In this unforgettable episode, Dick Foth shares the astonishing true story of John Newton — the man behind the beloved hymn Amazing Grace.

Born in London’s East End and raised by a devout mother, Newton’s early years were filled with Scripture, song, and spiritual formation. But after her death, he descended into rebellion, becoming a slave trader and a self-proclaimed wretch. At age 23, in the middle of a violent storm at sea, he cried out to God — a cry that would begin a lifelong journey of transformation.

This episode weaves together history, neuroscience, reflections from authors Philip Yancey and Brennan Manning, and the unforgettable performance of Jesse Norman singing Amazing Grace to a crowd of thousands at Wembley Stadium.

This is a story about grace — grace that finds us, changes us, and leads us home.

(00:00) Opening Line: “Amazing Grace”
(00:47) Meet Elizabeth and Baby John Newton
(02:02) The Power of the First Seven Years
(03:14) Rebellion at Sea and the Slave Trade
(04:44) The Storm That Changed Everything
(06:01) From Sea Captain to Anglican Pastor
(07:17) Newton’s Famous Friends and Lasting Impact
(08:39) Grace in Reverse: Stories from Yancey and Manning
(10:56) Wembley Stadium Goes Silent
(13:41) The World Thirsts for Grace
(15:03) Remembering John Newton — and the Grace That Found Him

Childhood formation and legacy

The redemptive power of grace

History of the hymn Amazing Grace

Faith, justice, and transformation

“Grace is free only because the giver himself has borne the cost.” – Philip Yancey
“Happy birthday to us all when we find grace. And it finds us.” – Dick Foth

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