How can so many not understand “that saved a wretch like me"?

on May 4, 2026

From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

Q: I was deeply moved to watch a state funeral and hear the words of the song “Amazing Grace.” Thousands raised their voices singing the tune and the words, “that saved a wretch like me,” many having no idea of what it means. How can this be? – C.M.

A: Before the world was established, before the time clock of civilization began to move, God’s love prevailed. But it wasn’t until the Good News of Jesus Christ burst onto the human scene that the amazing grace of God’s love was demonstrated in the Person of Jesus Christ, coming down to us in human form, showing us God’s unmerited love. It was God’s love that knew mankind was incapable of obeying His law and loving Him. God promised a Redeemer, a Savior, who would give true love away to mankind steeped in the wretchedness of sin.

Years ago, a British duo recorded a love song that skyrocketed on the pop charts. The lyrics said, “I can’t live in a world without love.” Yet Love came down from Heaven to the whole world, and the world rejected Him.

Speak about the love of God, and faces light up; but speak of God as a Judge, and attitudes change. There’s one thing that God’s love cannot do; it cannot forgive the unrepentant sinner. For this reason, God sends things into our lives to block the route of destruction, with holy desire to drive us back to His love.

The greatest act of love we can ever demonstrate is to tell others about God’s love for them in Christ Jesus. When Christ’s love fills our hearts, it puts selfishness on the run. “We love Him because He first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

The love of God that reaches man, however, can be entirely rejected. God will not force Himself upon anyone. It is our part to believe; it is our part to receive. Nobody else can do it for us.

========

(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)