Luke 8:3

And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod's steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.

And {G2532} Joanna {G2489} the wife {G1135} of Chuza {G5529} Herod's {G2264} steward {G2012}, and {G2532} Susanna {G4677}, and {G2532} many {G4183} others {G2087}, which {G3748} ministered {G1247} unto him {G846} of {G575} their {G846} substance {G5224}.

Yochanah the wife of Herod's finance minister Kuza; Shoshanah; and many other women who drew on their own wealth to help him.

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

and Joanna the wife of Chuzas Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, who ministered unto them of their substance.

Commentary

Luke 8:3 provides a fascinating glimpse into the practical support system that sustained Jesus' itinerant ministry. Following the mention of Jesus traveling through cities and villages, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God, this verse introduces a group of influential women who were vital to His mission.

Context

This verse immediately follows Luke 8:1-2, which describes Jesus' continuous journey through cities and villages, accompanied by the twelve apostles and certain women who had been healed. Luke, known for his attention to the role of women in Jesus' ministry, highlights these individuals by name, emphasizing their active participation and financial contribution. This was particularly notable in a society where women typically had limited public roles.

Key Themes

  • Support for Ministry: The verse explicitly states that these women "ministered unto him of their substance," indicating they provided financial and material resources. This practical support was crucial for Jesus and His disciples, enabling them to devote themselves fully to preaching and teaching without being burdened by daily provisions. It underscores the importance of financial and practical backing for those engaged in ministry.
  • Prominent Role of Women: The mention of Joanna, the wife of Chuza (Herod's steward), and Susanna, alongside "many others," highlights the significant and active role women played in Jesus' ministry. Joanna's connection to Herod's court suggests she was a woman of considerable means and influence. These women were not merely passive listeners but active participants, providing essential support. Their commitment challenged prevailing societal norms regarding women's public involvement. Joanna is also later mentioned among the women who discovered the empty tomb, underscoring her enduring devotion (Luke 24:10).
  • Diversity of Discipleship: Jesus' followers came from all walks of life—fishermen, tax collectors, and, as seen here, women of means connected to influential households. This diversity demonstrates that the call to follow Christ transcends social status, gender, or wealth.

Linguistic Insight

The KJV phrase "ministered unto him of their substance" translates the Greek verb diakoneō (διακονέω), from which we get the word "deacon." It signifies active service, often involving practical aid, care, or provision. In this context, it specifically refers to providing financial and material support. This term emphasizes selfless, practical service rather than mere passive attendance, highlighting the tangible nature of their contributions.

Practical Application

Luke 8:3 offers several timeless lessons for believers today:

  • Value of All Contributions: Every gift, whether financial, material, or through service, is valuable in advancing God's work. The "substance" these women provided was essential for Jesus' mission.
  • Support for Ministry: The verse reminds us of the ongoing need for practical and financial support for those who dedicate their lives to spreading the Gospel.
  • Empowerment of Women: It affirms the vital and active role women have always played, and continue to play, in the church and in ministry, often in ways that are foundational yet sometimes overlooked.
  • Heart of Service: The example of Joanna and Susanna encourages a spirit of selfless service, using whatever resources or influence we possess to support God's kingdom.
Note: If the commentary doesn’t appear instantly, please allow 2–5 seconds for it to load. It is generated by Gemini 2.5 Flash using a prompt focused on Biblical fidelity over bias. While the insights have been consistently reliable, we encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit.

Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Acts 9:36

    ¶ Now there was at Joppa a certain disciple named Tabitha, which by interpretation is called Dorcas: this woman was full of good works and almsdeeds which she did.

  • Acts 9:39

    Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them.

  • John 4:46

    So Jesus came again into Cana of Galilee, where he made the water wine. And there was a certain nobleman, whose son was sick at Capernaum.

  • John 4:53

    So the father knew that [it was] at the same hour, in the which Jesus said unto him, Thy son liveth: and himself believed, and his whole house.

  • 1 Timothy 5:10

    Well reported of for good works; if she have brought up children, if she have lodged strangers, if she have washed the saints' feet, if she have relieved the afflicted, if she have diligently followed every good work.

  • 2 Corinthians 8:9

    For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.

  • Philippians 4:22

    All the saints salute you, chiefly they that are of Caesar's household.
← Back