The Women on the Cross John 19:25-27
Today we turn our gaze to a scene of profound sorrow and yet unwavering devotion: the foot of the cross where our Lord Jesus Christ hung in agony. Amidst the darkness and despair, a group of women stood firm, their presence a powerful testament to their love, faith, and courage. Let us reflect on the significance of these women on the cross.
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1. Faithfulness in the Midst of Pain (John 19:25)
"Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother, his mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene." While many of Jesus' disciples, overcome by fear, had fled, these women remained steadfast near the cross. Their presence in such a perilous and heartbreaking moment is a powerful example of faithful love that endures even in the face of unimaginable suffering. Their love for Jesus transcended their fear for their own safety.
2. The Woman Who Suffers in Silence but Remains Firm (John 19:25)
"Near the cross of Jesus stood his mother..." Mary, the mother of Jesus, embodies the profound pain of a mother witnessing the agonizing death of her son. The scripture doesn't detail her words in this moment, suggesting a deep, silent suffering. Yet, her presence at the foot of the cross speaks volumes of her unwavering love and faith. Despite the immense sorrow piercing her heart, she remained firm, a pillar of love in the face of ultimate loss.
3. Jesus Values the Presence and Faithfulness of Women (John 19:26)
"When Jesus saw his mother there, and the disciple whom he loved standing nearby, he said to his mother, 'Dear woman, here is your son,' and to the disciple, 'Here is your mother.'" 1 Even in His own excruciating pain on the cross, Jesus' heart was filled with compassion and concern for His mother. By entrusting her care to the beloved disciple, John, He honored her faithfulness and demonstrated that the presence and devotion of these women did not go unnoticed by God.
4. Women Are Given Responsibilities in the Kingdom (John 19:27)
"From that time on, this disciple took her into his home." Jesus' instruction to John to care for Mary signifies that women are not mere bystanders but active participants in the care, mission, and continuity of Christ's work. Mary, having played a pivotal role in Jesus' earthly life, was now entrusted to the care of a key disciple, highlighting the ongoing importance and responsibility given to women within God's kingdom.
5. The Presence of Women at the Cross Reveals Spiritual Courage (John 19:25)
"...they were standing by the cross of Jesus..." The simple statement that these women were "standing by the cross" speaks volumes of their spiritual courage. In a time of great danger and public humiliation for anyone associated with the crucified Jesus, they bravely stood their ground. Their courage stands in stark contrast to the fear that gripped many of the male disciples. They faced the risk of persecution, the overwhelming sadness of witnessing Jesus' suffering, and the social stigma of being associated with a condemned man, all for the sake of their love for Christ.
6. True Love Endures to the End (John 19:25)
"They were standing by the cross of Jesus..." The unwavering presence of these women at the very foot of the cross is the ultimate demonstration of true love. Their love for Jesus did not waver in the face of His suffering and apparent defeat. It was a love that was not dependent on favorable circumstances or outward victory but was rooted in a deep surrender of the heart to their Lord. Their love endured to the very end, a powerful example for all believers.
- The Woman Set Free Matthew 15:21-28 and Luke 13:10-17
- Woman Who Sees Miracles: The Healing of the Widow of Nain's Son Luke 7:11-17.
- The women who anointed Jesus
- Sermons To Women: Preaching for Woman Ministry
Therefore, brothers and sisters, let us be deeply moved and inspired by the faithfulness, silent strength, valued presence, entrusted responsibility, spiritual courage, and enduring love of the women who stood by the cross of Jesus. May their example challenge us to examine the depth of our own devotion and commitment to Christ, especially in times of difficulty. May we learn to love Him not just in word but in deed and in truth, standing firm in our faith and love, no matter the cost. Amen.
