Book Review: Amazing Grace
December 1st, 2007 by Todd Johnson
One of the best books I’ve read in a long time is the new biography published by Crossway on the life of John Newton. The Book is called John Newton From Disgrace to Amazing Grace and it is written by Jonathan Aitken.
From Newton’s turbulent early years through his disastrous teens and twenties as the captain of a slave ship all the way to God’s call on his life into pastoral ministry, this biography gives you a sense of the amazing grace Newton has come to be known for. Newton summarized his own life from his deathbed as recorded by William Jay: “I saw Mr. Newton near the closing scene (of his life). He was hardly able to talk; and all I find I had noted down upon my leaving him was this: ‘My memory is nearly gone, but I remember two things: That I am a great sinner and the Christ is a great Savior.‘”
He actually wrote his own epitaph that still resides over his grave. It reads:
JOHN NEWTON
ONCE AN INFIDEL AND LIBERTINE
A SERVANT OF SLAVES IN AFRICA
WAS
BY THE RICH MERCY OF OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR
JESUS CHRIST
PRESERVED, RESTORED, PARDONED
AND APPOINTED TO PREACH THE FAITH
HE HAD LONG LABOURED TO DESTROY
This self-description, taken in conjunction with what were almost his last words – “I am a great sinner, but Christ is a great Savior” – clearly demonstrated the depth of John Newton’s gratitude to God for rescuing him from disgrace and redeeming him with amazing grace.
I commend this book to all.
Todd
Thank you for the recommendation of this book Pastor Todd.
I recently saw the 2007 movie “Amazing Grace”. Although the movie revolved primarily around the efforts of William Wilberforce to end the slave trade in England, I thought the portrayal of John Newton, and his interface with Wilberforce was excellent. A review of the movie can be found at: http://christianity.about.com/od/christianmovies/fr/amazingg race.htm
Pierre,
The movie is excellent. My wife & I watched it the other night. There are several movies that I keep to watch on (at least) an annual basis; that movie is now in the rotation.
Merry Christmas Pierre! I’m really looking forward to touring Israel with you in the coming year!!!
Blessings,
Todd
While ya’ll are enjoying touring Israel, I’ll be at home…but at least I’ll be reading a good book! I ordered this book and should receive it any day. Whoo-hoo! Thanks for the recommendation.
We liked the movie very much as well. We reordered it to have on hand while the fam is here for Christmas.