Gnosticism, a significant heresy during the early church era, finds a modern echo in various philosophies gaining popularity today. Among the Gnostic texts influencing contemporary thought is the Gospel of Thomas, which contains controversial ideas that some modern movements, like feminism, reference to support their views. While certain lines in the Gospel of Thomas are often dismissed as allegorical, suggesting an inner transformation rather than a literal interpretation, they still contribute to broader discussions on gender and spirituality within liberal Christian circles. These texts, alongside others like the Gospel of Mary and the Gospel of Eve, fuel concepts such as the divine feminine and the historical presence of female apostles, challenging traditional church structures and roles as ordained by God.

The Gospel of Thomas, a text discovered among the Nag Hammadi library in 1945, offers a collection of sayings attributed to Jesus Christ. Unlike the canonical gospels, it lacks a narrative structure, focusing instead on direct teachings and parables. Its content often diverges from traditional accounts, presenting a more esoteric and introspective view of His teachings. Some scholars suggest it may reflect early Christian thought, potentially dating to the first or second century, though its exact origins remain debated. Within the context of church history, the Gospel of Thomas represents the diversity of belief and the presence of alternative texts among early Christian communities, highlighting the fragmentation and varied interpretations that existed even in the church's formative years. This diversity parallels the modern church of God's own struggles with doctrinal differences and splintering, showing that such divisions are not a new phenomenon but a recurring pattern in the history of God's people.

Among the various writings considered for inclusion in the biblical canon, the Gospel of Thomas stands as an example of a text that disturbs the internal unity of the accepted New Testament books. Unlike the 27 canonical books, which demonstrate agreement on doctrine, Christian living, history, and prophecy, the Gospel of Thomas fails to conform to this rule of faith, leading to its exclusion from the authoritative collection of inspired Scripture.