“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”
Ephesians 2:8-9/NIV
“Amazing Grace” is an immeasurably popular hymn written by clergyman and poet John Newton in 1772. During his life, he served in the Royal Navy for some time then, after leaving, transitioned into slave trading. Over time he discontinued his sailing adventures as well as slave trading. Newton studied Christian theology and later became an abolitionist. He was ordained in the Church of England in 1764 and then wrote hymns.
The Bible references God’s “grace” in many different passages. One conclusion about God’s “grace” could be unwarranted favor. As Ephesians 2:8-9 is considered, this would be a valid point when we consider humanity not being good enough by their own merits to achieve salvation. This passage reflects salvation is achieved not by works or deeds but by expressed faith and belief in Jesus Christ. This passage also indicates salvation is a gift from God that reflects His undeserved grace!
Every time I hear Ephesians 2:8-9 recited, I quickly think of the song “Amazing Grace!” “Amazing grace, how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me; I once was lost, but now I’m found, was blind, but now I see” (Newton, 1772). What a great hymn that reflects how amazing and graceful God is who repeatedly demonstrates favor to humanity! As I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and personal Savior, I became saved. I see the light of Jesus Christ and no longer walk in darkness! John 8:12 tells us that Jesus Christ is the “the light of the world,” and whoever follows Him “will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.”
While speaking at my father’s funeral, I knew I wanted to end the service with the hymn Amazing Grace. As I was preparing the closing remarks, Ephesians 2:8-9 came to mind! How can you sing Amazing Grace without dwelling on this biblical passage? My dad told me he had accepted Jesus as his Lord and personal Savior and professed his faith and belief in Him. As dad took his last breath, this was sad to see, but I was also happy for him because I knew he had a new body and no longer suffered. I was also happy knowing that absence from the body is present with the Lord! God’s amazing grace! Dad, I’ll see you again someday!
Many blessings to you!
Unless otherwise noted, all Scripture is taken from the New American Standard Bible®, Copyright © 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1975, 1977, 1995 by The Lockman Foundation. Used by permission.
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