Topical Bible: Mary: Magdalene: Present at the Crucifixion

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Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, holds a significant place in the Gospel narratives, particularly in the events surrounding the crucifixion of Jesus. Her presence at the crucifixion is a testament to her unwavering loyalty and love for her Lord, even in the face of immense sorrow and danger.

Biblical Account

The Gospels provide a poignant account of Mary Magdalene's presence at the crucifixion. In the Gospel of Matthew, it is recorded: "And many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to minister to Him. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee’s sons" (Matthew 27:55-56). This passage highlights Mary Magdalene's role as part of a group of women who had been faithful followers of Jesus, serving Him throughout His ministry.

The Gospel of Mark also emphasizes her presence: "There were also women watching from a distance. Among them were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the younger and of Joseph, and Salome" (Mark 15:40). Mark's account corroborates the presence of Mary Magdalene at this critical moment, underscoring her steadfastness.

In the Gospel of John, Mary Magdalene's proximity to the cross is further detailed: "Near the cross of Jesus stood His mother and her sister, as well as Mary the wife of Clopas and Mary Magdalene" (John 19:25). This passage places Mary Magdalene in close proximity to Jesus during His final moments, highlighting her courage and dedication.

Role and Significance

Mary Magdalene's presence at the crucifixion is significant for several reasons. First, it demonstrates her deep devotion to Jesus. Despite the risk of being associated with a condemned man, she remained near, offering support and solidarity. Her actions reflect a profound faith and love that transcended fear and societal norms.

Second, her presence is a powerful testament to the role of women in the early Christian community. While the male disciples had largely scattered, the women, including Mary Magdalene, remained. This highlights the important role women played in the life and ministry of Jesus, as well as in the early Church.

Finally, Mary Magdalene's presence at the crucifixion sets the stage for her pivotal role in the resurrection narrative. Her faithfulness at the cross is mirrored by her presence at the tomb, where she becomes the first to witness the risen Christ, further solidifying her role as a key witness to the foundational events of the Christian faith.

Theological Implications

From a theological perspective, Mary Magdalene's presence at the crucifixion underscores themes of loyalty, courage, and the transformative power of faith. Her example serves as an inspiration for believers to remain steadfast in their faith, even in the face of adversity. Her witness to the crucifixion and later the resurrection affirms the truth of the Gospel message and the hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

Nave's Topical Index

Matthew 27:56
Among which was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James and Joses, and the mother of Zebedees children.
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Mark 15:40
There were also women looking on afar off: among whom was Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James the less and of Joses, and Salome;
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John 20:1,11-13
The first day of the week comes Mary Magdalene early, when it was yet dark, to the sepulcher, and sees the stone taken away from the sepulcher.
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Library

The Crucifixion.
... and would come into his kingdom despite his crucifixion. ... his death and in his present
glorified state our ... sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/cxxxiii the crucifixion 2.htm

The Crucifixion.
... SERMON X. The Crucifixion. ... taking the case of the young, innocent, and confiding,
let us take another instance which will present to us ... Mary Magdalene's, or St ...
/.../newman/parochial and plain sermons vol vii/sermon x the crucifixion.htm

The Analysis of John.
... (5) The Crucifixion.19:17-37. ... (8) Christ appears to Mary Magdalene on the
first Lord's day.20:11-18. ... Thomas not present.20:19-23. ...
/.../johnson/the new testament commentary vol iii john/the analysis of john.htm

The Lord Seen by the Apostles.
... the recorded appearances of the Savior after his crucifixion. ... version of the appearance
to Mary Magdalene.3. To ... a second time, when Thomas was present (John 20 ...
/.../johnson/the new testament commentary vol iii john/the lord seen by the.htm

Mary at the Cross.
... His mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene. ... some relish to
him in the crucifixion of Jesus ... Christ as Divine may be at present beyond us ...
/.../dods/the expositors bible the gospel of st john vol ii/xx mary at the cross.htm

Life and Character of John
... He alone of all the disciples was present at the crucifixion, and was ... As John was
the last at the cross, so he was also, next to Mary Magdalene, the first ...
/.../history of the christian church volume i/section 41 life and character.htm

The Resurrection.
... first day of burial is the day of the crucifixion. ... The time of the ascension is viewed
as present. ... Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen ...
/.../johnson/the new testament commentary vol iii john/the resurrection.htm

The Women of the Gospel Narrative the Study of the Early Christian ...
... is Mary mentioned as being present at the Crucifixion. ... lest his neighbors, who were
present and heard ... the Church has always identified Mary Magdalene with the ...
/.../brittain/women of early christianity/i the women of the.htm

After Prayer Jesus Selects Twelve Apostles.
... gave no precedence to Peter, who was then present, but said ... of the women who watched
the crucifixion of Jesus ... Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and John ...
/.../mcgarvey/the four-fold gospel/xli after prayer jesus selects.htm

Introduction.
... to notice the prominence assigned to Mary Magdalene, and ... in regard to the chronology
of the crucifixion and several ... the Petrine Gospel seems to present a later ...
//christianbookshelf.org/unknown/the gospel of peter/introduction.htm