The "Force of Truth" is an autobiographical account of how Rev. Thomas Scott came to his evangelical convictions. Initially, he became ordained in the Church of England, but was wholly self-centered and unspiritual. When he tried to argue with John Newton about doctrine, the two began to interchange letters, but then stopped. Thomas Scott set out on a course of self-study which led to a conviction of his own sin with the realization that he needed God's grace. This edition contains eight letters from John Newton historically connected to the early period and reveal much of how Newton viewed the process of the revelation of God to sinners. A recommendatory letter was written by Rev. Samuel Miller for extended circulation in the United States, and also the inclusion of John Newton's name where it had been left out in previous editions. The Force of Truth's writing style and arrangement were overseen by William Cowper of Olney, before it was published in 1779.

The illustrative notes of Rev. Thomas Scott were compiled from the footnotes of an edition of "The Pilgrim's Progress" published by John B. Perry in 1855. The notes of that two-part edition have been divided into chapters for easier reference. Each note is introduced with its anchor phrase from the text of the story. This edition also includes Thomas Scott's Preface and Life of John Bunyan. "The Pilgrim's Progress" was one of Scott's favorite books and his extensive notes are sure to help anyone understand the symbolism and nuances of the allegory. Thomas Scott's aim is] ." . . fixing the precise meaning of those parts, which might most perplex the inquirer, and which seem to have most escaped notice, or divided the sentiments, of expositors; and] to state and establish, compendiously but clearly, those doctrinal, practical, and experimental views of Christianity, which Mr. Bunyan meant to convey."