Letter To Clement Summary

The letter to Theodore by Clement claims the pollution of ‘the sacred meaning’ of the secret book of Mark took place because of a supposed ‘copied text’ that told shameful lies that was developed by the Carpocratians. This group was mainly prominent in the second century and was known to be one of the most scandalous of the Gnostic sects, an early and extreme variance that claimed to be Christian. Their teachings centered on the belief that only by committing all possible sexual acts could a person’s soul eliminate their ties to the rulers of this world and by doing so, afterwards be granted access to go to heaven, the soul’s true home. The Carpocratians connection with this secret doctrine was clearly sexual, and allegedly the Christian’s involvement was sexual as well, but in an entirely different light. The secret gospel states the book was only “being read by those initiated into the great mysteries.” It appears by Clement’s horrifying reaction and dread of the Carpocratians or anyone getting their hands on the manuscript gives an obvious impression of an immense conflict that would produce a cover-up. …show more content…
Comparatively within the New Testament, the Gospel of Mark states Jesus as saying, “Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables. That seeing they may see, and not perceive; and hearing they may hear, and not understand… (Mark