The phrase "The last will be first, and the first will be last" is a profound teaching of Jesus Christ found in the New Testament, specifically in the Gospels of Matthew and Mark. This statement encapsulates a key principle of the Kingdom of God, challenging worldly notions of status, privilege, and reward.

Biblical Context

The phrase appears in several contexts within the Gospels, most notably in Matthew 19:30, Matthew 20:16, and Mark 10:31. In Matthew 19:30 , Jesus says, "But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first." This statement follows the encounter with the rich young ruler, where Jesus teaches about the difficulty for the wealthy to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. It serves as a reminder that earthly wealth and status do not equate to spiritual favor.

In Matthew 20:16 , the phrase concludes the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard: "So the last will be first, and the first will be last." This parable illustrates the generosity and sovereignty of God, who rewards not based on human merit or time served but according to His grace and purpose. The workers hired last receive the same wage as those hired first, symbolizing the equal treatment and unexpected reversals in God's Kingdom.

In Mark 10:31 , the phrase is reiterated: "But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first." This follows Jesus' teaching on the cost of discipleship and the rewards of leaving everything to follow Him. It emphasizes the reversal of human expectations in the divine economy.

Theological Significance

The teaching "The last will be first, and the first will be last" underscores the radical nature of the Kingdom of God. It challenges the conventional wisdom of the world, where power, wealth, and status often determine one's position and influence. In God's Kingdom, humility, service, and faithfulness are the true measures of greatness.

This principle is a call to humility and a warning against pride and self-reliance. It reminds believers that God's ways are higher than human ways (Isaiah 55:8-9) and that His judgments are based on His perfect wisdom and justice. The teaching encourages Christians to trust in God's timing and purposes, knowing that He will exalt the humble and bring low the proud (James 4:10, 1 Peter 5:6).

Practical Implications

For believers, this teaching has practical implications for daily life and ministry. It calls for a re-evaluation of priorities, urging Christians to seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness (Matthew 6:33). It encourages a life of service, where greatness is defined by one's willingness to serve others, following the example of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve (Mark 10:45).

In the church, this principle fosters a spirit of unity and equality, where all members are valued and honored regardless of their social or economic status. It challenges leaders to lead with humility and to prioritize the needs of the least and the lost.

Conclusion

The teaching "The last will be first, and the first will be last" remains a powerful reminder of the upside-down nature of God's Kingdom. It calls believers to live counter-culturally, embracing humility, service, and trust in God's sovereign plan. Through this teaching, Jesus invites His followers to participate in a Kingdom where grace abounds, and the least are lifted up.