Title: Amazing Grace in the Life of William Wilberforce
Author: John Piper
Genre: Biography, Christian Literature
Publication Date: 2006
Publisher: Crossway Publishers
Introduction
“A well written life is as exceptional as a well lived one.” John Piper’s “Amazing Grace in the life of William Wilberforce” captivates the reader throughout the book with the story of how the transformation in the heart of a man by the gospel of Christ led to the political reformation through the abolishment of slave trade and slavery in England and the world in the 18th Century. A journey that lasted 46 years!
Summary
The author journeys with the readers with the story of a reckless young man from a rich family to his journey as a young parliamentarian in the British House of Commons, his conversion and a long-lasting political career that changed the course of this world. Piper labors to not only help the reader appreciate this journey but the root and the motivations of what drove such a reformation for personal and social good.
Analysis
Despite being a celebrated politician in many fronts, the readers get a glimpse of his struggles and sufferings, flaws and mistakes such as are common to man. But one is also inspired by the triumphs in the face of defeats, insults, rejection from friends, vilifications from enemies and threats among others.
Evaluation and Rating
This is one of the biographies I have enjoyed reading. It has inspired and challenged me to rethink on my salvation. Is my faith “too personal” to have any impact on my neighborhood, community and society at large? If you have been feeling helpless and defeated in the face of such ills and evils in our society that you think there is no hope, I hope this book serves as a heavy reminder that those called by the name of our Lord Jesus Christ have been called to be salt and light of the world and that our faith can make an impact to the community around us for the glory of God. Read on!
Elijah Otieno