Faithful Women, Absent Apostles

When Luke records the death of Jesus, he notes that "all His acquaintances and the women who accompanied Him from Galilee were standing at a distance, seeing these things" (Luke 23:49). At first glance, this appears to be a simple statement of who was present at the crucifixion. But a closer look shows that Luke is making a larger theological point.

The word translated "acquaintances" is gnōstoi, meaning those who knew Jesus personally. This broader term does not specifically refer to the apostles. In fact, the other Gospels emphasize that the apostles had fled when Jesus was arrested. Their absence at the cross fulfilled His own prediction that they would scatter when the Shepherd was struck (Luke 22:31-34; Mark 14:27). Their failure under pressure serves as a reminder of human weakness and the truth that salvation does not rest on the strength of men but on the obedience of Christ alone.

By contrast, Luke highlights the women disciples from Galilee. These were the same women who had traveled with Jesus and supported His ministry (Luke 8:1-3). While the apostles were absent, the women remained–not in positions of power or authority, but as faithful witnesses. They saw His death, followed His body to the tomb, and were the first to discover His resurrection. At a time when society dismissed the testimony of women, God chose them to be the first heralds of the risen Lord.

This deliberate contrast fits Luke's ongoing theme: God often elevates the humble and overlooked to shame the proud. The apostles would be restored and commissioned later, but the women's steadfast devotion at the darkest hour illustrates that true discipleship is measured not by office or title, but by faith and courage.

Luke's simple observation carries a sharp edge: the leaders were missing, but the least were faithful. In doing so, God was already showing that the gospel would advance by His power, not human status.