The Steward of Herod and the Shadow of the Court
Chuza (often rendered Cuza in some translations) is a figure from the New Testament whose significance lies not in his own actions but in the prominent position he held and the radical faith of his wife, Joanna. His life represents the intersection of the corrupt political power of the Herodian court and the burgeoning, world-changing ministry of Jesus Christ.
I. The Single Mention of Chuza
Chuza’s entire identity in Scripture is confined to a single verse in the Gospel of Luke, which provides his title and his connection to the most famous king of the region:
“And certain women, which had been healed of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary called Magdalene, out of whom went seven devils, And Joanna the wife of Chuza, Herod’s steward, and Susanna, and many others, which ministered unto him of their substance.” (Luke 8:2-3, KJV)
II. The Position of Power
The crucial detail concerning Chuza is his title: “Herod’s steward.”
- Identity of Herod: This refers to Herod Antipas, the tetrarch (ruler) of Galilee and Perea, who was responsible for the imprisonment and execution of John the Baptist (Matthew 14:1-12, KJV) and before whom Jesus was later interrogated and mocked during His passion (Luke 23:7-11, KJV).
- The Role of a Steward (Epitropos): Chuza was essentially the household manager or chief financial officer of Herod Antipas. This was a position of great responsibility, wealth, and trust, involving the management of the ruler’s estates, finances, and domestic affairs. Chuza would have been privy to the political dealings and extravagance of one of the most powerful and ruthless officials in the Roman Empire’s client-states.
III. The Faith of Joanna, Chuza’s Wife
Chuza’s story is eclipsed by that of his wife, Joanna, whose faith and actions are the primary reason for his inclusion in the sacred text.
- Healed and Ministering: Joanna had been healed by Jesus “of evil spirits and infirmities.” Her gratitude and new-found faith led her to become a devoted follower who, along with other women, “ministered unto him of their substance” (Luke 8:3, KJV). They used their wealth—wealth likely accumulated through Chuza’s high office—to financially support Jesus and His disciples in their itinerant ministry.
- Witness to the Resurrection: Joanna’s devotion continued through the darkest hours. She is mentioned again as one of the women who came to the tomb on the resurrection morning and brought the news of the empty sepulchre to the apostles: “It was Mary Magdalene, and Joanna, and Mary the mother of James, and other women that were with them, which told these things unto the apostles.” (Luke 24:10, KJV)
IV. Theological Significance
Chuza’s household stands as a unique testament to the power of the Gospel and offers a critical perspective on the themes of The Lord’s Return and the Defence of the Truth:
- The Gospel Penetrates the Palace: The presence of a believer (Joanna) and the use of the family’s resources for Christ’s ministry, despite the father being employed by the very ruler who murdered John the Baptist and later mocked Christ, shows that the Gospel can penetrate the highest and most corrupted spheres of political power. As Paul later noted, there were saints even among “Caesar’s household” (Philippians 4:22, KJV).
- Kingdom vs. Worldly Wealth: Chuza’s position was focused on managing the transient wealth of a wicked earthly king, Herod. Joanna’s actions demonstrated a higher form of stewardship, redirecting that worldly substance to serve the eternal King and the advancement of His kingdom. This challenges all believers to examine their own vocation and resources in light of their waiting for Christ’s glorious appearing.
- Silence and Subtlety: While Chuza’s personal faith is unrecorded (he may have been a believer, an opponent, or simply passive), his name is preserved because of his connection to Joanna. His quiet, background role contrasts with the outspoken devotion of his wife, reminding us that God often works through those in the periphery to achieve His central purposes.
Chuza’s household, living at the dangerous heart of worldly power, became an undeniable outpost for the truth, proving that no sphere of life is beyond the reach of the King of Kings.