“So the last will be first, and the first will be last” Matthew 20:16 (NIV)
This simple, but powerful verse encapsulates the essence of humility and divine justice. It contains a biblical principle teaching that earthly status and recognition hold little weight in the kingdom of heaven. Matthew 20:16 challenges societal norms by suggesting that those who humble themselves and serve others selflessly will be elevated in God’s eyes, while those who seek their own glory and advantage may find themselves humbled.
This concept is further illustrated in the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard (Matthew 20:1-16), where laborers hired at different times of the day, perform varying amounts of work but still receive the same wage, symbolizing God’s grace and generosity.
Another example can be found in Luke 14:11 (NIV), where Jesus says,
“For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”
These passages collectively highlight the transformative power of divine love and the ultimate reversal of human expectations in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment.
The Last and the First
The true reflection of humble, Christ-like faith is found in selflessness, not self-exhalation or the pursuit of ones’ own needs and interests. The Bible teaches us to serve others and prioritize their needs over ours. For instance:
“Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” Philippians 2:3-4 (NIV)
“And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” Matthew 22:39 (NIV)
These verses emphasize the importance of considering others above oneself, encouraging us to embody His love through our actions and demeanor.
What the Bible Says About Serving Others
The Bible offers profound insights and instructions on the importance of serving others. Serving is seen not just as a duty, but as a reflection of God’s love and grace in our lives.
Here are some key scriptures that highlight the significance of serving others and why each time we put any earthly kingdom or purpose above God’s we run counter to His divine will.
Bible Verse |
Practical Application |
| “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.” Proverbs 19:17 (ESV) | This verse underscores the importance of generosity and service, showing that such acts are valued by God Himself. |
| “Even as the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28 (ESV) | Jesus Christ exemplifies the ultimate service, showing that greatness comes through serving others. |
| “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Mark 10:45 (NIV) | Reiterating the message of service, this verse highlights the sacrificial nature of Jesus’s service. |
| “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another’s feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” John 13:14-15 (KJV) | In these verses, Jesus sets a powerful example by washing His disciples’ feet, demonstrating that no act of service is too humble. |
| “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.'” Acts 20:35 (NIV) | Here, Paul recalls Jesus’s teaching that giving and serving others bring greater blessings than receiving. |
| “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” 1 Peter 4:10 (NIV) | This verse encourages believers to utilize their God-given gifts to serve others, thereby being stewards of God’s grace. |
| “You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love.” Galatians 5:13 (NIV) | This verse emphasizes the call to use our freedom not for selfish purposes, but to serve one another in humility. |
The Bible consistently teaches that serving others is a core aspect of living a life that honors God. Through serving, we reflect the love and grace of God, following the example set by Jesus Christ. As believers, we are called to serve with humility, using our gifts for the benefit of others, and in doing so, we experience the true joy and blessing that come from giving.