The verse “The , and the ” appears in several passages of the New Testament, often to illustrate the reversal of values in the Kingdom of God. Here are the main references:
Parallel or related references to Matthew 20.16
- Matthew 19.30
“Many of the , and many of the .” This verse comes directly before the of the workers in the vineyard and announces its theme.
- Mark 10.31
“Many of the , and many of the .” In the context of the disciples’ reward and of renunciation.
- Luke 13.30
“And behold, some who are last will be first, and some who are first will be last.” In the context of a warning about entering the Kingdom and the rejection of the privileged.
Other passages linked by the theme of reversal
- Matthew 8.11-12
People will come from the east and from the west to enter the Kingdom, while the “sons of the Kingdom” will be thrown out.
- Matthew 21.31
“The tax collectors and the prostitutes will go into the Kingdom of God ahead of you.” A moral and spiritual reversal of religious appearances.
- Luke 14.11 / Matthew 23.12
“Whoever exalts himself will be humbled, and whoever humbles himself will be exalted.” A principle of humility that joins the logic of the last becoming first.
These verses form a coherent network around the idea that God does not judge according to appearances, status or human merits, but according to faith, humility and the response to his call.