AMAZING GRACE

Dearly Beloved,
AMAZING GRACE
"For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith — and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God — not by works, so that no one can boast" (Ephesians 2:8-9 NIV).
One of the most popular hymns of all time is John Newton (1725-1807)'s "Amazing Grace." Newton composed the hymn to express who he was before he was saved and who he was after his salvation experience. Newton was a wretch, moral pariah whose business was slave trade before he became a preacher of the gospel of the great Saviour, Jesus Christ who saved him by grace during a near shipwreck. In his words in his late years, "My memory is nearly gone, but I remember two things, that I am a great sinner, and that Christ is a great Saviour."
Beyond the personality of John Newton, his hymn - "Amazing Grace" - reveals a profound truth about the grace of Jesus Christ to anyone who invites Him into his life as his personal Saviour and Lord. It is a message that forgiveness and redemption are possible regardless of the sins people commit and that the soul can be delivered from despair through the mercy of God. It is indeed sweet to hear that a wretched person who is lost and blind spiritually can be found and see spiritually. The grace would teach the heart of anyone who believes to fear God and be relieved of all other fears. The grace is indeed precious not only initially but all the time. It is grace that has brought the believer safe thus far through many dangers, toils, and snares and it will eventually lead him to eternal home.
The hymn further reveals some benefits that a believer in Christ who has experienced the grace would enjoy. He would enjoy the promised goodness of God; his hope would be secured in God's word; as long he lives, his shield and portion will be God; even when this flesh and heart shall fail, and mortal life shall cease, such a believer will possess a life of joy and peace; and in heaven, he will eternally sing God's praise. It is indeed amazing grace!
Have you experienced this grace? No matter how wretched or morally bankrupt you think you are. You can experience it. Remember, you cannot earn it with any kind of work. It is only through faith in the finished work of salvation of Jesus Christ. Believe in the Lord Jesus Christ today, and you will experience the amazing grace and enjoy all its benefits (see Acts 16:31; Romans 3:24; 4:5, 16).
In His service,
Bayo Afolaranmi (Pastor).