Twelve Extraordinary Women by John MacArthur
Week 11: Chapter 10 — Mary Magdalene: Delivered and Devoted
Read Chapter 10 of Twelve Extraordinary Women. Primary passages: Luke 8:2–3; Matthew 27:55–61; Mark 15:40–47; John 20:1–18.
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Mary Magdalene is perhaps the most misrepresented woman in Christian history — and MacArthur begins this chapter by clearing away centuries of confusion to show us who she actually was.
Discussion Questions
8 questions1.MacArthur opens by debunking the popular identification of Mary Magdalene as a prostitute or as the sinful woman of Luke 7. Where did that confusion come from, and why does getting her actual identity right matter for understanding her story?
2.The Bible tells us Jesus cast seven demons out of Mary Magdalene (Luke 8:2). MacArthur does not speculate excessively about what that possession looked like, but he does reflect on what it meant for her life and what her deliverance represents. What does her transformation from demonic bondage to devoted follower say about the power of Christ?
3.Mary Magdalene is listed first among the women who followed Jesus (Luke 8:2–3) and first or near-first among the women at the cross and the tomb. MacArthur argues that her prominence in every passion narrative suggests a loyalty and devotion that outstripped many others. What do you think drove that level of devotion? What does radical deliverance produce in a person?
a.Jesus said that he who is forgiven much, loves much (Luke 7:47). Does that principle apply to Mary Magdalene even though she was not the sinful woman of Luke 7? How so?
b.How does your own awareness of what Christ has delivered you from shape the intensity of your love for Him?
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