Contradiction with Matthew 20:16
This verse echoes Matthew 19:30, stating similarly that the last shall be first and the first last, reinforcing the idea rather than contradicting it.
Matthew 20:16: So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.
Paradox #1
Some people see a contradiction between Matthew 19:30 and the idea that God's rewards are based on merit or effort. This verse suggests a reversal of expectations, which might seem at odds with other teachings that emphasize hard work or earning one's way. However, it's often interpreted as highlighting God's grace and the unexpected nature of divine justice.
Paradox #2
The contradiction or conflict might be that the concept of "the last will be first, and the first will be last" goes against worldly ideas of status and success, where being first is generally seen as the ultimate goal. It challenges conventional understanding of social and economic hierarchies.
Paradox #3
The contradiction in this verse might be seen in the reversal of expectations: people who seem important or successful might end up being less so, and those who seem the least might end up being the most. This could conflict with societal norms that value status and success, challenging conventional ideas of fairness and merit.