March Bible Study Series

Lenten Bible Study: Women of Faith, Strength, and Devotion

Theme: Lessons from Women in the Bible for Our Lenten Journey

Week 1: The Persistent Widow – Faith That Endures

Scripture: Luke 18:1-8 (The Parable of the Persistent Widow)

Lesson Focus:

During Lent, we are called to unwavering faith, trusting in God’s justice even when answers seem delayed. Jesus uses this parable to encourage endurance in prayer and action.

Guiding Questions:

Compare the widow’s persistence in Luke 18:1-8 with Hannah’s persistent prayer in 1 Samuel 1:9-20. How does perseverance in faith lead to divine response?
Jesus asks in verse 8, "When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?" What does this suggest about the role of faith in the last days? Compare this with Hebrews 11:6.
The unjust judge grants the widow justice to avoid being worn out. How does this contrast with God’s nature in Isaiah 30:18 and Psalm 37:28?
How does this passage challenge our understanding of prayer? What role does justice play in faithful living according to Micah 6:8?

Reflection Questions:

In what ways do you struggle with persistent prayer?
How does this story shape your understanding of advocating for justice in your community?
During this Lenten season, what is something you need to remain persistent about in faith?

Week 2: The Woman with the Alabaster Jar – Worship Through Sacrifice

Scripture: Mark 14:3-9 (The Anointing at Bethany)

Lesson Focus:

Lent is a season of self-denial, sacrifice, and worship. The woman with the alabaster jar embodies extravagant devotion, challenging us to offer our best to Christ.

Guiding Questions:

Compare this anointing to Mary of Bethany’s act in John 12:1-8. What do both acts reveal about recognizing Jesus' true identity?
The disciples criticize the woman for her “wasteful” act (Mark 14:4-5). What does this reveal about how the world perceives acts of sacrificial faith? Connect this with Romans 12:1.
Jesus says her act will be remembered wherever the gospel is preached (Mark 14:9). Why do you think this moment is so significant? How does it relate to His burial? Compare with Isaiah 53:9-12.
The woman’s costly gift mirrors the widow’s offering in Mark 12:41-44. How do both women challenge us in how we offer ourselves to God?

Reflection Questions:

What is your alabaster jar—something valuable that you hesitate to fully surrender to Christ?
Have you ever been criticized for your faith? How did you respond?
During Lent, how can you practice sacrificial worship in a way that deepens your relationship with God?

Week 3: The Samaritan Woman – A Transforming Encounter

Scripture: John 4:1-30 (The Woman at the Well)

Lesson Focus:

Lent is a time for self-examination and spiritual renewal. Jesus' interaction with the Samaritan woman reveals how He transforms the outcast and offers living water that satisfies the soul.

Guiding Questions:

Jesus breaks cultural barriers by speaking to this woman (John 4:9). Compare this with how He interacts with Zacchaeus in Luke 19:1-10. What do both encounters reveal about God's inclusivity?
Jesus tells the woman about "living water" (John 4:13-14). How does this concept connect with Isaiah 55:1-3 and Revelation 22:17? What does it mean for our spiritual lives?
The woman initially avoids discussing her past (John 4:16-18). How does this moment compare with David’s repentance in Psalm 51:1-12?
After encountering Jesus, the woman leaves her water jar (John 4:28). What symbolic meaning could this hold? Compare with Philippians 3:7-8.

Reflection Questions:

How has Jesus met you in unexpected places and transformed your perspective?
What are the “water jars” in your life—things you need to leave behind to fully embrace Christ?
How can your personal testimony bring others closer to God this Lenten season?

Week 4: Mary Magdalene – Witness to the Resurrection

Scripture: John 20:11-18 (Jesus Appears to Mary Magdalene)

Lesson Focus:

Mary Magdalene, a devoted follower of Jesus, was the first witness to His resurrection. Her story reminds us that God entrusts His greatest revelations to those who seek Him earnestly.

Guiding Questions:

Mary did not recognize Jesus at first (John 20:14-15). Compare this with the disciples on the road to Emmaus in Luke 24:13-16. What does this teach us about recognizing Jesus in unexpected ways?
Jesus calls Mary by name (John 20:16). How does this moment compare with God's calling of Samuel in 1 Samuel 3:1-10? What does this tell us about personal encounters with God?
Jesus commands Mary to tell the disciples about His resurrection (John 20:17-18). How does this mirror Isaiah’s response to God’s call in Isaiah 6:8? What does this say about being entrusted with the gospel?
Why do you think Jesus chose Mary as the first witness to His resurrection? How does this challenge cultural norms of leadership and testimony? Connect with Galatians 3:28.

Reflection Questions:

Have you ever struggled to recognize Jesus’ presence in your life?
How does Jesus calling Mary by name resonate with your personal faith journey?
As Lent prepares us for Easter, how can you boldly proclaim the hope of resurrection in your community?