The Life, Influence, and Disappearance of Nancy Guthrie: A Story of Faith, Family, and a Nation's Concern

From Biblical Teacher to Global Influence

Nancy Guthrie is widely recognized as a respected Bible teacher, author, and speaker whose work has influenced Christian communities across the United States and beyond. With a degree in theological studies from Reformed Theological Seminary, Guthrie has devoted much of her life to helping others understand the depths of Scripture, particularly how the Bible’s overarching narrative reveals Christ and transforms personal faith. She teaches at her home church, Cornerstone Presbyterian Church in Franklin, Tennessee, and travels internationally to lead conferences and workshops designed to equip believers in teaching and applying Scripture faithfully. Guthrie is also the host of the Help Me Teach the Bible podcast produced with The Gospel Coalition, where she interviews leading Bible teachers about faithful interpretation and application of the Bible. These contributions — spanning books such as Even Better Than Eden and Saints and Scoundrels in the Story of Jesus, as well as retreats and video series like GriefShare — have made Guthrie a cherished figure among many Christians seeking deeper biblical insight and spiritual encouragement.

Personal Life and Background

Raised with a passion for Scripture and teaching, Nancy Guthrie has woven together personal experience and theological depth throughout her ministry. Alongside her husband, David — who creates children’s musicals for church settings — Guthrie has faced both joy and profound sorrow. The couple endured the loss of two infant children to a rare genetic condition, an experience that deeply shaped her ministry and prompted the creation of Respite Retreats for couples grieving similar losses. Her books, including Holding On to Hope: A Pathway of Suffering to the Heart of God, reflect her ability to connect deep theological truth with everyday struggles. Guthrie’s work is not merely academic; it is grounded in personal experience and shaped by a desire to walk alongside hurting people with compassion and clarity. She and her husband reside in Nashville, Tennessee, where she continues her teaching, speaking, and writing, blending professional ministry with ordinary life as a wife, friend, and follower of Jesus.

A Sudden Disappearance and a National Search

In early February 2026, Nancy Guthrie became the focus of intense national attention not for her ministry but for her disappearance. At 84 years old, Guthrie was reported missing from her home in Catalina Foothills, Arizona on February 1 after she failed to attend a scheduled church service. Evidence at her residence — including her personal belongings and indications of forced entry — led law enforcement to suspect she had been taken against her will, prompting an active and ongoing investigation. Authorities, including the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), have treated the case as a possible abduction, releasing security footage and photos showing a masked individual outside her home the night she vanished. The suspect was seen tampering with a doorbell camera, carrying a black backpack, and possibly armed, raising concern for Guthrie’s well‑being.

Family Appeals and Public Engagement

The disappearance has deeply affected Guthrie’s family, particularly her daughter, NBC “Today” show co‑anchor Savannah Guthrie, who publicly appealed for her mother’s safe return and urged Nancy Guthrie people to share tips with investigators. The case drew widespread public interest, with thousands of tips submitted to the FBI and a growing reward offered for information leading to Guthrie’s recovery. Savannah Guthrie and her siblings have shared emotional messages and stories about their mother, emphasizing her resilience, strength of faith, and central role in their lives. At 84, Nancy Guthrie is described by her daughter as mentally sharp yet physically limited, requiring daily medication, which adds urgency to the search. Despite extensive efforts and media attention, authorities have yet to identify a suspect or determine Guthrie’s whereabouts, leaving the case unresolved and her loved ones hopeful for answers.

Legacy and Continued Concern

Nancy Guthrie’s life reflects a deep commitment to faith, biblical teaching, and compassionate service to others. Her books, teachings, and workshops have impacted countless individuals and Christian communities worldwide. The abrupt shift from respected teacher and author to missing person has brought her story into a different kind of spotlight — one characterized by uncertainty, hope, and collective concern. While the investigation continues, Guthrie’s legacy of faith and influence remains clear, underscoring the profound role she has played not only in religious circles but also in the lives of her family and the many people who have learned from her writings and teachings.