Newton was compelled to preach at least two sermons against the slave trade: “I considered it not in a political but in a moral view, from Jeremiah 2:34–35,” he explained to a friend, because if abolition fails to pass, I shall fear not only for the poor slaves, but for ourselves. For I think if men refuse to vindicate the oppressed, the Lord will take their cause into his own hands. And the consequences may be dreadful both abroad and at home, whatever mischiefs may arise from hurricanes, insurrections, etc. etc., I shall attribute to this cause.
