WEEK 1: Jesus Equips the Ordinary - Part A

Do women matter to the kingdom of God?

Jesus was surrounded by both men and women during his ministry on earth. He saw, valued, and cared for women, and he still does today. Each one of us has a significant role.

Through this six-session study, you will discover who Jesus is through the unique perspective of women in the Bible. As you study the lives of Mary, Martha, Mary Magdalene and others you will learn from their faith and failures, and be reminded that Jesus cared for and valued the women he was surrounded by. He equipped them, listened to them, walked with them, healed them, and empowered them. And he does the same for you now.

Watch “Jesus Equips the Ordinary” with Jennie Allen, Bianca Juárez Olthoff, Jada Edwards, and Sadie Robertson Huff (20 minutes).

Review
Jennie talked about Mary’s surrender to God’s call when Gabriel announced the coming of Jesus. In what ways was Mary’s response an act of faith? What does surrender look like in your life? 

Mary immediately went to visit Elizabeth, her older cousin who was also experiencing a miraculous pregnancy, and they celebrated together. Who is someone in your life you can count on to celebrate with? When have you celebrated God’s goodness with that person? 

Sadie reflected on Mary’s influence with Jesus at the wedding in Cana. What clues did Sadie point out from the text about the warm relationship between Jesus and his mother?

Dig In
Gabriel greeted Mary by calling her “highly favored” (Luke 1:28). Read the rest of their conversation in Luke 1:28–38. How would you describe Mary’s attitude toward the angel’s announcement? 

Jennie summarized Mary’s first words upon greeting Elizabeth in this way: “This prayer, it’s full of Scripture. She actually knew God’s words. She sat under them, she absorbed them.” Read Luke 1:46–53. How well do you know Scripture? Which words would you use, which biblical stories would you tell, to describe the nature of God? 

Read John 2:1–11. Sadie referenced Mary’s boldness in asking Jesus to help and in her confidence that he would. What does this event tell us about Mary’s character and her relationship with her son?

Make It Matter
We are more likely to say “yes” to God when we know and trust him. Describe your Bible study and prayer habits. What are you doing to develop and strengthen your relationship with God? 

Because Mary knew her son’s compassion and believed in his supernatural power, she didn’t ask Jesus to do something out of character. How well do you know the character of God? How can you know if your requests are in line with his will? 

Following Mary’s example, we should not hesitate to put our requests in front of God, especially when we seek the good of others. How often do we pray expecting God to answer? When have you been surprised at God’s obvious answer?

Reflect
Reflect on your perception of Mary up until now. How did you regard her before this study? What new insight about her have you learned? How can her life encourage yours? 

Read the Magnificat (Mary’s prayer in Luke 1:46–53) this week. Write down what you learn about God. Then write out your own prayer of thanksgiving and praise.