Women in the Inner Circle

Each gospel writer highlights the women who followed Jesus to the cross and found the empty tomb. Do we intentionally acknowledge and honour women who follow Jesus?

From an Africa Study Bible learn note titled “Jesus and the Women Who Made His Ministry Possible”:

In Jesus’ time and in some of our African cultures, the place of women and men was not equal. Women are highly valued for their hard work caring for others, as a source of children and life for the community, and for the honour they give their family members. However, if a woman cannot contribute in these ways, she can be vulnerable to abuse; widows, childless women, and single ladies are often mistreated. 

In the first century, the view of women was similar. Most women could not inherit or witness in a legal matter. Unlike rabbis of His day, Jesus included women in His circle of devoted followers. By His teaching and actions, He affirmed the worth of women as persons made in God’s image, not just for what they contributed.

Mary Magdalene followed Jesus after He cast out seven demons from her. Joanna (wife of Cuza, the manager of Herod’s household) and Susanna paid the bills and accompanied Jesus and the Twelve. Jesus loved His friends Mary and Martha from Bethany and their home became a place of quiet retreat. Jesus’ mother Mary was a part of His first public miracle and among His close followers after the resurrection. 

At Jesus’ crucifixion, some of His male followers fled, but many women stood at the foot of the cross. Scripture mentions Jesus’ mother, her sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joseph, and Salome the mother of Zebedee’s sons. They were grieving and helpless. But they were present. Three days later, three of these women and Joanna were the first to realise that Christ had risen from the dead. 

We should embrace God’s view that women and men have equal worth. Our churches and societies need the gifts, experiences, perspectives, and participation of both genders. 

Today: 

How can you support women seeking to follow Jesus in your church? Think of a woman whose leadership and service you admire. Call her today to affirming her gifts and calling. Encourage her that she continues the tradition of these biblical women who followed Jesus.