MARY MAGDALENE: The Faithful Follower

From being a helpless victim of demons to becoming the herald of the victorious King, Mary Magdalene’s story is truly fascinating. It is a testimony of God’s grace to those who remain faithful to Him. No wonder she is remembered as one of the most remarkable women in the gospel accounts.

FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT

We are given only a few details about Mary’s background. She was from Magdala, a town on the southwest coast of the Sea of Galilee. According to Mark 16:9 and Luke 8:2, she had once been possessed by seven demons before Jesus delivered her. It is difficult to imagine what life was like under the torment of even one evil spirit—much more seven! 

The gospel writers did not describe her life before this oppression, but we can be certain of a few things. She was not the “sinful woman” who anointed Jesus (Luke 7:37), nor was she the woman caught in adultery (John 8:11). Those associations are the result of misreadings over the centuries. What we do know is that after being delivered from the forces of darkness, Mary became an active supporter of Jesus’ ministry. Along with other women, she accompanied Christ and the apostles as they traveled, even providing for their needs (Luke 8:1–3). Mary could have gone back home after her healing. Instead, she chose to remain with Jesus and follow Him wherever He went. The woman once tormented by evil spirits now devoted herself to helping others find freedom in Christ.

FROM LIGHT TO DARKNESS

Mary did not abandon Jesus—even when everyone else did. In Christ’s darkest hour, His disciples fled in fear (Matthew 26:56). Peter, who swore loyalty, denied Him three times (Matthew 26:69–75). But Mary, along with a few faithful women, remained by the cross (Matthew 27:55–56; Mark 15:40; John 19:25).

Crucifixion was a shameful public execution reserved for the worst criminals. To be associated with someone crucified was to put yourself at great personal risk. It is no wonder the disciples hid in fear (John 20:19). Yet Mary stayed. She watched as the One who had saved her seemed unable to save Himself. Still, she refused to leave. She was present at His burial, watching carefully as His body was laid in the tomb (Mark 15:47). Through it all, Mary never left her Master.

FROM DARKNESS TO UNENDING LIGHT

On the first day of the week, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene and the women went to the tomb to anoint Jesus’ body. Because the Sabbath had come too quickly, they had not been able to complete the burial customs. Mary had followed Jesus in His ministry, stayed with Him in His suffering, and now, even in His death, she sought to serve Him one last time.

Imagine her grief when she discovered the tomb empty and the body gone (John 20:15). Yet her faithfulness was about to be rewarded in a way beyond imagination. Mary became the very first witness of the risen Christ. The victorious King who had just defeated death appeared to her before anyone else (John 20:13–16). Even more, she was given the honor of being the first messenger of the resurrection (John 20:17–18). Alongside the other women (Luke 24:10), Mary Magdalene became the first herald of the good news.

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Mary’s story is a story of loyalty. She never abandoned the Lord who had saved her—and in return, she received honor. The gospel writers highlight her devotion so much that her name is often listed first among the women who followed Jesus. Her faithfulness points us to the Savior who cares for the oppressed and has the power to set them free. And it reminds us that God reserves special privileges for those who remain steadfast, because He values our commitment to Him. Stay Curious.