Women as Patterns for Ministry in the Gospel of Luke

Abstract

The female disciples in Luke have been noted for their fidelity to Jesus from Galilee to the crucifixion. They were the first to tell the message of Jesus’ resurrection. What influence, however, did they have on Jesus’ ministry? Did the women—like other first century patronesses—expect their support to accomplish some aim or agenda? Much of this information is unavailable to us. We do see, however, in Martha’s ministry, evidence that women were influential in what Jesus depicts as ideal discipleship. The women who follow from Galilee to the cross demonstrate their fidelity in discipleship, even when it comes at a cost. The women, in other words, both influence and remain faithful to Jesus and his mission, setting the table and the stage for what will become the norm for those who follow Jesus.