The discovery of the Gospel of Thomas has created an immense flurry of curiosity and speculation. Is the text authentic? Are these the true sayings of Jesus? If they are, what does this mean for contemporary faith? In this new edition of Lynn Bauman's unique work, readers are able to read this controversial with the help of Bauman's sensitive introduction to the Gospel of Thomas, his literal-academic translaton, then his fresh translation based on the principle of "dynamic equivalency,", which propels the reader/listener into an equivalent experience of the language and meaning of the original Coptic text but in English. It is therefore fresher, more poignant, more direct, and more understandable without being a paraphrase.

Bauman also includes notes on translation choices and "Questions for Reflection." This enables the reader to make discoveries on his or her own. Bauman brings this important "secret" gospel to life, with its radical view of Jesus as a Master of Wisdom, as a text to be utilized for contemporary spiritual practice.