John Newton was born in London, in 1725. His father was a shipmaster, and at the age of 11 Newton joined his father and became a sailor. He went on to became the captain of slave ships and an investor in the slave trade.
Newton came to Jesus and was converted to Christianity in 1748, yet he later wrote, “I cannot consider myself to have been a believer in the full sense of the word, until a considerable time afterward.”
In 1754, Newton suffered a severe stroke and gave up seafaring, yet he continued to invest in the slave trade. In 1780, Newton moved to London as the rector of St Mary Woolnoth Church. He served there until his death. During his time there, Newton contributed to the work of the Committee for the Abolition of the Slave Trade and wrote Thoughts Upon the African Slave Trade. He also contributed to a hymn book with hymnist William Cowper. The book contained Newton’s hymn, “Faith’s Review and Expectation,” which later became known by its opening phrase, “Amazing Grace“.
John Newton died on December 21, 1807.
The Song — Amazing Grace
Watch -- Stories behind the songs and those who wrote them:
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Who Was Charles Wesley? What’s the Story Behind “Christ the Lord is Risen Today”
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Who Was William Cowper? What’s the Story Behind "There is a Fountain Filled with Blood"
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Do You Know Jesus?
The Bible clearly states that everyone has sinned and fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). It also emphasizes that while the wages of sin is death, God offers us the incredible gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:23).
If you have not yet accepted Jesus as your Lord and Savior, know that today is the day of salvation (Acts 28). Turn away from your sinful past and turn to Jesus. Remember, “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord Jesus Christ will be saved” (Romans 10:13). Don’t wait—find hope and redemption!
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***A Hidden Message in Psalm 23?***
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There is much to be learned from those who have gone before us in the faith. Check out our Cloud of Witnesses category that features the words of departed saints who are now with the Lord in glory. Their words equip and encourage us even to this day. Take a few minutes to hear...
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