The DVD of the movie "Amazing Grace" was released this week. If you haven't seen it, it would be a good rental, or buy it for your collection. Even if you did see it in theaters, it is worth another look. There are several features included with the DVD that would make it a useful study for a church group or Bible study.
"Amazing Grace" is primarily the story of William Wilberforce, the British Member of Parliament who almost singlehandedly spear-headed the movement to eliminate slavery in the British Empire. In this respect, it is a story of courage to stand up to heavy opposition for one's personal beliefs.
The title "Amazing Grace" comes, however, from the story of Fr. John Newton, which is also integral to the movie. Newton was a slave ship captain who was quite successful in the transport of African slaves to other shores, in squalid, inhumane conditions. On one trip, his ship was caught in a severe storm.
Newton was convinced the ship would sink and he would die. In his dire straits, he cried out to God for help. The ship and Newton survived, prompting Newton to start reading the Bible and studying Christianity. He eventually became an Anglican priest and served as a Rector in the Church of England. Newton also became a prolific hymn writer, completing enough to fill 2 or 3 hymnals. His story of grace and redemption was set down in the lyrics of "Amazing Grace." Newton's powerful Christian spirit and personal witness about the evils of the slave trade were a significant part of the inspiration for Wilberforce to continue his struggle to eliminate slavery.
Newton's original lyrics to "Amazing Grace" are a powerful witness to the saving grace offered to us by God. I listened to the music CD that came with the DVD on my way to court this morning and was once again moved to tears by this tune. If anyone questions the reality of the saving grace of God, and the power of the historic Faith handed down from the Saints which once formed the basis of the Anglican Communion and the spread of Christianity throughout the world, then one need only reflect on the story of John Newton to see its existence and know its unique strength which is there for any of us if we will only ask.
Amazing Grace (How sweet the sound)
That sav'd a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.
'Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears reliev'd;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believ'd!
Thro' many dangers, toils and snare,
I have already come;
'Tis grace has brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me 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.
Yes, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease;
I shall profess, within the vail,
A life of joy and peace.
The earth shall soon dissolve like snow,
The sun forbear to shine;
But God, who call'd me here below,
Will be for ever mine.
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