Title: Come Thou almighty King
Hymn Number: SS&S 6 (Sacred songs and solo)
1. Amazing grace ! how sweet the sound
That saved a wretch like me ;
I once was lost, but now am found ;
Was blind, but now I see.
2 ‘Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved ;
How precious did that grace appear
The hour I first believed !
3 Through many dangers, toils, and
I have already come : [snares,
‘Tis grace that brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home,
4 Yes, when this heart and flesh shall
And mortal life shall cease, [fail,
I shall possess within the vail
A life of joy and peace.
About The Hymn
Amazing Grace (How Sweet the Sound)” (Sacred Songs and Solos, Hymn 894) is one of the most beloved and widely sung hymns in Christian history. Written by John Newton in 1772, this hymn is a profound testimony to the transformative power of God’s grace. Newton, a former slave trader turned preacher, reflects on his own redemption and spiritual awakening, expressing gratitude for the unmerited favor of God that saved him from sin and despair. The hymn encapsulates themes of grace, redemption, forgiveness, and the hope of eternal life.
Verse 1: The Sweetness of God’s Grace
“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound,
That saved a wretch like me!
I once was lost, but now am found,
Was blind, but now I see.”
The opening verse is a powerful declaration of personal transformation through grace. The phrase “amazing grace” emphasizes the extraordinary nature of God’s love, which reaches out to sinners regardless of their unworthiness. Newton describes himself as a “wretch,” acknowledging the depth of his sin and his utter dependence on God for salvation.
The lines “I once was lost, but now am found” reflect the parable of the lost sheep in Luke 15:4–7, where Jesus speaks of the joy in heaven over a sinner who repents. Similarly, “was blind, but now I see” alludes to spiritual blindness and the enlightenment that comes through faith in Christ (John 9:25). These lines resonate deeply with all who have experienced a dramatic shift from spiritual darkness to light.
Verse 2: God’s Grace in Times of Fear
“’Twas grace that taught my heart to fear,
And grace my fears relieved;
How precious did that grace appear,
The hour I first believed.”
This verse highlights the dual work of grace in bringing conviction of sin and offering relief from fear. The “fear” mentioned here is not terror but reverence for God, a recognition of His holiness and justice. Grace awakens the soul to its need for salvation while simultaneously providing the assurance of forgiveness and peace.
The moment of belief is described as transformative, with grace becoming “precious” to the heart. Newton reflects on the profound realization of God’s mercy and the joy that comes with faith. This verse beautifully captures the tension and resolution in the process of salvation—first conviction, then comfort.
Verse 3: Sustaining Grace Through Life’s Trials
“Through many dangers, toils, and snares,
I have already come;
’Tis grace hath brought me safe thus far,
And grace will lead me home.”
Newton reflects on the sustaining power of God’s grace throughout life’s difficulties. The “dangers, toils, and snares” represent the struggles, temptations, and challenges believers face on their spiritual journey. The acknowledgment that “grace hath brought me safe thus far” underscores God’s faithfulness and constant presence, providing strength and guidance in every circumstance.
The confidence that “grace will lead me home” points to the believer’s ultimate destination: eternal life with God. This verse conveys assurance and hope, affirming that the same grace that saved and sustained will also carry the believer to their heavenly home.
Verse 4: A Vision of Eternity
“Yea, when this flesh and heart shall fail,
And mortal life shall cease,
I shall possess within the veil,
A life of joy and peace.”
This verse reflects on the inevitability of physical death and the hope of eternal life. The phrase “within the veil” draws from Hebrews 6:19–20, referring to the believer’s access to God through Jesus Christ, who serves as the forerunner into the heavenly sanctuary. It conveys the assurance of a joyful and peaceful existence beyond death, made possible through Christ’s redemptive work.
The mention of “joy and peace” highlights the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promises, where believers will experience the fullness of His presence in heaven.
Overall Message and Significance
“Amazing Grace” is a hymn that captures the essence of the Christian gospel. It celebrates God’s unmerited favor, which reaches out to sinners, transforms lives, and offers the hope of eternal life. The hymn moves through the believer’s journey—from initial salvation, through life’s trials, and finally to the promise of eternal joy in God’s presence.
The themes of the hymn—grace, redemption, and hope—resonate across generations and cultures, making it a universal anthem of faith. It reminds believers that no one is beyond the reach of God’s love and that His grace is sufficient to save, sustain, and carry them through every trial.
“Amazing Grace” continues to inspire and comfort millions, serving as a powerful testimony to the life-changing power of God’s grace and the assurance of His eternal promises.