Matthew 19:30

But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first.

But {G1161} many {G4183} that are first {G4413} shall be {G2071} last {G2078}; and {G2532} the last {G2078} shall be first {G4413}.

But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.

But many who are first will be last, and the last will be first.

But many shall be last that are first; and first that are last.

Commentary

Matthew 19:30 concludes a significant teaching moment for Jesus and His disciples, serving as a profound summary statement that challenges conventional human notions of status and reward. The verse declares a divine reversal: "But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last [shall be] first." This powerful proverb encapsulates a core principle of God's Kingdom, where earthly hierarchies are overturned and true greatness is redefined.

Context

This verse immediately follows a pivotal discussion initiated by Peter's question regarding the disciples' reward for leaving everything to follow Jesus. It is set against the backdrop of Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler, who struggled to part with his possessions to gain eternal life. Jesus had just taught about the extreme difficulty for the wealthy to enter the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 19:23-26). The disciples' astonishment prompted Peter's inquiry about their own sacrifices. Jesus assures them of great rewards, but then adds this crucial caveat in verse 30, which also serves as the introduction to the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard in the subsequent chapter, illustrating this very principle.

Key Themes

  • Divine Reversal of Values: This verse highlights a fundamental difference between God's perspective and the world's. What is considered "first" in terms of human status, wealth, power, or self-righteousness may be "last" in God's eyes, and vice versa. God values humility, genuine faith, and sacrificial service above outward appearance or worldly success.
  • Humility and Service: True spiritual greatness in God's Kingdom is not about asserting one's position or demanding recognition, but about humble service and devotion. Those who humble themselves will be exalted, and those who exalt themselves will be humbled (Matthew 23:12).
  • Spiritual Priorities: The verse encourages believers to re-evaluate their priorities, focusing on eternal rewards and God's commendation rather than temporary earthly acclaim or personal gain. Those who are willing to surrender worldly advantages for Christ's sake will find themselves abundantly blessed in the Kingdom.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek words for "first" (protos) and "last" (eschatos) refer to rank, position, or temporal order. The use of "many" (polloi) indicates that this is a general principle, not an absolute rule for every single individual, but a prevalent characteristic of God's justice and grace. The conjunction "But" (de) introduces a strong contrast, emphasizing the surprising nature of this divine reversal.

Practical Application

Matthew 19:30 serves as a powerful reminder for all believers. It challenges us to examine our motivations and to guard against spiritual pride or complacency. For those who feel overlooked, marginalized, or insignificant in the eyes of the world, this verse offers immense encouragement and hope, assuring them that their faithful service and humble devotion are highly valued by God. It calls us to live with an eternal perspective, seeking to please God rather than striving for human approval or worldly status. This principle is reinforced in other parts of Scripture, such as Mark 10:31 and Luke 13:30, highlighting its significance in Jesus' teaching.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 13:30 (12 votes)

    And, behold, there are last which shall be first, and there are first which shall be last.

  • Matthew 20:16 (11 votes)

    So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

  • Mark 10:31 (10 votes)

    But many [that are] first shall be last; and the last first.

  • Luke 18:13 (4 votes)

    And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as [his] eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner.

  • Luke 18:14 (4 votes)

    I tell you, this man went down to his house justified [rather] than the other: for every one that exalteth himself shall be abased; and he that humbleth himself shall be exalted.

  • Romans 5:20 (4 votes)

    Moreover the law entered, that the offence might abound. But where sin abounded, grace did much more abound:

  • Romans 5:21 (4 votes)

    That as sin hath reigned unto death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life by Jesus Christ our Lord.