第17章 雅各的逃亡
§1
第17章 雅各的逃亡
§2
Chap. 17 - Jacobs Flight and Exile
§3
雅各因为以扫怨恨他，声言要杀死他，所以就离开了父家，出去作一个逃亡者；但他是带着父亲为他所祝的福出来的；以撒曾重新向他说明立约的应许，并因他是应许的继承者，就嘱咐他到米所波大米他母舅家里娶一个女子为妻。可是雅各只身远行时，他的心情是十分痛苦的。他手中只有一根杖，而必须经过野蛮民族所栖息的地带，步行千里之遥的道路。他在悔恨和胆怯的心情中，只想避免与人见面，唯恐他愤怒的哥哥追踪而至。他深怕自己已经永远失去上帝所要赐给他的福气；同时还有撒但在旁边试探着他。[1]{PP 183.1}
§4
Threatened with death by the wrath of Esau, Jacob went out from his fathers home a fugitive; but he carried with him the fathers blessing; Isaac had renewed to him the covenant promise, and had bidden him, as its inheritor, to seek a wife of his mothers family in Mesopotamia. Yet it was with a deeply troubled heart that Jacob set out on his lonely journey. With only his staff in his hand he must travel hundreds of miles through a country inhabited by wild, roving tribes. In his remorse and timidity he sought to avoid men, lest he should be traced by his angry brother. He feared that he had lost forever the blessing that God had purposed to give him; and Satan was at hand to press temptations upon him.{PP 183.1}[1]
§5
第二天晚上，他离父家已经很远了。他觉得自己是一个被弃的人，并知道这一切临到他的困难都是由于自己的错误。绝望的忧郁重重地压在他心上，几乎使他不敢祷告。可是他这时既然十分孤单，所以比以往任何时候更觉得需要上帝的保护。他一面哭泣，一面深深自卑地承认自己的罪，并恳求上帝赐他一些凭据，让他知道自己还没有完全被丢弃。然而他心中的重累还是得不到安慰。他对自己完全失去了自信心，深怕他列祖的上帝已经摒弃了他。[2]{PP 183.2}
§6
The evening of the second day found him far away from his fathers tents. He felt that he was an outcast, and he knew that all this trouble had been brought upon him by his own wrong course. The darkness of despair pressed upon his soul, and he hardly dared to pray. But he was so utterly lonely that he felt the need of protection from God as he had never felt it before. With weeping and deep humiliation he confessed his sin, and entreated for some evidence that he was not utterly forsaken. Still his burdened heart found no relief. He had lost all confidence in himself, and he feared that the God of his fathers had cast him off.{PP 183.2}[2]
§7
但是上帝并没有丢弃雅各。他依然向他错误不信的仆人发怜悯。耶和华慈悲地显示雅各所正需要的乃是一位救主。雅各固然犯了罪；但当他看出上帝向他显明一条道路，使他能以重得上帝的眷爱时，就满心感谢上帝。[3]{PP 183.3}
§8
But God did not forsake Jacob. His mercy was still extended to His erring, distrustful servant. The Lord compassionately revealed just what Jacob needed--a Saviour. He had sinned, but his heart was filled with gratitude as he saw revealed a way by which he could be restored to the favor of God.{PP 183.3}[3]
§9
雅各行路疲乏，便拿一块石头枕在头下，躺在地上休息。当他睡着时，梦见一个光明灿烂的梯子立在地上，梯子的头顶着天。有天使在梯子上上去下来；荣耀的主站在梯子以上，有主的声音从天上向他说：“我是耶和华你祖亚伯拉罕的上帝，也是以撒的上帝。”上帝应许将他作逃亡者所躺卧之地赐给他和他的后裔。并向他保证“地上万族必因你和你的后裔得福。”上帝曾将这应许赐给亚伯拉罕和以撒，如今又向雅各重申一遍。上帝特别关切他目前的孤单和困难，就向他说了安慰和鼓励的话：“我也与你同在，你无论往哪里去，我必保佑你，领你归回这地，总不离弃你，直到我成全了向你所应许的。”（创28:13,15）[4]{PP 183.4}
§10
Wearied with his journey, the wanderer lay down upon the ground, with a stone for his pillow. As he slept he beheld a ladder, bright and shining, whose base rested upon the earth, while the top reached to heaven. Upon this ladder angels were ascending and descending; above it was the Lord of glory, and from the heavens His voice was heard: I am the Lord God of Abraham thy father, and the God of Isaac. The land whereon he lay as an exile and fugitive was promised to him and to his posterity, with the assurance, In thee and in thy seed shall all the families of the earth be blessed. This promise had been given to Abraham and to Isaac, and now it was renewed to Jacob. Then in special regard to his present loneliness and distress, the words of comfort and encouragement were spoken: Behold, I am with thee, and will keep thee in all places whither thou goest, and will bring thee again into this land; for I will not leave thee, until I have done that which I have spoken to thee of.{PP 183.4}[4]
§11
耶和华知道雅各周围所必有的邪恶影响，以及他所要遭遇的危险。所以他凭着怜悯将未来的事展开在这痛悔的逃亡者之前，使他可以明白上帝对他的旨意；并当他住在拜偶像和奸诈的人中间时，能以抵挡所要遭遇的试探。在他面前永远摆着一个他必须追求的崇高标准；而且他既知道上帝的旨意是要借着他成全，就必从此经常得到鼓励，忠心侍奉上帝了。[5]{PP 184.1}
§12
The Lord knew the evil influences that would surround Jacob, and the perils to which he would be exposed. In mercy He opened up the future before the repentant fugitive, that he might understand the divine purpose with reference to himself, and be prepared to resist the temptations that would surely come to him when alone amid idolaters and scheming men. There would be ever before him the high standard at which he must aim; and the knowledge that through him the purpose of God was reaching its accomplishment, would constantly prompt him to faithfulness.{PP 184.1}[5]
§13
救赎的计划已经在这一次的异象中指示给雅各，虽然这计划并没有完全显明，但当时对他有关的重要部分都已显明了。那在梦中向雅各显明的神秘的梯子，就是基督与拿但业谈话时曾经提到的。他说：“你们将要看见天开了，上帝的使者上去下来在人子身上。”（约1:51）人还没有背叛上帝政权的时候，上帝与人之间的交往一直是自由自便的。及至亚当夏娃犯了罪，天地之间才有了隔离，以至人不能与造他的主交往。然而世人并没有完全被摒弃于绝望之中，那梯子预表耶稣，就是上帝所指定为天人之间交通的媒介。如果不是他以自己的功劳，在罪恶所造成的深渊上搭了一座桥梁，则服役的天使就不能与堕落的人类来往了。基督把人的软弱无助同天庭无穷能力的源头连结起来了。[6]{PP 184.2}
§14
In the vision the plan of redemption was presented to Jacob, not fully, but in such parts as were essential to him at that time. The mystic ladder revealed to him in his dream was the same to which Christ referred in His conversation with Nathanael. Said He, Ye shall see heaven open, and the angels of God ascending and descending upon the Son of man. John 1:51. Up to the time of mans rebellion against the government of God, there had been free communion between God and man. But the sin of Adam and Eve separated earth from heaven, so that man could not have communion with his Maker. Yet the world was not left in solitary hopelessness. The ladder represents Jesus, the appointed medium of communication. Had He not with His own merits bridged the gulf that sin had made, the ministering angels could have held no communion with fallen man. Christ connects man in his weakness and helplessness with the source of infinite power.{PP 184.2}[6]
§15
这一切都在梦中向雅各显明了。他虽然当时就领悟了这启示的一部分，但其中伟大而奥妙的真理，确是他毕生所应研究的，他越研究，则所领悟的也就越多了。[7]{PP 184.3}
§16
All this was revealed to Jacob in his dream. Although his mind at once grasped a part of the revelation, its great and mysterious truths were the study of his lifetime, and unfolded to his understanding more and more. {PP 184.3}[7]
§17
正在夜深人静之时，雅各睡醒了。异象中的光明景象已经不见了。他所看到的只是寂寂山岭隐约的暗影，和满天光明闪烁的星斗。可是，他心中有一种严肃感，就是上帝与他同在；有一位看不见的主安慰着他的寂寞。他说：“耶和华真在这里，我竟不知道。……这不是别的，乃是上帝的殿，也是天的门。”（创28:16-22）[8]{PP 187.1}
§18
Jacob awoke from his sleep in the deep stillness of night. The shining forms of his vision had disappeared. Only the dim outline of the lonely hills, and above them the heavens bright with stars, now met his gaze. But he had a solemn sense that God was with him. An unseen presence filled the solitude. Surely the Lord is in this place, he said, and I knew it not. . . . This is none other but the house of God, and this is the gate of heaven.{PP 187.1}[8]
§19
“雅各清早起来，把所枕的石头立作柱子，浇油在上面。”按着当时纪念重要大事的风俗，他为上帝的恩典立了一个纪念柱，以便后来无论何时经过这里，就可以停留在这神圣的地点敬拜耶和华。他给那地方起名叫伯特利，意思就是“上帝的殿。”他以深切感恩的心重述上帝必与他同在的应许；于是他严肃地许愿，说：“上帝若与我同在，在我所行的路上保佑我，又给我食物吃，衣服穿，使我平平安安的回到我父亲的家，我就必以耶和华为我的上帝，我所立为柱子的石头，也必作上帝的殿，凡你所赐给我的，我必将十分之一献给你。”[9]{PP 187.2}
§20
And Jacob rose up early in the morning, and took the stone that he had put for his pillows, and set it up for a pillar, and poured oil upon the top of it. In accordance with the custom of commemorating important events, Jacob set up a memorial of Gods mercy, that whenever he should pass that way he might tarry at this sacred spot to worship the Lord. And he called the place Bethel, or the house of God. With deep gratitude he repeated the promise that Gods presence would be with him; and then he made the solemn vow, If God will be with me, and will keep me in this way that I go, and will give me bread to eat, and raiment to put on, so that I come again to my fathers house in peace; then shall the Lord be my God: and this stone, which I have set for a pillar, shall be Gods house: and of all that Thou shalt give me I will surely give the tenth unto Thee.{PP 187.2}[9]
§21
雅各并不是在这里和上帝谈条件。耶和华已经应许赐给他顺利，他所许的愿乃是因为上帝慈爱和怜悯的应许，而流露出来心中所充满的感恩之情。雅各觉得上帝给他的条件，他必须承认。上帝赐给他的特恩，他必须报答。照样，上帝所赐给我们的每一样福惠，我们也要对一切恩典之源有所表示。基督徒应当时常回顾自己过去的生活，并以感恩的心情回忆上帝对自己所施行的宝贵拯救，在受试炼的时候有上帝支持，在一切都是黑暗与不利的时候有上帝开出路，并在失望的时候有上帝来鼓舞。他应当认明这一切乃是天上使者照顾的凭据。对于这无数的恩典，就应当常以谦卑和感谢的心自问说：“我拿什么报答耶和华向我所赐的一切厚恩。”（诗116:12）[10]{PP 187.3}
§22
Jacob was not here seeking to make terms with God. The Lord had already promised him prosperity, and this vow was the outflow of a heart filled with gratitude for the assurance of Gods love and mercy. Jacob felt that God had claims upon him which he must acknowledge, and that the special tokens of divine favor granted him demanded a return. So does every blessing bestowed upon us call for a response to the Author of all our mercies. The Christian should often review his past life and recall with gratitude the precious deliverances that God has wrought for him, supporting him in trial, opening ways before him when all seemed dark and forbidding, refreshing him when ready to faint. He should recognize all of them as evidences of the watchcare of heavenly angels. In view of these innumerable blessings he should often ask, with subdued and grateful heart, What shall I render unto the Lord for all His benefits toward me? Psalm 116:12.{PP 187.3}[10]
§23
我们的光阴、我们的才干、我们的财产，都应该分别为圣，献与那将这些恩赐交托给我们的主。每逢上帝为我们施行了特别的拯救，或者赐给我们前所未有而出乎意外的恩惠，我们就当承认上帝的良善。不单是在言语上表示我们的感激，而也要象雅各一样，奉献礼物和祭物来推进上帝的圣工。当我们不断地领受上帝的恩典时，我们也应当不断地把上帝的恩典转施给人。[11]{PP 187.4}
§24
Our time, our talents, our property, should be sacredly devoted to Him who has given us these blessings in trust. Whenever a special deliverance is wrought in our behalf, or new and unexpected favors are granted us, we should acknowledge Gods goodness, not only by expressing our gratitude in words, but, like Jacob, by gifts and offerings to His cause. As we are continually receiving the blessings of God, so we are to be continually giving.{PP 187.4}[11]
§25
雅各说：“凡你所赐给我的，我必将十分之一献给你。”（创28:22）我们今日享受这么多福音的亮光和特权，比从前的人所得的恩典还多，难道我们所献给上帝的还能不如他们吗？断乎不可，既然我们所享受的福分越大，我们的责任不也就越重吗？但是十分之一的比例是多么的小啊！我们若想用算术的方法，把我们的光阴、金钱和爱心，与那无可测度的慈爱和无可估计的恩赐相比，那是一件办不到的事。十分之一献于基督，这是何等地微不足道！要拿这一点来报答基督为我们所付的代价，真是太惭愧了！基督从髑髅地的十字架上呼召我们作毫无保留的献身。我们一切所有的，我们的全部身心，都应当奉献给上帝。[12]{PP 188.1}
§26
Of all that Thou shalt give me, said Jacob, I will surely give the tenth unto Thee. Shall we who enjoy the full light and privileges of the gospel be content to give less to God than was given by those who lived in the former, less favored dispensation? Nay, as the blessings we enjoy are greater, are not our obligations correspondingly increased? But how small the estimate; how vain the endeavor to measure with mathematical rules, time, money, and love, against a love so immeasurable and a gift of such inconceivable worth. Tithes for Christ! Oh, meager pittance, shameful recompense for that which cost so much! From the cross of Calvary, Christ calls for an unreserved consecration. All that we have, all that we are, should be devoted to God.{PP 188.1}[12]
§27
雅各这时对上帝的应许生出了新的信心，并深知天上的使者必与他同在，保护他，于是他继续前行，“到了东方人之地。”然而他的到来，与将近一百年前亚伯拉罕仆人的到来，是何等的不同啊！从前那仆人来时，曾带着一群骑着骆驼的从者和贵重的金银礼品；而雅各来时，乃是孤身步行的旅客，手中除了一根杖之外，别无长物。这时他像亚伯拉罕的仆人一样停在井旁，就在这里遇见了拉班的小女儿拉结。这一次却是雅各下手服务，他把石头转离井口，给羊群饮水。雅各说明了他与拉结的亲戚关系之后，就被接到拉班的家里。雅各虽然没有带财物和仆人，但过了几周之后，就显出他的殷勤和技能来，于是拉班就劝他住下。并安排雅各为他服务七年，然后将拉结给他为妻。[13]{PP 188.2}
§28
With a new and abiding faith in the divine promises, and assured of the presence and guardianship of heavenly angels, Jacob pursued his journey to the land of the children of the East. Genesis 29:1, margin. But how different his arrival from that of Abrahams messenger nearly a hundred years before! The servant had come with a train of attendants riding upon camels, and with rich gifts of gold and silver; the son was a lonely, footsore traveler, with no possession save his staff. Like Abrahams servant, Jacob tarried beside a well, and it was here that he met Rachel, Labans younger daughter. It was Jacob now who rendered service, rolling the stone from the well and watering the flocks. On making known his kinship, he was welcomed to the home of Laban. Though he came portionless and unattended, a few weeks showed the worth of his diligence and skill, and he was urged to tarry. It was arranged that he should render Laban seven years service for the hand of Rachel.{PP 188.2}[13]
§29
从前的风俗，新郎要在订婚的时候，根据他的经济能力，给岳父一笔聘金，或者是相等价值的物品，这是作为婚后生活保障的。作父亲的不放心把女儿的幸福，托付给一个没有为家庭经济作适当准备的人。如果对方不是个勤俭的人，既不能经营事业，又未曾置有羊群地产，就可能是个无用之人。但是遇有无力筹措聘金的人，就另有一种试验他们的办法。他们可以为所爱之女子的父亲作工，至于工作时期的长短，则根据所要聘金的多少而定。如果求婚者忠于工作，并在各方面显着合格，他就可以娶那女子为妻；而且按着平常的习惯，父亲所收到的这笔聘金，要在结婚时给他女儿作为嫁妆。可是在拉结和利亚二人的婚事上，拉班却吝啬地扣留了他们应得的嫁妆；当她们将要离开米所波大米时，她们曾提到此事，说：“他卖了我们，吞了我们的价值。”（创31:15）[14]{PP 188.3}
§30
In early times custom required the bridegroom, before the ratification of a marriage engagement, to pay a sum of money or its equivalent in other property, according to his circumstances, to the father of his wife. This was regarded as a safeguard to the marriage relation. Fathers did not think it safe to trust the happiness of their daughters to men who had not made provision for the support of a family. If they had not sufficient thrift and energy to manage business and acquire cattle or lands, it was feared that their life would prove worthless. But provision was made to test those who had nothing to pay for a wife. They were permitted to labor for the father whose daughter they loved, the length of time being regulated by the value of the dowry required. When the suitor was faithful in his services, and proved in other respects worthy, he obtained the daughter as his wife; and generally the dowry which the father had received was given her at her marriage. In the case of both Rachel and Leah, however, Laban selfishly retained the dowry that should have been given them; they referred to this when they said, just before the removal from Mesopotamia, He hath sold us, and hath quite devoured also our money.{PP 188.3}[14]
§31
古时的这个风俗虽然有时候被滥用，像拉班所作的一样，但究竟是产生良好效果的。当求婚者为要得到他的新妇而需要工作时，就可防止一种草率从事的婚姻，而且也有机会可以试验他爱情的深浅，和有无供养一个家庭的能力。今日许多人取了相反的方法，就招致了不良的结果。往往青年人在结婚之前，少有机会熟悉对方的习惯和性情。就日常的生活而论，他们在结婚的时候，彼此之间根本还没有什么认识。许多人婚后发现彼此不能配合，但是已经太晚了，他们婚姻的结果，成了终身的苦恼。往往妻子和儿女因丈夫和父亲的怠惰无能，或不良的习惯而受苦。如果依照古时的风俗，求婚者的品格在结婚之前先受试验，就可以避免许多不愉快的事了。[15]{PP 189.1}
§32
The ancient custom, though sometimes abused, as by Laban, was productive of good results. When the suitor was required to render service to secure his bride, a hasty marriage was prevented, and there was opportunity to test the depth of his affections, as well as his ability to provide for a family. In our time many evils result from pursuing an opposite course. It is often the case that persons before marriage have little opportunity to become acquainted with each others habits and disposition, and, so far as everyday life is concerned, they are virtually strangers when they unite their interests at the altar. Many find, too late, that they are not adapted to each other, and lifelong wretchedness is the result of their union. Often the wife and children suffer from the indolence and inefficiency or the vicious habits of the husband and father. If the character of the suitor had been tested before marriage, according to the ancient custom, great unhappiness might have been prevented.{PP 189.1}[15]
§33
雅各为拉结服侍拉班七年，“他因为深爱拉结，就看这七年如同几天。”（创29:20）但是自私贪婪的拉班，为要保留这位重要的帮手，竟行使一个残忍的骗局，用利亚来代替拉结。事实上，利亚自己也在这骗局中有份，所以雅各觉得不能爱她。他发怒责备拉班，于是拉班答应把拉结也给他，要他再服侍七年。可是这个作父亲的坚持不让雅各抛弃利亚，因为他认为这是会玷辱门楣的。这样，雅各就处于痛苦难堪的境地；终于决定保留利亚，再娶拉结。拉结始终是雅各所最宠爱的；但是雅各的偏爱引起了怨恨和嫉妒，这两个姊妹共事一夫之间的争竞，使他的生活至为痛苦。[16]{PP 189.2}
§34
Seven years of faithful service Jacob gave for Rachel, and the years that he served seemed unto him but a few days, for the love he had to her. But the selfish and grasping Laban, desiring to retain so valuable a helper, practiced a cruel deception in substituting Leah for Rachel. The fact that Leah herself was a party to the cheat, caused Jacob to feel that he could not love her. His indignant rebuke to Laban was met with the offer of Rachel for another seven years service. But the father insisted that Leah should not be discarded, since this would bring disgrace upon the family. Jacob was thus placed in a most painful and trying position; he finally decided to retain Leah and marry Rachel. Rachel was ever the one best loved; but his preference for her excited envy and jealousy, and his life was embittered by the rivalry between the sister-wives.{PP 189.2}[16]
§35
雅各居留在米所波大米为拉班工作，计有二十年之久，而拉班却不顾一点亲情，只知在他们的亲戚关系上，图谋一己的利益。他要雅各为他的两个女儿一共服侍他十四年；在以后的几年中，拉班曾十次改变他的工价。但雅各依然为他作勤勉而忠实的服务。他与拉班最后一次会面时所说的话，生动地说明了他为这位苛求的主人已经受了多少劳苦：“我在你家这二十年，你的母绵羊、母山羊，没有掉过胎。你群中的公羊，我没有吃过；被野兽撕裂的，我没有带来给你，是我自己赔上。无论是白日、是黑夜，被偷去的，你都向我索要。我白日受尽干热，黑夜受尽寒霜，不得合眼睡着，我常是这样。”（创31:38-40）[17]{PP 190.1}
§36
For twenty years Jacob remained in Mesopotamia, laboring in the service of Laban, who, disregarding the ties of kinship, was bent upon securing to himself all the benefits of their connection. Fourteen years of toil he demanded for his two daughters; and during the remaining period, Jacobs wages were ten times changed. Yet Jacobs service was diligent and faithful. His words to Laban in their last interview vividly describe the untiring vigilance which he had given to the interests of his exacting master: This twenty years have I been with thee; thy ewes and thy she-goats have not cast their young, and the rams of thy flock have I not eaten. That which was torn of beasts I brought not unto thee; I bare the loss of it; of my hand didst thou require it, whether stolen by day, or stolen by night. Thus I was; in the day the drought consumed me, and the frost by night; and my sleep departed from mine eyes.{PP 190.1}[17]
§37
牧人必须昼夜看守羊群。他们时常有遭遇盗贼和野兽的危险，这些野兽又多又猛，若不忠心守护羊群，往往有大遭蹂躏的可能。雅各虽有许多助手帮他看管拉班极大的羊群；可是他自己要负一切的责任。在一年的某些季节中，他必须亲自经常地看守羊群，在干燥的季节里保护它们不致渴死，在寒冷的几个月中保护他们免被严霜冻坏。雅各自己是牧长，他所雇的仆人是在他手下同作牧人的。如果丢失了羊，牧长是要负担损失的；所以如果发现羊群有不健康的情形，他就把受托照顾羊群的仆人召来，严严地要他们交代。[18]{PP 190.2}
§38
It was necessary for the shepherd to watch his flocks day and night. They were in danger from robbers, and also from wild beasts, which were numerous and bold, often committing great havoc in flocks that were not faithfully guarded. Jacob had many assistants in caring for the extensive flocks of Laban, but he himself was held responsible for them all. During some portions of the year it was necessary for him to be constantly with the flocks in person, to guard them in the dry season against perishing from thirst, and during the coldest months from becoming chilled with the heavy night frosts. Jacob was the chief shepherd; the servants in his employ were the undershepherds. If any of the sheep were missing, the chief shepherd suffered the loss; and he called the servants to whom he entrusted the care of the flock to a strict account if it was not found in a flourishing condition.{PP 190.2}[18]
§39
牧人勤劳细心的生活，和他对照管之下的软弱羊群所有亲切的爱心，曾由受灵感的作者用来讲解福音中最宝贵的真理。基督与他子民的关系也是用牧人的比喻来说明的。在人类堕落之后，基督看到他的羊必要在罪恶的黑暗中灭亡，他就为拯救这些迷失的羊而撇弃了父家的尊贵和荣耀。他说：“失丧的，我必寻找，被逐的，我必领回，受伤的，我必缠裹，有病的，我必医治；”“我必拯救我的群羊不再作掠物。”“地上的野兽，也不再吞吃他们。”（结34:16,22,28）它们已听见他呼唤到他羊圈中来的声音，“白日可以得荫避暑，也可以作为藏身之处，躲避狂风暴雨。”（赛4:6）他对羊群的照顾是警醒不倦的。他坚固软弱的，安慰受苦的，用膀臂聚拢羊羔，抱在怀中。他的羊爱他。“羊不跟着生人，因为不认得他的声音，必要逃跑。”（约10:5）[19]{PP 190.3}
§40
The shepherds life of diligence and care-taking, and his tender compassion for the helpless creatures entrusted to his charge, have been employed by the inspired writers to illustrate some of the most precious truths of the gospel. Christ, in His relation to His people, is compared to a shepherd. After the Fall He saw His sheep doomed to perish in the dark ways of sin. To save these wandering ones He left the honors and glories of His Fathers house. He says, I will seek that which was lost, and bring again that which was driven away, and will bind up that which was broken, and will strengthen that which was sick. I will save My flock, and they shall no more be a prey. Neither shall the beast of the land devour them. Ezekiel 34:16, 22, 28. His voice is heard calling them to His fold, a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain. Isaiah 4:6. His care for the flock is unwearied. He strengthens the weak, relieves the suffering, gathers the lambs in His arms, and carries them in His bosom. His sheep love Him. And a stranger will they not follow, but will flee from him; for they know not the voice of strangers. John 10:5.{PP 190.3}[19]
§41
基督说：“好牧人为羊舍命，若是雇工，不是牧人，羊也不是他自己的，他看见狼来，就撇下羊逃走；狼抓住羊，赶散了羊群。雇工逃走，因他是雇工，并不顾念羊。我是好牧人；我认识我的羊，我的羊也认识我。”（约10:11-14）[20]{PP 191.1}
§42
Christ says, The good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth; and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. I am the Good Shepherd, and know My sheep, and am known of Mine. Verses 11-14.{PP 191.1}[20]
§43
牧长基督已经将看顾他羊群的责任委托给他的传道人，在他手下作牧人；并嘱咐他们要有像他所显示的关心，而且要体会到所托付给他们的责任是何等神圣。他曾严肃地吩咐他们忠心牧养羊群；坚固那些软弱的，鼓舞那些沮丧的，并保护他们脱离豺狼的口。[21]{PP 191.2}
§44
Christ, the Chief Shepherd, has entrusted the care of His flock to His ministers as undershepherds; and He bids them have the same interest that He has manifested, and feel the sacred responsibility of the charge He has entrusted to them. He has solemnly commanded them to be faithful, to feed the flock, to strengthen the weak, to revive the fainting, and to shield them from devouring wolves.{PP 191.2}[21]
§45
基督为要拯救他的羊，曾舍去自己的生命；他要他的牧人以他所表现出的爱心作他们的榜样。但“若是雇工，羊不是他自己的，”对于羊群就没有真正的关心。他工作不过是为自己的利益，只顾自己的好处。他考虑自己的利益，而不考虑他所负责之羊群的幸福；在危难的时候，他就撇下羊群逃跑了。[22]{PP 191.3}
§46
To save His sheep, Christ laid down His own life; and He points His shepherds to the love thus manifested, as their example. But he that is an hireling, . . . whose own the sheep are not, has no real interest in the flock. He is laboring merely for gain, and he cares only for himself. He studies his own profit instead of the interest of his charge; and in time of peril or danger he will flee, and leave the flock.{PP 191.3}[22]
§47
使徒彼得劝勉那些在主手下作牧人的，说：“务要牧养在你们中间上帝的群羊，按着上帝旨意照管他们；不是出于勉强，乃是出于甘心；也不是因为贪财，乃是出于乐意。也不是辖制所托付你们的，乃是作群羊的榜样。”（彼前5:2-3）保罗也说：“圣灵立你们作全群的监督，你们就当为自己谨慎，也为全群谨慎，牧养上帝的教会，就是他用自己血所买来的。我知道我去之后，必有凶暴的豺狼，进入你们中间，不爱惜羊群。”（徒20:28-29）[23]{PP 191.4}
§48
The apostle Peter admonishes the undershepherds: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over Gods heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. 1 Peter 5:2, 3. Paul says, Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood. For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Acts 20:28, 29.{PP 191.4}[23]
§49
凡厌烦忠心牧人对羊群所有的操心和所负的责任之工作的人，正是使徒所责备的：“不是出于勉强，乃是出于甘心；也不是因为贪财，乃是出于乐意。”一切这样不忠心的牧人，牧长必不留用。基督的教会是由他自己的宝血所买来的，每一个牧人应当认清在他照管之下的羊群，是由无限的牺牲代价所赎来的。他应该视每一只羊为无价之宝，并应以不倦的努力保守它们的健康和兴旺。凡受基督精神感召的牧人，必要效法他克己的榜样，经常地为羊群的幸福而工作；这样，羊群在他的照管之下就必兴旺起来。[24]{PP 192.1}
§50
All who regard as an unwelcome task the care and burdens that fall to the lot of the faithful shepherd, are reproved by the apostle: Not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind. 1 Peter 5:2. All such unfaithful servants the Chief Shepherd would willingly release. The church of Christ has been purchased with His blood, and every shepherd should realize that the sheep under his care cost an infinite sacrifice. He should regard them each as of priceless worth, and should be unwearied in his efforts to keep them in a healthy, flourishing condition. The shepherd who is imbued with the spirit of Christ will imitate His self-denying example, constantly laboring for the welfare of his charge; and the flock will prosper under his care.{PP 192.1}[24]
§51
人人都要为自己的服务作详细的交代。主人必要质问每一个牧人说：“先前赐给你的群众，就是你佳美的群众，如今在哪里呢？”（耶13:20）那忠心的必可得到丰富的赏赐，使徒说：“到了牧长显现的时候，你们必得那永不衰残的荣耀冠冕。”（彼前5:4）[25]{PP 192.2}
§52
All will be called to render a strict account of their ministry. The Master will demand of every shepherd, Where is the flock that was given thee, thy beautiful flock? Jeremiah 13:20. He that is found faithful, will receive a rich reward. When the Chief Shepherd shall appear, says the apostle, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. 1 Peter 5:4.{PP 192.2}[25]
§53
当雅各服侍拉班渐渐感到厌烦的时候，他就打算回迦南去。他对岳父说道：“请打发我走，叫我回到我本乡本土去。请你把我服侍你所得的妻子和儿女给我，让我走；我怎样服侍你，你都知道。”但拉班竭力地劝他留下说：“因为我已算定，耶和华赐福与我，是为你的缘故。”（创30:25-27）他看出财产在女婿的照料之下，是不断地增加了。[26]{PP 192.3}
§54
When Jacob, growing weary of Labans service, proposed to return to Canaan, he said to his father-in-law, Send me away, that I may go unto mine own place, and to my country. Give me my wives and my children, for whom I have served thee, and let me go: for thou knowest my service which I have done thee. But Laban urged him to remain, declaring, I have learned by experience that the Lord hath blessed me for thy sake. He saw that his property was increasing under the care of his son-in-law.{PP 192.3}[26]
§55
雅各说：“我未来之先，你所有的很少，现今却发大众多。”（创30:30）但是时间一天天地过去，“雅各极其发大，得了许多的羊群、仆婢、骆驼和驴。”（创30:43）拉班因雅各的财产比他还多，就起了妒忌的心，他的众子也是如此；他们尖刻的话语雅各时有所闻。他们说：“雅各把我们父亲所有的都夺了去，并借着我们父亲的，得了这一切的荣耀。雅各见拉班的气色向他不如从前了。”（见创31:1-2）[27]{PP 192.4}
§56
Said Jacob, It was little which thou hadst before I came, and it is now increased unto a multitude. But as time passed on, Laban became envious of the greater prosperity of Jacob, who increased exceedingly, and had much cattle, and maidservants, and menservants, and camels, and asses. Labans sons shared their fathers jealousy, and their malicious speeches came to Jacobs ears: He hath taken away all that was our fathers, and of that which was our fathers hath he gotten all this glory. And Jacob beheld the countenance of Laban, and, behold, it was not toward him as before.{PP 192.4}[27]
§57
若不是因为怕见以扫，雅各早就离开这个奸猾的亲戚了。如今他觉得自己在拉班的众子当中不甚安全，因为他们看他的财富如自己的一般，可能会用暴力从他手中夺去。所以他忧愁困惑，左右为难，正不知如何是好。但是他想起了上帝在伯特利所发的慈悲应许，就把这事交托上帝，并求问他的指示。他在梦中蒙上帝答应他的祷告，说：“你要回你祖你父之地，到你亲族那里去，我必与你同在。”[28]{PP 193.1}
§58
Jacob would have left his crafty kinsman long before but for the fear of encountering Esau. Now he felt that he was in danger from the sons of Laban, who, looking upon his wealth as their own, might endeavor to secure it by violence. He was in great perplexity and distress, not knowing which way to turn. But mindful of the gracious Bethel promise, he carried his case to God, and sought direction from Him. In a dream his prayer was answered: Return unto the land of thy fathers, and to thy kindred; and I will be with thee.{PP 193.1}[28]
§59
当时拉班不在家，就使他们有了逃跑的机会。雅各就赶紧聚集羊群牛群，并带着妻子、儿女、仆人，过了大河，向迦南的边界基列山而行。到了第三天，拉班知道他们逃跑，就带人去追赶，追了七天就追上了。拉班暴跳如雷，决心要逼着他们回去，他深信自己必能作到这一步，因为他所带的人比他们强大多了。所以这些逃亡者实在是处于极大的危险之中。[29]{PP 193.2}
§60
Labans absence afforded opportunity for departure. The flocks and herds were speedily gathered and sent forward, and with his wives, children, and servants, Jacob crossed the Euphrates, urging his way toward Gilead, on the borders of Canaan. After three days Laban learned of their flight, and set forth in pursuit, overtaking the company on the seventh day of their journey. He was hot with anger, and bent on forcing them to return, which he doubted not he could do, since his band was much the stronger. The fugitives were indeed in great peril.{PP 193.2}[29]
§61
拉班没有实行他敌对的计划是因为上帝亲自干涉，保护了他的仆人。拉班对雅各说：“我手中原有能力害你，只是你父亲的上帝昨夜对我说：你要小心，不可与雅各说好说歹。”这意思就是说，他不可以用威力强迫，或者用谄媚的话诱雅各回去。[30]{PP 193.3}
§62
That he did not carry out his hostile purpose was due to the fact that God Himself had interposed for the protection of His servant. It is in the power of my hand to do you hurt, said Laban, but the God of your father spake unto me yesternight, saying, Take thou heed that thou speak not to Jacob either good or bad; that is, he should not force him to return, or urge him by flattering inducements.{PP 193.3}[30]
§63
拉班曾经扣留了他两个女儿的嫁妆，并经常地用奸滑和苛刻的手段对待雅各；如今还是用一贯的虚伪，责备雅各这次暗暗的逃跑，使作父亲的没有机会为他们饯行，连与女儿和外孙话别的机会也没有。[31]{PP 193.4}
§64
Laban had withheld the marriage dowry of his daughters and had ever treated Jacob with craft and harshness; but with characteristic dissimulation he now reproached him for his secret departure, which had given the father no opportunity to make a parting feast or even to bid farewell to his daughters and their children.{PP 193.4}[31]
§65
雅各回答的时候，清楚地说明拉班自私贪婪的作风，并说自己的忠诚也是拉班所知道的。雅各说：“若不是我父亲以撒所敬畏的上帝，就是亚伯拉罕的上帝与我同在，你如今必定打发我空手而去，上帝看见我的苦情和我的劳碌，就在昨夜责备你。”[32]{PP 193.5}
§66
In reply Jacob plainly set forth Labans selfish and grasping policy, and appealed to him as a witness to his own faithfulness and honesty. Except the God of my father, the God of Abraham, and the fear of Isaac, had been with me, said Jacob, surely thou hadst sent me away now empty. God hath seen mine affliction, and the labor of my hands, and rebuked thee yesternight.{PP 193.5}[32]
§67
拉班不能否认雅各所提出的事实，他建议现在彼此立一个和平的约。雅各同意了，于是他们堆石头作为盟约的纪念。拉班称那石堆为米斯巴，说：“我们彼此离别以后，愿耶和华在你我中间监察。”[33]{PP 193.6}
§68
Laban could not deny the facts brought forward, and he now proposed to enter into a covenant of peace. Jacob consented to the proposal, and a pile of stones was erected as a token of the compact. To this pillar Laban gave the name Mizpah, watchtower, saying, The Lord watch between me and thee, when we are absent one from another.{PP 193.6}[33]
§69
“拉班又说：你看我在你我中间所立的这石堆和柱子；这石堆作证据，这柱子也作证据，我必不过这石堆去害你，你也不可过这石堆和柱子来害我；但愿亚伯拉罕的上帝和拿鹤的上帝，就是他们父亲的上帝，在你我中间判断；雅各就指着他父亲以撒所敬畏的上帝起誓。”为了坚定所立的约，他们就举行了一次宴会。这一夜在友好的气氛中过去了；次日黎明，拉班和他所带来的人就回去了。这一次的分别，就终止了亚伯拉罕的子孙与米所波大米人的一切来往。[34]{PP 194.1}
§70
And Laban said to Jacob, Behold this heap, and behold this pillar, which I have cast betwixt me and thee; this heap be witness, and this pillar be witness, that I will not pass over this heap to thee, and that thou shalt not pass over this heap and this pillar unto me, for harm. The God of Abraham, and the God of Nahor, the God of their father, judge betwixt us. And Jacob sware by the fear of his father Isaac. To confirm the treaty, the parties held a feast. The night was spent in friendly communing; and at the dawn of day, Laban and his company departed. With this separation ceased all trace of connection between the children of Abraham and the dwellers in Mesopotamia.{PP 194.1}[34]