Luke 8:2

Luke 8:2, in plain English

Some women who had been healed by Jesus traveled with Him, including Mary Magdalene, who had been set free from seven demons. Their healing became the foundation of their devotion.

Why it's here

Luke takes special care to name the women who supported Jesus' ministry, showing us that discipleship was never limited to men. These women had personal, life-changing encounters with Jesus.

Who's speaking

Luke introduces us to the women in Jesus' traveling company.

Where it sits in the story

Mary Magdalene and other women who had experienced Jesus' healing power firsthand became part of His inner circle, traveling with Him and supporting the mission.

The scholarly reading

Luke uniquely records women disciples who had been healed of evil spirits and astheneiōn (infirmities). Mary Magdalene's deliverance from seven demons indicates a severe case of demonization, with 'seven' signifying completeness of oppression.

Language and setting

This is the first mention of Mary Magdalene in Luke's Gospel, introduced alongside other women patrons. Their inclusion reflects Luke's distinctive emphasis on the role of women in Jesus' ministry.

Voice

Luke narrates, identifying specific women among Jesus' traveling company.

Significance

Among Jesus' followers were women He had personally healed and delivered, including Mary Magdalene, who had been freed from seven demons. Their gratitude transformed into devoted discipleship.

1Soon afterward, Jesus traveled from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. The Twelve were with Him,

2as well as some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out,

3Joanna the wife of Herod’s household manager Chuza, Susanna, and many others. These women were ministering to them out of their own means.

4While a large crowd was gathering and people were coming to Jesus from town after town, He told them this parable:

Read all of Luke 8 — A storm, a legion of demons, a bleeding woman, and a dead girl — Jesus moves through a world of chaos and brings order with a word or a touch.