Eph. 2:1-9

Joined his father’s ship at 11…worked in West Africa collecting slaves for sale… became captain of his own ship…March 10, 1748, storm frightened him… Read “Imitation of Christ,” by Thomas Kempis…became preacher in Anglican Church in Olney, England

“John Newton, clerk, once an infidel and Libertine, a servant of slavers in Africa, was, by the rich mercy of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the Faith he had long labored to destroy.”

Originally had six verses; someone else wrote the last verse in our book – the song expressed his faith. At 82, one suggested he retire – replied, “What, shall the old Africa blasphemer stop while he can still speak?” Later said, “My memory is nearly gone, but I remember two things: That I am a great sinner and that Christ is a great Savior!”

Perfect law keeping, Gal. 3:10 Rabbis said 613 laws – 248 “thou shalt,” and 365 “thou shalt not.” Salvation by law demands perfection. Salvation by grace does not exclude obedience to law, Tit. 2:11-14; 1 Cor. 9:20,21

Grace does not say “Ignore God’s regulations and do as your please.” Paul was falsely accused, Rom. 3:8; 6:16-18 Legalism says – keep all the law License says – do as you please Grace says – walk by faith, but forgiveness is available, 1 Jn. 1:7

Abraham’s works did not save him (would have demanded perfection), Rom. 4:1-5 He was not saved without works, Jas. 2:21-23 Paul talking about – perfect works James talking about – obedient works

Saved by grace, Saved by grace Gen. 6:8 Eph. 2:8 Saved by faith,Saved by faith Heb. 11:7Eph. 2:8 By water - the floodBy water - baptism 1 Pet. 3: Pet. 3:21 The man who does not have enough faith to obey, does not have enough faith to be saved by faith.

We do the best we can (maybe 50 or 60%) God’s grace makes up the 100%. Jesus’ payment was complete, Heb. 10:10-14 My obedience is not a payment for sin; it is simply meeting the conditions to receive a gift (A gift may be conditional, or unconditional – it is still a gift!)

Example of the Ephesians: They were dead in sin, 2:1 They were saved by grace, 2:4,5 By the washing of water by the word, 5:25,26 God’s plan has not changed!