John Newton
1725–1807 · Pastor and hymn writer
I am a great sinner, and Christ is a great Saviour.
Life
Slave-ship captain converted at sea, later pastor at Olney and London.
Why it matters
Wrote 'Amazing Grace'; encouraged Wilberforce in the fight against the slave trade; his letters are classics of pastoral counsel.
Works
- Olney Hymns (1779, with Cowper)
- Cardiphonia (letters)