Meaning of Matthew 27:55

This verse highlights the presence of a group of devoted women who bore witness to Jesus' crucifixion, underscoring their steadfast loyalty and active support of his ministry. Their journey from Galilee to Jerusalem, a significant distance, demonstrates a profound commitment that extended beyond mere attendance at religious gatherings; they actively participated in Jesus' practical needs, providing tangible care. This contrasts with the more transient or fearful presence of many of his male disciples at this critical moment, emphasizing the often-overlooked but crucial role of women in Jesus' entourage and in the early Christian movement. Their distant observation signifies both their deep respect for the sacredness of the moment and perhaps a degree of apprehension or inability to approach closer due to the surrounding chaos and Roman presence.

Context and Background

The crucifixion of Jesus was a public spectacle, and Matthew, as he does throughout his Gospel, meticulously records the events and the witnesses. The preceding verses detail the mockery and torment Jesus endured from the Roman soldiers and the Jewish leaders. In this somber scene, Matthew shifts focus to a group of women who, unlike many of the disciples who had fled or were hiding, remained present, albeit at a distance. Their presence is not incidental; it is a deliberate inclusion by the Gospel writer to showcase a particular aspect of Jesus' followers. Their journey from Galilee indicates a sustained commitment to Jesus, following him through his ministry in his home region and now accompanying him to the ultimate suffering in Jerusalem.

Key Themes and Messages

• Loyalty and Devotion: The primary message is the unwavering loyalty and deep devotion these women held for Jesus. Their willingness to follow him and care for his needs speaks volumes about their personal relationship with him and their belief in his mission.
• Active Discipleship: This verse emphasizes that discipleship is not passive; it involves practical action and sacrifice. These women were not just hearers of the word, but doers, actively ministering to Jesus' physical needs.
• Witness to Suffering: They served as silent witnesses to Jesus' ultimate act of love and sacrifice. Their presence, even at a distance, signifies their solidarity with him in his darkest hour.
• Underestimated Strength: The Gospels often highlight the strength and faithfulness of women in the face of male disciples' wavering or absence. This verse is a prime example of this recurring theme.

Spiritual Significance and Application

Spiritually, this verse calls believers to examine the depth of their own devotion to Christ. Are we merely spectators, or are we actively engaged in caring for his needs, which today are often expressed through caring for the poor, the sick, and the marginalized in his name? The women's distant observation can also teach us about reverence and discernment in our approach to sacred moments, understanding that sometimes our role is to bear witness with awe and respect, even if we cannot fully grasp or participate in the immediate event. Their commitment, despite the fear and turmoil, encourages us to remain faithful even when circumstances are difficult.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This episode aligns with a consistent pattern in the Gospels where women play a crucial role. They are among the first to recognize Jesus, the most persistent at the cross, and the first witnesses to the resurrection (Matthew 28:1-10). Their unwavering presence at the crucifixion contrasts sharply with the flight of many male disciples, fulfilling the prophecy in Zechariah 13:7, "Strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be scattered." The women, however, remained, demonstrating a resilience that would prove foundational to the early church. Their actions also echo the Old Testament principle of hospitality and care for those in need, a virtue Jesus himself embodied and taught.

Analogies

Imagine a small, dedicated support team following a beloved leader on a challenging expedition. While many others might stay behind due to the perceived danger or uncertainty, this core group, motivated by genuine care and respect, accompanies them, ensuring their basic needs are met, even if they cannot directly shield them from the ultimate peril. Their role is not to fight the battle directly, but to be present, to offer quiet support, and to bear witness to the leader's courage and sacrifice. Similarly, these women, though unable to prevent the crucifixion, offered their presence and practical care, a testament to their profound connection.

Relation to Other Verses

• Luke 8:1-3: This passage lists some of these same women, including Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, who "had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities" and "were helping [Jesus] out of their own means." This provides context for their ongoing commitment and the personal impact Jesus had on their lives, motivating their care.
• John 19:25: John's Gospel also mentions women at the cross, including Jesus' mother and his mother's sister. While Matthew focuses on a broader group who followed him from Galilee, John provides a more intimate detail of immediate family and close followers.
• Matthew 26:56: This verse immediately precedes the account of the crucifixion and states, "Then all the disciples deserted him and fled." This stark contrast highlights the exceptional faithfulness of the women.
• Matthew 28:10: Following the resurrection, Jesus tells these women, "Do not be afraid; go and tell my brothers to go to Galilee; there they will see me." This passage demonstrates the pivotal role women played as the first messengers of the resurrection, a direct continuation of their faithful witness at the cross.