Table of Contents
Date: SUN 11:30 AM 20th April 2025
Preacher: Rev. David McLaughlin
Bible Reference: Mark 16:9-10
Now when Jesus was risen early the first day of the week, he appeared first to Mary Magdalene, out of whom he had cast seven devils. And she went and told them that had been with him, as they mourned and wept.
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Sermon Summary: The Meeting with and the Ministry of Mary Magdalene
On Easter Sunday, 2025, the sermon delivered focused on the significance of Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus, as described in Mark 16:9, and her transformative journey from a life of demonic possession to becoming the first witness of Christ’s resurrection. The preacher entitled the message “The Meeting with and the Ministry of Mary Magdalene,” highlighting her unique role in the resurrection narrative and drawing four key lessons from her life: her conversion, consecration, confusion, and confession. Below is a detailed summary in UK English, reflecting the sermon’s content, tone, and theological emphasis.
Context and Biblical Foundation
The sermon begins by referencing Mark 16:9, which states that Jesus, having risen early on the first day of the week, appeared first to Mary Magdalene, “out of whom he had cast seven devils.” The preacher notes that this verse captures the first of 11 post-resurrection appearances of Jesus, spanning 40 days, as supported by Acts 1:3, which describes Jesus showing Himself alive “by many infallible proofs” during this period. The choice of Mary Magdalene as the first witness is significant, as she was not a prominent figure like Peter, James, or John, nor even Jesus’ mother, but a woman from a small fishing village called Magdala, known for its wool, dyed products, and demonic activity.
Mary Magdalene is mentioned 12 times across the four Gospels, consistently referred to as “Mary Magdalene,” derived from her hometown, Magdala, a village on the northwest shore of the Sea of Galilee. The preacher provides historical context, noting Magdala’s population of about 4,000 and its commercial activities, such as weaving and pigeon sales for sacrifices. However, the Bible singles out Mary Magdalene as a key figure, primarily due to her dramatic deliverance from seven demons, as described in Luke 8:2. This sets the stage for exploring her life as an example of God’s transformative power.
Key Themes from Mary Magdalene’s Life
The sermon is structured around four key aspects of Mary Magdalene’s life, each illustrating a spiritual truth for the congregation to apply, particularly on Easter Sunday.
1. The Conversion She Fully Experienced
Mary Magdalene’s life was marked by severe demonic possession, with “seven devils” indicating the complete domination of Satan’s power over her. The preacher clarifies that there is no biblical evidence to support the common misconception, perpetuated by Hollywood and the Roman Catholic Church, that Mary was a prostitute. Such portrayals, including in films like The Da Vinci Code (which falsely suggests Jesus was married to Mary) or Mary Magdalene (where Jesus is depicted by an atheist actor), are dismissed as blasphemous and unbiblical. Instead, the Bible presents Mary as a woman who suffered mentally, emotionally, physically, and socially due to her possession. She likely experienced mental turmoil, self-loathing, depression, physical seizures, and social ostracism in her village.
Jesus’ encounter with Mary was transformative. He sought her out, delivered her from demonic bondage instantly and completely, and changed her life. The preacher uses this to illustrate Jesus as the “great deliverer, liberator, rescuer, and conqueror,” capable of redeeming anyone, no matter how insignificant or sinful. Drawing from Romans 3:23 (“all have sinned”) and John 8:36 (“if the Son shall set you free, you shall be free indeed”), the sermon emphasises that Jesus’ power to save Mary Magdalene extends to all who are struggling with sin or suffering, offering hope to the congregation.
2. The Consecration She Fully Exhibited
Mary Magdalene’s dedication to Jesus is evident in her actions following her conversion. The preacher highlights her presence at the Garden Tomb early on the first day of the week, as described in John 20:1, when it was still dark. This act of devotion required her to overcome significant obstacles: the darkness of the early hour, the danger posed by Roman soldiers guarding the tomb, and the distance she travelled from the city to the tomb’s location. Her commitment is further illustrated by her faithful following of Jesus throughout His ministry in Galilee, walking long distances (up to 20 miles a day) under harsh conditions, as noted in Luke 8:1-2.
Mary’s consecration was not just physical but deeply spiritual. She left behind her former life—possibly her work in Magdala’s shops—to follow Jesus with unwavering zeal, driven by gratitude for her deliverance. Unlike the disciples who fled during Jesus’ crucifixion (John 19:25), Mary stood steadfastly at the cross, undeterred by public hostility or the anti-Christian sentiment of the time. The preacher challenges the congregation to emulate Mary’s dedication and devotion, asking whether they are as committed to Christ, especially in the face of difficulties, and whether their lives reflect a love for Him above all else.
3. The Confusion She Fully Expressed
Mary’s visit to the tomb was driven by her desire to find Jesus’ body, reflecting her initial misunderstanding of the resurrection. She arrived expecting to find a corpse, fearing it had been stolen by grave robbers or religious authorities (John 20:1-2). Her grief is evident as she weeps uncontrollably, unable to comprehend that Jesus had risen. Both the angels and Jesus Himself ask her, “Woman, why weepest thou?” (John 20:13, 15), and Jesus adds, “Whom seekest thou?” These questions prompt her to reflect on her purpose. When Jesus calls her by name, “Mary,” she recognises Him and responds with “Rabboni” (my great master), marking a pivotal moment of realisation.
The preacher uses Mary’s confusion to address the congregation’s potential struggles with disappointment, ignorance, or misunderstanding. He urges them to process life’s challenges—such as the death of loved ones or personal pain—in light of the resurrection, as outlined in 1 Corinthians 15:3-4. Mary’s journey from seeking a dead saviour to encountering the risen Christ serves as a reminder that believers must look to the living Saviour, who has conquered death and offers hope.
4. The Confession She Fully Exclaimed
Mary Magdalene was privileged to be the first to hear Jesus’ voice, see the risen Christ, and witness to His resurrection (John 20:10-18). When Jesus tells her, “Touch me not” (John 20:17), it is because He had not yet ascended to the Father as the “first fruits” of the resurrection (Leviticus 23), a theological point the preacher connects to Christ’s role as the forerunner of the resurrection of the just. Mary’s role as the first witness is a profound honour, especially given her past as a demon-possessed woman from an insignificant village.
Her immediate response was to proclaim to the disciples, “He is risen,” though they initially did not believe her (Mark 16:10-11). The preacher encourages the congregation to follow Mary’s example by faithfully witnessing to Christ’s resurrection, regardless of whether others believe. Her confession underscores the transformative power of encountering the risen Christ and the responsibility of believers to share this truth.
Application and Conclusion
The sermon concludes by drawing parallels between Mary Magdalene’s life and the congregation’s spiritual journey. Her conversion demonstrates that no one is beyond Jesus’ saving power. Her consecration challenges believers to remain dedicated and devoted to Christ, even in adversity. Her confusion reminds them to process life’s challenges in light of the resurrection. Finally, her confession inspires them to boldly proclaim the risen Christ, trusting that if God could use an “unimportant” woman like Mary, He can use anyone.
The preacher calls for a deeper love for Christ, urging the congregation to move beyond ritualistic faith to a real, passionate commitment. He challenges them to reflect on their dedication this Easter Sunday, asking whether they are as loyal and zealous as Mary Magdalene. The sermon closes with a prayer that Mary’s example will bless and inspire the listeners to live transformed lives for Christ.
Challenge to Be Saved: If you’re searching for hope, peace, or freedom from the burdens of sin, Jesus, the risen Saviour, offers you salvation today. Just as He transformed Mary Magdalene’s life, He can redeem and rescue you. Acknowledge your need for Him, repent of your sins, and trust in His death and resurrection for your salvation. Will you surrender to Christ today and let Him make you new?
