John Newton was an oppressor, a yoke enforcer, and a poverty maker.

At age thirty-three, Newton was captain of a slave ship. He trapped, sold, and shipped people like cargo. But in March of 1748, his life began to change. After stumbling ashore, following a horrific journey across the Atlantic, he began a search for change.

In reading Thomas à Kempis’s book, Imitation of Christ, Newton realized what a wretched profession he was in!

As his heart turned, he began to live out Isaiah 58, “to release the bonds of wickedness, let the oppressed go free, distribute bread to the hungry, and bring in the poor.” He wanted to follow Jesus.

Newton became a minister. Eager to have his congregation worship in truth, he wrote worship songs for them in everyday language. The song “Amazing Grace” was born out of his new style of hymns.

You, too, are a rescuer, called to help the oppressed go free, to feed the hungry, help the poor, and release the bonds of wickedness. In Jesus’ name, boldly go forth and free the captives you encounter!