsibility and a privilege.
Conclusion
The call to be a gatekeeper is a high one. It requires experience, responsibility, and integrity. It demands that we not only enter the Kingdom but also help others find their way in—without compromising its standards.
May we rise to this calling, live faithfully, and be found worthy of His commendation.
Great Expectations!!!
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