Introduction to The Gospel of Thomas
The Gospel of Thomas is an early Christian gospel made up of 114 sayings from, we believe, private interactions between Jesus and his apostles. Unlike the main four gospels, The Gospel of Thomas is simply written as a list. It is therefore an extra-canonical sayings gospel.
The writings of Thomas were only discovered in Egypt in 1945, alongside other gnostic texts, in Nag Hammadi. Although only fairly recently discovered, it is thought that the writings date back between AD 60 and as late as AD 250.
Unlike the other Gospels, The Gospel of Thomas proclaims that the Kingdom of God is already present for those who understand the secret message of Jesus.
Certain scholars believe that The Gospel of Thomas is one of the earliest accounts of the teachings of Jesus. Some also believe that it’s one of the most important texts that helps us to understand the infancy of Christianity outside of the gospels of the New Testament.
Gospel of Thomas FAQs
How was the Gospel of Thomas discovered?
The Gospel of Thomas was discovered in 1945 by farmers in Nag Hammadi, Egypt. Whilst reportedly looking for treasures they came across a jar in the ground containing a number of texts, including the scriptures of Thomas.
The text contains a number of quotes and sayings (114 to be exact) that referred to interactions with the living Jesus. The writings are simply signed off, “The Gospel According to Thomas”
Why The Gospel of Thomas isn’t in the bible.
The Gospel of Thomas, unlike biblical content, doesn’t follow any real narrative structure. It is better described as a collection of 114 sayings of Jesus through more personal interactions and teachings with his disciples.
Why is the Gospel of Thomas rejected?
The writings of Thomas often contradict orthodox scriptures and therefore the church has never considered them to have any authority. Thomas himself was never considered to be apostolic or have divine qualities, therefore the writings were never considered to be scripture.
What are the Gospel of Thomas themes?
The Gospel of Thomas themes on this website on this website have arisen through thorough examination of the writings of Thomas. It is through these Themes that Ladbrooke challenges anyone who doubts the validity of The Gospel of Thomas.
Why is the Gospel of Thomas different from the other four gospels?
The Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John were written to spread the message of Jesus to everyone. The Gospel of Thomas, on the other hand, is a collection of more personal and secret sayings between Jesus and his apostles. Due to the nature of the Gospel of Thomas, we see a different Jesus being described than through the words of the Four Evangelists
Will the Gospel of Thomas ever be added to the bible?
The bible is a closed book and no additional content, especially something that could be considered controversial, will ever be added.
Does the Gospel of Thomas contain real quotes from Jesus?
It’s possible, although no one really knows for sure.
Was Thomas a disciple of Jesus?
We know that Thomas was one of the 12 apostles of Jesus
Was Thomas the twin of Jesus?
It’s possible that Jesus had a twin brother called Didymos Judas Thomas. In the new Testament it is referenced that Jesus had two brothers, although we are not sure if these were brothers in the Traditional sense. It is also true that Didymus is derived from the ancient Greek word meaning twin, and Thomas comes from the Aramaic word meaning the same.
Where did the phrase ‘doubting Thomas’ come from?
In todays world the phrase ‘doubting Thomas’ normally refers to someone who might refuse to believe the word of someone else with a first hand experience on the matter. This is in reference
to Thomas, who refused to believe that Jesus had resurrected from the dead and had appeared to other apostles, until he saw him and his crucifixion wounds with his own eyes.
I’m interested in learning more about The Gospel of Thomas. How can I go about this?
You’re in the right place. If you’d like to learn more about the Gospel of Thomas then please get in touch with me via the contact form here.
Was Jesus a Vegetarian?
There is evidence to suggest that Jesus was vegetarian. In fact, there is evidence that that Thomas, Peter, Matthew and James were also ALL vegetarian. In fact, Jesus himself is cited as eating meat only once and in only one of the four gospels.
