‘Amazing Grace‘ is one of the most loved Christian hymns ever written. Its words and melody have touched countless hearts across generations. The hymn tells the real story of John Newton, a man whose life was completely changed by God’s grace.
The powerful lyrics show how God’s love can transform anyone’s life.
From Sailor to Slave Trader
John Newton was born in London in 1725. His mother taught him about the Bible and faith when he was young, but she died when he was only seven. His father, a sea captain, sent him to boarding school after remarrying.
Newton’s life took a dark turn as he joined the slave trade. He worked on slave ships and later became a captain. During this time, he was known for his bad behavior. He drank heavily and used language so foul it shocked even hardened sailors.
The Storm That Changed Everything
While sailing on his ship, The Greyhound, Newton faced a terrible storm in the north Atlantic. For over a week, the storm battered the ship, causing serious damage and leaving the crew hopeless.
In this desperate moment, Newton began to think about his life and his need for God. He cried out for mercy. While reading the New Testament, he found Luke 11:13: “If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him.”
This verse spoke deeply to him. Newton later wrote about this day as the moment God’s amazing grace reached him.
Writing ‘Amazing Grace’
After leaving the slave trade and becoming a minister, Newton wrote ‘Amazing Grace’ to share his faith journey. The lyrics tell of redemption, forgiveness, and the life-changing power of faith in Jesus.
When he wrote, “T’was Grace that taught my heart to fear, and Grace, my fears relieved; How precious did that Grace appear, the hour I first believed,” Newton was describing his journey from guilt to peace through God’s love.
Newton’s Legacy
After finding faith, Newton fought against the slave trade alongside William Wilberforce. Their work helped pass the British Slave Trade Act in 1807, which ended slave trading in the British Empire.
Newton spent the rest of his life as a minister and wrote many hymns still sung today. He died in 1807, the same year the slave trade was abolished in Britain.
‘Amazing Grace’ continues to inspire people worldwide. It has been translated into many languages and recorded by countless musicians. Its message of hope reminds us that God’s grace can reach and transform anyone, no matter how far they’ve strayed.
WATCH: Celtic Woman Sings ‘Amazing Grace’
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