Last shall be first

The enigmatic expression "the last shall be first, and the first shall be last" is repeatedly attributed to Jesus in the New Testament. (Matthew 19:30; 20:16; Mark 10:31; and Luke 13:30)

What is meant by it? Possibilities include some or all of the following:

• this is a complete, dramatic rejection of the entitlement mentality, as starkly illustrated by the Parable of the Vineyard Workers;
• it is a vivid rebuke of those who rest on their laurels, or think they have already done enough;
• it is a mathematical expression of the Parable of the barren fig tree;
• it embodies the truth in Janet Jackson's pop hit, "What Have You Done for Me Lately?";
• it recognizes the best of the public, whereby the "last" often do better than the "first";
• it recognizes that the longer someone is in a position of power or authority, the less good he tends to do;
• it confirms The Parable of the Pharisee and the Publican;

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It suggests that group theory is a more accurate way of viewing things than by pecking order or jealousy. All have equal opportunities for good regardless of their standing in life.

"Salvation or eternal life is not earned by one’s status in this life."