Many gospels were not included in the New Testament, existing beyond what became the established biblical canon. While the Bible recognizes four canonical gospels—Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John—numerous other gospels circulated in early Christianity.
Understanding Non-Canonical Gospels
The process of canonization involved early Christian communities and leaders determining which texts were considered authoritative and divinely inspired. Gospels that were not included are often referred to as non-canonical or apocryphal gospels. These texts were excluded for various reasons, including their authorship, date of composition, theological alignment with orthodox Christian beliefs, and lack of widespread acceptance among early Christian communities.
Notable Gospels Not Included in the Bible
Here are several significant gospels that were not incorporated into the New Testament:
| Gospel Name | Approximate Date/Description |
|---|---|
| Gospel of Thomas | 1st century; a sayings gospel, featuring 114 sayings attributed to Jesus. |
| Gospel of Marcion | Mid-2nd century; a heavily edited version of Luke, reflecting Marcion's distinct theological views. |
| Gospel of Basilides | Mid-2nd century; associated with the Gnostic teacher Basilides. |
| Gospel of Apelles | Mid-late 2nd century; similar in nature to the Gospel of Marcion, connected to Apelles. |
| Gospel of Bardesanes | Late 2nd–early 3rd century; linked to the Syrian Christian philosopher Bardesanes. |
| Gospel of Mani | 3rd century; a foundational text for Manichaeism, founded by Mani. |
These texts offer alternative perspectives on Jesus' life and teachings, reflecting the diverse theological landscape of early Christianity. While not part of the universally accepted Bible, they provide valuable insights into the history and development of early Christian thought.
To learn more about the broader collection of texts that did not become part of the New Testament, you can explore resources on New Testament apocrypha.
