Lucas 13

Lucas 13:22-30

Constable - The people who are last in this context probably refer to Gentiles whom the Jews regarded as least likely to enter the kingdom (cf. Mt. 19:30; 20:16; Mark 10:31). The ones who are first were the Jews. They considered themselves to be superior to Gentiles in many ways. They were also the first and the foremost objects of Jesus’ ministry. While the preceding interpretation is that favored by most evangelical commentaries, one other possibility that has been raised is that the terms "last...first...first...last" could possibly relate to degrees of glory in eternity future. In other words, some who were "first" on earth (in terms of privilege, prestige, honor) might be "last" in glory. I personally think that the context favors the interpretation of those who were "first" to receive the Gospel as the Jews and the "last" being the Gentiles but in fairness one cannot be dogmatic. Steven