The term "Hired First" is primarily associated with the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard, found in the Gospel of Matthew 20:1-16. This parable, spoken by Jesus, illustrates the kingdom of heaven and the nature of divine grace and justice. The narrative involves a landowner who hires laborers at different times throughout the day to work in his vineyard, yet pays them all the same wage, beginning with the last hired and ending with the first.

Biblical Context

In Matthew 20:1-16 , Jesus begins the parable by saying, "For the kingdom of heaven is like a landowner who went out early in the morning to hire workers for his vineyard." The landowner agrees to pay the first group of workers a denarius for the day. As the day progresses, he hires additional workers at the third, sixth, ninth, and eleventh hours, promising to pay them "whatever is right."

At the end of the day, the landowner instructs his foreman to pay the workers, starting with the last hired and ending with the first. When those hired first receive the same wage as those who worked only an hour, they grumble against the landowner, feeling that they deserve more for having borne "the burden and the scorching heat of the day" (Matthew 20:12).

The landowner responds, "Friend, I am not being unfair to you. Did you not agree with me on one denarius? Take your pay and go. I want to give this last man the same as I gave you. Do I not have the right to do what I want with my own money? Or are you envious because I am generous?" (Matthew 20:13-15).

Theological Implications

The parable challenges human notions of fairness and merit, emphasizing the sovereignty and generosity of God. The "Hired First" workers represent those who may expect greater rewards based on their perceived longer service or greater effort. However, the parable underscores that entrance into the kingdom of heaven is not based on human calculations of worthiness but on God's grace.

This teaching aligns with the broader biblical theme that God's ways are higher than human ways (Isaiah 55:8-9) and that His grace is a gift, not a wage earned by works (Ephesians 2:8-9). The parable serves as a reminder that God's grace is extended to all, regardless of when they come to faith or how long they have served.

Historical and Cultural Context

In the first-century Jewish context, a denarius was a typical day's wage for a laborer. The practice of hiring workers at different times of the day was common, especially during harvest seasons when additional labor was needed. The parable's setting would have been familiar to Jesus' audience, making the account relatable and its message impactful.

The reaction of the "Hired First" workers reflects a natural human response to perceived injustice, yet it also reveals a deeper spiritual truth about the nature of God's kingdom. The parable invites believers to trust in God's goodness and to rejoice in the blessings given to others, rather than comparing or begrudging His generosity.

Application for Believers

For contemporary believers, the parable of the "Hired First" serves as a call to humility and gratitude. It challenges Christians to examine their attitudes towards service and reward in the kingdom of God. The parable encourages believers to focus on the privilege of being called to work in God's vineyard, rather than on the rewards they might expect.

Furthermore, it highlights the importance of welcoming and celebrating new believers, regardless of when they come to faith. The parable teaches that all who respond to God's call are equally valued and loved, and it encourages a spirit of unity and joy within the body of Christ.