Paul West reflects on John Newton's poignant imagery of seeing Christ on the cross, emphasizing the transformative power of that moment when the weight of sin is confronted. The sermon highlights the deep emotional impact of Christ's gaze, which conveys both the gravity of our sins and the profound grace of forgiveness offered through His sacrifice. Newton's experience illustrates the duality of recognizing our sinfulness while simultaneously receiving the assurance of redemption, encapsulating the mystery of grace that seals our pardon.

I saw one hanging on a tree, by John Newton. In evil long I took delight, unawed by shame or fear, till a new object struck my sight, and stopped my wild career. I saw one hanging on a tree, in agonies and blood. He fixed his languid eyes on me, as near his cross I stood. Sure, never till my last breath, shall I forget that look. It seemed to charge me with his death, though not a word he spoke. A second look he gave, which said, I freely all forgive. This blood is for your ransom paid, I die that you may live. Thus, while his death my sin displays, in all its blackest hue, such is the mystery of grace, it seals my pardon too.