God’s Grace Is Still Amazing
10-1-2023
C. Hayden
The song “Amazing Grace” is one of the most iconic Christian anthems that any songwriter has ever put
to paper. Written by John Newton in 1779, this grand hymn tells the story of Newton’s own personal
conversion from being a rough, sinful captain of a slave ship, to becoming a believer in Christ and one who
fought to abolish the evil practice of slavery. Having been a work hand on slave ships to becoming the
captain of his own over the course of some 30 years, he recognized his own wretchedness and need for
God’s forgiveness and mercy. Along with other Christian abolitionists such as William
Wilberforce, Newton became a key figure in influencing the abolition of slavery in
1807 by the British Parliament.
God’s grace is a major theme in the Word of God and is at the heart
of the Gospel message that we preach. Ephesians 2:8-10 says this ,
“ 8 For by grace you have been saved through faith, and that not of
yourselves; it is the gift of God, 9 not of works, lest anyone should boast. 10 For
we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared
beforehand that we should walk in them.” Our salvation does not come from us being good, or being
nice, or by the accumulation of more good deeds than bad ones. We receive God’s gift of salvation by
simply putting our faith in Christ, and this gift comes because of the grace our Lord extends to us
through His Son Jesus. You cannot earn it, and you cannot work to deserve it. It is a gift that must be
received.
And how is it received? Scripture is clear in Romans 10:9-11. ”…that if you confess with your
mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be
saved. 10 For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made
unto salvation. 11 For the Scripture says, ’Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.’” It is
simply that easy. If you desire to make peace with God, you recognize your need for something greater
than yourself, and want to receive the forgiveness that is in Christ, call us at 260-388-4508. Pastor Chris
or another member of Central Christian would love to talk to you about the freedom provided in God’s
amazing grace.
Be blessed even more!!
Pastor Chris
