Description
- The Gospel of Thomas is another “gospel”, written much later than the four gospels in the Christian bible, and is considered an example of “Gnostic” Christianity (because of its focus on knowledge [“gnosis”]). It is not included in the Christian canon; however, it does give us insight into early Christian “Gnostic” views about Jesus that were eventually rejected by the mainstream church. 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?
- What seems to be most important about Jesus, according to the Gospel of Thomas?
- Why do you think the early church rejected the Gospel of Thomas from inclusion in the Christian canon?
- 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?
Sample Solution
