Spiritual Food with Jess

THE FIRST & THE LAST

IN the chapter following Jesus' statement that the first will be last and the last will be first, Jesus tells a parable.

"So the last will be first, and the first will be last."

Matthew 20:16 NIV

The picture paints a story of labourers complaining about other workers who did not work as long & hard as they did and were paid an equal amount. (Fewer hours for the same amount of wage) In other words, they saw their own labour as worthy of compensation. But they considered their fellow workmate's labour to be less worthy of reward. Jesus ends the parable with the statement, "So the last will be first, and the first will be last"

Matthew 20:16 NIV

The interpretation presented before us is based on the content of the parable is that all believers, no matter how long or hard they work during this lifetime on earth, will receive the same basic reward: Eternal Life.

The thief on the cross (Luke 23:39–43), whose life of service was limited to a moment of repentance and confession of faith in Christ, received the same reward of eternal life as did many other biblical Prophets who faithfully served God.

But the other criminal rebuked him. "Don't you fear God," he said, "since you are under the same sentence? We are punished justly, for we are getting what our deeds deserve. But this man has done nothing wrong." Then he said, "Jesus, remember me when you come into your kingdom." Jesus answered, "Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in paradise."

Luke 23:40-43 NIV

Scripture also points out that heaven has different rewards for various services, with the ultimate prize of eternal life being given to everyone equally, based on God's Grace in Jesus.

"Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."

Romans 10:13 NIV