The Women Who Followed Jesus (Luke 8:1-3)
Introduction
When we think of Jesus’ disciples, it’s easy to focus on the Twelve—Peter, James, John, and the rest of the group. But in Luke 8:1-3, we’re introduced to a different kind of follower: women. These women weren’t just passive bystanders; they played an active role in Jesus’ ministry, supporting Him financially and spiritually.
In a society where women were often marginalized, this is a revolutionary picture. It’s a reminder that in Jesus’ kingdom, there’s a place for everyone—no matter gender, status, or past. This passage teaches us about community, discipleship, and the upside-down nature of God’s kingdom.
We’ll dive deeper into what this passage means for us today, and how it speaks to the ongoing role of women in the early church, particularly as seen in the writings of the Apostle Paul.
Verse by Verse Breakdown of Luke 8:1-3 and Commentary
Luke 8:1-2 - Mary Magdalene and Other Women
“Soon afterwards he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, as well as some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out…” (Luke 8:1-2)
Here, we see that Jesus’ ministry is not just centered in synagogues but a traveling mission, moving from town to town, proclaiming the kingdom of God. And He’s not alone. Alongside the Twelve, there’s a group of women who have experienced healing firsthand. These women weren’t merely tagging along; they were key players in Jesus’ mission.
Joel B. Green, in The Gospel of Luke, points out that the inclusion of women was groundbreaking. In first-century Judaism, women were often excluded from religious life. But Jesus broke down those barriers, inviting them into the heart of His ministry.
These women had been healed, and their involvement didn’t stop there. They didn’t just follow Jesus—they supported His ministry by traveling with Him, sharing His message. It’s similar to how Peter’s mother-in-law, once healed, immediately began serving Him.
Luke 8:3 - Joanna, Susanna, and Many Others Financially Supported Jesus
“…and Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their resources.” (Luke 8:3)
Luke specifically names three women: Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna. Mary is known for being freed from seven demons, Joanna is connected to Herod’s court, and Susanna is briefly mentioned with little additional detail. Together, along with “many others,” these women financially supported Jesus’ work.
The Role of Financial Support in Jesus’ Ministry
The financial support of these women wasn’t just a casual contribution—it was crucial to the advancement of Jesus’ mission. Darrell L. Bock, in Luke (IVP New Testament Commentary), highlights the importance of their financial support. In a society where women usually had limited economic power, these women gave from their resources to further the kingdom. Their generosity models how all disciples should give, reflecting Jesus’ teaching that those who receive are to give in return.
Leon Morris, in Luke (TNTC), adds that these women’s participation wasn’t just a financial contribution but a display of the transformative impact Jesus had on their lives. They weren’t merely grateful recipients—they were contributors, actively involved in the mission. Their willingness to support Jesus out of their own resources shows deep gratitude and a transformed heart.
This moment speaks to the broader concept of stewardship—how disciples, regardless of their social status, are called to use what they have for God’s work. The example of these women illustrates that generosity isn’t limited to those with abundant wealth but is accessible to all, no matter their background.
Why Are Some People Named in the Gospels and Some Aren’t?
There’s a theory that the people named in the Gospels were still alive when the accounts were written. If someone wanted to verify the stories, they could ask these individuals. This idea suggests that the Gospel writers didn’t mention names for detail’s sake—they did it to provide verifiability. The writers gave names like Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna so readers could cross-check these accounts with those who were still around.
This idea is reinforced by Paul in 1 Corinthians 15:5-8, where he points to several witnesses of the resurrection, encouraging people to verify the truth. The inclusion of names in the Gospel makes the story more transparent and rooted in history, giving us confidence in its authenticity.
Women in the Early Church: A Legacy of Ministry
The women who followed Jesus didn’t disappear after His resurrection. In fact, women continued to play a crucial role in the early church. The Apostle Paul, in his letters, mentions several women who were central to the movement, often in leadership and support roles that were groundbreaking for their time.
For example, in Romans 16, Paul greets several women who were instrumental in the early church. Phoebe, whom Paul calls a “deacon” and “benefactor of many” (Romans 16:1-2), likely played a key role in the church at Cenchreae, and her support was vital in advancing the gospel. Paul’s recognition of Phoebe’s leadership role challenges us to rethink the capacity for women in church leadership.
Another important figure is Junia, mentioned in Romans 16:7. Paul refers to her as “outstanding among the apostles.” This acknowledgment points to the reality that women weren’t merely followers—they were integral leaders in spreading the gospel. While there has been some debate about her gender, most scholars agree that Junia was a woman who held a leadership position within the apostolic community.
In 1 Corinthians 11:5, Paul acknowledges women in prayer and prophecy, indicating that they were actively involved in worship and leadership. This verse affirms that women were valuable contributors to the ministry of the early church, and their participation was recognized as essential.
The Role of Women in the Pauline Ministry
Paul’s letters show a nuanced view of women in the church. Some passages, like 1 Timothy 2:12, have historically been interpreted as limiting women’s leadership roles. However, other passages highlight women’s significant contributions. In Philippians 4:2-3, Paul commends Euodia and Syntyche as “women who have contended at my side in the cause of the gospel.” These women were partners with Paul, showing that discipleship in the early church was collaborative and that women played a critical part in advancing the mission.
Priscilla, mentioned in Acts 18 and Romans 16, is another example of a woman in leadership. Priscilla and her husband Aquila took Apollos aside to teach him more accurately about the gospel (Acts 18:26). Her role as a teacher in the early church challenges cultural norms and highlights women’s authority and involvement in shaping the faith.
Luke 8:1-3 Meaning for Today
This passage reminds us that discipleship isn’t just about preaching or teaching—it’s about using all we have—time, talents, and resources—to support the work of God’s kingdom. And it challenges us to remember that God’s kingdom is inclusive. No one is too broken, too marginalized, or too insignificant to be part of His mission.
The role of women in Jesus’ ministry and the early church should challenge us to rethink how we view leadership and service today. Women have been key to the advancement of the gospel from the very beginning, and their contributions should be celebrated and embraced in our churches.
How can we, like these women, use our resources to support the work of God’s kingdom? How can we break down the barriers that exclude others from serving? It’s a reminder that everyone, regardless of gender or past, has a place in God’s story.
Conclusion
The women in Jesus’ ministry and those Paul acknowledges in his letters give us a powerful picture of radical inclusion. They weren’t just followers—they were active participants in God’s mission. Their stories challenge us to reconsider what it means to be a disciple and to recognize that each of us has a unique role to play in God’s kingdom.
As we reflect on the significant contributions of women in the early church, let’s honor their legacy and continue to build communities that value the gifts and callings of all believers. In the kingdom of God, everyone is invited to be part of His story.
Sources Cited
1. Joel B. Green, The Gospel of Luke (NICNT)
2. Darrell L. Bock, Luke (IVP New Testament Commentary)
3. Leon Morris, Luke (TNTC)
4. Douglas J. Moo, The Epistle to the Romans (New International Commentary on the New Testament)
5. I. Howard Marshall, The Acts of the Apostles (New International Commentary on the New Testament)
6. Craig S. Keener, The Gospel of Matthew: A Socio-Rhetorical Commentary (Eerdmans, 2014)
