The Biography of John Newton: The Writer of the Hymn – Amazing Grace
(1725–1807)
John Newton was an English Anglican clergyman, hymn-writer, and former slave trader who became a major supporter for the end of slavery. He is most famous for writing the song “Amazing Grace,” which shows how he changed from living in sin to living a life of faith and grace.
Early life and career
John Newton was born on July 24, 1725, in London, England. His mother, a faithful Christian, passed away when he was only six. Newton started sailing with his father, who was a ship captain, when he was eleven years old.
When he was young, Newton lived a wildlife. He worked in the British Royal Navy and later got involved in the slave trade across the Atlantic. He was known for being rebellious and disrespectful, often making fun of Christianity.
Becoming a Christian.
In 1748, during a fierce storm at sea, Newton was scared for his life and called out to God for help. This moment started his spiritual journey. He kept working in the slave trade business for a while, but over time he started to feel uneasy about it.
By 1754, Newton stopped being involved in the slave trade business and started learning Christian religion. In 1764, he became a called minister in the Church of England and worked as a priest in Olney, Buckinghamshire.
Writing of “Amazing Grace”
While he was a preacher, Newton wrote many songs, often working together with poet William Cowper. “Amazing Grace” was released in 1779 in a song book called Olney Hymns. The song showed how Newton felt saved and experienced God’s love.
Abolitionist Work
In later years, Newton strongly opposed the slave trade. He collaborated with William Wilberforce, a key figure in the fight against slavery, and wrote a strong essay called Thoughts Upon the Slave Trade (1788) that highlighted the terrible effects of slavery and called for it to be ended. His evidence helped convince the British Parliament to stop the slave trade with the Abolition of the Slave Trade Act in 1807.
Later Life and Passing Away
Newton kept speaking and writing until he got sick. He passed away on December 21, 1807, in London when he was 82 years old. His tombstone says, “John Newton, who once didn’t believe in God and lived a reckless life, served as a slave trader in Africa. However, the great mercy of Jesus Christ saved him, forgave him, and chose him to share the faith he once attempted to destroy.
Legacy
John Newton’s life shows how God can change and improve a person. “Amazing Grace” is one of the most popular songs ever, touching the hearts of millions with its message of forgiveness and hope.