Speaking Truth to Power: A Profound Journey Through Scripture and Social Justice
In an age where voices clamor for attention, and spiritual discourse often risks becoming diluted by trends and superficiality, Speaking Truth to Power: An Anthology of Sermons by William Guthrie stands as a towering testament to the enduring power of prophetic preaching. This remarkable collection—spanning 60 sermons divided into two distinct sections: Old Testament Texts and New Testament Texts—offers readers not only a deep dive into Scripture but also a bold invitation to confront injustice, uphold moral courage, and live with unwavering integrity in the face of societal and spiritual challenges.
William Guthrie, a pastor, theologian, and activist, brings together decades of pastoral wisdom, scriptural insight, and a heart deeply committed to justice. His sermons are not merely theological reflections—they are calls to action, rooted in biblical truth and directed toward real-world transformation. In this comprehensive review and summary, we’ll explore each of the 60 chapters, analyze the overarching themes, and uncover the powerful message Guthrie intends to convey: that true faith demands the courage to speak truth to power.
Why This Book Matters: A Voice for Our Times
Before delving into the chapters, it’s essential to understand the significance of Speaking Truth to Power. In a world grappling with systemic injustice, political polarization, environmental crisis, and spiritual apathy, Guthrie’s sermons offer a compelling alternative: a faith that is both deeply rooted in Scripture and radically engaged with the world.
The title itself—Speaking Truth to Power—is drawn from a long tradition of prophetic speech, from the Hebrew prophets like Amos and Micah to modern figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Desmond Tutu. Guthrie positions himself within this lineage, reminding readers that the Christian faith is not a private, inward-looking belief system but a public, transformative force.
This anthology is not just for pastors or theologians—it’s for anyone who longs to live a life of purpose, integrity, and justice. Whether you’re a seasoned believer or someone exploring faith for the first time, Guthrie’s words will challenge, inspire, and awaken your conscience.
Structure of the Book: Two Sections, One Mission
The book is divided into two major sections:
- Old Testament Texts (30 Sermons)
- New Testament Texts (30 Sermons)
Each section contains 30 sermons, carefully selected and arranged to reflect a progression from divine revelation in ancient Israel to the fulfillment of God’s redemptive plan in Christ. Together, they form a cohesive narrative of God’s justice, mercy, and call to faithful living.
Let’s explore each section in detail.
Section 1: Old Testament Texts – The Foundation of Prophetic Courage
The Old Testament sermons form the bedrock of Guthrie’s message. Here, he draws from the Law, the Prophets, and the Writings to reveal a God who is deeply concerned with justice, righteousness, and the dignity of every human being.
Each sermon is built around a specific passage, often from the prophetic books, and explores its historical context, theological meaning, and contemporary relevance.
Key Themes in the Old Testament Sermons:
- God’s Holiness and Human Accountability
- The Call to Justice and Mercy
- Confronting Idolatry and Oppression
- The Role of the Prophet as a Truth-Teller
- Covenant Faithfulness in a Broken World
Now, let’s walk through the 30 sermons in this section.
Sermons 1–10: The Law and the Heart of Justice
- “You Shall Not Oppress the Stranger” (Exodus 22:21)
Guthrie begins with a foundational command: protect the vulnerable. He connects this ancient law to modern immigration debates, urging the church to welcome the stranger. - “The Sabbath Principle” (Exodus 20:8–11)
More than a day of rest, the Sabbath is a radical economic and social reset. Guthrie challenges consumer culture and overwork. - “The Golden Calf and the Idolatry of Power” (Exodus 32)
A sobering look at how quickly people trade divine truth for false gods—especially the idol of political or economic power. - “The Jubilee Year” (Leviticus 25)
Guthrie presents Jubilee as a divine economic model: debt forgiveness, land restoration, and liberation for the oppressed. - “The Priesthood of All Believers” (Exodus 19:6)
Long before the Reformation, God called Israel to be a “kingdom of priests.” Guthrie applies this to today’s call for lay leadership and spiritual responsibility. - “Clean and Unclean: Holiness in Practice” (Leviticus 11)
Beyond dietary laws, Guthrie explores how holiness shapes community ethics and care for creation. - “The Scapegoat” (Leviticus 16)
A powerful sermon on atonement and the danger of blaming the innocent—relevant to racial scapegoating and political blame-shifting. - “The Year of Release” (Deuteronomy 15:1–11)
Every seven years, debts were canceled. Guthrie calls for modern debt relief, especially for developing nations. - “Justice, Justice You Shall Pursue” (Deuteronomy 16:20)
One of the most quoted verses in the book. Guthrie emphasizes that justice is not optional—it is central to God’s character. - “The Prophet Like Moses” (Deuteronomy 18:15–18)
Guthrie links this promise to Jesus but also to the ongoing need for truth-telling leaders in every generation.
Sermons 11–20: The Prophets Speak
- “Let Justice Roll Down” (Amos 5:24)
Perhaps the most iconic sermon in the collection. Guthrie condemns religious hypocrisy and calls for systemic justice. - “Woe to Those at Ease in Zion” (Amos 6:1)
A rebuke to complacency. Guthrie warns against spiritual and economic comfort that ignores suffering. - “They Sell the Righteous for Silver” (Amos 2:6)
A scathing critique of corruption, exploitation, and the commodification of human life. - “The Valley of Dry Bones” (Ezekiel 37)
Hope in the midst of despair. Guthrie applies this to communities broken by racism, poverty, and war. - “The Watchman on the Wall” (Ezekiel 33:1–9)
The prophet’s duty is to warn. Guthrie calls pastors and citizens to speak out against evil. - “He Has Shown You What is Good” (Micah 6:8)
Do justice, love mercy, walk humbly. Guthrie unpacks this as a holistic ethic for daily life. - “The Plumb Line in the Midst of My People” (Amos 7:7–8)
God measures His people by justice. Guthrie warns against false standards of success. - “The Lion Has Roared” (Amos 3:8)
When God speaks, prophets must respond. Guthrie challenges passive faith. - “The Day of the Lord” (Amos 5:18–20)
Not a day of triumph, but judgment for the unrepentant. Guthrie warns against triumphalism. - “A Voice Crying in the Wilderness” (Isaiah 40:3)
Preparation for renewal. Guthrie links this to social and spiritual revival.
Sermons 21–30: Wisdom, Worship, and Warning
- “The Fear of the Lord” (Proverbs 1:7)
True wisdom begins with reverence for God—a counter to pride and arrogance in leadership. - “The Poor and the Oppressor” (Proverbs 22:22–23)
God defends the poor. Guthrie condemns economic exploitation. - “Job’s Protest” (Job 23:1–12)
Even in suffering, Job demands an audience with God. Guthrie validates righteous anger. - “Psalm 82: God Judges the Gods”
Divine judgment on corrupt rulers. Guthrie applies this to modern systems of power. - “The Song of Moses” (Exodus 15)
A song of liberation. Guthrie celebrates God’s deliverance and calls for modern freedom movements. - “Hosea and the Unfaithful Wife” (Hosea 1–3)
God’s love for a broken people. Guthrie uses this to speak of grace amid betrayal. - “Isaiah’s Vision” (Isaiah 6)
Holiness, repentance, and mission. Guthrie calls for a renewed vision of God’s glory. - “The Suffering Servant” (Isaiah 53)
A messianic prophecy pointing to Christ. Guthrie emphasizes vicarious suffering for justice. - “The New Heart” (Ezekiel 36:26)
Transformation is internal. Guthrie links spiritual renewal to social change. - “The Sun of Righteousness” (Malachi 4:2)
Final hope. Guthrie ends the Old Testament section with a promise of healing and restoration.
Section 2: New Testament Texts – The Fulfillment of Truth
The New Testament sermons build on the foundation of the Old, showing how Jesus Christ embodies and fulfills the prophetic call to justice, love, and truth.
Key Themes in the New Testament Sermons:
- The Kingdom of God as a Present Reality
- Jesus as the Ultimate Truth-Teller
- Discipleship as Resistance to Empire
- Love as the Highest Law
- The Church as a Community of Justice and Mercy
Let’s explore the 30 sermons in this section.
Sermons 31–40: The Gospels – Jesus Speaks Truth
- “The Beatitudes” (Matthew 5:3–12)
The poor, the meek, the peacemakers are blessed. Guthrie reclaims this as a radical manifesto. - “Salt and Light” (Matthew 5:13–16)
Believers are called to preserve and illuminate. Guthrie challenges cultural assimilation. - “Turn the Other Cheek” (Matthew 5:39)
Nonviolence as resistance. Guthrie distinguishes passivity from active peacemaking. - “Love Your Enemies” (Matthew 5:44)
The most difficult command. Guthrie explores forgiveness in contexts of war and racism. - “The Lord’s Prayer” (Matthew 6:9–13)
A political and spiritual prayer. Guthrie emphasizes “thy kingdom come” as a call for justice. - “The Good Samaritan” (Luke 10:25–37)
Who is my neighbor? Guthrie applies this to immigration, race, and healthcare. - “The Rich Young Ruler” (Mark 10:17–27)
Wealth as a spiritual obstacle. Guthrie calls for economic discipleship. - “The Widow’s Mite” (Mark 12:41–44)
True generosity. Guthrie contrasts sacrificial giving with institutional greed. - “The Cleansing of the Temple” (John 2:13–22)
Jesus as a prophet of economic justice. Guthrie links this to modern corruption in religious institutions. - “Render to Caesar” (Mark 12:17)
A nuanced look at church and state. Guthrie warns against blind patriotism.
Sermons 41–50: Paul and the Early Church
- “There is Neither Jew nor Greek” (Galatians 3:28)
Radical equality in Christ. Guthrie applies this to race, gender, and class. - “The Body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12)
Diversity and interdependence. Guthrie challenges hierarchical church structures. - “Love is Patient” (1 Corinthians 13)
Love as the highest virtue. Guthrie connects love to justice and action. - “The Peace that Passes Understanding” (Philippians 4:7)
Inner peace amid outer turmoil. Guthrie links this to activism and resilience. - “Work Out Your Salvation” (Philippians 2:12)
Salvation includes ethical living. Guthrie rejects passive faith. - “Let the Same Mind Be in You” (Philippians 2:5)
Christ’s humility as a model for leadership. Guthrie critiques authoritarian power. - “Put On the New Self” (Ephesians 4:24)
Transformation in Christ. Guthrie emphasizes community renewal. - “The Armor of God” (Ephesians 6:10–18)
Spiritual warfare as resistance to evil systems. Guthrie reinterprets “armor” as truth, justice, and peace. - “The Letter to Philemon”
A personal appeal for reconciliation. Guthrie sees this as a model for restorative justice. - “All Things to All People” (1 Corinthians 9:22)
Contextualization without compromise. Guthrie warns against selling out to culture.
Sermons 51–60: Revelation and the Call to Faithfulness
- “The Lamb Who Was Slain” (Revelation 5:12)
Christ’s victory through sacrifice. Guthrie contrasts this with imperial power. - “Babylon the Great” (Revelation 17–18)
A critique of empire, wealth, and oppression. Guthrie applies this to modern capitalism. - “The Mark of the Beast” (Revelation 13:16–18)
Allegiance to God vs. systems of control. Guthrie warns against digital idolatry. - “The New Jerusalem” (Revelation 21:1–4)
A vision of healing and wholeness. Guthrie calls for urban renewal and environmental justice. - “I Make All Things New” (Revelation 21:5)
Hope for transformation. Guthrie links this to personal and societal renewal. - “The Tree of Life” (Revelation 22:2)
Healing for the nations. Guthrie emphasizes creation care. - “The Testimony of Jesus” (Revelation 19:10)
Prophecy and truth. Guthrie calls for courageous witness. - “The Saints Who Overcame” (Revelation 12:11)
Victory through testimony and blood. Guthrie honors martyrs and activists. - “The Time is Near” (Revelation 1:3)
Urgency in discipleship. Guthrie calls for immediate action on justice issues. - “Come, Lord Jesus” (Revelation 22:20)
The final cry. Guthrie ends with hope, longing, and a call to faithful waiting and working.
The Central Message: Speaking Truth to Power
After journeying through all 60 sermons, the central message of William Guthrie becomes unmistakably clear: faith without justice is dead, and truth-telling is the highest form of discipleship.
Guthrie does not allow readers to retreat into private piety or spiritual escapism. Instead, he insists that following Jesus means confronting systems of oppression, challenging corrupt leaders, and standing with the marginalized.
His sermons are not abstract—they are grounded in real issues: poverty, racism, war, environmental degradation, and ecclesiastical hypocrisy. Yet they are also deeply hopeful, rooted in the belief that God is at work in the world, and that change is possible.
Three Core Messages:
- God is a God of Justice
From the Exodus to the Cross, God sides with the oppressed. Guthrie shows that justice is not a peripheral issue but central to the biblical narrative. - The Church Must Be Prophetic
The church is not called to comfort the comfortable but to comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable. Guthrie calls for a return to the prophetic voice. - Every Believer is Called to Speak Truth
You don’t need a pulpit to speak truth. Guthrie empowers ordinary people to live with courage, integrity, and compassion.
Why This Book is a Must-Read
Speaking Truth to Power is not just another sermon anthology. It is a spiritual and ethical compass for our times. Here’s why you should read it:
- It’s Biblically Grounded – Every sermon is rooted in Scripture, making it ideal for study groups, pastors, and personal devotion.
- It’s Relevant – Guthrie connects ancient texts to modern issues with clarity and passion.
- It’s Courageous – He doesn’t shy away from difficult topics, offering a bold alternative to complacency.
- It’s Hopeful – Despite the challenges, Guthrie’s message is ultimately one of redemption and renewal.
Speak Truth to Power : Inspire courage, spirituality, and transformation in life
Final Thoughts
William Guthrie’s Speaking Truth to Power is more than a book—it’s a movement. It invites readers to move from passive belief to active faith, from silence to speech, from comfort to courage.
In a world where truth is often silenced and power is rarely questioned, Guthrie reminds us that the gospel is not safe. It is dangerous. It is revolutionary. And it is exactly what we need.
So pick up this book. Read it slowly. Let it challenge you. Then go out and speak truth—wherever you are, whatever your platform.
Because the world doesn’t need more noise. It needs more truth.
And you—yes, you—have a voice.
FAQs
- What is the book’s central theme?
The moral responsibility to confront injustice with truth, rooted in both Old and New Testament teachings. - How many sermons are included?
There are 60 sermons—30 from the Old Testament and 30 from the New Testament. - Who should read this book?
Pastors, theology students, social activists, and anyone seeking courage to live with integrity. - What makes this anthology unique?
It does not just explain scripture—it applies it, urging believers to live courageously today. - How can readers apply its lessons?
By speaking truth in personal, social, and political contexts, guided by faith and love.