Women as disciples, witnesses, and coworkers
The Gospels name women who support Jesus' ministry and witness the death and resurrection. Paul names women in his network of coworkers and hosts. Each passage has its own setting: a resurrection narrative, a household church, or a letter of commendation. Neither an isolated name nor a later title supplies a complete account of first-century ministry.
Why it matters
Brings named women into the app's account of mission while keeping debated role labels tied to their actual passages.
Key points
- Luke 8 identifies Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Susanna, and others as supporters of Jesus' ministry.
- John 20 places Mary Magdalene in a direct resurrection encounter and announcement.
- Romans 16 names Phoebe, Prisca, Junia, and other coworkers; translations and interpretations of some role terms differ.
Scripture
- Luke 8:1-3 — Named women accompany and support Jesus and the Twelve.
- John 20:11-18 — Mary Magdalene meets the risen Jesus and tells the disciples.
- Romans 16:1-7 — Paul commends Phoebe and greets Prisca and Junia among other coworkers.
Primary sources
John narrates:
John's Gospel directly presents Mary Magdalene announcing to the disciples that she has seen the risen 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