The Story of Jesus His Relationship with Mary Magdalene (Lesson 73)
Introduction:
1. According to 2 Peter 3:18, God's people are to grow in the knowledge of His Son. 2. Jesus gave the key to achieving this growth in John 5:39: "Search the Scriptures." 3. In this lesson we are examining the Lord's relationship with Mary Magdalene.
Discussion:
I. MARY'S BACKGROUND
A. The name "Magdalene" distinguishes this woman from other women named Mary. 1. This seems to indicate that she was from Magdala, located near the Sea of Galilee. 2. Similarly, Jesus was called a "Nazarene" because He was from Nazareth (Matthew 2:23). B. Contrary to popular opinion, the Scriptures do not teach that Mary was a prostitute or that she was romantically involved with Jesus. C. The Scriptures do teach that Jesus cast seven demons out of Mary (Mark 16:9). 1. The occasion when Jesus cast the demons out of Mary is not recorded. 2. We do not know their effect on Mary, but demons caused people to suffer in various ways. a. Matthew 9:32 b. Matthew 12:22 c. Mark 9:17-22 d. Luke 8:26-30 D. Mary showed her appreciation to Jesus by serving Him (Luke 8:1-3).
II. MARY WAS PRESENT WHEN JESUS WAS CRUCIFIED
A. Matthew 27:55-56 B. John 19:25
III. MARY SAW WHERE JESUS' BODY WAS BURIED
A. Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus buried the Lord's body (Mark 15:42-46; John 19:38-42). B. Mary noted the location of the grave (Mark 15:47). C. She intended to provide additional care for the Lord's body after the Sabbath (Luke 23:55-56).
IV. MARY VISITED THE TOMB ON THE FIRST DAY OF THE WEEK
A. Mary and some other women went to the tomb to anoint the Lord's body (Mark 16:1-3). B. Jesus' body was not in the tomb (Luke 24:2-10).
V. MARY SAW JESUS AFTER HIS RESURRECTION
A. Many credible witnesses saw Jesus following His resurrection (1 Corinthians 15:5-8). B. However, Mary was the first person to see Him (Mark 16:9). C. The details of the Lord's appearance to Mary are given in John 20:11-18.
