Chapter 11
The Greatest Social Critics of All Time
Chapter Summary
All are greedy for gain; prophets and priests alike, all practice deceit. They dress the wound of my people as though it were not serious. The biblical prophets stand as history's most fearless social critics, speaking truth to power regardless of personal cost.
This chapter examines how the Old Testament prophets functioned as God's voice against social injustice, religious corruption, and moral decay. They challenged kings, confronted priests, and exposed the hypocrisy of those who claimed to represent God while oppressing the vulnerable.
The author explores how prophetic criticism differs from modern social commentary, rooted not in political ideology but in divine compassion for justice and truth. Their example provides a model for faithful critique of contemporary social and religious institutions.
Discussion Points
- What made the biblical prophets effective social critics?
- How did the prophets balance critique with hope for redemption?
- What social issues did the prophets consistently address?
- How should prophetic criticism inform contemporary social engagement?
- What's the difference between prophetic voice and political activism?
- How do we distinguish between faithful critique and destructive criticism?
- What role should religious communities play in addressing social injustice?
- How can we speak truth to power while maintaining love and humility?
- What contemporary issues would draw prophetic attention today?
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