Jesus and the Sisterhood of Faith “Participants in Kingdom Purposes” (Billy Russell, 05/12/19)

 

Jesus and the Sisterhood of Faith

 “Participants in Kingdom Purposes"

(Luke 8:1-3)

 Happy Mother’s Day! Luke highlights the unique role women actively shared in the daily ministry of Jesus. They were followers of Jesus, transformed by His ministry. They had a supportive, equipping role inclusive with the 12 disciples. They used their financial resources to support Jesus and further His ministry. Who are these women? What can we learn from them about participating in Kingdom purposes today?

 

Jesus actively traveled during his ministry (8:1)- purposeful wandering

     Jesus was “... a sojourner on the move” (EEE)- road trippin’!

     His entourage included the 12 disciples “and also some women” (v.1).

     Jesus elevated their role by including them in the traveling band.

          “Adult co-education was unheard of” (C.Keener).

 

Who are these Women (8:2-3)? Luke honors them by naming some:

     Mary (Magdalene)- had 7 demons cast out!

     Joanna- the wife of Cuza, manager of Herod’s household (healed?)

     Susanna- no other known info (restored somehow?)

     Many others... (lives changed by their faith in Jesus!)

 

                      Lessons We Learn from the Sisterhood of Faith

 

Partner willingly- we are co-laborers with a collective responsibility.

     They were participants in Kingdom purposes.

 

Serve energetically- “were ministering” (v.3)- constant, on-going.

     They were providing, supporting, and helping however it was needed.

     Luke uses the picture of serving like table waiters: eager, responsive.

 

Sacrifice mutually- “out of their own means” (v.3)- “receive/give” (Bock).

 

 

Witness gratefully and boldly- with Jesus in His daily ministry; followed   

     him to the cross, to the tomb, and then, they were the first evangelists  

     of the resurrection! “Hear the Word, Spread the Word” (T. Anyabuile).