The Bible and Its Many Interpretations
The Bible has been around for centuries, and people continue to interpret it in different ways. Among the texts associated with early Christianity, the Gospel of Thomas stands out—mainly because it wasn’t included in the official biblical canon.
Why the Gospel of Thomas Was Left Out
The Gospel of Thomas sparked debate among scholars and internet users alike. Many falsely claimed the Church “banned” it. In truth, early Church leaders chose not to include it. Why? Because its teachings differed significantly from other biblical texts attributed to Jesus.
According to Cross Examined, the Gospel of Thomas lacks a traditional narrative structure and omits key events from Jesus’ life. Instead, it contains 114 mystical sayings, many of which are said to be secret teachings Jesus shared with his disciples.
One passage begins:
“These are the secret sayings which the living Jesus spoke and which Didymos Judas Thomas wrote down.”
Authorship and Historical Timeline
Biblical scholar Bart Ehrman, in After the New Testament: A Reader in Early Christianity, notes the text was probably written in the early second century. Some sayings may date back to Jesus himself. However, this timing suggests it came after the apostles had died—making it unlikely Apostle Thomas actually wrote it.
Three Reasons It Didn’t Make the Canon
The Church uses three key criteria when deciding which texts to include in the Bible:
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Apostolic Eyewitness Testimony
The text must trace back to firsthand accounts from the apostles—Jesus’ chosen witnesses. The Gospel of Thomas fails this test, as it was likely written long after the apostles had passed. -
Doctrinal Consistency
The Gospel of Thomas doesn’t align with other biblical writings. It reflects Gnostic beliefs, which emphasize personal spiritual knowledge over sin, redemption, and resurrection. -
Limiting the Number of Gospels
At the time, Church leaders had already agreed to include just four Gospels. Adding another would disrupt the established canon.
A Different Focus: Voice Over Narrative
So, what makes the Gospel of Thomas so unique? Instead of focusing on Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection, it highlights his voice and teachings. According to scholar Marko Marina, Ph.D., it offers salvation through wisdom—not sacrifice.
In contrast to traditional scripture, which emphasizes sin, this gospel points to ignorance as humanity’s main problem. One quote from Jesus reads:
“Recognize what is in your sight, and that which is hidden from you will become plain to you.”
Another parable says:
“The man is like a wise fisherman… He threw all the small fish back and chose the large fish without difficulty. Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear.”
A New View of the Kingdom
The Gospel of Thomas also presents a unique take on the kingdom of God. It quotes Jesus as saying:
“If those who lead you say, ‘See, the kingdom is in the sky,’ then the birds will precede you.
If they say, ‘It’s in the sea,’ then the fish will precede you.
Rather, the kingdom is inside of you, and it’s outside of you.”
Divisive or Enlightening?
While some view this gospel as a threat or mockery of Christianity, others appreciate its spiritual depth and historical value.
What do you think about the Gospel of Thomas?
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