The International Women’s Month this March is a time to honor the significant role of women in history and society. The Bible reveals that Jesus uplifted and empowered women, treating them with dignity and entrusting them with vital roles in His ministry.
Contrary to common assumptions, Jesus had many women disciples who followed Him, supported His ministry, and were faithful even to the end.
In the first-century Jewish culture, women were often restricted in religious settings.
Rabbis typically did not accept female disciples, and women’s testimonies were often considered less credible in legal matters. Yet, Jesus broke these societal norms by teaching and including women in His ministry.
First, Jesus had women disciples.
While the Twelve disciples are often the focus of Jesus’ followers, the Gospels mention the names of several women who were His disciples. Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna are explicitly named in Luke 8, showing their active role in supporting Jesus’ ministry. Interestingly, their names appear more frequently in the Gospels than most of the Twelve, except for Peter, James, and John.
These women were not just passive followers; they were dedicated disciples who traveled with Jesus, learned from Him, and financially supported His mission. Their presence highlights that Jesus welcomed women into discipleship, affirming their value in God’s kingdom.
Second, women were faithful to Jesus even at the cross.
Matthew 27:55-56 – “Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for His needs. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons.”
During Jesus’ arrest and crucifixion, most of His male disciples fled in fear, but the women remained.
They followed Him from Galilee, stood by Him at the cross, and witnessed His suffering. Their loyalty and presence demonstrated great courage and faithfulness.
Discussion:
While many of the Twelve abandoned Jesus in His final moments, the women stood by Him, showing their unwavering love and devotion. Their example reminds us that true discipleship is about remaining faithful even in difficult times.
Third, women were the first witnesses of the resurrection and shared the Good News.
In the ancient world, women’s testimonies were often disregarded. Yet, God chose women to be the first witnesses of the most important event in history—the resurrection of Jesus.
In Matthew 28:5-7, Mary Magdalene and the other women were entrusted with the message of the risen Christ, making them the first evangelists of the resurrection.
The fact that Jesus appeared first to women and instructed them to share the news with the disciples is a powerful statement about their role in the mission of the church. Their willingness to proclaim the resurrection despite societal limitations demonstrates boldness and faith.
Let us remember that whether you are male or female, we have a role in building God’s kingdom. Let us help in honoring and uplifting women and support them in their journey of discipleship. May we also be bold witnesses of the resurrection of Jesus, just as the women at the empty tomb were. | NWI
