14-year-old William Carey was troubled. He had grown up in the established church and had always followed the outward forms of religion. But (in his own words), he was 'addicted to swearing, lying, and unchaste conversation'.
In 1775, he left home to take up an apprenticeship with a shoemaker. He was given accommodation with a fellow apprentice, a committed congregationalist named John Warr.
Carey despised dissenters; every evening he debated with John. Most evenings he won the argument. But John Warr had peace with God and joy in believing. His life was exemplary and he had an assurance of salvation that was a mystery to William.
William's conscience was stirred. After three years, John finally prevailed on William to attend a gospel service. William's life was turned around. He knew he needed a Saviour. He could not save himself. He zealously shared the good news of grace with others. He was baptised in the Nene river in 1783. Two years later, the Baptist chapel at Moulton called him as their pastor.
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