Meaning of Matthew 19:30

This statement by Jesus in Matthew 19:30, "But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first," serves as a profound inversion of worldly expectations and a radical reordering of perceived status within the Kingdom of God. It is a concluding remark to the narrative of the rich young ruler and Jesus' subsequent teaching on the difficulty for the wealthy to enter the kingdom, and the disciples' question about who then can be saved. Jesus' pronouncements here are not about a simple exchange of positions but about the fundamental shift in values and priorities that define discipleship. What appears as preeminence in human society—wealth, power, social standing, or even religious observance—is often a hindrance to true spiritual advancement, while humility, service, and a willingness to be considered "last" by the world can lead to the highest spiritual honor and reward. This principle is a consistent theme throughout Jesus' ministry, challenging conventional notions of greatness.

Context and Background

The immediate context for this verse is Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler (Matthew 19:16-22). This individual, by worldly standards, was successful: he was young, wealthy, and religiously observant. Yet, he was unable to follow Jesus because his possessions were his ultimate treasure. Following this, Jesus observes how difficult it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom of God, leading the disciples to exclaim, "Who then can be saved?" (Matthew 19:25). Jesus’ response, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible," sets the stage for the principle articulated in verse 30. The disciples, having left everything to follow Jesus, are assured of a reward, but Jesus uses this to deliver the paradoxical statement about the reordering of status.

Key Themes and Messages

• Reversal of Worldly Values: The core message is that the criteria for honor and status in God's Kingdom are diametrically opposed to those of the world. Earthly success, wealth, and power do not guarantee favor with God.
• Humility and Service: Those who are humble, who serve others, and who are willing to be overlooked or considered insignificant by human standards are often those who are most highly esteemed in God's eyes.
• The Nature of True Greatness: Jesus consistently redefines greatness not by power over others but by service to others (Mark 10:42-45). This verse encapsulates that teaching.
• Divine Judgment: Ultimately, God's judgment is the ultimate arbiter of who is first and who is last, and His judgment is based on inner disposition and faithfulness, not outward appearance or societal standing.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse calls for a radical re-evaluation of our priorities and our definition of success. It challenges believers to divest themselves of pride and the pursuit of worldly recognition, and instead to embrace humility, service, and a deep reliance on God. The application is personal: are we seeking the approval of others or the approval of God? Are we striving for earthly accolades or heavenly rewards? It encourages those who feel marginalized or overlooked by society, assuring them that their faithfulness and service, however unseen, are valued by God and can lead to their exaltation in His Kingdom. Conversely, it serves as a warning to those who rest on their laurels, assuming their current status guarantees them a privileged position in God's economy.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The theme of reversal is woven throughout Scripture. In the Old Testament, figures like David, a shepherd boy, was chosen over his elder brothers. In the New Testament, Jesus himself, though divine, humbled himself and became obedient unto death (Philippians 2:5-8). The early church, often composed of the poor and marginalized, became a powerful force that transformed the Roman world. This principle of God elevating the humble and bringing down the proud is a recurring motif, demonstrating God's consistent preference for faithfulness and inner character over outward status.

Analogies

• A Race: Imagine a race where the runners who are in the lead, pushing ahead aggressively, might burn out or stumble, while those who pace themselves wisely, perhaps seeming to lag behind initially, ultimately have the endurance and focus to finish strong and win.
• A Garden: In a garden, some plants might be showy and bloom early, but others, though less conspicuous, might have deeper roots and produce more substantial fruit over time. The gardener values both, but the sustained, life-giving produce is ultimately more significant.
• A Teacher's Classroom: A teacher might have students who are naturally brilliant and answer every question quickly, appearing "first." However, the student who struggles but perseveres, asks thoughtful questions, and demonstrates genuine understanding, though appearing "last" in speed, may ultimately grasp the material more deeply and be considered "first" in their learning.

Relation to Other Verses

• Luke 18:14: This verse is a parallel to Matthew 19:30, stating, "I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted."
• Philippians 2:3-11: This passage speaks of Christ's humility in taking on human form and suffering death, and exhorts believers to have the same mindset, leading to Christ being exalted to the highest name.
• James 4:10: "Humble yourselves before the Lord, and he will lift you up."
• 1 Samuel 16:7: God's perspective is different from man's: "The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."