Bible Figure
Susanna
disciple of Jesus (Gospel of Luke)
Susanna was one of the women who accompanied Jesus and the Twelve and helped support the ministry from her own resources. Luke names her with Mary Magdalene and Joanna among women who had experienced healing or deliverance and who materially assisted Jesus' traveling ministry.
Biography
Luke 8:1-3 provides the only explicit New Testament reference to Susanna. As Jesus traveled through cities and villages proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God, the Twelve accompanied Him along with a number of women. Luke names Mary Magdalene, Joanna the wife of Chuza, Susanna, and 'many others.' These women supported the group out of their own means. Luke's wording associates the women generally with those who had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, although he does not specify Susanna's particular experience. No family relationships, hometown, later ministry, or death are given for her.
Biblical Significance
Susanna is significant because Luke's brief notice reveals the substantial role of women in sustaining Jesus' ministry. Her financial and practical support belongs to genuine discipleship and reminds readers that the Gospel mission involved a wider circle of faithful followers than the Twelve alone.