John Newton.

One of the most enduring hymns of the last several hundred years is the song Amazing Grace. John Newton (1725-1807) was a British sailor and slave trader who later became a Christian minister, hymn writer, and abolitionist

Newton was born in London, the son of a shipmaster. He joined his father at sea when he was just 11 years old, and he ended up working on a slave ship in the transatlantic slave trade. Over the years, he became involved in the brutal and lucrative business of capturing and transporting African slaves to the Americas. This period of his life was marked by immense cruelty, suffering, and moral degradation. He himself admitted to being a wretched and profane man during this time.

In 1748, Newton’s life took a dramatic turn during a violent storm at sea. The ship he was on, called The Greyhound, encountered a severe storm off the coast of Donegal, Ireland. During this life-threatening experience, Newton cried out to God for mercy. Miraculously, the ship survived the storm, and this event had a profound effect on Newton.

Following this experience, Newton began to question his role in the slave trade. He eventually left the sea and, after a period of searching and struggling with his faith, he underwent a spiritual conversion. He renounced his involvement in the slave trade and devoted his life to Christian ministry and the abolition of slavery.

John Newton’s love story with his future wife, Mary Catlett, is a poignant tale of redemption and enduring love. After his conversion and decision to leave the slave trade, Newton became deeply involved in Christian ministry. It was during this period that he met Mary Catlett.

Mary was the niece of a family friend, and she and Newton fell in love. However, their relationship faced significant challenges. Mary’s mother strongly disapproved of Newton due to his past involvement in the slave trade and his relatively low social status. Despite these obstacles, Newton and Mary remained devoted to each other.

In 1750, when Newton was 25 years old and Mary was 20, they decided to get married secretly. They were married by a friend in the town of Faversham, Kent. However, their marriage remained a secret for some time due to Mary’s family’s disapproval.

Over the years, Newton’s dedication to his faith and his commitment to abolitionism softened the hearts of many who had once judged him harshly. Eventually, his marriage to Mary became publicly known and was accepted by their families.

Mary played a significant role in Newton’s life and ministry. She supported him in his work as a minister, often helping him with his sermons and writings. She was known for her kindness, grace, and unwavering support for her husband.

Their marriage endured for 40 years until Mary’s death in 1790. After her passing, Newton continued his ministry and advocacy against the slave trade. His love for Mary and her support were instrumental in his transformation and his ability to leave a lasting impact on the abolitionist movement and the Christian faith.

Newton became a prominent evangelical preacher and an influential supporter of the abolitionist movement in England. He was a close friend and mentor to William Wilberforce, the famous abolitionist and Member of Parliament. Later in life, he wrote the autobiographical hymn “Amazing Grace,” which has become one of the most beloved hymns in Christian worship. While the words are clearly his, the tune is listed as ‘unknown.’ Many believe it was an African sorrow chant that is played only on the black notes. This tune haunted him as slaves would sing this as they came from the ships hold.

If you want to hear it sung and explained, here is a link from Wintley Phipps a Black Adventist singing evangelist. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzQwBkBpwtU

Newton’s conversion story and his subsequent work against the slave trade played a significant role in the abolitionist movement, leaving a lasting impact on the fight against slavery and the promotion of Christian values of compassion, forgiveness, and redemption.