Ellen White's Prophecies of Armageddon and Sinking Ships

The description of ships sinking in the context of the final conflict is linked to the removal of the restraining power of the four angels, allowing the nations to plunge into a time of trouble that leads to the battle of ArmageddonLDE 238.3+1.

The Final Conflict and Calamities at Sea

In the closing scenes of earth's history, the four mighty angels who hold back the powers of the earth will eventually release their grip once the servants of God are sealed in their foreheads Revelation 7:1-37BC 967.8+1. When this restraining power is removed, a time of unprecedented trouble and anguish will break upon the worldLDE 238.3. During this period, deadly instruments of warfare will be utilized, and many vessels, along with their living cargo, will be entombed in the great deep7BC 967.8+1.

Satanic Agency and the Elements

Satan is working through all conceivable methods to destroy, and he exercises his wrath through terrible tornadoes and calamities at sea4LtMs, Lt 3a, 1883, par. 2. Many shipwrecks on the high seas are also the result of human negligence and intemperance, as those in charge of vessels often place themselves under the control of Satan through liquor drinking19MR 280.2+1. However, the Lord often interposes and sends unseen angels to protect vessels for the sake of praying passengers who have faith in His keeping power19MR 280.2.

The Climax: Armageddon

While these calamities increase, the nations of the world are kept under control until the specific time comes for the great battle of ArmageddonLDE 238.3+1. In this final struggle, the religious elements of both good and evil will awake from their slumberLDE 251.3+1. The armies of heaven, led by the King of kings on white horses, will go forth to the final victory Revelation 19:11-16LDE 251.3+1.

...oved there will come a time of trouble and anguish. Deadly instruments of warfare will be invented. Vessels with their living cargo will be entombed in the great deep. All who have not the spirit of truth will unite under the leadership of Satanic agencies, but they are to be kept under control till the time shall come for the great battle of Armageddon.—The S.D.A. Bible Commentary 7:967 (1900)— LDE 238.3 (1992)

...ved, there will come a time of trouble and anguish. Deadly instruments of warfare will be invented. Vessels, with their living cargo, will be entombed in the great deep. All who have not the spirit of truth will unite under the leadership of satanic agencies. But they are to be kept under control till the time shall come for the great battle of Armageddon— 7BC 967.8 (1957)

It is not wise to defer the preparation for eternity one day, no not an hour. This calamity speaks decidedly to every one of us to not neglect a vita...— 4LtMs, Lt 3a, 1883, par. 2

...ved, there will come a time of trouble and anguish. Deadly instruments of warfare will be invented. Vessels, with their living cargo, will be entombed in the great deep. All who have not the spirit of truth will unite under the leadership of satanic agencies. But they...— 15LtMs, Lt 79, 1900, par. 34