Matthew 19:30
But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.
Original Language Analysis
Πολλοὶ
many
G4183
Πολλοὶ
many
Strong's:
G4183
Word #:
1 of 8
(singular) much (in any respect) or (plural) many; neuter (singular) as adverbial, largely; neuter (plural) as adverb or noun often, mostly, largely
Historical Context
This saying responds to discussions about reward for discipleship and the rich young ruler's rejection of Jesus. Jewish expectation assumed Israel's priority and Gentiles' secondary status. Jesus announces reversal: tax collectors and prostitutes enter the kingdom before religious leaders (21:31). The last-becoming-first theme appears repeatedly in Jesus' teaching (Luke 13:30, Mark 10:31).
Questions for Reflection
- What 'first place' privileges might you wrongly assume guarantee kingdom status?
- Who are the 'last' people you tend to overlook whom God might exalt?
- How does God's grace-based kingdom challenge your sense of deserving?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Jesus' paradoxical statement 'many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first' inverts worldly hierarchies. Those considered spiritually privileged (religiously established, wealthy, powerful) may end up last in kingdom accounting, while the humble and overlooked may be first. This saying frames the following parable of laborers (20:1-16) where late-coming workers receive equal pay with early workers. Reformed theology emphasizes grace over merit—kingdom standing depends on God's calling, not human achievement.