What was God's meaning when he said the first is last and the last is first?

Answer by  katyb (131)

A person who would promote himself to the first place only has the option of being demoted to a lower place - so the first would become last. A person who places little importance on himself, taking the last place, could be given the option of a higher place - becoming first.

Answer by  CarolynOsborne (2804)

In the world, the "first" people are the rich, the popular, people with high authority. The "last" people are those who live in poverty, and those with no voice. Jesus's ministry was largely with the "last" people in part because the "first" people rejected Him. The humble, simple folk who believe in Jesus are going to be first in heaven.

Answer by  lonelywolf (2117)

Those who are "first" in this life are those who are at the top: The wealthy, the powerful, the influential. The "last" are the meek, humble, and poor who are considered the bottom of society. In heaven, this will be reversed, with our "last" saved and our "first" held back.

Answer by  possum (19)

Those who have the best in this life will be last in line in heaven. Those who have the least in this life will be first in line in heaven.