Who Were the Women at the Cross? –
The 10 Principal Truths You Should Know
Unveiling the Courage, Faith, and Role of Women at Calvary
Who were the women at the cross of Jesus? Discover 10 powerful truths about their identities, courage, faith, and eternal impact on the Gospel story.
Introduction: When Most Fled, These Women Stayed
As the crucifixion of Jesus unfolded on Golgotha, when many disciples had fled in fear, a small group of faithful women stood near the cross. Their tears, courage, and unwavering presence became a symbol of deep devotion, spiritual strength, and prophetic fulfillment. Who were they? Why were they there? And what does their presence teach us today?
This article dives into 10 principal truths about the women who witnessed Jesus’ suffering and stood by Him in His final moments.
1. The Women at the Cross Were Among Jesus’ Most Faithful Followers
“Many women were there, watching from a distance. They had followed Jesus from Galilee to care for his needs.” – Matthew 27:55
These were not occasional admirers. These women had followed Jesus closely, often from the very beginning of His public ministry. They served Him, learned from Him, and supported His mission with their own resources.
Key Link:
Read more on The Role of Women in Jesus’ Ministry
2. Mary Magdalene Was a Leading Figure at the Cross
Mary Magdalene is mentioned in all four Gospels as being present at the crucifixion.
“Standing near the cross of Jesus were His mother, His mother’s sister, Mary the wife of Clopas, and Mary Magdalene.” – John 19:25
Once delivered from seven demons (Luke 8:2), Mary became a devoted disciple. She stood at the foot of the cross, refusing to abandon Jesus.
Key Truth: Those who are truly forgiven never walk away in Jesus’ hour of need.
3. Mary, the Mother of Jesus, Endured the Ultimate Pain
Can we even fathom what it meant for Mary to witness the crucifixion of her son?
“A sword will pierce your own soul too.” – Luke 2:35
That prophecy came true at Calvary. Mary stayed, silent in suffering, her heart shattered but her presence unshaken. Her presence is a model of maternal devotion, spiritual surrender, and prophetic fulfillment.
Key Link:
Discover more on Mary’s Role in Jesus’ Life and Death
4. These Women Displayed Unmatched Courage Amid Fear
Most of Jesus’ male disciples fled in fear (Matthew 26:56), but the women remained.
It was dangerous to be associated with a condemned man, yet these women risked it all to honor the Savior. Their bravery echoes the voices of countless women in church history who have stood firm when others wavered.
Key Truth: True love silences fear.
5. Women Were the First Witnesses of the Resurrection
It was these same women, especially Mary Magdalene, who would first hear the angelic announcement:
“He is not here; He has risen!” – Matthew 28:6
In God’s divine plan, the first proclamation of the Gospel—the resurrection of Jesus—was entrusted not to rulers or priests, but to faithful women.
Key Link:
Explore Why God Chose Women to Announce the Resurrection
6. The Women at the Cross Fulfilled Old Testament Prophecies
Jesus’ death fulfilled prophecies, but so did the presence of women.
“Daughters of Jerusalem, do not weep for me.” – Luke 23:28
Their mourning was anticipated. Their faith and mourning became part of God’s redemptive narrative, affirming that both men and women were divinely included in Christ’s Passion.
7. The Presence of Women Points to God’s Inclusive Kingdom
In a patriarchal society where women had little voice, Jesus uplifted and dignified women. By allowing them close in His final moments, Jesus was showing that the kingdom of God breaks cultural barriers.
Key Truth: God values faithfulness, not status.
8. Their Tears Became Prayers and Prophetic Acts
They didn’t speak loudly. They didn’t argue. They didn’t preach. But their tears were loud in heaven. Their mourning was spiritual worship. Their faith became a testimony. Their nearness to the cross is an invitation for all believers to draw near—no matter how broken.
9. Women at the Cross Reveal the Heart of Discipleship
Discipleship isn’t proven in comfort but in crisis. These women stayed in Jesus’ darkest hour, modeling true spiritual endurance. Their example rebukes half-hearted, convenience-based Christianity.
Key Link:
Learn more on What It Means to Be a True Disciple
10. Their Story Is Still Preaching Today
Their legacy didn’t die with them. From cathedrals to Sunday schools, the women at the cross are still testifying. Their lives speak of loyalty, love, and unshakable trust. Their legacy is an invitation for modern women—and men—to live lives marked by devotion to Jesus even when the world turns away.
Discussion Questions for Reflection:
- Which woman at the cross do you most identify with? Why?
- What does their faith and presence teach you about true discipleship?
- How can the Church today honor and uplift the role of women in ministry?
Conclusion: The Forgotten Heroes of Calvary
While soldiers mocked and many disciples vanished, a small band of women stood at the foot of the cross, whispering a faith louder than any sermon. Their tears baptized the hill of Golgotha. Their silence roared with loyalty. Their legacy is eternal.
May we—like them—stand faithful when the world trembles. May we never be ashamed to be near Jesus, even when it costs everything.
Call to Action:
- Share this article to honor the faithful women of Calvary.
- Visit our Women of Faith series: gracetogospel.com/women-of-the-cross
- Leave a comment: What moved you most about their courage?
- Pray this week for women in ministry and for all who serve faithfully, even unnoticed.
God’s love, grace, and presence be with you always.
