Matthew 27:55

And many women were there beholding afar off, which followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:

And {G1161} many {G4183} women {G1135} were {G2258} there {G1563} beholding {G2334} afar off {G575}{G3113}, which {G3748} followed {G190} Jesus {G2424} from {G575} Galilee {G1056}, ministering {G1247} unto him {G846}:

There were many women there, looking on from a distance; they had followed Yeshua from the Galil, helping him.

And many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to minister to Him.

And many women were there beholding from afar, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him:

Commentary

Matthew 27:55 describes a poignant scene at the foot of the cross, highlighting the unwavering devotion of a group of women who had followed Jesus Christ throughout His ministry.

Context

This verse immediately follows the account of Jesus' death on the cross (Matthew 27:50) and the dramatic events accompanying it, such as the tearing of the temple veil and the earthquake. While most of Jesus' male disciples had fled in fear after His arrest (Mark 14:50), these women remained, observing the horrific spectacle from a distance. Their presence underscores a remarkable steadfastness in a moment of profound despair and public shame for their Lord.

Key Themes

  • Unwavering Devotion and Loyalty: Despite the danger, the public humiliation, and the profound grief, these women stayed. Their commitment stands in stark contrast to the general abandonment by others, demonstrating a deep, personal loyalty to Jesus even in His darkest hour.
  • Female Discipleship and Service: The verse explicitly states they "followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering unto him." This highlights the significant and often overlooked role of women in supporting Jesus' earthly ministry, not just as passive listeners but as active contributors. They likely provided financial support, prepared food, and offered practical care, as seen in other gospel accounts like Luke 8:2-3.
  • Witness to the Crucifixion: By "beholding afar off," they served as crucial eyewitnesses to the crucifixion, a vital part of the gospel narrative. Their presence would later qualify them to be the first witnesses of the resurrection, a pivotal event detailed in Matthew 28:1-10.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word translated "ministering" is diakoneō (διακονέω), from which we get the word "deacon." It signifies serving, waiting on tables, or performing acts of service. This wasn't merely passive observation; it was active, supportive service, often involving practical and financial assistance. It emphasizes their self-sacrificial contribution to Jesus' mission.

Prominent Women Mentioned

While this verse generally mentions "many women," the very next verse, Matthew 27:56, names some of them: Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedee's children (Salome, according to Mark's account).

Practical Application

Matthew 27:55 offers a powerful example of faithful presence and persistent service. It challenges believers to consider their own commitment to Christ, especially during difficult times. Just as these women stood by Jesus in His suffering, we are called to remain loyal and continue serving Him, even when circumstances are grim or when others have turned away. Their quiet faithfulness reminds us that all forms of service, big or small, are valuable in God's eyes and contribute to His kingdom work.

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Cross-References

  • Luke 8:2 (4 votes)

    And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils,

  • Luke 8:3 (4 votes)

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

  • Luke 23:48 (3 votes)

    And all the people that came together to that sight, beholding the things which were done, smote their breasts, and returned.

  • Luke 23:49 (3 votes)

    And all his acquaintance, and the women that followed him from Galilee, stood afar off, beholding these things.

  • John 19:25 (3 votes)

    Now there stood by the cross of Jesus his mother, and his mother's sister, Mary the [wife] of Cleophas, and Mary Magdalene.

  • John 19:27 (3 votes)

    Then saith he to the disciple, Behold thy mother! And from that hour that disciple took her unto his own [home].

  • Luke 23:27 (2 votes)

    And there followed him a great company of people, and of women, which also bewailed and lamented him.