Assurance grows by repeated conflict, by our repeated experimental proof of the Lord’s power and goodness to save; when we have been brought very low and helped, sorely wounded and healed, cast down and raised again, have given up all hope, and been suddenly snatched from danger, and placed in safety; and when these things have been repeated to us and in us a thousand times over, we begin to learn to trust simply to the Word and power of God, beyond and against appearances: and this trust, when habitual and strong, bears the name of assurance; for even assurance has degrees.
— John Newton (1725–1807), Pfarrer/Liederdichter
Topics: Faith & Trust, Growth & Character
Occasions: Encouragement
John Newton
John Newton (1725–1807) war ein englischer Seefahrer und späterer anglikanischer Geistlicher, der in Olney und London wirkte. Bekannt wurde er als Dichter des Liedes „Amazing Grace“ sowie als Abolitionist, nachdem er zuvor jahrelang selbst als Kapitän auf Sklavenschiffen tätig gewesen war. Für heutige Bibelleser veranschaulicht sein Werk die theologische Reflexion über Schuld und Vergebung sowie die seelsorgliche Dimension von Gottes Gnade.
All quotes by John Newton (45)
Dietrich Bonhoeffer
I would not be able to seek you if you had not already found me.
Augustine of Hippo
Blaise Pascal
Augustine of Hippo
Gertrud von le Fort
Oswald Chambers
No one can fall deeper than into the hand of God.
Peter Hahne
God seeks you more than your offering.
Augustine of Hippo