What image comes to mind when you think about Jesus traveling from town to town with his disciples? Most likely, it’s a group of men following Jesus as he spreads the good news. However, this common image has a significant problem: it leaves out the women who were also his disciples. The Bible explicitly mentions that Jesus had female disciples who played vital roles in his ministry.

Luke 8:1-3 (NIV) states, “After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means.“

Heroes of Faith are men and women who demonstrated extraordinary devotion and radical obedience to God. While Mary, the mother of Jesus, is a prominent figure, there are many other women who also stand out as heroes of faith. This article focuses on three such women mentioned in Luke 8: Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna.

Understanding the significance of these women in the cultural context of their time is crucial. Firstly, it is remarkable that Luke, the author of one of the Gospels, specifically mentions these women. In a society where women were generally considered second-class citizens and not included in censuses, highlighting their contributions was a radical act. By mentioning these women, Luke underscores how Jesus valued the outcasts and the marginalized, showing that his ministry was about bringing the Kingdom of God culturally transforming ways.

The Women Who Followed Jesus

1. Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is perhaps the most well-known among Jesus’ female disciples. She was delivered from seven demons by Jesus and became one of his most devoted followers. Mary’s life was profoundly transformed by Jesus, leading her to support his ministry wholeheartedly. She is mentioned multiple times in the Gospels, notably as a witness to Jesus’ crucifixion and the first to proclaim his resurrection.
2. Joanna
Joanna, the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household, is another significant figure. Her support of Jesus’ ministry, likely out of her own resources, indicates a deep commitment and gratitude for the life-changing impact Jesus had on her. Joanna’s inclusion in Luke’s Gospel highlights the diverse backgrounds of Jesus’ followers, from different social and economic statuses.
3. Susanna
While we know less about Susanna, her mention alongside Mary and Joanna suggests that she, too, played a crucial role in supporting Jesus’ ministry. Her dedication, like the others, was a testament to the transformative power of Jesus’ message and miracles.

Breaking Cultural Norms

Jesus’ acceptance of female disciples broke the norms of his time. Rabbis typically did not have female students, yet Jesus welcomed them, allowing them to sit under his teaching. This is evident in the story of Mary and Martha, where Mary is allowed to sit at Jesus’ feet, a place traditionally reserved for male disciples (Luke 10:38-42).

Moreover, the financial support these women provided to Jesus’ ministry is noteworthy. It shows that Jesus valued their contributions and included them in His mission. Despite His ability to perform miracles, such as feeding thousands with a few loaves and fish, Jesus chose to allow those who had been healed and transformed to partner with Him, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

A Legacy of Faith and Action

The women who followed Jesus were filled with gratitude, which led them to action. Their faith and support were instrumental in the early days of Christianity, and their legacy continues to inspire us today. As Galatians 3:26-28 reminds us, “So in Christ Jesus you are all children of God through faith, for all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

These women were not just passive followers; they were active participants in Jesus’ ministry. Their example teaches us that love and gratitude are not merely feelings but actions. They were fully invested in Jesus’ mission, and their dedication is a powerful reminder of what it means to follow Christ with our whole hearts.

Conclusion

The stories of Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna challenge us to reconsider the roles of women in the early church and recognize their significant contributions. Their faith, courage, and support of Jesus’ ministry make them true heroes of the faith. As we reflect on their lives, let us be inspired to follow their example of dedication and service in our own journey of faith.

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Key Text: Luke 8:1-3

 

This article is a summary of the following sermon, including an “interview” of Mary, Joanna and Susanna: