Context and Source: Saying 21 is part of the collection of sayings attributed to Jesus Christ found in the Gospel of Thomas, a non-canonical text discovered in the Nag Hammadi library in 1945. The Gospel of Thomas is a collection of 114 sayings, many of which parallel the canonical Gospels, though it is not recognized as part of the biblical canon by mainstream Christianity. The Gospel of Thomas is often associated with Gnostic traditions, which were deemed heretical by early Church Fathers.

Content of Saying 21: In Saying 21, Jesus is depicted as addressing His disciples, emphasizing the importance of understanding and interpreting His words correctly. The saying underscores the necessity of spiritual insight and the pursuit of wisdom to grasp the deeper truths of His teachings. The text suggests that those who seek and find the true meaning of His words will experience a profound transformation.

Theological Implications: From a conservative Christian perspective, the emphasis on understanding and interpreting Jesus' words aligns with the biblical call to seek wisdom and discernment. Proverbs 2:2-5 states, "making your ear attentive to wisdom and inclining your heart to understanding, if you seek it like silver and search for it as for hidden treasures, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God." This pursuit of wisdom is seen as a vital aspect of the Christian life, encouraging believers to delve deeply into Scripture to uncover its truths.

Comparison with Canonical Teachings: While the Gospel of Thomas is not part of the biblical canon, Saying 21 echoes themes found in the canonical Gospels. For instance, in Matthew 13:11-12 , Jesus explains to His disciples, "The knowledge of the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them. Whoever has will be given more, and he will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what he has will be taken away from him." This passage highlights the idea that understanding Jesus' teachings requires spiritual insight granted to those who earnestly seek it.

Historical and Scholarly Perspectives: The Gospel of Thomas, including Saying 21, has been the subject of much scholarly debate. Some scholars view it as an early Christian text that provides insight into the diversity of early Christian thought. However, from a conservative standpoint, the text is approached with caution due to its Gnostic elements, which often emphasize secret knowledge and a dualistic worldview contrary to orthodox Christian doctrine.

Practical Application: For believers, Saying 21 serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking spiritual understanding and wisdom. It encourages Christians to engage with Scripture actively, seeking the guidance of the Holy Spirit to discern its meaning and apply it to their lives. This pursuit is seen as a lifelong journey, fostering a deeper relationship with God and a more profound comprehension of His will.