Amazing Grace

Have any of you out there seen the new movie, Amazing Grace? If not make plans to see this amazing film! It is the true story of William Wilberforce, who led a twenty-year fight to abolish slavery in Britain.

Wilberforce had become a believer in the late 1700's and was elected to the House of Commons at age 21. His mentor and pastor was John Newton, the former slave ship captain turned preacher and writer of the famous hymn. The film depicts the bond between the two men and how Wilberforce was inspired to serve God by carrying out his relentless battle against slavery.

The film conveys a wonderful testimony about the power of the Gospel to change lives. You’ll want to cheer when John Newton tells William, “Although my memory is fading I remember two things clearly: I am a great sinner and Christ is a great Savior.” When was the last time you heard that in a movie theater??

The film also shows the power of one. One man with a vision and passion is able to stand against the current of his times and turn an entire country in a new direction. Another theme is the power of love and friendship. Wilberforce could not have persevered without the encouragement of his wife, friends and pastor. This was a group who truly edified and strengthened each other to complete their God-ordained task.

The actors did a wonderful job of depicting these larger-than-life people. Wilberforce is not a plastic hero. He is portrayed as a man troubled by doubts and fears and plagued by physical infirmities. Yet, he is a man of extraordinary humility, compassion and courage.

So, what does this have to do with being an instructor of teachers? First, it should edify you in your task. You may wonder at times if teaching all those TCE courses is really making a difference. Remember the power of one! You have the opportunity to influence so many lives through your training courses. Not only are you influencing the teachers, but think of all the children you are reaching through them! Who knows but that your courses may be used of God to bring dramatic change to your local community or state!

You can also use this film to challenge your TCE students. Remind them that they may very well have a future William Wilberforce in their Good News Club! That child who is driving them crazy could grow up to be used of God in amazing ways to influence a generation.

And one other thought. The edifying effect of Wilberforce’s close circle of companions is a wonderful reminder of the importance of our bond, not only as believers, but as IOTs. We need to be constantly looking for ways to encourage and strengthen each other for the task God has given us. This blog is a great way we can do that. Even though we can’t be together in person, we can meet here at the Café for that little “shot in the arm” that will keep us going through another course.

So, go see Amazing Grace! You will be supporting good, substantive filmmaking and you will be wonderfully inspired in the process. For more info on the movie visit www.amazinggracemovie.com.