John Newton + Barbara Duguid = Extravagant Grace!

I didn't get what I expected when I opened this book to scan its pages! I was pleasantly surprised and found myself being drawn again and again to it. Written by Barbara Duguid and subtitled 'God's Glory Displayed in Our Weakness' it takes a look at John Newton's writings on sin, grace and sanctification. To quote the author's preface, "This eighteenth-century pastor outlined a theology of sinful failure that humbles weak sinners, magnifies the finished work of Jesus Christ, and comforts people who just can't seem to stop sinning by pointing them to Christ in their worst moments of defeat".  Barbara weaves contemporary examples throughout whilst outlining and explaining John Newton's theology. As with most books, there were some parts that I skipped through but many sections of it were excellent: thought provoking and humbling. I have certainly finished it with an appetite to read more of John Newton's works.
To read a full and fair review see the Reformed Reader blog.
Lorna
Extravagant Grace by Barbara Duguid, published by P & R, £9.99

Amazing Grace

It's the best film I've seen all year - but then again it's the only one. Wilberforce was rather more dashing than real life portraits suggest, and there was a hint of Bob Geldof about his dishevelled looks at times. Was this a deliberate ploy to link the two at a subliminal level? But they are poles apart in the motivations that drive them, although Wilber's evangelical Christianity is not given emphasis by this film. Sadly, John Newton is also poorly portrayed. This is best redressed by reading his 'Letters' (Banner of Truth paperback edition available, hardback due April) or better still, the original 'Cardiphonia' or 'Utterance of the Heart' as it is now rendered in the Gospel Mission edition.

The lesson is simple - see the film, and then read the books. You won't regret it.

Jeremy