NOTES for Luk 8:1-3

Many teachers and philosophers of antiquity gathered a school of followers around them; many had disciples who followed them, hanging on their every word. Yet no preacher of antiquity was followed by so many women. In this passage the evangelist carefully lists the names of those who were as close to the Lord as the twelve apostles. Luke particularly notes that they had been healed or cleansed of evil spirits, thereby drawing our attention to the fact that Jesus had visibly manifested His divine power through them. While He calls the apostles chiefly by His word, He wins over the future myrrh-bearers through miracles. Mary Magdalene came to know Christ when she realized that the seven demons tormenting her had been cast out, not when she heard a call to follow Him.

Perhaps this reveals a difference between men and women in how they perceive God… The Saviour shows most of His disciples an entirely new path in life, whereas in the women He brings about a qualitative change. But these are only ways in which the Lord draws hearts to Himself, ways that are not of great importance. One thing remains central: the Kingdom of God, regardless of how your attention was drawn to it.