Life of John Newton Book Review!

I would venture to say that at some point in their life, every American has heard the great old song Amazing Grace.  Originally published in 1779, and written by John Newton this hymn has been the means of blessing millions of people. Back when I was very young, I read a short biography of John Newton, so I had a basic understanding of his background. However, when given the opportunity to review the Life of John Newton, I jumped at it! I love learning the history behind these wonderful songs, as well as what inspired the men or women behind them.  After reading this biography, I am overwhelmed at how God took a man that was beyond useless and even wicked, saved and changed him, and greatly blessed multitudes through his ministry. 
John Newton was raised by a Godly mother and a loving yet stern father. His mother died while he was young, and after his father remarried John was sent off to school. From this point on, young Newton became lazy, selfish and at times very wicked. While employed on various ships, he encouraged others towards atheism and sinful living. Eventually he became captain of a slave ship, transporting slaves from Africa to England. While in this business, he endured a storm that threatened his very life. In the midst of the storm, John called out to the Lord for salvation. Thus a slave-trading atheist became a child of God-and that was only the beginning. 12 years later, John would pen the words of probably the most famous hymn ever written- Amazing Grace.

Amazing Grace, how sweet the sound,

That saved a wretch like me....

I once was lost but now am found,

Was blind, but now, I see.

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.

Through many dangers, toils and snares...

we have already come.

T'was Grace that brought us safe thus far...

and Grace will lead us home.

The Lord has promised good to me...

His word my hope secures.

He will my shield and portion be...

as long as life endures.

When we've been here ten thousand years...

bright shining as the sun.

We've no less days to sing God's praise...

then when we've first begun.

Master Books did a wonderful job reprinting this book that was originally published in 1831. The cover looks scuffed and faded, the page edges are tattered, and the overall look is of a book from the 1800's. 



You can purchase the Life of John Newton and other books in the "Life Of" series online from New Leaf Publishing Group.

Disclaimer: I received a free book from New Leaf Publishing Group for review. I was not monetarily compensated in any way. All thoughts and opinions are mine.