Issue 96: The Gnostic Hunger For Secret Knowledge


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The Gnostics called themselves "enlightened." The early church called them heretics.

In recent years the early church has become a subject of public debate and an enormous amount of confusion. Gone are the days when the average Christian can get away with not knowing about the Gnostics, the early church's Rule of Faith, or how the biblical canon developed.

In this issue we lay out the basic facts that will help you evaluate and respond to this dizzying array of wild theories and popular books that promote additional gospels, early church conspiracies, and the rediscovery of the true Christian faith. You will learn who the Gnostics really were and why the early church called them heretics, how the early Christians could tell the apostolic message from the counterfeits, and why the New Testament has only four gospels.

Feature Articles:

Defining the Faith
Gnosticism emerged during a time when Christians faced an identity crisis.
Everett Ferguson

In the Know
The Gnostics believed that knowledge was the key to salvation—for a select few.
David M. Scholer
Also: The Secret Is Out
The Gnostic Christ

One God, One Christ, One Salvation Irenaeus "the peacemaker" was the early church's best warrior against Gnostic heresy.
D. Jeffrey Bingham
Also: Gnosticism unmasked<

The Earliest "Mere Christianity"
Before creeds, even before an official New Testament, there was the Rule of Faith.
D. H. Williams

No Other Gospel
Despite the appearance of Gnostic "gospels," the early church decided that Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John were without rival.
Nicholas Perrin

Taught by the Apostles
What is the truth about Jesus? Ask those who knew his earliest followers, said Irenaeus.
Fr John Behr

Regular Features:

  • Did You Know?
    Interesting and little known facts about Gnostics
  • Timeline
    The Unfolding Faith
  • Recommended Resources
    Dig deeper into this issue's theme.

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