Sermon: The Narrow Path

Jesus does something incredibly weird to modern-day observers: he pushed the masses away.  Why would someone do that if he's trying to save as many people as possible?  Jesus has a keen understanding of how compassion and truth mix together; he welcomed all into his arms but still preached a "hard truth" that many couldn't accept.  What does it look like when we "accept" this hard truth?  Is it a matter of being tougher and more determined, or is it a matter of identity that keeps us on the narrow path?