Labors in Japan by H. KUNIYA

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Tacoma Park Station, Washington, D. C. · Feb 27, 1908

Labors in Japan

By H. KUNIYA

H. KUNIYA

Last summer I again went to my home country to visit those who were interested in the truth. For two months I preached the simple gospel to these country people; and several families started to keep the Sabbath, including several young men. One man of considerable means became much interested, and began to obey; but before fully deciding to become a Seventh-day Adventist, he went to Tokyo to see a famous preacher of his acquaintance. He heard this man preach, but the sermon did not please him. Then he went around to several other churches, hoping to find a large gate by which to enter the kingdom of God. This man loved money more than eternal life, and gave up the truth he once willingly accepted. Now he opposes, and others have followed his example. One woman and her daughter are still loyal to the truth.

I went to another town, and was invited to stay with a certain family. All welcomed me heartily. I stayed two weeks, and gave Bible lessons every night. As I was about to leave, one of the women of the family wished to be baptized. I advised her to tell her husband, which she did. He did not oppose her, but advised her to consider well before going forward in baptism. I baptized her in the river near the town, and she remains firm in the truth. Her husband has given up tobacco and strong drink, and is always glad to listen to the truth. His mother has also become interested in studying the Bible; and when I left, she sent money by a servant to the station to buy my ticket to Tokyo.

October 25 we began tent-meetings at Maebashi, where Brethren Suzuki and Okado have been canvassing for some months. The meetings continued two weeks, and we had a good attendance. We sowed the seeds of truth in that city, and pray that some fruit may soon appear.

From Maebashi I went to the northern coast to see a pastor of the Friends Church, with whom I have been corresponding. I preached in his church, and met a number of the people; and they asked me to come again.

The prophet says: “Arise, shine; for thy light has come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.” In common with other nations, the glory of the Lord is shining in Japan; and though Satan is trying to keep the people in darkness, there are many who are seeking for the light. But how can we satisfy 46,950,000 Japanese with four foreign missionaries and seven native workers? There are many pastors and evangelists who preach the gospel with the mouth, but the real gospel of Christ is not presented in their lives, in acts, for the relief of those in suffering and distress. As a result of departing from the Lord and from his law, hundreds and thousands are dying without hope. Though we present the gospel to these souls by mouth, many will not hear; but if we can relieve their sorrow and distress, they will listen willingly

listened. I preached in her house several times. Since I left, many of the neighbors have come for treatment, so my nephew has been quite busy with this work. We hope to start small medical institutions here and there, as openings for gospel work. If we can not do so now, we must do this work ourselves the best we are able.

Tokyo.