Prophetic Visions in the Gospel of Thomas: A Timeline of Church History and Its Transformation

Prophetic Visions in the Gospel of Thomas: A Timeline of Church History and Its Transformation

 
Introduction

The Gospel of Thomas opens with a striking statement:


"These are the secret sayings that the living Jesus spoke and Didymos Judas Thomas recorded.
(1) And he said, 'Whoever discovers the interpretation of these sayings will not taste death.'"

This introduction emphasizes that Jesus' words are living sayings—sayings that impart enduring wisdom and truth. In the Coptic text, most sayings begin with "Jesus said," while in the Greek version, they are written in the present tense, "Jesus says," reinforcing the idea that Jesus continues to speak through his words.

Many of these sayings contain prophetic elements, outlining the coming Kingdom, the fate of the righteous and the wicked, and the course of history leading to the age to come.
Seeking and the Future Kingdom

Right from the beginning, Saying 2 presents a prophecy of the Kingdom and beyond:


(2) Jesus says: "Let him who seeks continue seeking until he finds. And when he finds, he will be dismayed. And when he is dismayed, he will be astonished. And he will rule over the all. And after having reigned, he shall rest."

This reveals a future timeline:
The disciples must seek and find the Kingdom.
When they understand it, they will be astonished.
They will rule over all things—but this reign is yet to come.
After their rule, they will rest.

This parallels 1 Corinthians 15:24, which states that Christ will hand over the Kingdom to the Father at the end of the Messianic reign, initiating the ages of ages.
The Fall of Jerusalem and the New Age

The Gospel of Thomas provides insight into the events surrounding 70 CE and beyond:


(9) Jesus said, "Now the sower went out, took a handful (of seeds), and scattered them... Some fell on the road... Others fell on rock... Others fell on thorns... And others fell on the good soil and produced good fruit: it bore sixty per measure and a hundred and twenty per measure."

This describes the spreading of the gospel message, which encountered opposition and acceptance.


(10) Jesus said, "I have cast fire upon the world, and see, I am guarding it until it blazes."

This fire represents both judgment and purification. In Saying 82, Jesus identifies himself as both fire and the Kingdom.


(11) Jesus said, "This heaven will pass away, and the one above it will pass away."

Heaven here represents political rule. The heaven of the Jewish system passed in 70 CE, but another heaven—the Gentile age—will also pass.


(16) Jesus said, "Men think, perhaps, that I have come to cast peace upon the world. They do not know that I have come to cast conflicts upon the earth: fire, sword, war."

This aligns with Jesus' words in Matthew 10:34, emphasizing the division his message would bring.
The Corruption of the Church

As time progressed, corruption entered the faith:


(20) The disciples said, "Tell us what the Kingdom of Heaven is like."
He said, "It is like a mustard seed, the smallest of all seeds. But when it falls on tilled soil, it produces a great plant and becomes a shelter for birds of the sky."

While some interpret this positively, the birds can represent false influences, as seen in Daniel 4:20-22, where birds symbolize the nations that seek refuge in worldly power. This suggests the Roman church's rise, where political alliances overshadowed the purity of the gospel.


(39) Jesus said, "The Pharisees and the scribes have taken the keys of Knowledge and hidden them."

Here, the Pharisees represent all false religious leaders who obscure the true gospel.


(40) Jesus said, "A grapevine has been planted outside of the Father, but being unsound, it will be pulled up by its roots and destroyed."

This grapevine is false Christianity, flourishing outside God's wisdom. The true vine is Christ (John 15:5), but apostate churches spread teachings not rooted in the Father.


(57) Jesus said, "The Kingdom of the Father is like a man who had [good] seed. His enemy came by night and sowed weeds among the good seed..."

The enemy represents the doctrine of the Pharisees and the Roman church. Night refers to the times of the Gentiles, during which false Christianity dominated. The harvest represents the end of the age when the tares (false believers) are separated from the wheat (the righteous).
The Apostasy and the Loss of Truth

Eventually, truth was buried:


(96) Jesus said, "The Kingdom of the Father is like a certain woman. She took a little leaven, [concealed] it in some dough, and made it into large loaves."

This symbolizes corruption within the faith, a prophecy of apostasy.


(97) Jesus said, "The Kingdom of the [Father] is like a woman carrying a jar full of meal. While she was walking, the handle of the jar broke, and the meal emptied out behind her... When she reached her house, she set the jar down and found it empty."

The woman represents the Church. The meal is the gospel, lost over time due to negligence.
The Reformation and the Final Judgment

With the rise of the printed Bible, truth re-emerged:


(109) Jesus said, "The Kingdom is like a man who had a [hidden] treasure in his field without knowing it..."

This describes the rediscovery of biblical truth.

Yet, false teachings persist:


(102) Jesus says: "Cursed are they, the Pharisees, because they are like a dog which has lain in the cattle manger, but will neither eat nor allow the oxen to eat it."

Modern religious authorities, like the ancient Pharisees, hinder access to truth.

A final judgment will come:


(98) Jesus said, "The Kingdom of the Father is like a certain man who wanted to kill a powerful man. He drew his sword, struck the wall, and then slew the powerful man."

The powerful man represents the kingdom of men, which will be overthrown by Christ’s return.
The End of the Age

The final transformation of the world is described:


(111) Jesus said, "The heavens and the earth will be rolled up in your presence. And one who lives from the Living One will not see death."

This refers to the transition from the present order to the age to come.


(113) His disciples said, "When will the Kingdom come?"
Jesus said, "It will not come by waiting for it... Rather, the Kingdom of the Father is to be spread out upon the earth, but men do not see it."

The Kingdom is already working in the world, yet its full realization awaits the future.
Conclusion

The Gospel of Thomas presents a prophetic timeline:
The Kingdom was proclaimed.
Apostasy and corruption overtook the faith.
The truth was rediscovered.
A final judgment will bring an end to the present age.
The righteous will rule and ultimately rest.
Thus, Jesus’ sayings not only reveal deep spiritual truths but also foretell the course of history leading to the coming ages of ages..


























These are the secret sayings that the living Jesus spoke and Didymos Judas Thomas recorded. 1. And he said, "Whoever discovers the interpretation of these sayings will not taste death."

In all the Sayings in the GTh they mostly start with “Jesus said” that is in the Coptic. However, in the Greek the quotation formulas are given in the present tense “Jesus says” so this means that Jesus lives through his sayings or that the words that Jesus speaks are living saying the sayings that bring everlasting life and to understand his sayings you will not experience death.

At the very start of the gospel of Thomas in saying 2 we are give a prophecy of the Kingdom age and beyond

(2) 1 Jesus says: "Let him who seeks continue seeking until he finds. 2 And when he finds, he will be dismayed. 3 And when he is dismayed, he will be astonished. 4 And he will rule over the all. And after having reign he shall rest"

We are told to seek and find, in Thomas we are told that we should seek the kingdom of God when we find it (enter into it) we shall reign and after having reigned, we shall rest

This is a commentary on the time table of the second coming and future kingdom. The disciples have sought and found but their rule and their rest will only appear in the future. at the present time the disciples can obtain rest when they can rid themselves of their burdens the time at which the disciples will rule over the all has not yet come

There is also a greater rest after the ruling over the all. The disciples will rule over the all. And after having reign he shall rest" we shall rest when Jesus hands over the Kingdom to the Father 1Cor 15:24 This saying takes us to the end of the 1000 years rule of Christ on earth and this is the start of the ages of ages

if we look a the saying in the Gospel of Thomas as a sequence we can see a chronological of church history

1. Sayings 9 to 11 are is particularly appropriate to the early days of the church, when the message was being circulated far and wide. This ends with 70 AD which is the start of the new heaven
9) Jesus said, "Now the sower went out, took a handful (of seeds), and scattered them. Some fell on the road; the birds came and gathered them up. Others fell on the rock, did not take root in the soil, and did not produce ears. And others fell on thorns; they choked the seed(s) and worms ate them. And others fell on the good soil and produced good fruit: it bore sixty per measure and a hundred and twenty per measure."

10) Jesus said, "I have cast fire upon the world, and see, I am guarding it until it blazes."

In Saying 82 Jesus is identified as both fire and kingdom so here when he throws fire upon the world we should understand that he has come to reveal the knowledge of the Kingdom upon the world.

However in saying 16 Jesus does not bring peace upon the world but fire, war and the sword.

11) Jesus said, "This heaven will pass away, and the one above it will pass away. The dead are not alive, and the living will not die. In the days when you consumed what is dead, you made it what is alive. When you come to dwell in the light, what will you do? On the day when you were one you became two. But when you become two, what will you do?"

we should understand heaven as political not literal

In the days when you consumed what is dead you made it what is alive

In sayings 10 11 and 16 Jesus is speaking about the trouble in his day, which would lead to the fall of Jerusalem in 70 CE, which is symbolised by the passing away of heaven, we are living in the heaven of the Gospel age right now this is also called the times of the gentiles but it to will pass away. Thus, it is also a prophecy of our own time in which we live the end times.


2. But almost immediately came another age when to the pure gospel of the kingdom there were added many false un-scriptural notions-these are the Weeds.

20) The disciples said to Jesus, "Tell us what the Kingdom of Heaven is like." He said to them, "It is like a mustard seed, the smallest of all seeds. But when it falls on tilled soil, it produces a great plant and becomes a shelter for birds of the sky."


An essential element in the parable is the growth from seed to tree. This is not the way in which the kingdom of God will come about. Its advent will be sudden; if not instantaneous, at least bewilderingly










3. As time went on the Roman church became more and more powerful and materialistic, so that many political forces deemed alliance with the church well worth seeking. This is the mustard tree with the birds of the air in its branches.



39) Jesus said, "The Pharisees and the scribes have taken the keys of Knowledge and hidden them. They themselves have not entered, nor have they allowed to enter those who wish to. You, however, be as wise as serpents and as innocent as doves."

The Pharisees here are a symbol of all false Church leaders of orthodox Christianity the churches have lost and hidden them by saying people go to heaven but no one goes to heaven only Jesus.
The keys of knowledge are the one true faith and hope of Abraham the promises made to him so we must have the faith of Abraham for those who are of faith are blessed with believing Abraham Gal 3:9 who is the father of us all saying 105 cp. Rom 4:11,12,16. Now his faith and ours is this that the gentiles shall be blessed in him and this promises was made to him before the law and his seed who is the Christ


40) Jesus said, "A grapevine has been planted outside of the Father, but being unsound, it will be pulled up by its roots and destroyed."




57) Jesus said, "The Kingdom of the Father is like a man who had [good] seed. His enemy came by night and sowed weeds among the good seed. The man did not allow them to pull up the weeds; he said to them, 'I am afraid that you will go intending to pull up the weeds and pull up the wheat along with them.' For on the day of the harvest the weeds will be plainly visible, and they will be pulled up and burned."


“His enemy came by night and sowed weeds among the good seed.” The enemy signifies the doctrine of the Pharisees


The “night” signifies: the times of the Gentiles At John 9:4 Jesus spoke of “the night . . . coming when no man can work. Paul also uses the figure in reference to the second coming (#Ro 13:12), where "night" seems to refer to the present age and "day" to the age to come.


“For on the day of the harvest the weeds will be plainly visible, and they will be pulled up and burned." Harvest signifies “the end of the age” thus at the end of the age he would send his reapers; namely, the resurrected believers, his angels, or messenger of destruction, to "gather out of his field" all the tare-like ones and cast them into the place of the Lord, "whose fire is in Zion, and his furnace in Jerusalem" (Isaiah 31:9). Where there should be wailing, and gnashing of teeth. When this should be accomplished the present age would be finished, and the new commonwealth of Israel will begin "for He whose right it is to reign has come." (Ezekiel 21:25-27). "Then shall the righteous shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father.




The enemy in saying 57 planted the grapevine but Nothing can exist outside of the Father. The enemy, the Pharisees, the Roman Church is in league with the authorities of the nations, who everywhere stealthily neutralised the teaching of Christ, spreading false doctrines, and scattering wide their supporters, who drew away the people, and multiplied their own number greatly by the energy of their operations and the popularity of their influence.


The father planted the Lord Jesus as the true vine. “I am the vine, ye are the branches.” “Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away”—a fruitless branch, a useless thing.
Here the Lord is speaking of religious institutions of his own day, although we certainly have our own version in modern times. Anytime religion and state are combined, the result is an oppressive environment that places a stranglehold upon the activity of the spirit of truth. In this Saying Jesus is speaking about what happen in 70 CE when the old covenant was up rooted and the rebellious Jews who rebelled against the new covenant and their King. And it is also still to come to the priest and clergymen of the dogmatic Christian churches who have rebelled against true worship and in time past they have even kill true believers
But what orthodox churches of Christianity called the truth was planted outside of the father’s wises in the days of the apostles and Paul also tells us that wolfs will come in and destroy the truth and this gave birth to the man of lawlessness
This grapevine cannot bear fruit (everlasting life) and those in it are already dead not knowing the knowledge of the truth that brings everlasting life.


4. Ultimately the Dark Ages set in. Truth was completely buried. “The whole was leavened.”


96) Jesus [said], "The Kingdom of the Father is like a certain woman. She took a little leaven, [concealed] it in some dough, and made it into large loaves. Let him who has ears hear."

this prophecy is to foretell the unavoidable spread of corruption through the church “until the whole was leavened”. Far from seeing the gospel conquer the world, the Lord expected the world to conquer the gospel

This is a prophecy of the apostasy

97) Jesus said, "The Kingdom of the [Father] is like a certain woman who was carrying a jar full of meal. While she was walking [on] a road, still some distance from home, the handle of the jar broke and the meal emptied out behind her on the road. She did not realize it; she had noticed no accident. When she reached her house, she set the jar down and found it empty."

The woman is the church and this is a prophecy of the church losing the gospel


5. With the sudden availability of printed Bibles in the 16th century a dramatic change took place. Men discovered Truth for themselves like treasure hid in a field, not because they were looking for it, but simply because they now had access to the Bible..

Saying 109
109) Jesus said, "The Kingdom is like a man who had a [hidden] treasure in his field without knowing it. And [after] he died, he left it to his son. The son did not know (about the treasure). He inherited the field and sold [it]. And the one who bought it went plowing and found the treasure. He began to lend money at interest to whomever he wished."


6. However, since the Reformation sectarianism has multiply. Today there are churches in abundance. All of them have some truth to offer. But there is one which surpasses all others. This pearl of great price is so manifestly superior that a man is glad to let go all the rest for the sake of this one. This is the position today.

76) Jesus said, "The kingdom of the Father is like a merchant who had a consignment of merchandise and who discovered a pearl. That merchant was clever. He sold the merchandise and bought the pearl alone for himself. You too, seek his unfailing and enduring treasure where no moth comes near to devour and no worm destroys."


102) [102]. Jesus says: "Cursed are they, the Pharisees, because they are like a dog which has lain in the cattle manger, but will neither eat <the food there> nor allow the oxen to eat it."

[today, the Churches that spread the wrong message to gain power and profit for themselves like most Churches that call themselves 'Catholic', 'Christian' or 'Evangelic', Mormons],

[They will spiritually starve, because instead of drinking from Jesus Christ's mouth, they spread lies either because they have their own agenda or they simply just don't see the truth and don't let their 'believers' drink from Jesus Christ's words either]."

7. Before very long the Lord’s sword of judgement will have its fulfilment when the powerful man is killed.

98) Jesus said, "The Kingdom of the Father is like a certain man who wanted to kill a powerful man. In his own house he drew his sword and stuck it into the wall in order to find out whether his hand could carry through. Then he slew the powerful man."

the certain man is the multitudinous body of Christ that will kill the powerful man. the powerful man is the kingdom of men


8) And He said, "The Kingdom is like a wise fisherman who cast His net into the sea and drew it up from the sea full of small fish. Among them the wise fisherman found a fine large fish. He threw all the small fish back into the sea and chose the large fish without difficulty. Whoever has ears to hear, let him hear."


Like the fisherman we need to be exclusively devoted to Jesus and his message


73 Jesus says: "The harvest is great but the labourers are few. Pray the Lord to send labourers for the harvest

8. After the sword of judgement the heavens and the earth will be rolled up in the presence of the disciples this is the end of the age

111) Jesus said, "The heavens and the earth will be rolled up in your presence. And one who lives from the Living One will not see death." Does not Jesus say, "Whoever finds himself is superior to the world?"

113) His disciples said to Him, "When will the Kingdom come?" <Jesus said,> "It will not come by waiting for it. It will not be a matter of saying 'Here it is' or 'There it is.' Rather, the Kingdom of the Father is to be spread out upon the earth, but men will not accept it."



At the end of the age when the heavens and the earth will be rolled up in the presence of the disciples the Kingdom of the Father is to be spread out upon the earth but men will not accept it. this part reminds me of psalm 2





Historical sequence


The complete set of parables in Matthew 13 is worth considering once again, this time as a sequence. Is it just accident that they appear to have special relevance to the changing fortunes of the gospel over the centuries? Their ready conformity to a chronological sequence is certainly impressive.


1. The parable of the Sower is specially appropriate to the early days of the church, when the message was being disseminated far and wide.
2. But almost immediately came another era when to the pure gospel of the kingdom there were added many false unbiblical notions-the Tares.
3. As time went on the church became more and more powerful and materialistic, so that many political forces deemed alliance with the church well worth seeking. This is the mustard tree with the birds of the air in its branches.
4. Ultimately the Dark Ages set in. Truth was completely obscured. “The whole was leavened.”
5. With the sudden availability of printed Bibles in the 16th century a dramatic change took place. Men discovered Truth for themselves like treasure hid in a field, not because they were looking for it, but simply because they now had access to the Bible.
6. However, since the Reformation sectarianism has proliferated. Today there are churches galore. All of them have some truth to offer. But there is one which surpasses all others. This pearl of great price is so manifestly superior that a man is glad to let go all the rest for the sake of this one. This is the position today.
7. Before very long the Lord’s drag-net of judgment will have its fulfilment when the catch will be found to include a mystical number of great fishes (Jn. 21:11).

Gospel of Thomas Saying 51

In a profound teaching, Jesus responds to his disciples' question about when rest will come to the dead and when the new world will arrive. His answer reveals a deep spiritual truth: "This rest that you wait for has already come, and you have not recognized it." This teaching emphasizes that the concept of rest and the new world are not bound to physical death but are accessible in a spiritual sense.

The rest Jesus refers to is not about physical death but about liberation from sin and the old life. To understand this, one must recognize that spiritual rest comes from dying to one's old self and sins. This concept is central to the Christian understanding of salvation and spiritual rebirth. According to this perspective, a person enters into rest and experiences the new world by undergoing a spiritual transformation. This transformation involves dying to sins and embracing a new life through rebirth by the Spirit and the Word.

Pauline epistles, such as Romans and Colossians, articulate this idea with clarity. In Romans 6:2-11 and Colossians 2:20, Paul describes how believers are baptized into Christ’s death, symbolizing a death to sin and a new life in Christ. This process is described as a moral and spiritual resurrection. The “New Man” emerges when one perceives and accepts "the truth as it is in Jesus." This is not merely a theoretical understanding but an experiential reality where one is transformed by the truth and becomes spiritually alive.

This spiritual resurrection, or moral regeneration, must precede the physical resurrection at the end of time. If a person does not experience this moral rebirth in their lifetime, they will not partake in the future resurrection of the body. Thus, spiritual regeneration is a prerequisite for the future physical resurrection.

Furthermore, the notion of being "dead to the law" as discussed in Romans 7:4 and Galatians 2:19 underscores the transformative power of faith. The law represents a form of bondage that believers are freed from through their union with Christ. This freedom is not merely a legalistic shift but a profound change in one’s moral and spiritual state.

The process of moral conception and quickening described in Ephesians 2:1-5 highlights the distinction between mere intellectual knowledge of divine truths and a genuine spiritual transformation. An unquickened sinner is merely a theorist, someone who speculates about divine matters without being morally affected. In contrast, a quickened believer has undergone a profound inner transformation, becoming a new creation with a purified heart, guided by love and truth.

The Gospel of Philip further illuminates this idea by suggesting that a Gentile, or someone outside the covenant of faith, has not truly lived to die in a spiritual sense. On the other hand, one who believes in the truth and embraces it experiences true life and is thus in a state of danger of dying because they are spiritually alive. This paradox underscores the deep spiritual reality where true life is found in embracing and living the truth.

In summary, the teachings of Jesus and the writings of Paul and other early Christian texts emphasize that spiritual rest and the new world are experienced through a profound transformation in this life. This involves dying to sin, being baptized into Christ’s death, and living a new life empowered by the Spirit. Understanding and accepting this truth brings one into a state of spiritual rest and readiness for the future resurrection.

In Thomas Saying 51, the disciples ask Jesus about the timing of the rest for the dead and the arrival of the new world. Jesus replies, "This rest that you wait for has already come, and you have not recognized it." This response shifts the focus from a future event to a present reality.

Here, the "rest" refers to the spiritual rest and peace found in Christ, as described in 2 Corinthians 12:9 and Matthew 11:28-30. Jesus' teaching, which is gentle and not burdensome, offers this rest as opposed to the heavy yoke of the law. This concept is supported by Thomas Saying 90, which emphasizes the ease and relief found in Jesus’ teachings compared to the rigid demands of the law.

The "new world" Jesus mentions is identified with the age of grace inaugurated by His ministry. From the time Jesus began preaching the good news until the future arrival of the kingdom on earth, this period represents the new world. However, this new world will evolve into a new heaven and a new earth when the kingdom fully manifests. This future transformation will be succeeded by the final age, beyond the millennium, ushering in the "ages of the ages" with no end.

Pauline epistles support this transformation. Romans 6:2, 6:7, 6:11, and 6:13 discuss being dead to sin and alive in Christ, while Ephesians 2:1 and 2:5 highlight spiritual resurrection and new life. Colossians 2:13 and 1 Peter 2:24 talk about being made alive through Christ’s work. These passages collectively illustrate that spiritual rebirth and newness of life are current realities for believers.

Thomas Saying 51 can be understood as follows: When the disciples inquire about when spiritual repose and the new earth will come, Jesus reveals that these are not distant future events but present realities. The "repose of the dead" refers to finding rest from sin through spiritual rebirth, which has already been made available through Jesus. The "new earth" symbolizes the inner kingdom of God, which is already present within believers and not subject to external observation.

Jesus’ statement implies that the transformative power and new world He brings are already here for those who can recognize and receive it. Unfortunately, many fail to see this truth because the true understanding has been obscured by those who distort or hide the key elements of this knowledge. Thus, the rest and the new world are available now, but recognizing and embracing them requires a shift in perception and understanding.

In Thomas Saying 51, Jesus teaches that the rest and the new world are not distant future events but present realities that many fail to recognize. This profound truth is echoed and supported by various biblical passages, which explore the themes of spiritual rest, transformation, and new life.

Jesus’ statement that "This rest that you wait for has already come" reflects the reality of spiritual rest and renewal available through Him. This concept is aligned with several key scriptures:

**Psalm 141:7** and **Proverbs 3:35** illustrate the idea of wisdom and righteousness leading to a state of spiritual rest. Psalm 141:7 speaks of the soul finding its rest in the Lord, while Proverbs 3:35 highlights that wisdom brings honor and a form of spiritual prosperity.

**John 14:19** supports Jesus’ promise of spiritual renewal, stating, "Because I live, you also will live." This promise emphasizes that through Christ's resurrection and ongoing presence, believers can experience a new life and rest.

Paul’s epistles provide a comprehensive explanation of this spiritual transformation. **Romans 6:3-6** details how baptism into Christ’s death leads to a new life, symbolizing a transition from old to new, from death to life. This passage underscores that spiritual resurrection is a present reality for believers.

In **Romans 8:4,11,17,18**, Paul elaborates on the implications of this new life. Romans 8:4 states that believers walk according to the Spirit, not the flesh, highlighting a shift from old ways to a new spiritual existence. Romans 8:11 speaks of the Spirit who raised Jesus from the dead dwelling in believers, promising life and resurrection. Romans 8:17 and 18 further affirm that suffering now is temporary compared to the future glory that awaits, reinforcing the idea of a present transformation leading to future reward.

**1 Corinthians 15:31** reinforces this transformative journey, where Paul speaks of dying daily to self and sin, implying a continual process of spiritual renewal.

**2 Corinthians 1:5,9** and **2 Corinthians 2:15-16** reflect the sufficiency of Christ’s comfort and the victorious fragrance of Christ that believers embody. These passages highlight how Christ's presence and work lead to a state of spiritual strength and transformation.

**2 Corinthians 4:10,11** and **5:15** describe the believer's life as being continually transformed through suffering and sacrifice, in the likeness of Christ’s death and resurrection. These experiences contribute to the believer’s new life and spiritual growth.

**Colossians 1:24** and **2:12,13,20** emphasize the believer’s participation in Christ’s sufferings and the transformative power of being buried and raised with Him through baptism. These verses underscore that the new world, or spiritual renewal, is a present reality.

**Colossians 3:1-4,10** speaks directly to the transformation that occurs when believers are raised with Christ. It calls for seeking things above and living a renewed life in Christ, emphasizing the present aspect of this new reality.

**Galatians 2:20** and **5:24** describe the believer’s identification with Christ’s death and resurrection. By being crucified with Christ, believers experience a new identity and freedom from sin, manifesting the new world within.

**Ephesians 2:1-6** provides a vivid depiction of the believer’s transition from death in sin to life in Christ. Ephesians 4:10 elaborates on Christ's ascension and the resultant spiritual transformation for believers.

Finally, **2 Timothy 2:11** and **1 Peter 4:13** reflect on the believer’s experience of resurrection and transformation through suffering and participation in Christ's sufferings. These passages affirm that the new world and rest are realized in the present spiritual experience, awaiting ultimate fulfillment in the future.

In summary, Thomas Saying 51 and these accompanying biblical passages collectively convey that the spiritual rest and new world Jesus speaks of are not future hopes but present realities. Through Christ’s work, believers are invited to experience this transformation now, embodying the new life and kingdom within. Understanding this truth requires recognizing the spiritual dimensions of Christ's promises and living in the light of this profound reality.

The gospel of Thomas Saying 11

The gospel of Thomas Saying 11

Jesus said: This heaven will pass away, and the one above it will pass away; and those who are dead are not alive, and those who are living will not die. In the days when you ate of what is dead, you made of it what is living. When you come to be light, what will you do? On the day when you were one, you became two. But when you have become two, what will you do?

In the Gospel of Thomas, a collection of sayings attributed to Jesus, there lies a profound exhortation that resonates with the spiritual truths found within the Bible. Jesus proclaims, "This heaven will pass away, and the one above it will pass away; and those who are dead are not alive, and those who are living will not die" (Gospel of Thomas, Saying 11). This declaration echoes the prophecy of Isaiah, stating, "And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll" (Isaiah 34:4).

Central to this saying is the notion that the dead are not alive, a concept deeply embedded in the fabric of the one true faith as delineated in the Bible. Contrary to the beliefs of many other religious traditions, the Bible teaches that death is not a gateway to eternal life in heaven but rather a state of unconsciousness. This truth is reiterated throughout both the Gospel of Thomas and the Scriptures (e.g., Ecclesiastes 9:5, Psalms 115:17, 146:3-4).

Sayings 15, 51, 52, 59, along with biblical references such as Ecclesiastes 9:5, 10 and Psalms 115:3-4, underscore the theme of the unconsciousness of the dead. They emphasize that death is a state of non-being, where individuals are unaware of the affairs of the living world. This aligns with the biblical notion that in death, there is no consciousness or knowledge (Ecclesiastes 9:5) and that the dead do not praise the Lord (Psalms 115:17).

Furthermore, Saying 87 and 112, along with the reference to Genesis, highlight the interconnectedness of the body, flesh, and soul. This echoes the biblical concept that humanity is comprised of both physical and spiritual elements, and these aspects are intricately linked. The unity of body, flesh, and soul underscores the holistic nature of human existence, emphasizing the importance of both physical and spiritual well-being.

The interpretation of these sayings goes beyond a mere understanding of physical death; they also speak to spiritual death—the separation from God due to sin. Those who remain spiritually dead, unenlightened by the truth, face not only physical death but also spiritual death, symbolized by a second death after judgment. In contrast, those who are spiritually alive in Christ experience eternal life, marked by a profound union with God.

The Gospel of Thomas, much like the Bible, emphasizes the transformative power of truth and the significance of spiritual awakening. Through faith in Christ and adherence to His teachings, believers transition from spiritual death to life, from darkness into the everlasting light of God's presence.

In essence, these additional sayings reinforce the central themes of spiritual consciousness, interconnectedness of body and soul, and the transformative power of truth found within the Gospel of Thomas. They complement the broader narrative of Jesus's teachings, inviting believers to contemplate the nature of life, death, and eternity in light of divine truth.

In light of these additional sayings, the concept of eating dead and living things takes on a broader spiritual significance. It encompasses not only physical nourishment but also spiritual sustenance, highlighting the importance of feeding the soul with divine truth rather than relying solely on worldly pleasures. Just as the body requires sustenance for physical life, the soul requires spiritual nourishment for eternal life.

Therefore, the admonition to eat dead and living things in the Gospel of Thomas goes beyond mere dietary practices; it serves as a metaphor for embracing spiritual truths and rejecting spiritual death. By partaking of the living bread—the teachings of Christ—and rejecting the dead works of the flesh, believers find true fulfillment and eternal life in Him.

Moreover, Jesus's words in Saying 11 align with the biblical teaching that the spiritually dead will face a second death after judgment, while those alive in Christ will attain everlasting life. The distinction between the dead and the living is not merely physical but spiritual, highlighting the importance of being spiritually alive through faith in Christ.

The imagery of eating dead and living things in the saying symbolizes the consumption of spiritual nourishment. The dead represent adherence to the Law of Moses, which fails to impart eternal life, while the living symbolize partaking of Christ's flesh and blood through belief in His testimony as revealed in the Scriptures (John 6:54, Revelation 22:14). Thus, truth nourishes life, leading believers from darkness into the light of Christ.

"When you are in the Light, what will you become?" Jesus's question invites contemplation on the transformative power of light, equating it with moral enlightenment and unity with God. As believers walk in the light, they become united with God, transitioning from a state of oneness to a divine partnership, symbolized by the union of man and woman in marriage (Genesis 2:24).

This transition from oneness to twoness signifies both unity with God and the potential for division. Through faith in Christ, believers become united with God, yet this unity also distinguishes them from the world, making them "two" in their spiritual journey.

Ultimately, the saying challenges believers to ponder their spiritual state and trajectory. Will they remain spiritually dead, adhering to temporal laws and doctrines, or will they embrace the life-giving truth of Christ, transitioning from darkness into the eternal light?

In conclusion, the Gospel of Thomas, like the Bible, illuminates profound spiritual truths concerning life, death, and light. Through reflection on Jesus's teachings, believers are invited to transcend mere existence and embrace the abundant life found in Him. As they walk in the light, they become united with God, shining as beacons of truth and righteousness in a world enveloped by darkness.

This saying is an exhortation of Isaiah 34:4  And all the host of heaven shall be dissolved, and the heavens shall be rolled together as a scroll: and all their host shall fall down, as the leaf falleth off from the vine, and as a falling fig from the fig tree. Cp. Isaiah 13:13

“The dead are not alive” here we have one of the spiritual truth of the one true faith found only in the Bible the dead are not alive and the kingdom is not in the sky cp. Saying 3, every other bible based faith and religion teaches we go to heaven when we die or that only some go to heaven to rule with Christ. If death is not death than what the Bible says about death is a lie. 

However it is not only the bible that teaches that the dead are unconscious and know nothing and this is summed in the words of Jesus here in saying 11 "The dead are not alive." compare sayings 59, 60. 

So like the Bible and the true believers of the Bible, the Gospel of Thomas does not teach that we go to heaven to rule with Christ or that the soul live on after death. The GTh teaches that the dead are unconscious and know nothing so The dead are not alive Cp. Saying 15, 51, 52, 59, Ecc 9:5, 10 Ps 115: 146:3, 4. And the body, the flesh, and the soul are equivalent in value or interdependent Saying 87, 112 Gen 

This also has another meaning it is also about spiritual death those who have not been made alive by the word of truth. The spiritually dead will die a second death after the judgment. However those who are alive in Christ will have indefinitely lasting life.

The eating of dead and living things are not a doctrine of vegetarianism for the dead things are dead animals compare saying 60 87 111 112 which are killed and than eaten to sports life thus making the dead thing living. The dead and living things are also rational principles cp. 13 61 108 111 this is the same in the bible it is spiritual meat Ps 73:24. Thus, the dead principle would be the Law of Moses, which does not bring everlasting life only a long life in this life if they live by it. Now the living principle is the bread that is the flesh of Christ and if we do not eat the flesh of the son of man and drink his blood we have no life in us. But we only eat and drink his flesh and blood by believing the written testimony of the Logos concerning Jesus, set forth in the Bible and become the subject of repentance and remission of sins in the name of Christ Jesus, eats his flesh and drinks his blood. Cp. Rev 22:14 Jn 6:54. Truth eats life no one nourished by truth will die. This is the meaning of eating living things which bring us out of darkness and into the light.

“When you are in the Light, what will you become?” Jesus is the light of the world and also God is light, and we are told in the Bible add that we are to become like Jesus is now and Jesus now is consubstantial with God so we are to become consubstantial with God and God is Light so we shall become light first moral light (which denotes the knowledge of the truth i.e. a light to the nations) second when we shall shine like the brightness of the expanse and those who lead many to righteousness, like the starts forever.

On the day when you come into the light you became two. When you are two, what will you become? Two can be a figure both of unity and of division. Man and woman form the basic family unit (Gen 1:27 2:20,24) we become two when we are united with God we are two because God is with us and we are walking with him we are walking in the light and we are no longer one but two.

11) Jesus said, "This heaven [the errant Christo-pagan system of worship] will pass away, and the one above it [errant Judaism] will pass away. The dead [those who are "of" the two heavens named] are not alive [have not found the Life, the resurrection (“Christ in you”)], and the living [those who have “Christ in them”] will not die. In the days when you consumed [put your faith and trust in false teachings of men] what is dead [the lower/outward (fleshly) forms], you made it what is alive [a falsehood has no life of its own, one must give it life by believing and accepting it as true]. When you come to dwell in the light [come to learn the truth about all of these things], what will you do [great question but I am guessing it is best answered by; “choose this day whom you will serve”]? On the day [you sinned] when you were one [still in harmony with the spirit (for most of us, this is lost pretty early in life!)] you became two [you were separated from the Father (duality of mind) eating only from the tree of knowledge, the lower form]. But when you become two, what will you do [try like crazy to recover that lost unity]?" 

seeks rule and rest Gospel of Thomas Saying 2

[Jesus said], "Let him who seeks continue [seeking until] he finds. When he finds, [he will be amazed. And] when he becomes [amazed], he will rule. And [once he has ruled], he will [attain rest]."

The Journey of Seeking, Finding, and Reigning in the Kingdom of God

In the teachings attributed to Jesus, there lies a profound message about the journey of seeking, finding, and ultimately reigning in the Kingdom of God. This journey, filled with mystery and revelation, is intricately woven throughout the biblical texts, inviting seekers to delve deeper into the truths hidden within.

Jesus urges his followers with timeless wisdom: "Let him who seeks continue seeking until he finds" (Matthew 7:7). This call to persistence in seeking echoes throughout the Scriptures, inviting individuals to embark on a quest for the Kingdom of God. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus specifically directs his disciples to "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."

Yet, the nature of this seeking is not merely a casual inquiry but a laborious endeavor to uncover the profound truths concealed within the Word of God. It is a journey that requires diligence and perseverance, as Jesus alludes to in his teaching: "Let him who seeks [toils/labours for the true meaning of these words] continue seeking until he finds." (Matthew 7:7)

As seekers delve deeper into the mysteries of God's Kingdom, they are confronted with a profound realization—the recognition of their own shortcomings and the revelation of the truth. This revelation often brings about a sense of turmoil and astonishment, as individuals come face to face with the reality of their own depravity. Jesus alludes to this transformative process, stating, "When he finds [the meaning], he will become troubled, and he will be astonished" (Matthew 7:7).

The journey of seeking and finding leads to a transformative experience—a shift in perspective and understanding that culminates in reigning in the Kingdom of God. Jesus speaks of this profound outcome, stating, "When he becomes troubled, he will be astonished, and he will reign over the All" (Matthew 7:7).

This reign is not one of worldly power or dominance but of spiritual authority and understanding. It is a reign over the self, over the illusions of the world, and over the forces of darkness. As co-heirs with Christ, believers are called to share in his reign, participating in the establishment of God's Kingdom on earth as it is in heaven.

The concept of ruling over the all encompasses two significant aspects. Firstly, it entails a discernment of the fallacies and deceptions of the world, casting off the shackles of ignorance and fear. This newfound wisdom grants believers spiritual authority over the systems of this world, allowing them to see through the illusions of power and control.

Secondly, ruling over the all involves a journey of transformation and sanctification, guided by the Spirit of God. Through repentance and obedience to the Word, believers are refined and prepared to reign with Christ in his Kingdom. As it is written, "And he who overcomes, and keeps My works until the end, to him I will give power over the nations" (Revelation 2:26).

In conclusion, the journey of seeking, finding, and reigning in the Kingdom of God is a transformative process that leads believers to a deeper understanding of truth and a greater participation in God's divine plan. It is a journey marked by persistence, revelation, and ultimately, spiritual authority. As seekers embark on this quest, may they be empowered by the Spirit of God to reign with Christ in his everlasting Kingdom.

We are told to seek and find, but we are not told what we are seeking. However, in Matthew we are told that we should seek the kingdom of God when we find it (enter it) we shall reign and after having reigned, we shall rest when Jesus hands over the Kingdom to the Father 1Cor 15:

“He will marvel” We are amazed to realize that we are part of this plan of God. There, in the Kingdom as co-heirs with Jesus in Christ, we reign over all. There we have come to realize that God is all in all! To come to this realization is to come into the Kingdom of God. The one who lives by the Spirit of Christ is the one who reigns over all in the Kingdom. Here there is no fear, no death and no more work! Here the Sons of God rest in God’s peace and rule's all other kingdoms with God’s love.

"'Rest' is mentioned not in the Coptic text but in the Greek fragment; but 'rest' or 'repose' occurs in Sayings 51, 52, 60, 61, 86, and 90.

2)# Jesus said, "Let him who seeks [toils/labours for the true meaning of these words] continue seeking until he finds [this is not only an endurance test but a quest to find the hidden meanings (mystery) within the Word that Jesus only shared with His closest disciples]. When he finds [the meaning], he will become troubled [knowing that he has been living a lie all of his days - it is deeply troubling when one comes to realize how depraved they really are].

When he becomes troubled, he will be astonished [at the simplicity of the truth which will set him free], and he will reign over the All [as joint heir of the Kingdom (as part of the body of Christ) - no longer deceived by the serpent (the mind of flesh) and all of its outward forms]."

The term “rule over the all” has a twofold effect.  First, we are able to recognized the fallacies of our worldly ways and cast them off as nothing (when we are finally “free” from the bondage of the worlds religious system it gives us rule over the world in a spiritual sense) for their only power comes from ignorance and fear of the governed/laity. 

Secondly, we learn the path to perfect love over time through the help of the spirit word which teaches us how to repent and turn back from our sins so that we may be made spotless and gain the first resurrection as kings and ministerial servants in the Kingdom of God.  

Recognize what is in your sigh Gospel of Thomas Saying 5

Gospel of Thomas Saying 5 

Jesus said: Recognize what is before you, and what is hidden from you will be revealed to you; for there is nothing hidden that will not be made manifest.

Title: Understanding the Time: Unveiling the Truth Through Biblical Wisdom

In the sacred texts of Christianity, Jesus imparts profound wisdom regarding the unveiling of truth and the recognition of the times in which we live. His words, echoing through centuries, resonate with timeless significance, guiding believers towards deeper understanding and spiritual enlightenment.

"Recognize what is in your sight," Jesus declares, urging his followers to discern the outward manifestations of religious customs and traditions. In these visible practices lies a deeper, hidden truth waiting to be unveiled. Through diligent study and reflection on the teachings of the Bible, one can perceive the spiritual essence concealed beneath the surface.

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in his letter to the Corinthians, affirming that "we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen; for the things which are seen are temporal, but the things which are not seen are eternal" (2 Corinthians 4:18). Here, Paul emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from the transient to the eternal, from the outward to the inward, in order to grasp the profound truths embedded within the Scriptures.

Jesus further elucidates, proclaiming, "For there is nothing hidden which will not become manifest." This assertion underscores the inevitability of truth's revelation, emphasizing that no concealed knowledge shall remain obscured forever. Just as seeds buried in the earth eventually sprout forth into the light, so too shall hidden truths emerge from obscurity into clarity.

In contemplating the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, believers are urged to delve into the depths of biblical wisdom, seeking not merely surface-level understanding but profound spiritual insight. The Bible, as the repository of divine revelation, holds within its pages the keys to unlocking hidden truths and unraveling the mysteries of existence.

Yet, despite the abundance of knowledge contained within the Scriptures, Jesus laments that many are reluctant to pursue the path of study and enlightenment. "But no one wants to study it," he observes, highlighting the prevailing indifference towards spiritual discernment and the pursuit of truth.

This reluctance echoes the sentiments expressed by the prophet Hosea centuries earlier: "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6). The failure to engage deeply with the teachings of Scripture leaves individuals vulnerable to deception and spiritual stagnation, hindering their ability to recognize the signs of the times and discern the will of God.

The apostle Peter echoes this sentiment, exhorting believers to "grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ" (2 Peter 3:18). In nurturing a deeper understanding of Christ's teachings and the principles of the Christian faith, believers equip themselves to navigate the complexities of the modern world and discern the truth amidst a sea of falsehoods.

Moreover, Jesus warns of the impending judgment that awaits both the obedient and disobedient alike. "The obedient and disobedient will be summoned before the judgment seat of Christ to be judged according to their works," he declares, emphasizing the accountability each individual bears for their actions and beliefs.

The apostle Paul reinforces this notion, affirming that "each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor" (1 Corinthians 3:8). The judgment seat of Christ serves as the ultimate reckoning, where every deed, motive, and thought will be laid bare before the righteous judge.

In conclusion, the words of Jesus regarding the recognition of the times and the unveiling of hidden truths resonate with profound significance for believers today. Through diligent study of the Scriptures and earnest pursuit of spiritual discernment, individuals can transcend the superficialities of religious tradition and uncover the deeper truths that lie beneath. As they grow in wisdom and understanding, they equip themselves to navigate the complexities of the modern world with clarity and conviction, prepared to stand before the judgment seat of Christ with confidence and integrity.

Title: Unveiling Truth: Understanding the Time Through Biblical Wisdom

In the words attributed to Jesus, "Recognize what is before you, and what is hidden from you will be revealed to you; for there is nothing hidden that will not be made manifest" (Luke 8:17). These profound words invite us to delve deeper into the timeless wisdom of the Bible, particularly in understanding the current age we live in.

To grasp the essence of our time, we must first look to the teachings of the Bible regarding the end times. As Jesus foretold various signs and events in Matthew 24 and Luke 21, He provided insights into the conditions and events preceding His return. In Matthew 24:4-8, He mentions wars, famines, earthquakes, and false prophets as signs of the end times. Similarly, in Luke 21:25-28, Jesus speaks of distress among nations, with perplexity and roaring seas, signaling the approaching redemption. Understanding these prophecies helps illuminate the current state of the world and our place in it.

However, merely possessing knowledge of biblical prophecy is insufficient. Jesus emphasizes the importance of discernment and spiritual insight. He urges us to recognize the deeper truths hidden beneath the surface of religious practices and traditions. In Matthew 23, Jesus rebukes the religious leaders for their hypocrisy and outward piety while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness. He warns against the pitfalls of empty ritualism and urges a pursuit of true righteousness.

Furthermore, Jesus speaks of the future resurrection of believers, implying a spiritual awakening and unveiling of truths yet unseen. In John 5:28-29, Jesus declares, "Do not marvel at this, for an hour is coming when all who are in the tombs will hear his voice and come out, those who have done good to the resurrection of life, and those who have done evil to the resurrection of judgment." This resurrection encompasses not only physical death but also a spiritual awakening to the deeper realities of God's kingdom.

The Bible serves as a repository of divine wisdom, containing keys to unlock the mysteries of life and eternity. As the apostle Paul writes in 2 Timothy 3:16-17, "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work." Studying the Scriptures allows us to discern truth from falsehood and navigate the complexities of our time with wisdom and discernment.

Yet, despite the accessibility of biblical knowledge, many choose to remain ignorant or apathetic. Jesus laments this spiritual blindness in Matthew 13:15, quoting Isaiah: "For this people's heart has grown dull, and with their ears they can barely hear, and their eyes they have closed, lest they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears and understand with their heart and turn, and I would heal them." The truth is readily available to those who seek it earnestly, yet many remain willfully ignorant.

In conclusion, understanding the time in which we live requires more than mere observation of current events; it demands spiritual discernment and a deep engagement with biblical truth. Jesus' admonition to recognize the hidden truths within religious practices and traditions serves as a call to seek the deeper realities of God's kingdom. Through diligent study of Scripture and a sincere pursuit of truth, we can navigate the complexities of our time and prepare ourselves for the coming judgment, knowing that nothing hidden will remain concealed forever.

We have to understand the time we live in, in Jesus’ day some not understand the time as in our day. To understand the time as in our day. To understand the time we must look at what the bible says about the end than nothing will be hidden from us. We do not know the truth until we find it. The knowledge of the truth is everywhere that is wherever there is a bible but no one wants to study it. But those who know the truth, the obedient and disobedient will be summoned before the judgment seat of Christ to be judged according to their works.

Jesus says there is nothing buried which will not be resurrected so in the greek text Jesus is speaking of the future resurrection of the believer

Jesus said, "Recognize what is in your sight [what is manifested in festivals, customs, ordinances and traditions etc.. of the religious leaders which are lower/outward (fleshly) forms of the "letter" of the Word which was only "to be a tutor" leading to Christ for those who are yet without the life], and that which is hidden from you [the higher/inward (spiritual) substance - the spirit of the Word (Keys of Knowledge)] will become plain to you [you will see the deeper spiritual meanings (treasures)]. For there is nothing hidden which will not become manifest." [the whole world and its system of ordinances and traditions manifest the condition of those who are "of" it - this is the power of the counterfeit kingdom over the flesh whose glory (and fruit) comes in the form of pride, covetness, hypocrisy and evil in all of its many forms - in verse 39 below, it demonstrates how the scribes and Pharisees and then the church has hidden the Keys which become will become manifest to those who toil day and night for it]