Out of the Depths (Paperback)

by John Newton (Author)
Key Phrases: Jesus Christ, Sierra Leone, Church of England (more...)

Editorial Reviews

Review
Out of the Depths provides a beautiful picture of the 'amazing grace' Newton so eloquently described in his famous song. - (Singing News )

Product Description
The original and unvarnished account of one of Christianity's most dramatic conversions-the autobiography of John Newton, the author of "Amazing Grace." This is the ultimate full-length "hymn story". The enduring story of a slave-trader turned preacher is a powerful message, as spectacular and compelling today as when it was first written.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 160 pages
• Publisher: Kregel Publications (May 8, 2003)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0825433193
• ISBN-13: 978-0825433191
• Product Dimensions: 8.4 x 5.5 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 6.4 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.1 out of 5 stars See all reviews (8 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #65,837 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

58 of 59 people found the following review helpful:

3.0 out of 5 stars Acts 17:26-27, July 5, 2002

By	Shawn Sutherland "the_lone_reviewer" (Dallas, TX United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

This review is from: Out of the Depths (Paperback)

While the mention of the name John Newton (1725-1807) will probably elicit a blank stare from most people, there are very few people who are unfamiliar with Newton's most famous composition - the hymn "Amazing Grace." Those familiar with the hymn most likely do not know that - prior to becoming a minister and a composer of hymns - Newton was a slave trader, a scoundrel, a ruffian, etc.

This book is Netwon's autobiography. I recently read it in one sitting and must say that I was incredibly humbled by Newton's account of his life. (This book broke scabs off of my heart that I thought were petrified!) There is no way that one can read this book and thereafter not have an added appreciation for Newton's lyrics (e.g., "amazing grace how sweet the sound that saved a wretch like me").

Newton's story puts flesh on the verse: "[God] determined the times set for [man] and the exact places where [man] should live. God did this so that men would seek Him and perhaps reach out for Him and find Him, though he is not far from each one of us." (Acts 17:26-27)

17 of 19 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The True Story of the author of the immortal "Amazing Grace" hymn , July 12, 2006

By	Aimee Thor "Aimee Thor" (Xenia, Ohio) - See all my reviews

John Newton's story is totally absorbing and in some ways shocking for the times in which he lived! He was quite the wild man and yet, in his sin, God saved him. After reading this book it brought the true meaning of Newton's words in Amazing Grace to life. Truly, how sweet is the sound of grace to a sinner so depraved and so destined for hell. Hallelujah for such an 'amazing' book! Christians need more of these kinds of biographies to inspire and strengthen us in our faith. Read this book and rejoice!

3 of 4 people found the following review helpful:

4.0 out of 5 stars Not quite what I expected but still pretty good., April 1, 2007

By	L. Huenecke (Chicago) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

After seeing the movie "Amazing Grace" I wanted to know more about John Newton and his experiences. There are some spiritual gems in this book but, even though this autobiography was updated to 21st century language, I found Newton to be overly pious--even feeling worthless.

I was hoping for more details on his years as a slave trader but the sensitivities of the time probably prevented details that modern readers expect.

Although I was disappointed in some ways, I didn't expect many of the moving spiritual thoughts Newton expressed. Maybe some of his experiences not described were so sinful and embarrassing that was the reason he didn't go into detail.