How can we support those healed by Jesus, like Mary Magdalene in Luke 8:2?
Seeing Mary’s Story inLuke 8:2
“and also some women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities: Mary called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out.” (Luke 8:2)
Mary’s deliverance was dramatic and complete. What she did next sets a pattern for how we can come alongside anyone Christ has set free today.
Core Truths We Learn From Mary• Healing is only the beginning; discipleship follows.
• Jesus’ work in a life calls the whole community to respond.
• Tangible support allows the healed to keep walking in freedom and service.
Principles of Support1. Celebrate the Miracle
• Acknowledge God’s power openly. (Psalm 107:2)
• Guard against skepticism; choose joyful affirmation.
2. Provide Community
• “Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” (Galatians 6:2)
• Regular fellowship protects against isolation and relapse into old patterns.
3. Encourage Ongoing Learning
• Mary followed Jesus from village to village, absorbing His teaching.
• Offer Bible studies, mentoring, and recommended reading to deepen roots. (Colossians 2:6-7)
4. Offer Practical Resources
•Luke 8:3 notes that Mary and others “were supporting them out of their own means.”
• Today: help with transportation to church, counseling costs, job skills, or a safe living situation.
5. Affirm New Identity
• “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)
• Remind the healed that their past no longer defines them; Christ does.
6. Empower for Service
• After the Resurrection, Mary became the first witness of the empty tomb (John 20:18).
• Invite testimonies, assign ministry roles, and trust them with responsibility.
Practical Ways to Stand With the Healed• Send regular encouragement texts or calls.
• Pair them with a mature believer for accountability.
• Include them in small-group meals and outings.
• Provide worship playlists or devotional plans.
• Attend medical or counseling appointments when appropriate.
• Celebrate sobriety or freedom milestones together.
• Help them discover and deploy spiritual gifts.
Encouragement From Other Scriptures•Mark 16:9 — Jesus deliberately appears to Mary first, showing her value.
•Hebrews 10:24-25 — Stir one another to love and good deeds, meeting together faithfully.
•Romans 12:13 — “Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality.”
•Philippians 1:6 — He who began a good work will carry it on to completion.
Closing ThoughtsThose healed by Jesus carry a testimony the world needs. When we rejoice with them, resource them, and walk beside them, we not only honor their Savior—we join in His ongoing ministry of freedom.
