Thirteen Women Disciples

Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick. . . . So they departed and went through the towns, preaching the gospel and healing everywhere. —Luke 9:1, 2, 6, NKJV

The National Cancer Centre Singapore posted an announcement on Facebook: “Join us at the 5th International BRCA Virtual Forum on 13 August 2021 for the most up-to-date information on hereditary breast and ovarian cancer!” The announcement poster listed thirteen female doctors, along with one male doctor, who would be presenting.

All fourteen are experienced medical physicians and faculty members at different medical universities. Indeed, they presented the latest research on hereditary breast cancer and ovarian cancer among young women. I nicknamed the women doctors the Women Disciples. They reminded me of the twelve disciples whom Jesus appointed to continue His work with power and authority. His disciples were to have His power over demons, heal the sick, and preach the gospel as they went (Luke 9:1, 2, 6). First, Jesus sent out His twelve disciples. Next, He sent out seventy disciples (Luke 10:1). Later, just before He ascended to heaven, Jesus promised they would receive power to be His witnesses to the end of the earth.

Days later, in the upper room, the Holy Spirit anointed a whole roomful of disciples to preach the gospel, heal the sick, and cast out demons.

Today we, too, are Christ’s disciples.

Medical work is one of the ways to reach out to people before bringing the gospel to them. In following Jesus’ example of meeting the needs of the people first, we can be medical missionaries for the Lord. Our medical missionary work can begin even at home. “A demonstration of the principles of health reform will do much toward removing prejudice against our evangelical work. The Great Physician, the originator of medical missionary work, will bless all who thus seek to impart the truth for this time.”* The 1,000 Missionary Movement, among other initiatives, trains laypeople for this type of medical work.

If God calls you to this work, are you willing to answer the call?

Yan Siew Ghiang

* Ellen G. White, Evangelism (Washington, DC: Review and Herald®, 1946), 514.