Luke 24:10

It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them who told this to the apostles.

Study Bible

It was Mary Magdalene
Mary Magdalene is a prominent figure in the New Testament, often recognized for her devotion to Jesus. Her name, "Magdalene," indicates she was from Magdala, a town on the western shore of the Sea of Galilee. In the Greek, "Magdalene" (Μαγδαληνή) signifies her origin, and her presence at the resurrection highlights her role as a faithful follower. Historically, Mary Magdalene is often remembered for her deliverance from seven demons (Luke 8:2), symbolizing a profound transformation and dedication to Christ. Her inclusion here underscores the importance of women in the early Christian community and their role as the first witnesses to the resurrection.

Joanna
Joanna, mentioned in Luke 8:3, was the wife of Chuza, Herod's steward. Her name in Greek, "Iōanna" (Ἰωάννα), is the feminine form of John, meaning "Yahweh is gracious." Joanna's presence among the women who discovered the empty tomb reflects her significant role in Jesus' ministry. As a woman of means, she likely provided financial support, demonstrating the diverse backgrounds of Jesus' followers. Her witness to the resurrection is a testament to her faith and the inclusivity of the Gospel message.

Mary the mother of James
This Mary is often identified as the mother of James the Less, one of the twelve apostles. In Greek, "Mary" (Μαρία) is a common name, derived from the Hebrew "Miriam," meaning "beloved" or "bitter." Her mention here, alongside other women, highlights the familial connections within the early church and the continuity of faith across generations. Her role as a witness to the resurrection emphasizes the theme of faithfulness and the fulfillment of God's promises through ordinary people.

and the other women with them
This phrase acknowledges the presence of additional women who accompanied Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James. The Greek term "heterai" (ἕτεραι) suggests a group of women who shared in the experience of discovering the empty tomb. This collective witness underscores the communal aspect of the early Christian experience and the shared joy and responsibility of proclaiming the resurrection. It also reflects the broader participation of women in Jesus' ministry and the early church.

who told this to the apostles
The act of telling, in Greek "apēngilan" (ἀπήγγειλαν), implies a formal announcement or report. The women, as the first to witness the empty tomb, are entrusted with the critical task of conveying the news of the resurrection to the apostles. This moment is significant, as it challenges cultural norms of the time, where women's testimonies were often undervalued. The apostles, the chosen leaders of the early church, receive the foundational truth of the resurrection from these faithful women, highlighting the transformative power of the Gospel and the breaking down of societal barriers in Christ.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Mary Magdalene
A devoted follower of Jesus, Mary Magdalene is often noted for her presence at both the crucifixion and the resurrection. Her role in the resurrection account highlights her importance in the early Christian community.

2. Joanna
The wife of Chuza, Herod's steward, Joanna was a woman of means who supported Jesus' ministry. Her inclusion in the resurrection account underscores the diverse backgrounds of Jesus' followers.

3. Mary the mother of James
Often identified as the mother of James the Less, one of the twelve apostles. Her presence at the resurrection event signifies the involvement of Jesus' family in His ministry.

4. The Others with Them
This phrase indicates that there were additional women present who also witnessed the empty tomb and shared the news with the apostles. This group represents the broader community of Jesus' followers.

5. The Apostles
The primary disciples of Jesus who were initially skeptical of the women's report. Their eventual belief and proclamation of the resurrection are central to the spread of the Gospel.

Teaching Points

The Role of Women in Ministry
The presence of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection challenges cultural norms and affirms their vital role in the early church and in ministry today.

Faithfulness in Following Christ
The women’s dedication to Jesus, even in the face of uncertainty and danger, serves as a model of steadfast faith and commitment.

The Importance of Testimony
The women's report to the apostles underscores the power of personal testimony in sharing the Gospel and encouraging belief.

Overcoming Skepticism
The initial disbelief of the apostles reminds us of the human tendency to doubt, yet also encourages us to seek truth and embrace faith.

Community in Christ
The diverse backgrounds of the women and their unity in purpose reflect the inclusive nature of the Christian community, united in the message of the resurrection.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the inclusion of women as the first witnesses to the resurrection challenge or affirm your understanding of their role in the early church and today?

2. In what ways can the faithfulness of Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James inspire your own walk with Christ?

3. How can you use your personal testimony to share the message of the resurrection with others in your community?

4. What steps can you take to overcome skepticism or doubt in your own faith journey, as seen in the apostles' initial reaction?

5. How can the example of diverse individuals coming together in the resurrection account encourage unity within your own church or Christian community?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Mark 16:1-8
This passage parallels Luke 24:10, providing additional details about the women who visited the tomb and their encounter with the angel.

John 20:1-18
Offers a more detailed account of Mary Magdalene's experience at the tomb and her encounter with the risen Christ.

Acts 1:14
Highlights the role of women in the early church, showing their continued involvement and leadership in the Christian community.

Matthew 28:1-10
Describes the resurrection morning and the angelic message to the women, emphasizing their role as the first witnesses to the resurrection.