SODOM & GOMORRAH: Amazing Grace is one of the most recognizable songs in the English-speaking world. Its message of redemption through the mercy of God have inspired the faithful since it was first penned.
The English poet and Christian leader John Newton wrote the lyrics to Amazing Grace in 1779. Newton himself matured without any particular religious conviction, but once during a storm he weathered as a sailor in the Royal Navy, he was so terrified that he cried out to God for mercy. This act of repentance and humility eventually put him on the path for theological studies.
Amazing Grace likely didn’t have any music when it was first written. The chorus may have just been chanted by church congregations. In Britain, the song wasn’t very popular, but it was extremely influential in America’s Second Great Awakening in the 19th century.
The Lyrics to 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
I have already come;
‘Tis Grace that 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.
Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.
When we’ve been here ten thousand years
Bright shining as the sun.
We’ve no less days to sing God’s praise
Than when we’ve first begun.
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.