Hey readers,

There is no doubt that one of the church's most influential hymn writers and preachers of all time is John Newton, although he is often just known as that reformed slave trader that wrote Amazing Grace. Jonathan Aitken has written a fresh account of Newton's life in a soon to be released book by Crossway entitled, "John Newton: From Disgrace to Amazing Grace". The book is available on June 19th through Crossway or Amazon. Once it comes out, I will start a daily commentary through the book. If you are a regular reader of the SRR page, I welcome you to pick-up a copy and we can learn about, and from this great figure of God's grace together. I welcome your comments and particpation. John Newton was a profound song writer, combining great Biblical themes and imagery with very personal and intimate experiences; leaving his listener basking in God's grace - promoting worship that involves the head, heart and hands. His story is a pretty crazy adventure, and biographer Jonahan Aitken knows quite a bit about being "lost and found", as he himself came to Christ while serving a prison sentence for perjury in a fairly infamous London trial. You can click on the book in the upper left or check-out through the recommended reading section. Let the reading begin!