Your ShelfYour Projects

Among Those Who “Go Down to the Sea in Ships”

11%

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Takoma Park Station, Washington, D.C. · Aug 17, 1911

FromReview and Herald, Vol. 88, No. 33.

Read the full edition

Among Those Who “Go Down to the Sea in Ships”

By J. L. Johnson

J. L. JOHNSON
We are having many interesting experiences as we go in our launch “Liberty” among the ships in the port of New York. We are able to place much literature in various languages. Recently we have had calls for Spanish publications, and also requests for literature from Chinese sailors.
Some months ago we boarded an ocean tug, and had many questions put to us concerning Jonah and the whale, the flood, where Cain got his wife, etc. Our replies to these questions affirmed our belief in God’s Word; and as a result one sea-captain was convinced by Bible evidence of the genuineness of the Word.
About a year and a half ago we met with some perplexities that seemed to indicate that our work was to be hindered. The port customs undertook to shut off all pedlers and salesmen from all ships, because of the petty smuggling that was being carried on by a certain class. This was carried on by the use of boats and in various other ways.
Customs inspectors were placed on all piers with orders to shut off all intruders. This brought us in direct contact with new men, and we were stopped by them with threats. We could receive no permits, and after visiting the district attorney, we were informed that no privileges would be given to any person or persons. However, if we could furnish references from some responsible party or parties, or if some one would come with us from the society we represent, they would see what could be done. They asked, “What society do you represent?” On being informed, their answer was: “We have heard of your work, and it must be stopped. Men on ships do not want such literature.”
But the Lord can raise up men to help his work. The next morning we filled our valises with magazines and papers, to make some visits on steamers. There was one English steamship that had arrived, and we were well acquainted with the crew. But the customs men refused to allow us to go on board. We demanded to see the captain, who was sick on his previous trip, and to whom we had had the pleasure of giving treatments until he was relieved of pain. I related my experience to this captain, and he volunteered to go at once before the customs’ attorney.
We do not know what was said; but in talking with the captain a day or two later he said that the district customs’ attorney remarked, “We have been misinformed about this man’s work.” I was glad for the favorable testimony of the captain. Other captains stood ready to go to the attorney if required.
There will be a harvest from this seed-sowing, and many saved in the kingdom of God when the work is finished. Although the seafaring men have a hard name, and are considered a rough class, this is not true in all cases. Many are honest-hearted and earnest, and will shine in the Redeemer’s kingdom.