Mark 10:31

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

Study Bible

But many who are first
This phrase addresses the concept of societal and spiritual status. In the context of Jesus' teachings, those who are "first" often refer to individuals who hold positions of power, wealth, or influence. In the Jewish culture of the time, religious leaders, such as the Pharisees and Sadducees, were often seen as "first" due to their authority and adherence to the law. This phrase challenges the conventional understanding of greatness and success, suggesting that earthly status does not equate to spiritual favor.

will be last
The idea that the "first will be last" is a reversal of expectations. It implies a future judgment or reordering where those who are currently esteemed may find themselves in a lesser position. This concept is echoed in other parts of Scripture, such as the parable of the workers in the vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16), where those hired last receive the same reward as those hired first. It emphasizes humility and the idea that God's kingdom operates on principles different from worldly systems.

and the last
The "last" refers to those who are marginalized, oppressed, or considered insignificant by societal standards. In Jesus' ministry, He often uplifted the poor, the sick, and sinners, indicating that God's grace and favor are not limited to the socially elite. This aligns with the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:3-12), where Jesus blesses the poor in spirit and those who mourn, highlighting the value of spiritual poverty and dependence on God.

will be first.
This concluding phrase offers hope and assurance to those who are "last" in the eyes of the world. It suggests a future exaltation and reward for those who remain faithful despite their lowly status. This reversal is a common theme in Jesus' teachings, emphasizing that true greatness is found in servanthood and humility. It also reflects the prophetic vision of the Messianic kingdom, where justice and righteousness prevail, and the humble are lifted up (Isaiah 61:1-3).

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jesus Christ
The speaker of this verse, Jesus is teaching His disciples about the nature of the Kingdom of God and the reversal of worldly values.

2. Disciples
The immediate audience of Jesus' teaching, who are learning about the cost of discipleship and the rewards in God's Kingdom.

3. The Rich Young Ruler
Earlier in Mark 10, Jesus encounters a rich young man, which sets the context for this teaching about the first and the last.

4. The Kingdom of God
The central theme of Jesus' teaching, emphasizing the values and priorities of God's reign.

5. The Worldly Order
The societal norms and values that prioritize wealth, status, and power, which Jesus contrasts with the values of the Kingdom.

Teaching Points

Reversal of Worldly Values
In God's Kingdom, the values of the world are turned upside down. Success is not measured by wealth or status but by humility and service.

Humility and Servanthood
Followers of Christ are called to adopt a posture of humility, serving others rather than seeking to be served.

Eternal Perspective
Believers are encouraged to focus on eternal rewards rather than temporary, worldly gains.

Trust in God's Justice
The promise that the last will be first assures us of God's ultimate justice and fairness, even when it seems absent in the world.

Encouragement for the Marginalized
This teaching offers hope and encouragement to those who feel overlooked or undervalued in society.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of the rich young ruler's account in Mark 10 help us understand the meaning of "the first will be last, and the last will be first"?

2. In what ways can we apply the principle of being "last" in our daily lives, especially in our workplaces or communities?

3. How does the teaching in Mark 10:31 challenge our understanding of success and achievement?

4. Can you identify a situation in your life where you need to trust in God's justice, believing that the last will be first?

5. How do the additional scriptures (e.g., Philippians 2:5-11) deepen our understanding of humility and servanthood as taught by Jesus in Mark 10:31?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 19:30 and 20:16
These passages parallel Mark 10:31, reinforcing the theme of reversal in the Kingdom of God.

Luke 13:30
Another instance where Jesus speaks of the first being last and the last being first, highlighting the inclusivity and unexpected nature of God's Kingdom.

Philippians 2:5-11
Paul describes the humility of Christ, who, though being in very nature God, took the form of a servant, exemplifying the principle of the last being first.

James 4:10
Encourages believers to humble themselves before the Lord, aligning with the teaching that those who are last will be exalted.

1 Corinthians 1:27-29
Paul speaks of God choosing the foolish and weak things of the world to shame the wise and strong, illustrating the reversal of worldly values.