Mary Magdalene: A Legacy of Faith and Discipleship
Summary
In today's sermon, we explored the life and legacy of Mary Magdalene, a figure who has been subject to much speculation and mislabeling throughout history. We delved into the Gospel according to Luke, where we find Mary Magdalene as a devoted follower of Jesus, one who was healed from seven demons and who supported Jesus' ministry financially. We also touched upon the Feast of Mary Magdalene, a day that honors her significant role in the early church.
We began by examining the various ways Mary Magdalene has been portrayed over the centuries: as a temptress, a prostitute, the wife of Jesus, and even the mother of his child. These depictions, however, are not supported by the biblical witness or historical writings. Instead, we find a Mary who was a strong, independent woman, healed by Jesus, and who became a committed follower of His teachings.
Throughout Lent, we have been focusing on what it means to truly follow Jesus, a journey that involves walking in His way, taking up our cross, and living a life of allegiance to Him. Mary Magdalene exemplifies this discipleship, remaining faithful to Jesus even when it was costly. She was present at the crucifixion, the burial, and was the first to witness the empty tomb, becoming the first preacher of the resurrection.
We also reflected on the women in our own lives who have embodied the spirit of Mary Magdalene, those who have inspired and taught us faith through their actions and prayers. These women, like Mary, have shown us the importance of remaining faithful to the Lord, even when it entails personal sacrifice.
In the sermon, we addressed the unfortunate legacy of Mary Magdalene that began with a misinterpretation by Pope Gregory I in 591 AD, who wrongly identified her as a prostitute. This mislabeling persisted for centuries until it was corrected in 1969. We discussed how cultural representations, from art to music to literature, have often misrepresented Mary, overshadowing her true role as a follower and leader in the early church.
Finally, we considered the impact Mary Magdalene's example could have on the world if all followers of Jesus prayed and lived with the same dedication and willingness to bear the cost of discipleship. We closed with a call to follow in the footsteps of the great cloud of witnesses, including Mary Magdalene, by fixing our eyes on Christ and running the race set before us.
Key Takeaways:
- Mary Magdalene's true biblical identity is that of a healed, independent, and devoted follower of Jesus, not the misconstrued figure of cultural legend. Her presence at the crucifixion and the empty tomb, and her role as the first to proclaim the resurrection, mark her as a pivotal figure in the Christian faith. [53:31]
- The mislabeling of Mary Magdalene throughout history serves as a cautionary tale about the power of narrative and the importance of seeking truth in Scripture. It reminds us to critically examine the sources of our beliefs and to honor the true contributions of individuals in the history of our faith. [49:08]
- The example of Mary Magdalene challenges us to consider the depth of our own discipleship. Her story invites us to reflect on the ways we support the work of the Kingdom and to ask ourselves if we are willing to follow Jesus with the same level of commitment and sacrifice. [57:14]
- The legacy of faith left by women who embody the spirit of Mary Magdalene is a testament to the enduring power of living a Christ-centered life. These women, past and present, serve as role models and beacons of faith, encouraging us to persevere in our own spiritual journeys. [55:31]
- The story of Mary Magdalene underscores the significance of stewardship and generosity in the life of a believer. Her financial support of Jesus' ministry, as mentioned in Luke, highlights the practical ways in which we can contribute to the spread of the Gospel and the support of our faith communities. [47:45]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Life and Legacy of Mary Magdalene
#### Bible Reading
1. Luke 8:1-3 (NIV)
> "After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The twelve were with him, and also some women who had been cured of evil spirits and diseases: Mary (called Magdalene) from whom seven demons had come out; Joanna the wife of Chuza, the manager of Herod’s household; Susanna; and many others. These women were helping to support them out of their own means."
2. Hebrews 12:1-2 (NIV)
> "Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles. And let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Luke 8:1-3 tell us about Mary Magdalene's background and her role in Jesus' ministry?
2. How does the author of Hebrews describe the "great cloud of witnesses" and what are believers encouraged to do in response? [57:14]
3. According to the sermon, what are some of the common misconceptions about Mary Magdalene's identity? [40:36]
4. What significant events in Jesus' life was Mary Magdalene present for, according to the sermon? [42:08]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is it significant that Mary Magdalene is identified independently and not in relation to a man, especially in the context of a patriarchal society? [44:47]
2. How does the mislabeling of Mary Magdalene throughout history serve as a cautionary tale about the power of narrative and the importance of seeking truth in Scripture? [49:08]
3. What does Mary Magdalene's example of discipleship and stewardship teach us about the practical ways we can support the work of the Kingdom? [47:45]
4. How does the legacy of women who embody the spirit of Mary Magdalene inspire us to persevere in our own spiritual journeys? [55:31]
#### Application Questions
1. Mary Magdalene was healed by Jesus and became a devoted follower. Reflect on a time when you experienced healing or transformation. How did it change your relationship with Jesus? [46:36]
2. Mary Magdalene supported Jesus' ministry financially. What are some practical ways you can contribute to the spread of the Gospel and support your faith community? [47:45]
3. The sermon highlighted the importance of remaining faithful to Jesus even when it is costly. Can you think of a situation where following Jesus might require personal sacrifice? How can you prepare yourself to remain faithful in such times? [43:02]
4. Reflect on the women in your life who have inspired your faith. How have their actions and prayers influenced your spiritual journey? [55:31]
5. The sermon calls us to critically examine the sources of our beliefs. Are there any beliefs or narratives you hold that you need to re-evaluate in light of Scripture? [49:08]
6. Mary Magdalene was the first to witness the empty tomb and proclaim the resurrection. How can you be a witness to the resurrection in your daily life? [52:13]
7. Hebrews 12:1-2 encourages us to run the race set before us with perseverance. What are some specific distractions or sins that hinder you from fixing your eyes on Jesus? How can you address them this week? [57:14]
This guide is designed to help your small group delve deeper into the life and legacy of Mary Magdalene, encouraging reflection on personal discipleship and the impact of faithful women in our lives.
Devotional
Day 1: Rediscovering Mary Magdalene's True Identity
Mary Magdalene's story is a powerful testament to transformation and devotion. Once healed from seven demons, she emerges in the Gospel of Luke as a figure of strength, independence, and unwavering support for Jesus' ministry. Her journey from healing to discipleship illustrates the profound impact that Jesus' love and power can have on an individual's life. Mary's presence at the crucifixion and her role as the first to witness the empty tomb underscore her importance in the Christian narrative. She was not the misconstrued figure of cultural legend but a pivotal figure in the early church, whose faithfulness set a precedent for all believers to follow.
Luke 8:2-3 describes Mary Magdalene as one of the women who accompanied Jesus and supported his ministry out of their resources. This passage highlights her commitment and the practical ways she contributed to the spread of the Gospel.
Reflection: How does the example of Mary Magdalene's transformation and dedication challenge your understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus today? [53:31]
Day 2: The Power of Narrative and Truth
The mislabeling of Mary Magdalene throughout history serves as a stark reminder of how narratives can shape our understanding of individuals and their legacies. For centuries, Mary was wrongly identified as a prostitute, a narrative that was not corrected until 1969. This cautionary tale emphasizes the importance of seeking truth in Scripture and critically examining the sources of our beliefs. It invites believers to honor the true contributions of individuals in the history of their faith and to be vigilant in how they allow cultural representations to influence their understanding of biblical figures.
Acts 17:11 commends the Bereans for their diligence in examining the Scriptures daily to see if what they were being taught was true, setting an example for how believers should approach teachings and traditions.
Reflection: In what ways can you emulate the Bereans' approach to Scripture in your own study, ensuring that your understanding of biblical figures is based on truth rather than tradition? [49:08]
Day 3: The Depth of Our Discipleship
Mary Magdalene's story is not just one of healing and support; it is a challenge to every believer to consider the depth of their own discipleship. Her unwavering commitment to Jesus, even in the face of personal sacrifice, raises the question of how far we are willing to go in our own journey of faith. Are we, like Mary, prepared to support the work of the Kingdom with our resources, to stand by Jesus in times of trial, and to proclaim the resurrection with boldness?
Hebrews 13:15-16 encourages us to continually offer a sacrifice of praise to God and to not neglect doing good and sharing what we have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God.
Reflection: What are the practical ways in which you can support the work of the Kingdom, and are you willing to make sacrifices similar to those made by Mary Magdalene in your walk with Christ? [57:14]
Day 4: The Legacy of Faithful Women
The spirit of Mary Magdalene lives on in the countless women who have embodied her example of faith and dedication. These women, both past and present, have served as role models and beacons of faith, inspiring others through their actions and prayers. Their legacy is a testament to the enduring power of living a Christ-centered life, and it challenges us to persevere in our own spiritual journeys, no matter the cost.
Proverbs 31:30-31 speaks of a woman who fears the Lord, praising her for the fruit of her hands and letting her works bring her praise at the city gates, highlighting the lasting impact of a life lived in reverence to God.
Reflection: Can you identify a woman in your life or in history who embodies the spirit of Mary Magdalene, and how can her example inspire you to live out your faith more fully? [55:31]
Day 5: Stewardship and Generosity in Faith
Mary Magdalene's support of Jesus' ministry with her resources is a powerful example of stewardship and generosity in faith. Her actions demonstrate that following Jesus involves not only spiritual devotion but also practical contributions to the work of the Gospel. This aspect of her discipleship invites us to consider how we use our own resources to support our faith communities and to further the mission of the church.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 encourages believers to give as they have decided in their hearts, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver, reminding us of the joy and blessing that comes with generous giving.
Reflection: How can you practice generosity and stewardship in your own life, and what steps can you take to support your faith community in a manner similar to Mary Magdalene? [47:45]
Quotes
"Think about the many women in your life who have kept the faith, practiced the faith, inspired the faith and pointed us to the Christ. The Mary Magdalene's around you. Women who in one way or another with their lives prayed Mary's prayer. May I remain faithful to you, Lord, even when doing so may be costly. So they are followers." [57:14]
"Mary Magdalene. How well do you know Mary Magdalene? Culture and history has labeled her in many different ways. Do you know her as an inappropriate temptress? The wife of Jesus, the mother of his child, a foot washer, a prostitute, a woman cured from exorcism, the first Easter preacher, the apostles, the apostles." [41:25]
"Mary stood by him till he died. The liturgy of the feast of Mary Magdalene celebrated in many denominations. You've heard of it, right? Did you know the Presbyterian Church has a widely unknown day of worship known as the Feast of Mary Magdalene? In the liturgy for the Feast of the Magdalene, we have a thematic prayer that is attributed to her." [42:31]
"Mary saw the empty tomb, heard the words of the angel and she ran to tell the disciples and she becomes the first preacher of Easter. Because of this, many years later, Saint Augustine correctly labels her as the apostle to the apostles. But the reaction to her first Easter sermon was not good." [53:31]
"And so we come to the end of our series here together in this sanctuary and online at home. And I'm thinking of Mary and I'm also thinking of all the women that have inspired my own faith journey. And the women and the Mary Magdalene's that have inspired my own life. The Mary Magdalene's that have shaped our faith journeys, the ones who inspire and teach us the faith." [55:31]
"In other words, her seven demons could simply mean that she was completely overwhelmed by her illness. What illness, you might ask? Well, we don't know. Some scholars speculate that it was some sort of epilepsy. We really don't know. What we know is that she was healed by Jesus. And that should be enough, because her response is what matters." [46:41]
"We know Mary's heart. We know she is an example of generosity and stewardship and faithfulness. We have a devoted follower of Jesus Christ. Of all of these followers that we have been speaking about throughout Lent, which do you hold as an example? If you're still looking for one, Mary's a good one." [47:45]
"The legacy of Mary and her mislabeling started a long time ago with a really, really bad Easter sermon. In the year 591 AD, where Pope Gregory I preached a really bad Easter sermon, where he referred to Mary Magdalene as, I quote, a woman of wantonly sinful history. In other words, Pope Gregory I thought that Mary was a prostitute." [49:08]
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