a. How does The Gospel of Thomas compare with the canonical gospels we read this semester (Mark and
John)? What is similar and what is strikingly different?
b. What seems to be most important about Jesus, and about salvation, according to The Gospel of Thomas?
c. Why do you think the early church rejected The Gospel of Thomas from inclusion in the Christian canon?
d. In the second reading, by Irenaeus of Lyons, we have a second-century Christian who rejects Gnostic
Christianity like that of The Gospel of Thomas. What are his critiques of these types of Christians? How would
Irenaeus describe what he thinks is authentic Christianity?
II. Second, please also provide your own personal reflection on the readings (comments, questions, insights,
confusions, etc
Sample Solution
