I would like to ask you a question. . . Have you noticed which hymn, of all the ones we sing at a nursing home, is the one that the people know best and remember? If you guessed “Amazing Grace” you are correct. By the 19th century this song had become a staple in the religious services of many denominations. Amazing Grace is a beautiful hymn with very meaningful words, especially to its author.

John Newton was born in London, England on the 24th of July, 1725. He was the son of a commander of a merchant ship, engaged in the Mediterranean trade. His mother, who gave him some religious training, died when he was seven years old. Unfortunately, his father was not a very religious person and Newton grew up without morals and without the fear of God. He was a reckless and vicious youth. When he was 18 years old he was forced into naval service, but he deserted. When he was caught, he was kept in irons, publicly whipped, and was demoted in rank. Soon afterwards he was exchanged into a slave ship going to Africa. There, Newton became a servant to a slave trader and suffered brutal persecution. He had become like the prodigal son, who, away from his father was happy to eat what was left for the swine. But God in his mercy allowed this young man to be rescued, and on the journey back to England a terrible storm hit. Newton saw death at the door. Like Jonah, he realized that he was completely in God’s hands. His life of sin flashed before him and he purposed in his heart to abandon all evil.

Unfortunately, Newton had a great desire to do good but, nevertheless, he became the captain of a slave ship and made four voyages. Finally the inhuman aspects of the business began to pall on him and he left the sea for good.

In his old age, he once said, “My memory is nearly gone but I remember two things, that I am a great sinner and that Christ is a great Saviour.”

John Newton was indeed a marked example of the transforming power of the grace of God. Nothing is impossible with God. A wretch, blind and lost, has hope of salvation. We have this hope and only through God’s grace and mercy can we achieve it.

Amen.

From a speech presented by Stephen Newby