Women Disciples and Witnesses
The Gospels name women who followed Jesus, supported the ministry, remained near the Cross and burial, and became the first witnesses of the empty tomb and resurrection proclamation.
Why it matters
The canonical record places women inside the history of discipleship and resurrection witness rather than at its margins.
Scripture
- Luke 8:1-3 — Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and others accompany and support Jesus and the Twelve.
- Mark 15:40-47 — Women disciples witness the Crucifixion and observe the burial place.
- Luke 23:55-24:11 — Women come to the tomb and report the resurrection message to the apostles.
- John 20:1-18 — Mary Magdalene encounters the risen Christ and announces the news to the disciples.
- Acts 1:14 — Women, Mary the mother of Jesus, and His brothers pray with the apostolic community.
Primary sources
John narrates:
John's Gospel directly presents Mary Magdalene announcing to the disciples that she has seen the Lord.
Mary of Magdala went and announced to the disciples, “I have seen the Lord,”
Passage context and translation
John narrates Mary Magdalene's encounter with Jesus outside the tomb and his instruction that she go to his brothers before she makes this announcement.
Before the excerpt
But go to my brothers