Meaning of Matthew 27:56

This verse, Matthew 27:56, places a group of women at the foot of the cross during Jesus' crucifixion, identifying them by their relationships to him and to others. Their presence signifies a profound, though perhaps quiet, loyalty and devotion amidst the chaos and despair of Jesus' final moments. These women represent a steadfastness that contrasts sharply with the abandonment experienced by many of Jesus' male disciples at this critical juncture. Their witness underscores the often-unseen but vital role women played in the early Christian movement, offering a counterpoint to the patriarchal structures of the time and highlighting the inclusive nature of Jesus' ministry.

Context and Background

The immediate context is the crucifixion of Jesus, a pivotal event in Christian theology. Following Jesus' arrest, trial, and condemnation, he is led to Golgotha to be crucified. The Gospel of Matthew describes the mocking and torment inflicted upon him by the soldiers and passersby. Amidst this horrific scene, Matthew notes the presence of several women who had followed Jesus from Galilee and ministered to him. This verse specifically names three: Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of Zebedee's sons. Their proximity to the cross signifies their courage and commitment, as many of Jesus' followers, particularly the male disciples, had fled in fear.

Key Themes and Messages

• Loyalty and Devotion: The primary theme is the unwavering loyalty of these women to Jesus, even in his most vulnerable and agonizing state. They chose to remain present, bearing witness to his suffering and death.
• Discipleship Beyond Fear: Their presence challenges the prevailing atmosphere of fear and desertion. They demonstrate a form of discipleship that transcends personal safety and societal expectations.
• Witness to Suffering: These women are not just spectators; they are witnesses to the profound suffering and sacrifice of Jesus, an essential component of the Gospel narrative.
• The Quiet Strength of Women: The verse subtly highlights the strength and resilience of women within the early Christian community, often operating in roles that were less visible but no less significant.

Spiritual Significance and Application

The spiritual significance lies in the example of steadfast love and commitment. For believers today, these women serve as a model for enduring faith, particularly during times of personal hardship, doubt, or when confronting difficult truths. Their presence reminds us that faith is often lived out not in grand pronouncements but in quiet, persistent acts of love and presence. It encourages believers to remain present with Christ, even in his suffering, and to offer their support and witness, regardless of the surrounding circumstances.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

This event is a crucial turning point in the biblical narrative, marking the culmination of Jesus' earthly ministry and the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah's suffering. The women's presence foreshadows their even more significant role in the resurrection accounts, where they are the first witnesses to Jesus' empty tomb and the first recipients of the command to announce his resurrection to the disciples. Their faithfulness at the cross and their subsequent role as the "apostles to the apostles" demonstrate a continuous thread of God's redemptive work, often involving those who were marginalized or overlooked by the world.

Analogies

• The Steadfast Anchor: Imagine a ship in a violent storm. While many passengers might panic or abandon ship, a few individuals remain on deck, holding fast to the anchor, symbolizing their refusal to be swept away by the chaos and their commitment to the ship's survival. These women are like that anchor, holding firm to their faith and their Lord.
• The Unwavering Light: In the darkest of nights, a single, small candle can provide a crucial point of light and hope. These women, in the darkness of the crucifixion, represent such a light, offering a beacon of devotion and witness in a moment of profound despair.
• The Loyal Companion: Think of a loyal friend who stays by the side of someone gravely ill, offering comfort and presence even when there is little that can be done. These women embody this profound, selfless companionship.

Relation to Other Verses

• Luke 8:1-3: This passage describes women, including Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Susanna, who "had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities" and "provided for him out of their own resources." This establishes their prior relationship and ministry to Jesus, providing context for their presence at the cross.
• John 19:25: The Gospel of John also records the presence of "Jesus' mother, his mother's sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene" at the cross, corroborating the accounts of women who remained present.
• Matthew 28:1-10: This chapter details the resurrection, where Mary Magdalene and "the other Mary" are the first to discover the empty tomb and are commissioned by the resurrected Jesus to deliver his message to the disciples. Their faithfulness at the cross directly leads to their prominent role in the resurrection narrative.
• Philippians 2:5-8: This passage speaks of Christ's humility in becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross. The women's willing presence at this moment reflects a shared commitment to witnessing this ultimate act of obedience and love.