Christian History

Issue 96

The Gnostic Hunger for Secret Knowledge

Originally published in 2007

Christian History magazine was published by Christianity Today from 1982 to 2008.

Articles in this Issue

Gnostics: Did You Know?

Interesting and Little Known Facts about the Gnostics

Defining the Faith

Gnosticism emerged during a time when Christians faced an identity crisis.

In the Know

The Gnostics believed that knowledge is the key to salvation–for a select few.

The Secret is Out

The discovery of the Nag Hammadi collection brought ancient Gnostic writings to light.

One God, One Christ, One Salvation

Irenaeus the “peacemaker” was the early church’s best warrior against Gnostic heresy.

The Earliest Mere Christianity

Before creeds, even before an official New Testament, there was the Rule of Faith.

No Other Gospel

Despite the appearance of Gnostic “gospels,” the early church decided that Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John were without rival.

What Is the Truth about Jesus?

Ask those who knew his earliest followers, said Irenaeus.

The Heresy that Wouldn’t Die

Though Gnostic sects faded in the early church, Gnostic ideas have had a long shelf life.

The Unfolding Faith

A bird’s eye view of the early church, the emergence of the Gnostics, and the development of the biblical canon.

Roots Matter

Defending the faith in today’s cultural climate means not only knowing our Bible but also knowing our history.

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