What were the encounters that Mary Magdalene had with Jesus?

Mary Magdalene is one of the most prominent female figures in the New Testament. Her encounters with Jesus are deeply significant, reflecting her transformation, devotion, and the unique role she played in Jesus’ ministry, death, and resurrection. Below is an in-depth exploration of her encounters with Jesus, drawn from the New King James Version (NKJV) of the Bible.

1. Delivered from Demonic Possession

Mary Magdalene’s first significant encounter with Jesus is her deliverance from demonic possession. This transformative event is mentioned in Luke 8:2 (NKJV):

“and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons.”

This passage indicates that Mary had been severely afflicted, and Jesus’ healing power profoundly changed her life. This encounter marked the beginning of her deep commitment to Jesus.

2. A Devoted Follower and Supporter

After her deliverance, Mary Magdalene became a devoted follower of Jesus. She, along with other women, provided for Jesus and His disciples out of their resources. Luke 8:1-3 (NKJV) describes this:

“Now it came to pass, afterward, that He went through every city and village, preaching and bringing the glad tidings of the kingdom of God. And the twelve were with Him, and certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities—Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons, and Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others who provided for Him from their substance.”

Mary’s support and presence alongside Jesus during His ministry reflect her gratitude and dedication.

3. Witness to the Crucifixion

Mary Magdalene was present at the crucifixion of Jesus, demonstrating her loyalty and courage. While many disciples fled, she remained near the cross. John 19:25 (NKJV) records her presence:

“Now there stood by the cross of Jesus His mother, and His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.”

Her presence at the crucifixion highlights her steadfastness and love for Jesus, even in the face of danger and sorrow.

4. Observing Jesus’ Burial

Mary Magdalene also witnessed Jesus’ burial. She followed Joseph of Arimathea to see where Jesus was laid, ensuring she knew the location of His tomb. Mark 15:47 (NKJV) notes:

“And Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of Joses observed where He was laid.”

This act of devotion ensured that she could return to the tomb to care for Jesus’ body, reflecting her continuing faithfulness.

5. The First to Witness the Empty Tomb

Mary Magdalene was the first to arrive at Jesus’ tomb on the morning of His resurrection. This encounter is detailed in John 20:1-2 (NKJV):

“Now on the first day of the week Mary Magdalene went to the tomb early, while it was still dark, and saw that the stone had been taken away from the tomb. Then she ran and came to Simon Peter, and to the other disciple, whom Jesus loved, and said to them, ‘They have taken away the Lord out of the tomb, and we do not know where they have laid Him.'”

Her early arrival at the tomb underscores her deep devotion and her desire to honor Jesus.

6. Encounter with Angels

After discovering the empty tomb, Mary encountered angels who confirmed Jesus’ resurrection. Mark 16:5-7 (NKJV) describes this:

“And entering the tomb, they saw a young man clothed in a long white robe sitting on the right side; and they were alarmed. But he said to them, ‘Do not be alarmed. You seek Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified. He is risen! He is not here. See the place where they laid Him. But go, tell His disciples—and Peter—that He is going before you into Galilee; there you will see Him, as He said to you.'”

The angelic announcement was the first confirmation of the resurrection, and Mary was chosen to receive this message.

7. The First Appearance of the Risen Jesus

The most significant encounter Mary Magdalene had with Jesus was His first post-resurrection appearance. This profound moment is recorded in John 20:11-18 (NKJV):

“But Mary stood outside by the tomb weeping, and as she wept she stooped down and looked into the tomb. And she saw two angels in white sitting, one at the head and the other at the feet, where the body of Jesus had lain. Then they said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping?’ She said to them, ‘Because they have taken away my Lord, and I do not know where they have laid Him.’

Now when she had said this, she turned around and saw Jesus standing there, and did not know that it was Jesus. Jesus said to her, ‘Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?’ She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, ‘Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away.’ Jesus said to her, ‘Mary!’ She turned and said to Him, ‘Rabboni!’ (which is to say, Teacher). Jesus said to her, ‘Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, “I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.”‘ Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that He had spoken these things to her.”

This encounter is monumental as Mary becomes the first person to see the resurrected Christ and is commissioned to announce the resurrection to the disciples.

8. The Commission to Tell the Disciples

Jesus’ commissioning of Mary Magdalene to tell the disciples about His resurrection is of great importance. It underscores the trust and honor Jesus placed in her. Matthew 28:8-10 (NKJV) also mentions this:

“So they went out quickly from the tomb with fear and great joy, and ran to bring His disciples word. And as they went to tell His disciples, behold, Jesus met them, saying, ‘Rejoice!’ So they came and held Him by the feet and worshiped Him. Then Jesus said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. Go and tell My brethren to go to Galilee, and there they will see Me.'”

Mary’s role as the first to announce the resurrection is a testament to her significance in Jesus’ ministry.

Conclusion

Mary Magdalene’s encounters with Jesus are powerful testimonies to her faith, devotion, and transformation. From her deliverance from demonic possession to her role as the first witness of the resurrection, Mary’s journey reflects profound moments of grace and purpose.

1. Delivered from Demonic Possession: (Luke 8:2) Jesus cast out seven demons from Mary, marking the beginning of her devotion.
2. A Devoted Follower and Supporter: (Luke 8:1-3) Mary provided for Jesus and His disciples, showcasing her commitment.
3. Witness to the Crucifixion: (John 19:25) Mary stood by the cross, demonstrating her steadfast loyalty.
4. Observing Jesus’ Burial: (Mark 15:47) She followed Joseph of Arimathea to see where Jesus was laid.
5. The First to Witness the Empty Tomb: (John 20:1-2) Mary arrived at the tomb early, discovering it empty.
6. Encounter with Angels: (Mark 16:5-7) Angels confirmed the resurrection to Mary.
7. The First Appearance of the Risen Jesus: (John 20:11-18) Jesus appeared to Mary, making her the first to see Him resurrected.
8. The Commission to Tell the Disciples: (Matthew 28:8-10) Jesus commissioned Mary to announce His resurrection.

Mary Magdalene’s encounters with Jesus highlight the transformative power of His love and the significant role she played in His ministry and the early Christian community. Through her experiences, we see a profound example of faithfulness, courage, and the grace of God at work in an individual’s life.

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In His service,
BibleAsk Team