This short summary passage seems like something we would normally gloss over as just an introduction to the next section of Jesus’ ministry, but it really signifies just how radical Jesus’ ministry really was. We see here 3 named women who participated in and even funded Jesus’ ministry. Women in the ancient world were seen as lesser people who were to be seen and not heard, and even one Jewish leader praised God that he was not a pagan, a woman, or unlearned. But here, these women’s participation in Jesus’ ministry shows the radical nature of Jesus’ message to the ancient world; women and those who are disenfranchised have equal access to the grace and salvation that Jesus provides on the cross.

[Luke 8.1-3]

1 Soon afterward he went on through cities and villages, proclaiming and bringing the good news of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with him, 2 and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, 3 and Joanna, the wife of Chuza, Herod's household manager, and Susanna, and many others, who provided for them out of their means.

[ WHAT ] is this passage saying and what is a key truth or thought that we learn?

+ What is Jesus proclaiming in the various cities?

+ Who accompanied Him?

+ What is significant about Jesus healing these women of evil spirits?

+ What would the Jewish people have thought about these women, and how did people think of Jesus because He was associated with them?

+ How many different kinds of women have been drawn to Jesus, and why?

+ Why is it significant that there is even a member of Herod’s household who is supporting Jesus?

+ What caused these women to give to Jesus’ ministry?

[ HOW ] is the Lord calling me to action/obedience?

+ Is there sin to confess or a next step to take? How has it gone since last time?

+ Does God’s grace cause you to give like these women?

+ How do you think about the disenfranchised of society? Do you see God’s grace extending to them?

+ How can you meet people where they are?

[ WHO ] am I walking with and praying for to discover Jesus?

+ What is my next step?

+ Who are you praying for in your life?