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IT IS 260 years since the conversion of John Newton,
the author of ‘Amazing Grace.’
The famous hymn, wrote Australian pastor Peter Rahme,
author of The Man and the Story Behind Amazing
Grace, is known worldwide.
‘Amazing Grace,’ he noted, “is hummed
and heard on every continent in this world. It transcends race, religion
and even record categories. It takes in its stride all nations, regardless
of colour, creed or culture.
“Whether presented in churches, performed in
concerts or played in clubs, this song of songs touches the hearts of those
who listen to its tune and learn its truth. This hymn of hymns transforms
the souls of those who hear its message and heed its meaning.”
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March 21 was the 260th anniversary of Newton’s
conversion. Commenting on the date, the former slave trader said:
“March 21 is a day to be remembered by me. I have never suffered it
to pass wholly unnoticed since the year 1748 . . . the Lord sent from on
high and delivered me out of deep waters.”
Rahme added that this year also marks the 250th
anniversary of Newton’s beginning to preach the gospel and 235 years
since Newton penned the words to ‘Amazing Grace.’
Rahme’s book is a condensed, historical account
of the life of John Newton and the story behind ‘Amazing
Grace.’
amazinggrace.org.au
– Jeremy Reynalds, Assist News Service
May 2008
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