Women in the Early Church: Mary Magdalene, Priscilla, and More – Their Roles, Impact, and Significance

The contributions of women to the early church are often overlooked, but their role was significant. From financially supporting Yeshua’s ministry to proclaiming His resurrection, women played essential roles in the establishment and growth of the early church.

Mary Magdalene is perhaps one of the most well-known women in the New Testament. In Luke 8:2-3 (KJV), we see her and other women supporting Yeshua’s ministry:

“And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, And Joanna the wife of Chuza Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.”

Further, Mary Magdalene was the first to witness and announce Yeshua’s resurrection, earning her the title “Apostle to the Apostles”. John 20:18 (KJV) reads:

“Mary Magdalene came and told the disciples that she had seen the Lord, and that he had spoken these things unto her.”

Women also hosted church meetings in their homes. In Acts 12:12 (KJV), the early church gathered in the home of Mary, the mother of John Mark:

“And when he had considered the thing, he came to the house of Mary the mother of John, whose surname was Mark; where many were gathered together praying.”

Likewise, Romans 16:3-5 (KJV) reveals that Priscilla and Aquila, a married couple, were significant figures in the early church who hosted meetings in their home:

“Greet Priscilla and Aquila my helpers in Christ Jesus: Who have for my life laid down their own necks: unto whom not only I give thanks, but also all the churches of the Gentiles. Likewise greet the church that is in their house…”

Phoebe is commended by Paul in Romans 16:1-2 (KJV) as a deacon of the church in Cenchreae and a benefactor of many, including Paul himself:

“I commend unto you Phebe our sister, which is a servant of the church which is at Cenchreae: That ye receive her in the Lord, as becometh saints, and that ye assist her in whatsoever business she hath need of you: for she hath been a succourer of many, and of myself also.”

These examples show that women played significant roles in the early church, contributing to its growth and development. They were disciples, financial supporters, leaders, and hosts of church meetings. By highlighting these stories, we gain a fuller picture of the early church and the important role women played in it.