Brief Answer

The Gospel of Mary is an ancient, non-canonical text attributed to Mary Magdalene, but it is not part of the Bible and was written long after the time of Christ. It was discovered in the 19th century and is considered a Gnostic text, reflecting beliefs that contradict the biblical teachings of Jesus and the apostles. Unlike the four Gospels in the New Testament-Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John-the Gospel of Mary was not divinely inspired and does not accurately represent the teachings of Christ. Instead, it promotes Gnostic ideas, which emphasize secret knowledge and deny core biblical doctrines, such as Jesus’ bodily resurrection and the authority of Scripture.

Understanding the Gospel of Mary from a Biblical Perspective

The Gospel of Mary is not a gospel in the biblical sense. The true Gospel-the “good news” of Jesus Christ-is found in the Bible, centered on His death, resurrection, and salvation through faith in Him (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). The Gospel of Mary, however, presents a different message, one that reflects Gnostic thought rather than the biblical truth of who Jesus is and why He came.

A biblical perspective on this text includes:

• The Bible is complete and sufficient – The inspired Word of God does not need additional “gospels” or hidden knowledge (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
• Gnosticism distorts the Gospel – The Gospel of Mary contains teachings that align with Gnostic philosophy, which contradicts biblical Christianity (Colossians 2:8-9).
• Mary Magdalene’s true role is in the Bible – While Mary was a devoted follower of Jesus, she was not given secret revelation beyond what Scripture records.

Since the Gospel of Mary does not align with biblical teaching, it should not be considered part of God’s revealed truth.

Historical Context: When and Why Was the Gospel of Mary Written?

The Gospel of Mary was likely written in the second century, more than 100 years after Jesus’ earthly ministry. It is part of a group of texts associated with Gnosticism, a heretical movement that emerged after the time of the apostles.

• Gnosticism and Secret Knowledge – Gnostics believed salvation came through hidden wisdom rather than faith in Christ’s atonement.
• Second-Century Writings – The earliest biblical gospels were written in the first century by eyewitnesses or those who gathered testimony from them. In contrast, the Gospel of Mary appeared much later, showing it was not an authentic apostolic record.
• Discovery of the Manuscripts – Fragments of this text were discovered in the 19th and 20th centuries, not preserved in the early church, indicating it was never accepted by Christian believers.

Since it was written long after the apostles and does not align with biblical teachings, it was never recognized as Scripture.

Practical Implications: Why Does This Matter for Christians?

Understanding the Gospel of Mary is important because similar false teachings continue to influence people today. The existence of extra-biblical texts can lead to confusion if believers do not recognize their contradictions with Scripture.

• Trust in God’s Word – The Bible alone is the source of truth (John 17:17). Any text that contradicts it should be rejected.
• Be aware of false teachings – Just as the early church faced heresies, modern believers must discern truth from deception (2 Peter 2:1-2).
• Jesus is the only way to salvation – The true Gospel is not about hidden knowledge but about faith in Christ (John 14:6).

When confronted with alternative “gospels,” Christians should remain rooted in biblical truth.

Theological Depth and Insight: Why Isn’t the Gospel of Mary in the Bible?

The early church carefully recognized which writings were inspired by God. The biblical Gospels-Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John-were written by eyewitnesses or close associates of Jesus and His disciples, confirmed by the Holy Spirit.

The Gospel of Mary was excluded because:

• It was written too late – No apostle or early disciple authored it.
• It contradicts core Christian beliefs – It presents a different view of Jesus and salvation.
• It was never accepted by the church – The early Christians rejected Gnostic writings as heretical.

God has preserved His Word, and we can trust that the 66 books of the Bible contain His complete revelation.

Broader Biblical Themes: The True Gospel and False Gospels

The Bible warns against false gospels that distort the message of Christ.

• Paul warned against other “gospels” – “If anybody is preaching to you a gospel other than what you accepted, let them be under God’s curse!” (Galatians 1:8-9).
• Truth is not hidden but revealed in Christ – Unlike Gnosticism, Jesus openly taught the way of salvation (Matthew 28:19-20).
• Scripture is sufficient – The Bible is God’s complete and authoritative Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17).

The Gospel of Mary is an example of an early distortion of Christian truth, much like the false teachings warned about in Scripture.

The Role of the Holy Spirit: Guarding Against Deception

The Holy Spirit helps believers recognize truth and reject deception.

• The Spirit leads us into truth – “But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all the truth” (John 16:13).
• The Spirit affirms the true Gospel – The message of Christ’s death and resurrection is the foundation of our faith (1 Corinthians 15:1-4).
• The Spirit protects believers from false doctrine – Those who are led by the Spirit will discern error and cling to biblical truth (1 John 4:1).

By relying on the Holy Spirit and God’s Word, we can stand firm against misleading teachings.

Relevance for Today’s Christian: Why Should We Be Cautious?

With growing interest in alternative religious texts, it’s important for Christians to be grounded in Scripture.

• Popular culture promotes misinformation – Books and movies often present Gnostic texts as if they contain lost truths.
• False teachings can lead people away from Christ – Many who seek hidden knowledge neglect the true Gospel.
• Scripture remains our foundation – A solid biblical understanding helps believers recognize deception.

Instead of chasing “hidden” messages, Christians should focus on the revealed truth of God’s Word.

Connection to Jesus Christ and God’s Love

The true Gospel is about Jesus Christ, not hidden knowledge.

• Jesus came to save, not to hide truth – He preached openly so that all could hear and believe (John 8:31-32).
• God’s love is revealed through Christ’s sacrifice – Salvation is found in Jesus, not in secret teachings (Romans 5:8).
• Following Jesus means trusting His Word – A believer’s faith is built on the truth of Scripture, not alternative gospels (2 Peter 1:3).

The Gospel of Mary offers an alternative message, but only the biblical Gospel leads to eternal life.

Questions for Reflection and Discussion

1. Why do you think people are drawn to alternative gospels like the Gospel of Mary?
2. How does the Bible equip believers to recognize false teachings?
3. What can we learn from the warnings in Scripture about distorted gospels?
4. How does knowing the true Gospel deepen your faith in Christ?
5. In what ways can we share the biblical Gospel with those influenced by misleading teachings?

The Gospel of Mary is not part of God’s inspired Word. It serves as a reminder that many false teachings existed even in the early church. Instead of looking for secret knowledge, believers should hold fast to the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is freely given to all who believe.