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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."<ref>https://www.neverthirsty.org/bible-qa/qa-archives/question/what-is-the-meaning-of-last-shall-be-first-and-the-first-last/</ref>