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Was Jesus Married?
'Ready Answer' by Mike FordMary Magdalene holds a significant place among the women who followed Jesus Christ during His ministry. Despite claims and theories suggesting a marital relationship between her and Jesus, the canonical gospels never mention her as His wife. If Christ had been married to Mary Magdalene, one might expect the disciples' reaction to His affection toward her to be different, yet He explains His regard for her by highlighting her ability to see the light and to know, rather than identifying her as a spouse. The silence of the gospels on this matter is notable, especially in moments where her presence is significant, such as at the crucifixion. Had she been His wife, it seems unlikely that Jesus would have ignored her in arranging care for His mother, entrusting that responsibility solely to John. Furthermore, Mary Magdalene is honored as the first to see and speak to Christ after His resurrection, a testament to her faith and the high regard in which He held her, though not as a wife. The push to frame her as Jesus' spouse often minimizes her true role and the strength of her belief, overshadowing the profound honor of her witness to His resurrection.
James Cameron's Lost Integrity
CGG Weekly by Richard T. RitenbaughThe documentary, *The Lost Tomb of Jesus*, suggests that one of the ossuaries found in a Jerusalem tomb contains the bones of Mary Magdalene, identified by the inscription *Mariemene e Mara* (of Mariemene, known as the Master). However, this claim lacks substantial evidence, as nearly a third of known Judean women of that era bore forms of the name Mary, making it probable that most tombs from the period would include such a name. The specific identification of this Mary as Mary Magdalene is statistically implausible, with no historical record indicating she held such a title. Furthermore, there is no evidence that Mary Magdalene lived near Jesus' family after His death or that she died in Jerusalem. The documentary's DNA findings, which tested samples from the *Mariemene* box and another labeled *Jesus son of Joseph*, only indicate that the individuals were not related, offering no proof of marriage or even of differing sexes, rendering such conclusions baseless.
The Gospel of Jesus' Wife
Sermonette by Mike FordHarvard Theology Professor Karen King promoted a forged papyrus scrap, allegedly proving Jesus was married, after being scammed by Walter Fritz.
Bible Answers to The Da Vinci Code
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughMary Magdalene is mentioned sparingly in the biblical accounts, and her role, while significant as a disciple, does not suggest any intimate or marital relationship with Jesus Christ. In Luke 8:1-3, she is introduced among certain women who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, specifically noted as Mary called Magdalene, out of whom had come seven demons. Alongside Joanna, Susanna, and others, she provided for Jesus from her substance, indicating her gratitude and support for His ministry. Her rank appears beneath the Twelve, positioning her as a helper rather than a central figure or apostle. The Bible provides limited details about her background: she hailed from Magdala by the Sea of Galilee, Jesus cast out seven demons from her, she used her means to fund His ministry, and she sometimes traveled with Him and other disciples. There is no scriptural evidence to support claims of her being a reformed prostitute, as this notion arises from historical conflation of unrelated accounts, such as the anointing by an unnamed woman in Luke 7 and the anointing by Mary of Bethany in other gospels. Mary Magdalene appears at key moments during Jesus' crucifixion and resurrection. In Matthew 27:55-61, she is among the women observing the crucifixion from afar and later sits opposite the tomb with another Mary, witnessing the burial by Joseph of Arimathea. In Matthew 28:1-9, she and the other Mary visit the tomb after the Sabbath, encounter an angel who announces Jesus' resurrection, and subsequently meet the risen Jesus, worshiping Him by holding His feet. Mark 15:40-41 and 15:47 similarly note her presence at the crucifixion and burial, while Mark 16:1 and 16:9-10 record her as one of the women bringing spices to anoint Jesus' body and the first to whom He appeared after rising, though her report to the disciples was initially disbelieved. In Luke 23:49 and 23:55, she is among the women from Galilee watching the crucifixion and observing the tomb, though not named until Luke 24:9-10, where she, Joanna, and others report the resurrection to the apostles. John 19:25-26 places her at the cross alongside Jesus' mother and others, yet Jesus speaks only to His mother and the disciple John, offering no personal address to Mary Magdalene, which counters any notion of a spousal bond. In John 20:1-2 and 20:11-18, she visits the tomb early, discovers it empty, and after weeping, encounters Jesus, initially mistaking Him for the gardener. When He calls her by name, she responds with Rabboni, meaning Teacher, reflecting respect for Him as her Master, not as a husband. Her actions, such as holding His feet, signify devotion as a disciple, not intimacy as a wife. Scripture provides no hint of a marital relationship between Mary Magdalene and Jesus. Her interactions with Him consistently portray a relationship of discipleship and reverence, lacking any personal or intimate elements that would suggest otherwise.
The Role of Women
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsEven though feminist leaders have attacked the Bible for allegedly denigrating and demeaning women, God's Word emphasizes the honor and dignity of women.
Our Bread of Life
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughThe world is confused on the timing of Christ's death and resurrection. It becomes clear by a proper understanding of the holy days, preparation days, and Sabbaths.
Wonderful Women
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsAccording to God's vision of the institution of marriage, when man and wife follow the rule of submission and sacrificial love, patriarchy is a blessing.
The False Christ Deception
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsA new lie alleges that a tomb has been found with the remains of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and their alleged son Judah. It may undermine the faith of many.
Consequences of Resurrection and Ascension
Sermon by Richard T. RitenbaughNeither Christmas or Easter appear in the Feasts of the Lord, but we find plenty of emphasis on the resurrection and ascension of Christ in the Holy Days.
John (Part Two)
Sermon/Bible Study by John W. RitenbaughJohn emphasizes the reality of Jesus as the Logos (a word revealing hidden thought), the manifestation of God in the flesh, emphasizing His preexistence and divinity.
Remembering Our Veterans
CGG Weekly by John ReissChristians are not called to fight in this world's wars, but we are called to spiritual battle. Hebrews 11 speaks of some heroes of faith—spiritual veterans.
The Joy of the Lord Is Our Strength!
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by Martin G. CollinsThe true source of joy does not consist on any worldly commodity, or any self-centered, hedonistic pursuit, but instead a spiritual gift, bestowed by God.
Knowing God
Feast of Tabernacles Sermon by John W. RitenbaughTo fulfill one's purpose, one must be singularly focused on what one wants to accomplish. Divided minds result in no productivity or even devastation.
Anticipating the Enemy
Sermon by Martin G. CollinsWe become vulnerable to Satan when we allow pride to consume us, cozy up to false doctrine, toy with the paranormal, or let down in prayer and Bible study