FEBRUARY 14, 2021
Luke 8:1-3, Mark 15:40, John 20:10-18
Introduction:
Much has been made of the influence and contributions of women in church ministry. There are those who would limit the role of women and others who welcome without limit. What ever view one may consider, a more important view to consider is the good news of salvation, consistency of one's faithfulness in promoting and the spreading of the gospel of Jesus Christ.
In our lesson, we have three gospel accounts of women and their role and contribution to the work of Christ. The featured women is that of Mary Magdalene, or Mary of Magdala.
1 THE TWELVE AND SOME WOMEN (Luke 8:1-3)
As with any leader, support is of the most utmost importance, Luke here mentions Jesus ministering in Galilee with the twelve representing the tribes of Israel. They are with a group of women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases. There was Mary of Magdala, Joan the wife of Herods' servant, and Susanna, These women would provide meals and other means of support,
2 REFUSING TO LEAVE THE SCENE (Mark 15:40)
Mark gives an account of the scene at the cross. It appears that the twelve are not at the scene but the women are looking from a distance, Crucifixion was a most humiliating and shameful execution, Most would not have associated themselves with one who was crucified, yet these women remained faithful to the bitter end. They did not desert and began a plan to anoint his body with spices.
3 LOOKING FOR SIGNS OF RESURRECTION (John 20: 10-18)
John records here the account of many first to come to the tomb. They believed that the body had been stolen. Mary stayed at the tomb and recognized the resurrected Christ, she goes to share the good news of a risen Christ.
CONCLUSION:
The late soul singer better known as the god father of soul, recorded the popular song, " It's a man's world", but it wouldn't be nothing without a women or a girl" Enough said!
Mary Magdalene, A faithful Disciple
Rev, Johnny H. Eskridge