第38章 绕过以东地
§1
第38章 绕过以东地
§2
Chap. 38 - The Journey Around
§3
以色列人在加低斯的营盘离以东的边界不远，摩西和百姓都很希望能经以东往应许之地去；因此他们照着上帝所指示的，差遣使者去见以东王说：[1]{PP 422.1}
§4
Edom The encampment of Israel at Kadesh was but a short distance from the borders of Edom, and both Moses and the people greatly desired to follow the route through this country to the Promised Land; accordingly they sent a message, as God had directed them, to the Edomite king--{PP 422.1}[1]
§5
“你的弟兄以色列人这样说：我们所遭遇的一切艰难，就是我们的列祖下到埃及，我们在埃及久住；埃及人恶待我们的列祖和我们。我们哀求耶和华的时候，他听了我们的声音，差遣使者把我们从埃及领出来，这事你都知道；如今我们在你边界上的城加低斯。求你容我们从你的地经过，我们不走田间和葡萄园，也不喝井里的水；只走大道不偏左右，直到过了你的境界。”（民20:14-20）[2]{PP 422.2}
§6
Thus saith thy brother Israel, Thou knowest all the travail that hath befallen us: how our fathers went down into Egypt, and we have dwelt in Egypt a long time; and the Egyptians vexed us, and our fathers: and when we cried unto the Lord, He heard our voice, and sent an Angel, and hath brought us forth out of Egypt: and, behold, we are in Kadesh, a city in the uttermost of thy border. Let us pass, I pray thee, through thy country: we will not pass through the fields, or through the vineyards, neither will we drink of the water of the wells: we will go by the kings highway, we will not turn to the right hand nor to the left, until we have passed thy borders.{PP 422.2}[2]
§7
以东王却以威吓的话拒绝了这很有礼貌的请求。说：“你不可从我的地经过，免得我带刀出去攻击你。”[3]{PP 422.3}
§8
To this courteous request a threatening refusal was returned: Thou shalt not pass by me, lest I come out against thee with the sword.{PP 422.3}[3]
§9
以色列人的领袖们对于这拒绝的话甚是惊异，就再打发人去要求以东王，并且应许说：“我们要走大道上去；我们和牲畜若喝你的水，必给你价值；不求别的，只求你容我们步行过去。”[4]{PP 422.4}
§10
Surprised at this repulse, the leaders of Israel sent a second appeal to the king, with the promise, We will go by the highway: and if I and my cattle drink of thy water, then I will pay for it: I will only, without doing anything else, go through on my feet.{PP 422.4}[4]
§11
回答是：“你们不可经过。”同时，以东人的军队已经驻守在各要道口上，所以希伯来人要在那条路上平安的经过已经是不可能的了。上帝不准他们采用武力；因此，他们必须跋涉长途，绕过以东地而行了。[5]{PP 422.5}
§12
Thou shalt not go through, was the answer. Armed bands of Edomites were already posted at the difficult passes, so that any peaceful advance in that direction was impossible, and the Hebrews were forbidden to resort to force. They must make the long journey around the land of Edom.{PP 422.5}[5]
§13
百姓在遇到试炼的时候若能信靠上帝。耶和华军队的元帅就必引领他们经过以东地，那地的居民必要惧怕他们，不向他们表示敌意，反而要款待他们了。可惜以色列人当时没有照上帝的话采取及时的行动，正当他们诉苦埋怨的时候，他们的黄金机会就过去了。及至他们到最后才准备向以东王提出要求时，就被他拒绝了，自从他们离开埃及以来，撒但一直是在路上拦阻他们，试探他们，要使他们不能承受迦南地为业。而且以色列人因自己的不信，也曾屡次打开门路，让撒但来抗拒上帝的旨意。[6]{PP 422.6}
§14
Had the people, when brought into trial, trusted in God, the Captain of the Lords host would have led them through Edom, and the fear of them would have rested upon the inhabitants of the land, so that, instead of manifesting hostility, they would have shown them favor. But the Israelites did not act promptly upon Gods word, and while they were complaining and murmuring, the golden opportunity passed. When they were at last ready to present their request to the king, it was refused. Ever since they left Egypt, Satan had been steadily at work to throw hindrances and temptations in their way, that they might not inherit Canaan. And by their own unbelief they had repeatedly opened the door for him to resist the purpose of God.{PP 422.6}[6]
§15
我们必须趁着上帝的天使正在等待着要为我们作工的时候，笃信上帝的话，并及时地遵行，这是非常重要的。因为有恶使者要阻挠我们的每一步进展。当上帝嘱咐他的子民前进，当他正要为他们施行大事的时候，撒但就要叫他们迟疑耽延，使上帝不悦；他要惹起分争，或引起怨言和不信，这样他就使他们得不到上帝所要赐的福惠。上帝的仆人应当作眼明手快的人，上帝一开了路，就应当随时采取迅速的行动。他们的任何迟误，必给撒但进行击败他们的机会。[7]{PP 423.1}
§16
It is important to believe Gods word and act upon it promptly, while His angels are waiting to work for us. Evil angels are ready to contest every step of advance. And when Gods providence bids His children go forward, when He is ready to do great things for them, Satan tempts them to displease the Lord by hesitation and delay; he seeks to kindle a spirit of strife or to arouse murmuring or unbelief, and thus deprive them of the blessings that God desired to bestow. Gods servants should be minutemen, ever ready to move as fast as His providence opens the way. And delay on their part gives time for Satan to work to defeat them.{PP 423.1}[7]
§17
关于以色列人经过以东地的事，在耶和华起先给摩西的指示中，他一方面说明以东人必要惧怕以色列人，但同时不许他的百姓利用这机会去攻打以东人。因为上帝的能力是要帮助以色列人的，而且以东人的惧怕很容易使他们被蹂躏，所以希伯来人不可因此就侵略他们。那给他们的命令是：“你们要分外谨慎，不可与他们争战；他们的地，连脚掌可踏之处，我都不给你们；因为我已将西耳山赐给以扫为业。”（申2:4-5）以东人也是亚伯拉罕和以撒的后裔，所以上帝为了他这两个仆人的缘故，就向以扫的子孙施恩。他已将西珥山赐给他们为业，所以现在不容许人搅扰他们，除非他们因自己的罪而置身于上帝的怜悯之外，希伯来人要夺取迦南地，并完全毁灭其中的居民，是因迦南人已经恶贯满盈；但以东人还在试验期间，所以要受恩慈的待遇。上帝喜欢施恩，而且在降罚之前，总要先显示他的慈爱。他在吩咐以色列人毁灭迦南的居民之前，先教训他们宽宥以东的百姓。[8]{PP 423.2}
§18
In the directions first given to Moses concerning their passage through Edom, after declaring that the Edomites should be afraid of Israel, the Lord had forbidden His people to make use of this advantage against them. Because the power of God was engaged for Israel, and the fears of the Edomites would make them an easy prey, the Hebrews were not therefore to prey upon them. The command given them was, Take ye good heed unto yourselves therefore: meddle not with them; for I will not give you of their land, no, not so much as a foot breadth; because I have given Mount Seir unto Esau for a possession. Deuteronomy 2:4, 5. The Edomites were descendants of Abraham and Isaac, and for the sake of these His servants, God had shown favor to the children of Esau. He had given them Mount Seir for a possession, and they were not to be disturbed unless by their sins they should place themselves beyond the reach of His mercy. The Hebrews were to dispossess and utterly destroy the inhabitants of Canaan, who had filled up the measure of their iniquity but the Edomites were still probationers, and as such were to be mercifully dealt with. God delights in mercy, and He manifests His compassion before He inflicts His judgments. He teaches Israel to spare the people of Edom, before requiring them to destroy the inhabitants of Canaan.{PP 423.2}[8]
§19
以东和以色列人的祖先原是弟兄，所以他们二族之间应当保持弟兄般的友爱和礼貌。上帝不准以色列人在当时或以后的任何时机，因以东人拒绝他们经过而进行报复。他们不可企图占领以东任何部分的地土。以色列人固然是蒙上帝拣选和眷爱的子民，但是他们务须注意上帝所给他们的限制。上帝已应许给他们一个美好的基业；但他们不可认为在地上是唯我独尊，以致想把其他的民族都排挤出去。上帝指示他们在与以东人的一切来往中，不可亏待他们。以色列人要用现金向以东人购买必需的用品。为鼓励以色列人信靠上帝并顺从他的话起见，上帝又提醒他们说：“耶和华你的上帝……已赐福与你；……故此你一无所缺。”他们并不需要依靠以东人；因为他们有一位资源丰富的上帝与他们同在。他们不可用强暴或欺诈的手段取得属于以东人的任何物件；却要在他们一切的交往上显出神圣律法的原则；“爱邻舍如同自己。”[9]{PP 424.1}
§20
The ancestors of Edom and Israel were brothers, and brotherly kindness and courtesy should exist between them. The Israelites were forbidden, either then or at any future time, to revenge the affront given them in the refusal of passage through the land. They must not expect to possess any part of the land of Edom. While the Israelites were the chosen and favored people of God, they must heed the restrictions which He placed upon them. God had promised them a goodly inheritance; but they were not to feel that they alone had any rights in the earth, and seek to crowd out all others. They were directed, in all their intercourse with the Edomites, to beware of doing them injustice. They were to trade with them, buying such supplies as were needed, and promptly paying for all they received. As an encouragement to Israel to trust in God and obey His word they were reminded, The Lord thy God hath blessed thee; . . . thou hast lacked nothing. Deuteronomy 2:7. They were not dependent upon the Edomites, for they had a God rich in resources. They must not by force or fraud seek to obtain anything pertaining to them; but in all their intercourse they should exemplify the principle of the divine law, Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.{PP 424.1}[9]
§21
如果以色列人能这样照着上帝的旨意经过以东地，就证明不仅是自己行程上的便利，而也能为该地的居民造福；因为必能给他们认识上帝子民的机会，认识对上帝的敬拜，并看出雅各的上帝怎样使那些敬畏他爱他的人凡事亨通。可惜因以色列人的不信，这一切都没有实现。上帝固然曾因他子民的吵闹而给了他们水喝，但他还是让他们自食其不信的后果。他们必须再经过旷野，并靠那神奇的水泉解渴。原来他们若能信靠上帝的话，他们就不再需要这样跋涉了。[10]{PP 424.2}
§22
Had they in this manner passed through Edom, as God had purposed, the passage would have proved a blessing, not only to themselves, but to the inhabitants of the land; for it would have given them an opportunity to become acquainted with Gods people and His worship and to witness how the God of Jacob prospered those who loved and feared Him. But all this the unbelief of Israel had prevented. God had given the people water in answer to their clamors, but He permitted their unbelief to work out its punishment. Again they must traverse the desert and quench their thirst from the miraculous spring, which, had they but trusted in Him, they would no longer have needed.{PP 424.2}[10]
§23
于是以色列的全军又转向南边去，旅行不毛的荒野；在他们望见以东山谷的碧绿景色之后，这沙漠地就更显得荒凉了。在这一片荒芜沙漠边缘的山脉上，有何珥山巍然屹立，山的绝顶将要作为亚伦逝世和埋葬之地。当以色列人来到这山时，上帝命令摩西说：[11]{PP 424.3}
§24
Accordingly the hosts of Israel again turned toward the south, and made their way over sterile wastes, that seemed even more dreary after a glimpse of the green spots among the hills and valleys of Edom. From the mountain range overlooking this gloomy desert, rises Mount Hor, whose summit was to be the place of Aarons death and burial. When the Israelites came to this mountain, the divine command was addressed to Moses-- {PP 424.3}[11]
§25
“你带亚伦，和他的儿子以利亚撒上何珥山；把亚伦的圣衣脱下来，给他的儿子以利亚撒穿上，亚伦必死在那里归他列祖。”[12]{PP 425.1}
§26
Take Aaron and Eleazar his son, and bring them up unto Mount Hor: and strip Aaron of his garments, and put them upon Eleazar his son: and Aaron shall be gathered unto his people, and shall die there.{PP 425.1}[12]
§27
这两个年迈的老人和那一个比较年轻的人，一同辛苦地攀登到高山之上，这时摩西和亚伦已经因一百二十年的风霜而须发皆白了。他们那漫长而多事的人生中的沉重考验和无上尊崇，是一般世人所从来未曾经受过的。他们是富有天才的人，而且他们曾借着与那无穷之主交往，使自己的才能发展，提高，荣耀。他们已经尽了一生的光阴，为上帝和他们的同胞作无私的服务；他们脸上显出卓越的才力、坚定而高尚的意志和热忱的爱心。[13]{PP 425.2}
§28
Together these two aged men and the younger one toiled up the mountain height. The heads of Moses and Aaron were white with the snows of sixscore winters. Their long and eventful lives had been marked with the deepest trials and the greatest honors that had ever fallen to the lot of man. They were men of great natural ability, and all their powers had been developed, exalted, and dignified by communion with the Infinite One. Their life had been spent in unselfish labor for God and their fellow men; their countenances gave evidence of great intellectual power, firmness and nobility of purpose, and strong affections.{PP 425.2}[13]
§29
多年以来，摩西和亚伦曾并肩担负他们的责任和工作。他们曾共同冒无数的危险，也曾共享上帝显著的恩惠；可是，如今他们快要分离了。他们缓缓地行去，因为他们每一分钟的交契都是可贵的。上山的路异常险峻难登；每当他们停下来休息时，他们就谈论过去和未来的事。在他们所望见的遥远的天边，乃是他们多年在那里飘流的旷野；山下平原上驻扎着以色列人慢无边际的营盘；为了以色列人，这两位蒙上帝特选的人已经费了一生宝贵的光阴；他们对以色列人的幸福，感到多么深切的关怀，并曾付出多么重大的牺牲。他们明知在以东山地有一条通到应许之地的路径，可是那地的福分，摩西和亚伦都不得享受。然而这两个人心中没有起一点的反感，口中没有发一句埋怨的话；只是当他们想起不能继承列祖之基业时，脸上就不禁表露沉默的悲痛。[14]{PP 425.3}
§30
Many years Moses and Aaron had stood side by side in their cares and labors. Together they had breasted unnumbered dangers, and had shared together the signal blessing of God; but the time was at hand when they must be separated. They moved on very slowly, for every moment in each others society was precious. The ascent was steep and toilsome; and as they often paused to rest, they communed together of the past and the future. Before them, as far as the eye could reach, was spread out the scene of their desert wanderings. In the plain below were encamped the vast hosts of Israel, for whom these chosen men had spent the best portion of their lives; for whose welfare they had felt so deep an interest, and made so great sacrifices. Somewhere beyond the mountains of Edom was the path leading to the Promised Land--that land whose blessings Moses and Aaron were not to enjoy. No rebellious feelings found a place in their hearts, no expression of murmuring escaped their lips; yet a solemn sadness rested upon their countenances as they remembered what had debarred them from the inheritance of their fathers.{PP 425.3}[14]
§31
亚伦为以色列人所作的工已经作完了；四十年前，在他八十三岁的时候，上帝曾呼召他与摩西共担那伟大而重要的使命。他曾在引领以色列人出埃及的事上与他的兄弟合作。当希伯来的军队攻击亚玛力人时，他曾扶着这位大领袖摩西的手。他曾蒙准登西奈山就近上帝，瞻仰神圣的荣耀。耶和华也曾把祭司的职任授予他的家，并曾以大祭司的圣职尊荣他。上帝也曾在毁灭可拉和他同党的事上，以他可怕的刑罚来显明他支持亚伦神圣的职分。那时瘟疫的停止乃是因了亚伦的代求。当他两个儿子因不顾上帝明显的吩咐而被杀时，他没有反抗，也没有发一句怨言。然而他高贵的生活史是有污点的，当他屈从百姓的要挟，在西奈山造一个金牛犊时，他曾犯了严重的罪；他与米利暗一起嫉妒并毁谤摩西时，他又犯了一次罪。以后，他与摩西在加低斯违背了吩咐磐石出水的命令，再一次得罪了耶和华。[15]{PP 425.4}
§32
Aarons work for Israel was done. Forty years before, at the age of eighty-three, God had called him to unite with Moses in his great and important mission. He had co-operated with his brother in leading the children of Israel from Egypt. He had held up the great leaders hands when the Hebrew hosts gave battle to Amalek. He had been permitted to ascend Mount Sinai, to approach into the presence of God, and to behold the divine glory. The Lord had conferred upon the family of Aaron the office of the priesthood, and had honored him with the sacred consecration of high priest. He had sustained him in the holy office by the terrible manifestations of divine judgment in the destruction of Korah and his company. It was through Aarons intercession that the plague was stayed. When his two sons were slain for disregarding Gods express command, he did not rebel or even murmur. Yet the record of his noble life had been marred. Aaron committed a grievous sin when he yielded to the clamors of the people and made the golden calf at Sinai; and again, when he united with Miriam in envy and murmuring against Moses. And he, with Moses, offended the Lord at Kadesh by disobeying the command to speak to the rock that it might give forth its water.{PP 425.4}[15]
§33
上帝的意思原来是要他百姓的这两位领袖作基督的代表。亚伦胸前佩戴着以色列支派的名字。他曾把上帝的旨意传达给百姓。他曾在赎罪日进入至圣所，“没有不带着血，”作全以色列会众的中保。他曾从至圣所里出来为会众祝福，正如基督为他子民完成救赎工作之后也要出来为他们祝福一样。正因这代表我们尊荣大祭司的圣职有那么伟大的意义，所以亚伦在加低斯的罪才显得那么严重。[16]{PP 426.1}
§34
God intended that these great leaders of His people should be representatives of Christ. Aaron bore the names of Israel upon his breast. He communicated to the people the will of God. He entered the most holy place on the Day of Atonement, not without blood, as a mediator for all Israel. He came forth from that work to bless the congregation, as Christ will come forth to bless His waiting people when His work of atonement in their behalf shall be ended. It was the exalted character of that sacred office as representative of our great High Priest that made Aarons sin at Kadesh of so great magnitude.{PP 426.1}[16]
§35
摩西极其忧伤地脱下亚伦的圣衣，给以利亚撒穿上，于是以利亚撒受上帝的委派，接续亚伦的工作。亚伦因在加低斯犯罪，所以丧失了在迦南地作上帝大祭司的特权，就是在美好之地奉献第一次的祭物，借以使以色列的产业成圣。摩西还要担负他领百姓到迦南边界的责任。他要看见应许之地，却不得进去。如果上帝的这两个仆人在加低斯的磐石前，能毫无怨言地忍受了那临到他们身上的考验，他们的前途将是何等的不同啊！真所谓一失足成千古恨；一生的工作也不能挽回片时的鲁莽或失败啊。[17]{PP 426.2}
§36
With deep sorrow Moses removed from Aaron the holy vestments, and placed them upon Eleazar, who thus became his successor by divine appointment. For his sin at Kadesh, Aaron was denied the privilege of officiating as Gods high priest in Canaan--of offering the first sacrifice in the goodly land, and thus consecrating the inheritance of Israel. Moses was to continue to bear his burden in leading the people to the very borders of Canaan. He was to come within sight of the Promised Land, but was not to enter it. Had these servants of God, when they stood before the rock at Kadesh, borne unmurmuringly the test there brought upon them, how different would have been their future! A wrong act can never be undone. It may be that the work of a lifetime will not recover what has been lost in a single moment of temptation or even thoughtlessness.{PP 426.2}[17]
§37
这两位伟大的领袖离开营盘，而且带着以利亚撒同去，这件事引起了百姓的疑惧；因为百姓深知以利亚撒是要继承亚伦之圣职的，所以他们焦急地等待着。当百姓周围观看那广大的会众时，他们才注意到，一切从埃及出来的成年人几乎都已死在旷野了。他们回忆到上帝惩罚摩西和亚伦的判决，大家就感觉是不祥之兆。有一些人看出了那三个人往何珥山去的目的，而且他们由于痛苦的回忆和自责，就更加为他们的领袖担心了。[18]{PP 426.3}
§38
The absence from the camp of the two great leaders, and the fact that they had been accompanied by Eleazar, who, it was well known, was to be Aarons successor in holy office, awakened a feeling of apprehension, and their return was anxiously awaited. As the people looked about them, upon their vast congregation, they saw that nearly all the adults who left Egypt had perished in the wilderness. All felt a foreboding of evil as they remembered the sentence pronounced against Moses and Aaron. Some were aware of the object of that mysterious journey to the summit of Mount Hor, and their solicitude for their leaders was heightened by bitter memories and self-accusings.{PP 426.3}[18]
§39
最后百姓看见摩西和以利亚撒慢慢地从山坡上下来了；但亚伦并没有和他们同回。以利亚撒穿着祭司的衣服，表明他已承受了他父亲的圣职。当百姓带着沉重的心情围着他们的领袖时，摩西就告诉他们，亚伦已经在何珥山死在他的怀中，并且已经埋葬在那里。于是会众放声号啕痛哭，涕零举哀；虽然他们曾多次令他忧伤，可是他们都爱亚伦。“全会众……都为亚伦哀哭了三十天。”（民20:29）[19]{PP 427.1}
§40
The forms of Moses and Eleazar were at last discerned, slowly descending the mountainside, but Aaron was not with them. Upon Eleazar were the sacerdotal garments, showing that he had succeeded his father in the sacred office. As the people with heavy hearts gathered about their leader, Moses told them that Aaron had died in his arms upon Mount Hor, and that they there buried him. The congregation broke forth in mourning and lamentation, for they all loved Aaron, though they had so often caused him sorrow. They mourned for Aaron thirty days, even all the house of Israel.{PP 427.1}[19]
§41
关于以色列人大祭司的埋葬，《圣经》中只有简单的记载，说：“亚伦死在那里，就葬在那里。”（申10:6）这一次，依着上帝明确的命令所举行的葬礼，与今日的风俗是一个何等鲜明的对照啊！近世为显要之人举行葬礼。往往大事铺张，奢侈炫耀。但当世上最有名望之人亚伦逝世的时候，只有他两个最亲近的人给他治丧，参与他的葬礼。而且那何珥山孤寂的坟墓，以色列人却永远没有见到。世人常为死人举行隆重的丧礼，为一个死人归回尘土而浪费巨额的金钱，但这并不能荣耀上帝啊。[20]{PP 427.2}
§42
Concerning the burial of Israels high priest, the Scriptures give only the simple record, There Aaron died, and there he was buried. Deuteronomy 10:6. In what striking contrast to the customs of the present day was this burial, conducted according to the express command of God. In modern times the funeral services of a man of high position are often made the occasion of ostentatious and extravagant display. When Aaron died, one of the most illustrious men that ever lived, there were only two of his nearest friends to witness his death and to attend his burial. And that lonely grave upon Mount Hor was forever hidden from the sight of Israel. God is not honored in the great display so often made over the dead, and the extravagant expense incurred in returning their bodies to the dust.{PP 427.2}[20]
§43
全会众都为亚伦悲哀，但他们总不能像摩西一样，深深地感到这一个损失。亚伦的死，大大地警醒了摩西，他自己的死期也快到了；但他留在世上的日子虽然很短，他却深觉自己缺少了一个经常在身边的伴侣，那么多年和他甘苦同尝，休戚与共的亚伦。现在摩西必须单独地继续工作；然而他知道上帝是他的良友，所以他越发牢牢地依靠着上帝。[21]{PP 427.3}
§44
The whole congregation sorrowed for Aaron, yet they could not feel the loss so keenly as did Moses. The death of Aaron forcibly reminded Moses that his own end was near; but short as the time of his stay on earth must be, he deeply felt the loss of his constant companion--the one who had shared his joys and sorrows, his hopes and fears, for so many long years. Moses must now continue the work alone; but he knew that God was his friend, and upon Him he leaned more heavily.{PP 427.3}[21]
§45
以色列人离开何珥山之后不久，与一个迦南王亚拉得争战时遭到失败。但当他们恳切祈求上帝帮助之后，上帝应允了他们，仇敌就被他们击败了。这一次的胜利不但没有使他们生出感谢的心，及感觉自己必须依靠上帝，反而使他们自夸自恃。不久他们又显出发怨言的老习气来了。这时他们想起四十年前，以色列军队在听取探子的报告背叛之后，上帝没有准许他们立刻去攻取迦南，所以他们觉得很不满意。他们声称这长期在旷野的飘流，乃是无谓的延搁；他们认为自己从前原可以很容易地战胜他们的仇敌，正如今日一样。[22]{PP 427.4}
§46
Soon after leaving Mount Hor the Israelites suffered defeat in an engagement with Arad, one of the Canaanite kings. But as they earnestly sought help from God, divine aid was granted them, and their enemies were routed. This victory, instead of inspiring gratitude and leading the people to feel their dependence upon God, made them boastful and self-confident. Soon they fell into the old habit of murmuring. They were now dissatisfied because the armies of Israel had not been permitted to advance upon Canaan immediately after their rebellion at the report of the spies nearly forty years before. They pronounced their long sojourn in the wilderness an unnecessary delay, reasoning that they might have conquered their enemies as easily heretofore as now.{PP 427.4}[22]
§47
当他们继续向南行去时，他们经过了一个燥热多沙的山谷，既无荫凉，又无水草。路程似乎又长又难，他们甚是疲劳干渴，于是他们又不能忍受信心和忍耐的试验了。只因他们时常注意自己经验上消极的一面，所以就把自己与上帝隔离得越来越远了。他们忘记了，若是在加低斯断水的时候不发怨言，他们就不必绕过以东。原来上帝已定意为他们作更美的事。上帝对他们的罪既施以很轻的刑罚，他们就该对他充满感激的心。但他们不但没有这样行，反倒自诩说，若不是上帝和摩西干涉，他们此时可能早已承受应许之地了。原来他们自己所招来的困难，会使他们的命运比上帝所计划的更加艰苦，而今他们还要把这一切的不幸都归罪于他。这样，他们就对上帝的处置怀着满腹的牢骚，终于对一切的事都感觉不满。依他们看来，在埃及竟比获得自由和上帝领他们去得之地更有前途，更为可羡。[23]{PP 428.1}
§48
As they continued their journey toward the south, their route lay through a hot, sandy valley, destitute of shade or vegetation. The way seemed long and difficult, and they suffered from weariness and thirst. Again they failed to endure the test of their faith and patience. By continually dwelling on the dark side of their experiences, they separated themselves farther and farther from God. They lost sight of the fact that but for their murmuring when the water ceased at Kadesh, they would have been spared the journey around Edom. God had purposed better things for them. Their hearts should have been filled with gratitude to Him that He had punished their sin so lightly. But instead of this, they flattered themselves that if God and Moses had not interfered, they might now have been in possession of the Promised Land. After bringing trouble upon themselves, making their lot altogether harder than God designed, they charged all their misfortunes upon Him. Thus they cherished bitter thoughts concerning His dealings with them, and finally they became discontented with everything. Egypt looked brighter and more desirable than liberty and the land to which God was leading them.{PP 428.1}[23]
§49
当以色列人放任不满的情绪时，他们甚至于在所得的福惠上也找起错来了。“百姓……就怨渎上帝和摩西，说：你们为什么把我们从埃及领出来，使我们死在旷野呢？这里没有粮，没有水，我们的心厌恶这淡薄的食物。”（民21:5）[24]{PP 428.2}
§50
As the Israelites indulged the spirit of discontent, they were disposed to find fault even with their blessings. And the people spake against God, and against Moses, Wherefore have ye brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? for there is no bread, neither is there any water; and our soul loatheth this light bread.{PP 428.2}[24]
§51
摩西忠实地向百姓说明他们的大罪。并说明唯有上帝的能力，才能保守他们经过那“大而可怕的旷野。那里有火蛇、蝎子、干旱无水之地。”（申8:15）在他们的行程中，他们每天都蒙上帝慈爱的神迹所保护。在上帝所引领的一切道路上，他们有水可以解渴，有天上降下来的粮可以充饥，日间有云柱的荫凉荫凉，夜间有火柱的光照，安慰并保护他们。当他们攀登高山或穿过旷野中的险路时，有天使护送他们。虽然忍受了种种的困难，但他们中间却没有一个人是衰弱的。在他们漫长的行程中，他们的脚没有肿，衣服也没有破。上帝在他们面前制服了森林与旷野中的猛兽和毒虫。他们既有了这一切上帝慈爱的表征，而还要不断地发怨言，那么，耶和华就要撤回他的保护，直到他们能感激他慈爱的照顾，而痛悔自卑地归向他为止。[25]{PP 428.3}
§52
Moses faithfully set before the people their great sin. It was Gods power alone that had preserved them in that great and terrible wilderness, wherein were fiery serpents, and scorpions, and drought, where there was no water. Deuteronomy 8:15. Every day of their travels they had been kept by a miracle of divine mercy. In all the way of Gods leading they had found water to refresh the thirsty, bread from heaven to satisfy their hunger, and peace and safety under the shadowy cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night. Angels had ministered to them as they climbed the rocky heights or threaded the rugged paths of the wilderness. Notwithstanding the hardships they had endured, there was not a feeble one in all their ranks. Their feet had not swollen in their long journeys, neither had their clothes grown old. God had subdued before them the fierce beasts of prey and the venomous reptiles of the forest and the desert. If with all these tokens of His love the people still continued to complain, the Lord would withdraw His protection until they should be led to appreciate His merciful care, and return to Him with repentance and humiliation.{PP 428.3}[25]
§53
他们因为蒙了上帝能力的护庇，所以看不出不断环绕着他们的无数危险。他们在忘恩和不信之中，曾经妄自求死，如今耶和华就让死亡临到他们。那聚集在旷野中的毒蛇名叫“火蛇，”因为人被这种毒蛇咬了之后，就必剧烈地红肿发炎，死得极快。当上帝从以色列人身上撤回他的保护时，就有许多人遭这毒蛇所害了。[26]{PP 429.1}
§54
Because they had been shielded by divine power they had not realized the countless dangers by which they were continually surrounded. In their ingratitude and unbelief they had anticipated death, and now the Lord permitted death to come upon them. The poisonous serpents that infested the wilderness were called fiery serpents, on account of the terrible effects produced by their sting, it causing violent inflammation and speedy death. As the protecting hand of God was removed from Israel, great numbers of the people were attacked by these venomous creatures.{PP 429.1}[26]
§55
于是全营之中恐慌混乱起来。几乎每一个帐棚里都有人奄奄待毙，或者已经死亡；没有一个人是安全的。往往夜深人静之时，忽然听见尖锐的喊叫声，表明又有人被毒蛇所害。因大家都忙着服侍那些受苦的人，或者周密地设法保护那些还没有被害的人。如今他们再不发什么怨言。他们过去所有的艰难和试炼，比起现在的苦楚似乎是不足介意了。[27]{PP 429.2}
§56
Now there was terror and confusion throughout the encampment. In almost every tent were the dying or the dead. None were secure. Often the silence of night was broken by piercing cries that told of fresh victims. All were busy in ministering to the sufferers, or with agonizing care endeavoring to protect those who were not yet stricken. No murmuring now escaped their lips. When compared with the present suffering, their former difficulties and trials seemed unworthy of a thought.{PP 429.2}[27]
§57
百姓此时已在上帝面前自卑。他们到摩西那里认罪求情。说：“我们怨渎耶和华和你，有罪了。”（见民21:7-9）刚在不久之前，他们还斥他为他们最大的仇敌，是他们遭受一切困苦和灾难的祸首。但这话在他们讲出来的时候，他们也明知是虚构的；所以及至他们真的遇到困难时，就逃到他那里，以他为唯一能替他们向上帝代求的人。他们呼求说：“求你祷告耶和华叫这些蛇离开我们。”[28]{PP 429.3}
§58
The people now humbled themselves before God. They came to Moses with their confessions and entreaties. We have sinned, they said, for we have spoken against the Lord, and against thee. Only a little before, they had accused him of being their worst enemy, the cause of all their distress and afflictions. But even when the words were upon their lips, they knew that the charge was false; and as soon as real trouble came they fled to him as the only one who could intercede with God for them. Pray unto the Lord, was their cry, that He take away the serpents from us.{PP 429.3}[28]
§59
上帝吩咐摩西照着活蛇的形状制造一条铜蛇，在百姓中间高举起来。凡被蛇咬的，只要望一望这蛇，就必见效。摩西便遵着吩咐作了，于是有喜乐的信息传遍全营，说，凡被咬的人只要仰望这铜蛇，就必得生。这时许多人已经死了，而且当摩西把蛇挂在杆子上时，也有一些人不相信单看这金属的造像，就可以得到医治；所以这些人就在不信之中灭亡了。但是另外有许多人相信上帝所定的办法。父母弟兄姊妹都急急地帮助他们受苦垂死的亲友，叫他们睁开昏昏朦朦的眼睛仰望那条铜蛇。这些人虽然已经到了昏迷垂死的地步，但只要能仰望一下，他们就完全复原了。[29]{PP 430.1}
§60
Moses was divinely commanded to make a serpent of brass resembling the living ones, and to elevate it among the people. To this, all who had been bitten were to look, and they would find relief. He did so, and the joyful news was sounded throughout the encampment that all who had been bitten might look upon the brazen serpent and live. Many had already died, and when Moses raised the serpent upon the pole, some would not believe that merely gazing upon that metallic image would heal them; these perished in their unbelief. Yet there were many who had faith in the provision which God had made. Fathers, mothers, brothers, and sisters were anxiously engaged in helping their suffering, dying friends to fix their languid eyes upon the serpent. If these, though faint and dying, could only once look, they were perfectly restored.{PP 430.1}[29]
§61
百姓明知铜蛇本身没有什么能力，足以使那些仰望的人起这样的改变。唯有上帝能使人痊愈。上帝凭着他的智慧，用这种方法彰显了他的能力。上帝用这个简单的办法使百姓看出他们这次所遭受的苦难，是因了他们自己的罪。他也应许他们，只要他们服从上帝，他们就没有惧怕的必要；因为他一定要保护他们。[30]{PP 430.2}
§62
The people well knew that there was no power in the serpent of brass to cause such a change in those who looked upon it. The healing virtue was from God alone. In His wisdom He chose this way of displaying His power. By this simple means the people were made to realize that this affliction had been brought upon them by their sins. They were also assured that while obeying God they had no reason to fear, for He would preserve them.{PP 430.2}[30]
§63
铜蛇的举起，是要给以色列人一个重要的教训。他们无法救自己脱离被蛇咬伤的致命毒害，唯有上帝才能医治他们。然而他们必须对上帝所定的办法表示信心；他们必须仰望，才能得生。上帝所悦纳的乃是他们的信心，而他们的信心乃是要借着仰望铜蛇来表现。他们明知铜蛇本身毫无功能，但这不过是基督的一个预表；这样，他们心中就感悟到相信基督之功劳的必要了。以前许多人曾奉献他们的祭物与上帝，并觉得这样作就能充分地为自己赎罪。他们并没有依靠那将要来的救赎主，就是这些祭物所预表的救主。所以这时耶和华要教训他们，使他们知道祭物本身并不比铜蛇有更大的能力或功德，只是像铜蛇一样，是指引他们去仰望那伟大的赎罪祭基督。[31]{PP 430.3}
§64
The lifting up of the brazen serpent was to teach Israel an important lesson. They could not save themselves from the fatal effect of the poison in their wounds. God alone was able to heal them. Yet they were required to show their faith in the provision which He had made. They must look in order to live. It was their faith that was acceptable with God, and by looking upon the serpent their faith was shown. They knew that there was no virtue in the serpent itself, but it was a symbol of Christ; and the necessity of faith in His merits was thus presented to their minds. Heretofore many had brought their offerings to God, and had felt that in so doing they made ample atonement for their sins. They did not rely upon the Redeemer to come, of whom these offerings were only a type. The Lord would now teach them that their sacrifices, in themselves, had no more power or virtue than the serpent of brass, but were, like that, to lead their minds to Christ, the great sin offering. {PP 430.3}[31]
§65
“摩西在旷野怎样举蛇，人子也必照样被举起来；叫一切信他的不至灭亡，都得永生。”（约3:14-15,按：根据英文《圣经》，此处多“不至灭亡”一语。）凡住在地上的人，都曾受过“那古蛇，名叫魔鬼，又叫撒但”（启12:9）的毒害。罪的致命影响，唯有靠着上帝所作的准备才能解除。以色列人曾借着仰望那举起来的蛇救了自己的性命。仰望就是信心的表现。他们得了生命，是因为他们相信上帝的话，并借着上帝所安排的使他们复原的方法。照样，罪人也可以因仰望基督而得存活；借着相信救赎的牺牲而领受赦罪之恩。基督本身的能力和美德足以医治悔改的罪人，这是他与那些没有生命的象征物不同的一点。[32]{PP 431.1}
§66
As Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so was the Son of man lifted up: that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. John 3:14, 15. All who have ever lived upon the earth have felt the deadly sting of that old serpent, called the devil, and Satan. Revelation 12:9. The fatal effects of sin can be removed only by the provision that God has made. The Israelites saved their lives by looking upon the uplifted serpent. That look implied faith. They lived because they believed Gods word, and trusted in the means provided for their recovery. So the sinner may look to Christ, and live. He receives pardon through faith in the atoning sacrifice. Unlike the inert and lifeless symbol, Christ has power and virtue in Himself to heal the repenting sinner.{PP 431.1}[32]
§67
罪人固然不能自救，但为了要得救，他也有应作的事。基督说：“到我这里来的，我总不丢弃他。”（约6:37）可见我们必须到他那里去；当我们悔悟自己的罪时，我们必须相信他一定会接纳并赦免我们。信心是上帝所赐的，但运用信心的能力乃在我们。信心乃是人用来把握住上帝恩典和怜悯的一只手。[33]{PP 431.2}
§68
While the sinner cannot save himself, he still has something to do to secure salvation. Him that cometh to Me, says Christ, I will in no wise cast out. John 6:37. But we must come to Him; and when we repent of our sins, we must believe that He accepts and pardons us. Faith is the gift of God, but the power to exercise it is ours. Faith is the hand by which the soul takes hold upon the divine offers of grace and mercy.{PP 431.2}[33]
§69
唯有基督的公义，足以使我们有资格领受恩典之约的任何福惠。有许多人久已羡慕，并试图得到这些福惠，但一直没有得着，这是因为他们怀着一种观念，以为他们能作什么事来使自己配得福惠。他们未能转移目光离开自己，而笃信耶稣为全能的救主。我们万不可靠自己的功劳来救自己；唯有基督是我们得救的希望。“因为在天下人间，没有赐下别的名，我们可以靠着得救。”（徒4:12）[34]{PP 431.3}
§70
Nothing but the righteousness of Christ can entitle us to one of the blessings of the covenant of grace. There are many who have long desired and tried to obtain these blessings, but have not received them, because they have cherished the idea that they could do something to make themselves worthy of them. They have not looked away from self, believing that Jesus is an all-sufficient Saviour. We must not think that our own merits will save us; Christ is our only hope of salvation. For there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. Acts 4:12.{PP 431.3}[34]
§71
当我们完全信赖上帝，并依靠耶稣为赦罪的救赎主时，我们就必得到所能希望的一切帮助。任何人都不可依靠自己，以为自己有力量自救。正因为我们无力自救，耶稣才为我们舍命。我们的希望，我们的称义，我们的成义，都在乎他。当我们看出自己罪恶的深重时，我们不应该灰心丧胆，害怕自己没有救主，或是怕他对我们不存慈悲的意念。正在此时，他邀请我们带着我们一切的软弱来到他那里，得蒙拯救。[35]{PP 431.4}
§72
When we trust God fully, when we rely upon the merits of Jesus as a sin-pardoning Saviour, we shall receive all the help that we can desire. Let none look to self, as though they had power to save themselves. Jesus died for us because we were helpless to do this. In Him is our hope, our justification, our righteousness. When we see our sinfulness we should not despond and fear that we have no Saviour, or that He has no thoughts of mercy toward us. At this very time He is inviting us to come to Him in our helplessness and be saved. {PP 431.4}[35]
§73
当时有许多以色列人，在上天所指定的救法上看不出来什么好处。他们四围都是已经死亡和垂死的人；而且他们也知道，若没有上帝的帮助，自己的厄运是注定了；但是他们却在可以即刻得到痊愈的时候，依然为自己的创伤，痛苦和必然的死亡悲哀，直到他们的气力全消，眼目失明为止。我们既觉悟自己的需要，就不该用全副精神来做无谓的悼惜。我们固然要认出自己离了基督是多么可怜，但也不该灰心丧志，却要依靠那一位被钉和复活之救主的功劳。仰望就可以得生。耶稣已经应许，凡到他面前来的人，他都必拯救。虽然有千万需要他医治的人将要拒绝他所提供的恩典；但没有一个依靠他功劳的人会被他丢弃而遭致灭亡。[36]{PP 432.1}
§74
Many of the Israelites saw no help in the remedy which Heaven had appointed. The dead and dying were all around them, and they knew that, without divine aid, their own fate was certain; but they continued to lament their wounds, their pains, their sure death, until their strength was gone, and their eyes were glazed, when they might have had instant healing. If we are conscious of our needs, we should not devote all our powers to mourning over them. While we realize our helpless condition without Christ, we are not to yield to discouragement, but rely upon the merits of a crucified and risen Saviour. Look and live. Jesus has pledged His word; He will save all who come unto Him. Though millions who need to be healed will reject His offered mercy, not one who trusts in His merits will be left to perish.{PP 432.1}[36]
§75
除非先完全明白救恩计划的全部奥秘，许多人就不愿意接受基督。虽然他们看到成千的人已经仰望基督的十字架，并感到仰望的功能，他们还是不肯凭着信心仰望。许多人在哲学的迷途中彷徨不定，想要搜索他们所永远不会找到的理由和证据，而同时他们却拒绝上帝所乐意赐给他们的凭据。除非有人为他们解释“公义的日头”光耀的所以然，他决不肯行在这个光中；凡固执这种态度的人，必不能得到真理的知识。上帝总不会移去一切疑惑的借口。他赐给人充分的凭据作信仰的基础，如果人还是不肯接受，他就必被留在黑暗之中了。如果那些被蛇咬的人只顾怀疑问题而不肯仰望，他们就必灭亡。我们的本分就是仰望；出于信心的仰望必能使我们得到生命。[37]{PP 432.2}
§76
Many are unwilling to accept of Christ until the whole mystery of the plan of salvation shall be made plain to them. They refuse the look of faith, although they see that thousands have looked, and have felt the efficacy of looking, to the cross of Christ. Many wander in the mazes of philosophy, in search of reasons and evidence which they will never find, while they reject the evidence which God has been pleased to give. They refuse to walk in the light of the Sun of Righteousness, until the reason of its shining shall be explained. All who persist in this course will fail to come to a knowledge of the truth. God will never remove every occasion for doubt. He gives sufficient evidence on which to base faith, and if this is not accepted, the mind is left in darkness. If those who were bitten by the serpents had stopped to doubt and question before they would consent to look, they would have perished. It is our duty, first, to look; and the look of faith will give us life.{PP 432.2}[37]