Last-first-first-last; these solemn words have a twofold fulfilment. First, in this world: the scribes and Pharisees stood first in God's kingdom as to their outward position and privileges; but by rejecting Christ, they made themselves last, while the publicans and sinners and the gentile nations, who they despised, by receiving him, became first; and so it has often been since. Secondly, in the world to come, where many that have stood high in reputation and outward privileges will be thrust down to hell, and many that have here been despised and persecuted will be exalted to glory everlasting.

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Old Testament