第46章 “上帝的先知……帮助他们”
§1
第46章 “上帝的先知……帮助他们”
§2
Chap. 46 - The Prophets of God Helping Them
§3
在那些着手进行重建圣殿之工的以色列人附近，住着一种撒玛利亚人，他们是早年从亚述各省迁来的异邦殖民者，和从前留在撒玛利亚与加利利的十个支派的剩余分子通婚而产生的混合人种。后来这些撒玛利亚人也自称敬拜真神上帝，但在心灵和习俗方面，他们仍是敬拜偶像的。不错，他们固然认为他们的偶像，只是用来使他们想起那位宇宙的主宰永生的上帝，但这些人仍然是癖好敬拜那些雕刻之偶像的。[1]{PK 567.1}
§4
Close by the Israelites who had set themselves to the task of rebuilding the temple, dwelt the Samaritans, a mixed race that had sprung up through the intermarriage of heathen colonists from the provinces of Assyria with the remnant of the ten tribes which had been left in Samaria and Galilee. In later years the Samaritans claimed to worship the true God, but in heart and practice they were idolaters. It is true, they held that their idols were but to remind them of the living God, the Ruler of the universe; nevertheless the people were prone to reverence graven images.{PK 567.1}[1]
§5
在犹大复国期间，这些撒玛利亚人被称为“犹大和便雅悯的敌人。”他们“听说被掳归回的人为耶和华以色列的上帝建造殿宇，就去见所罗巴伯和以色列的族长，”表露他们甚愿一同建造的意图。他们说：“请容我们与你们一同建造，因为我们寻求你们的上帝，与你们一样。自从亚述王以撒哈顿带我们上这地以来，我们常祭祀上帝。”然而他们对这种权利所作的要求被拒绝了。以色列的首长说：“我们建造上帝的殿与你们无干，我们自己为耶和华以色列的上帝协力建造，是照波斯王古列所吩咐的。”(拉4:1-3)[2]{PK 567.2}
§6
During the period of the restoration, these Samaritans came to be known as the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin. Hearing that the children of the captivity builded the temple unto the Lord God of Israel, they came to Zerubbabel, and to the chief of the fathers, and expressed a desire to unite with them in its erection. Let us build with you, they proposed; for we seek your God, as ye do; and we do sacrifice unto Him since the days of Esarhaddon king of Assur, which brought us up hither. But the privilege they asked was refused them. Ye have nothing to do with us to build an house unto our God, the leaders of the Israelites declared; but we ourselves together will build unto the Lord God of Israel, as King Cyrus the king of Persia hath commanded us. Ezra 4:1-3.{PK 567.2}[2]
§7
从巴比伦被选归回的只是一班“余民”，所以现在当他们着手进行一种似乎是他们难以胜任的事工时，他们最接近的邻人就来提出帮助了。撒玛利亚人提到自己是敬拜真神上帝的，并且表示愿意分享与圣殿崇事有关的权力和福惠。他们说：“我们寻求你们的上帝，与你们一样。”“请容我们与你们一同建造。”如果犹大的首领们接受了这种帮助的提议，势必为偶像崇拜的侵入敞开了门户。他们看出了撒玛利亚人的并无诚意。他们也认明与这些人结盟所能得到的帮助，若和遵守耶和华的明令所可能获致的恩典相较，就全然算不得什么。[3]{PK 568.1}
§8
Only a remnant had chosen to return from Babylon; and now, as they undertake a work seemingly beyond their strength, their nearest neighbors come with an offer of help. The Samaritans refer to their worship of the true God, and express a desire to share the privileges and blessings connected with the temple service. We seek your God, as ye do, they declare. Let us build with you. But had the Jewish leaders accepted this offer of assistance, they would have opened a door for the entrance of idolatry. They discerned the insincerity of the Samaritans. They realized that help gained through an alliance with these men would be as nothing in comparison with the blessing they might expect to receive by following the plain commands of Jehovah.{PK 568.1}[3]
§9
关于以色列和周围各民族所应保持的关系，主曾借着摩西指示他们说：“不可与他们立约，也不可怜恤他们。不可与他们结亲，……因为他必使你儿子转离不跟从主，去侍奉别神，以致耶和华的怒气向你们发作，就速速的将你们灭绝。”“你归耶和华你上帝为圣洁的民，耶和华从地上的万民中，拣选你特作自己的子民。”（申7:2-4；14:2）[4]{PK 568.2}
§10
Regarding the relation that Israel should sustain to surrounding peoples, the Lord had declared through Moses: Thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor show mercy unto them: neither shalt thou make marriages with them; . . . for they will turn away thy son from following Me, that they may serve other gods: so will the anger of the Lord be kindled against you, and destroy thee suddenly. Thou art an holy people unto the Lord thy God, and the Lord hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto Himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth. Deuteronomy 7:2-4; 14:2.{PK 568.2}[4]
§11
以色列与周围的列国立约的后果，早已清楚地说明了。摩西曾宣称：“耶和华必使你们分散在万民中，从地这边到地那边，你必在那里侍奉你和你列祖素不认识木头石头的神。在那些国中，你必不得安逸，也不得落脚之地，耶和华却使你在那里心中跳动，眼目失明，精神消耗，你的性命必悬悬无定，你昼夜恐惧，自料性命难保。你因心里所恐惧的，眼中所看见的，早晨必说，巴不得到晚上才好，晚上必说，巴不得到早晨才好。”（申28:64-67）而所赐的应许则是：“但你们在那里必寻求耶和华你的上帝，你尽心尽性寻求他的时候，就必寻见。”（申4:29）[5]{PK 569.1}
§12
The result that would follow an entrance into covenant relation with surrounding nations was plainly foretold. The Lord shall scatter thee among all people, from the one end of the earth even unto the other, Moses had declared; and there thou shalt serve other gods, which neither thou nor thy fathers have known, even wood and stone. And among these nations shalt thou find no ease, neither shall the sole of thy foot have rest: but the Lord shall give thee there a trembling heart, and failing of eyes, and sorrow of mind: and thy life shall hang in doubt before thee; and thou shalt fear day and night, and shalt have none assurance of thy life: in the morning thou shalt say, Would God it were even! and at even thou shalt say, Would God it were morning! for the fear of thine heart wherewith thou shalt fear, and for the sight of thine eyes which thou shalt see. Deuteronomy 28:64-67. But if from thence thou shalt seek the Lord thy God, the promise had been, thou shalt find Him, if thou seek Him with all thy heart and with all thy soul. Deuteronomy 4:29.{PK 569.1}[5]
§13
所罗巴伯和他的同人很熟悉这些以及许多类似的经文，并且他们新近在被掳之中，已接二连三地得到证据，显明这些话完全应验了。而现在他们既已悔改，离弃那些使他们和他们列祖招致借摩西所清楚预言之各项刑罚的诸般罪恶。又已全心全意转向上帝，并与他重新立约，他们才蒙准归回犹大地，俾能恢复那已遭摧毁的一切。因此，难道他们在这工作刚开始的时候，就要与拜偶像的人立约吗？[6]{PK 569.2}
§14
Zerubbabel and his associates were familiar with these and many like scriptures; and in the recent captivity they had evidence after evidence of their fulfillment. And now, having repented of the evils that had brought upon them and their fathers the judgments foretold so plainly through Moses; having turned with all the heart to God, and renewed their covenant relationship with Him, they had been permitted to return to Judea, that they might restore that which had been destroyed. Should they, at the very beginning of their undertaking, enter into a covenant with idolaters?{PK 569.2}[6]
§15
上帝曾说：“不可与他们立约。”而那些新近在他圣殿废墟之前的祭坛旁重新献身归主的人，也体认到他的子民与世人之间的界线，必须永远明白无讹地分清。他们不肯与那些虽然熟悉上帝律法的要求、却不愿服从的人缔结盟约。[7]{PK 570.1}
§16
Thou shalt make no covenant with them, God had said; and those who had recently rededicated themselves to the Lord at the altar set up before the ruins of His temple, realized that the line of demarcation between His people and the world is ever to be kept unmistakably distinct. They refused to enter into alliance with those who, though familiar with the requirements of Gods law, would not yield to its claims.{PK 570.1}[7]
§17
那为教训以色列而胪列于申命记中的各项原则，都是上帝子民直到末时所应当遵守的。真正的兴盛端在乎我们与上帝经常保持立约的关系。我们决不可与凡不敬畏他的人结盟而致妨害原则。[8]{PK 570.2}
§18
The principles set forth in Deuteronomy for the instruction of Israel are to be followed by Gods people to the end of time. True prosperity is dependent on the continuance of our covenant relationship with God. Never can we afford to compromise principle by entering into alliance with those who do not fear Him.{PK 570.2}[8]
§19
一般自称为基督徒的人常有这样的危险，就是以为自己多少必须效法世界，以便在世人身上发挥感化力，虽然这种办法似乎可提供很大的利益，但结果却往往造成灵性上的损失。上帝的子民务须严防真理的仇敌借着谄媚的诱惑、而企图侵入的每一种阴险影响。他们在这世上乃是客旅、是寄居的，行走在满布危险的路上。所以他们万不可留意仇敌所用来试探他们的狡猾诡计与迷人诱惑。[9]{PK 570.3}
§20
There is constant danger that professing Christians will come to think that in order to have influence with worldlings, they must to a certain extent conform to the world. But though such a course may appear to afford great advantages, it always ends in spiritual loss. Against every subtle influence that seeks entrance by means of flattering inducements from the enemies of truth, Gods people must strictly guard. They are pilgrims and strangers in this world, traveling a path beset with danger. To the ingenious subterfuges and alluring inducements held out to tempt from allegiance, they must give no heed.{PK 570.3}[9]
§21
最可怕的并不是那些公开反对上帝圣工的敌人。事实上那些像“犹大和便雅悯的敌人一样，”以花言巧语公然来向上帝的儿女要求缔结友好盟约的人，其欺骗力却更为强大。对于这一类的人，各人都当提高警觉，以免有巧妙掩饰的罗网在不知不觉之间捉住了他。尤其是在世界历史行将结束的今天，主要他的儿女保持一种不知懈怠的警惕。虽然斗争是不间断的，但是并没有人被撇弃而独自奋斗。天使要来帮助并保护那些存谦卑的心行在上帝面前的人。我们的主决不会丢弃一个信靠他的人。当他的儿女就近他以求保守脱离凶恶的时候，他就本乎怜悯和慈爱而为他们竖立大旗驱逐仇敌。他要说，不可伤害他们，因为他们是属我的，我已将他们铭刻在我掌上。[10]{PK 570.4}
§22
It is not the open and avowed enemies of the cause of God that are most to be feared. Those who, like the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin, come with smooth words and fair speeches, apparently seeking for friendly alliance with Gods children, have greater power to deceive. Against such every soul should be on the alert, lest some carefully concealed and masterly snare take him unaware. And especially today, while earths history is closing, the Lord requires of His children a vigilance that knows no relaxation. But though the conflict is a ceaseless one, none are left to struggle alone. Angels help and protect those who walk humbly before God. Never will our Lord betray one who trusts in Him. As His children draw near to Him for protection from evil, in pity and love He lifts up for them a standard against the enemy. Touch them not, He says; for they are Mine. I have graven them upon the palms of My hands.{PK 570.4}[10]
§23
撒玛利亚人千方百计地反对，“就在犹大人建造的时候，使他们的手发软，扰乱他们。从波斯王古列年间，直到波斯王大利乌登基的时候，贿买谋士，要败坏他们的谋算。”（拉4:4-5）他们利用虚构的谣言，使一些容易怀疑之人的心中生出猜疑。但邪恶的势力竟被遏制多年，而犹大人却有自由继续工作。[11]{PK 571.1}
§24
Untiring in their opposition, the Samaritans weakened the hands of the people of Judah, and troubled them in building, and hired counselors against them, to frustrate their purpose, all the days of Cyrus king of Persia, even until the reign of Darius. Ezra 4:4, 5. By false reports they aroused suspicion in minds easily led to suspect. But for many years the powers of evil were held in check, and the people in Judea had liberty to continue their work.{PK 571.1}[11]
§25
当撒但致力于左右玛代波斯国的最高掌权者向上帝子民表示嫌恶的同时，天使却在为那班流亡者效力。这种争斗乃是全天庭所关怀的。我们借着先知但以理，便可瞥见善恶两大势力之间的大争斗情形。天使加百列曾有三周之久与幽暗的权势较力，设法抵消那些在古列王心中活动的影响。而在这项争斗结束之前，基督曾亲自前来帮助加百列。加百列说：“波斯国的魔君拦阻我二十一日，忽然有大君中的一位米迦勒来帮助我，我就停留在波斯诸王那里。”（但10:13）凡属上天所能为他子民作的都已作到了，胜利终于获得。而在古列的日子，以及他儿子甘拜西在位的七年半中，仇敌的势力一直都是被抑制着的。[12]{PK 571.2}
§26
While Satan was striving to influence the highest powers in the kingdom of Medo-Persia to show disfavor to Gods people, angels worked in behalf of the exiles. The controversy was one in which all heaven was interested. Through the prophet Daniel we are given a glimpse of this mighty struggle between the forces of good and the forces of evil. For three weeks Gabriel wrestled with the powers of darkness, seeking to counteract the influences at work on the mind of Cyrus; and before the contest closed, Christ Himself came to Gabriels aid. The prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days, Gabriel declares; but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia. Daniel 10:13. All that heaven could do in behalf of the people of God was done. The victory was finally gained; the forces of the enemy were held in check all the days of Cyrus, and all the days of his son Cambyses, who reigned about seven and a half years.{PK 571.2}[12]
§27
这时真是犹大人最好的机会。上天最高的灵力正在君王的心中运行，以便上帝的子民得以积极工作，使古列的谕旨付诸实施。他们正应不遗余力地重建圣殿、恢复崇事，并重整其在犹大地的家园。但在上帝施展大能的日子，许多人却不愿作工。他们敌人的反对乃是强烈而坚决的，因此造殿的人渐渐灰心了。有些人总忘不了在奠立根基时的情景，当时有许多人对于这项事工表示缺乏信心。所以当撒玛利亚人越来越猖狂的时候，很多犹大人就怀疑重建圣殿的时候究竟有没有来到。这种情绪不久就蔓延开来。多数的工人感到灰心丧志，就归回自己的家乡去重操故业了。[13]{PK 572.1}
§28
This was a time of wonderful opportunity for the Jews. The highest agencies of heaven were working on the hearts of kings, and it was for the people of God to labor with the utmost activity to carry out the decree of Cyrus. They should have spared no effort to restore the temple and its services, and to re-establish themselves in their Judean homes. But in the day of Gods power many proved unwilling. The opposition of their enemies was strong and determined, and gradually the builders lost heart. Some could not forget the scene at the laying of the cornerstone, when many had given expression to their lack of confidence in the enterprise. And as the Samaritans grew more bold, many of the Jews questioned whether, after all, the time had come to rebuild. The feeling soon became widespread. Many of the workmen, discouraged and disheartened, returned to their homes to take up the ordinary pursuits of life.{PK 572.1}[13]
§29
当甘拜西在位的年间，建殿的工作进行缓慢。当伪斯美底（拉4:7作亚达薛西）在位时，撒玛利亚人竟诱使这个篡位的暴君下令禁止犹大人重建圣殿和圣城。[14]{PK 572.2}
§30
During the reign of Cambyses the work on the temple progressed slowly. And during the reign of the false Smerdis (called Artaxerxes in Ezra 4:7) the Samaritans induced the unscrupulous impostor to issue a decree forbidding the Jews to rebuild their temple and city.{PK 572.2}[14]
§31
圣殿被疏忽，甚至几乎被放弃达一年之久。百姓都住在自己的家里，竭力追求属世的繁荣，但他们的处境是可怜的。他们尽管辛苦操劳，总不能兴盛。自然界的要素似乎都与他们作对了。他们既然任凭圣殿荒废，因此主便也使干旱临到他们的一切田产。过去上帝曾将田园的果实、五谷、新酒、油、赐给他们作为他眷爱的凭证；但由于他们如此自私地利用这些丰富的恩赐，因此福惠便挪去了。[15]{PK 573.1}
§32
For over a year the temple was neglected and well-nigh forsaken. The people dwelt in their homes and strove to attain temporal prosperity, but their situation was deplorable. Work as they might they did not prosper. The very elements of nature seemed to conspire against them. Because they had let the temple lie waste, the Lord sent upon their substance a wasting drought. God had bestowed upon them the fruits of field and garden, the corn and the wine and the oil, as a token of His favor; but because they had used these bountiful gifts so selfishly, the blessings were removed.{PK 573.1}[15]
§33
这就是大利乌·赫斯特比在位头几年的情形。以色列人在属灵和属世方面的境况都很悲惨。他们既久已口发怨言、心存疑念，并久已将个人的利益作为前提，眼看主的圣殿荒废而无动于衷，因此许多人已忘了上帝使他们归回犹大的旨意。他们却说：“建造耶和华殿的时候尚未来到。”（该1:2）[16]{PK 573.2}
§34
Such were the conditions existing during the early part of the reign of Darius Hystaspes. Spiritually as well as temporally, the Israelites were in a pitiable state. So long had they murmured and doubted; so long had they chosen to make personal interests first, while viewing with apathy the Lords temple in ruins, that many had lost sight of Gods purpose in restoring them to Judea; and these were saying, The time is not come, the time that the Lords house should be built. Haggai 1:2.{PK 573.2}[16]
§35
但是即使在这暗淡的时期中，那些信靠上帝的人也并非毫无希望。哈该和撒迦利亚两位先知就在此时兴起应付危机。这两个被任命的信使用动人的证言，向民众指明了他们祸患的成因。先知声称，他们之所以在今世不见兴盛，乃是忽略将上帝的事工列为首务的结果，以色列若曾荣耀上帝，他们若曾将建造他圣殿作为当务之急，借以向他表示应有的尊重和礼敬，则他们就必邀致他的临格与福祉了。[17]{PK 573.3}
§36
But even this dark hour was not without hope for those whose trust was in God. The prophets Haggai and Zechariah were raised up to meet the crisis. In stirring testimonies these appointed messengers revealed to the people the cause of their troubles. The lack of temporal prosperity was the result of a neglect to put Gods interests first, the prophets declared. Had the Israelites honored God, had they shown Him due respect and courtesy, by making the building of His house their first work, they would have invited His presence and blessing.{PK 573.3}[17]
§37
哈该向那些灰心的人发出发人深省的责问说：“这殿仍然荒凉，你们自己还住天花板的房屋吗？现在万军之耶和华如此说：你们要省察自己的行为。”你们所成就的为什么如此微小？你们为什么专顾自己的房屋而不顾主的殿宇？你们一度为恢复主殿而表示的热心如今到哪里去了？你们侍奉自己所得到的是什么呢？你们因为想逃避贫困，以致疏忽圣殿，但这种疏忽恰好使你们所惧怕的事临到你们。“你们撒的种多，收的却少，你们吃却不得饱，喝却不得足，穿衣服却不得暖，得工钱的，将工钱装在破漏的囊中。”（该1:4-6）[18]{PK 574.1}
§38
To those who had become discouraged, Haggai addressed the searching inquiry, Is it time for you, O ye, to dwell in your ceiled houses, and this house lie waste? Now therefore thus saith the Lord of hosts; Consider your ways. Why have you done so little? Why do you feel concern for your own buildings and unconcern for the Lords building? Where is the zeal you once felt for the restoration of the Lords house? What have you gained by serving self? The desire to escape poverty has led you to neglect the temple, but this neglect has brought upon you that which you feared. Ye have sown much, and bring in little; ye eat, but ye have not enough; ye drink, but ye are not filled with drink; ye clothe you, but there is none warm; and he that earneth wages earneth wages to put it into a bag with holes. Verses 4-6.{PK 574.1}[18]
§39
于是主用他们决可领悟的话语，向他们指出了那造成他们贫乏的原因：“你们盼望多得，所得的却少；你们收到家中，我就吹去。这是为什么呢？因为我的殿荒凉，你们各人却顾自己的房屋，这是万军之耶和华说的。所以为你们的缘故，天就不降甘露，地也不出土产。我命干旱临到地土、山岗、五谷、新酒和油，并地上的出产、人民、牲畜，以及人手一切劳碌得来的。”（该1:9-11）[19]{PK 574.2}
§40
And then, in words that they could not fail to understand, the Lord revealed the cause that had brought them to want: Ye looked for much, and, lo, it came to little; and when ye brought it home, I did blow upon it. Why? saith the Lord of hosts. Because of Mine house that is waste, and ye run every man unto his own house. Therefore the heaven over you is stayed from dew, and the earth is stayed from her fruit. And I called for a drought upon the land, and upon the mountains, and upon the corn, and upon the new wine, and upon the oil, and upon that which the ground bringeth forth, and upon men, and upon cattle, and upon all the labor of the hands. Verses 9-11. {PK 574.2}[19]
§41
主促劝他们说：“你们要省察自己的行为。你们要上山取木料，建造这殿，我就因此喜乐，且得荣耀。”（该1:7-8）[20]{PK 575.1}
§42
Consider your ways, the Lord urged. Go up to the mountain, and bring wood, and build the house; and I will take pleasure in it, and I will be glorified. Verses 7, 8.{PK 575.1}[20]
§43
以色列的首领和民众诚心接受了借哈该而传来的训勉与责备的信息。他们感觉上帝是以诚恳对待他们。他们不敢忽视那屡次传给他们的教训，就是他们属世和属灵的兴盛，都在乎忠心顺从上帝的命令。先知的警告唤醒了所罗巴伯和约书亚，“并剩下的百姓，都听从耶和华他们上帝的话，和先知哈该……的话。”（该1:12）[21]{PK 575.2}
§44
The message of counsel and reproof given through Haggai was taken to heart by the leaders and people of Israel. They felt that God was in earnest with them. They dared not disregard the repeated instruction sent them--that their prosperity, both temporal and spiritual, was dependent on faithful obedience to Gods commands. Aroused by the warnings of the prophet, Zerubbabel and Joshua, with all the remnant of the people, obeyed the voice of the Lord their God, and the words of Haggai the prophet. Verse 12.{PK 575.2}[21]
§45
以色列一经决定顺从，随着责备的话语而来的便是勉励的信息。“哈该……对百姓说：耶和华说：我与你们同在。”耶和华激动……所罗巴伯和约书亚，“并剩下之百姓的心；他们就来为万军之耶和华他们上帝的殿作工。”（该1:13-14）[22]{PK 575.3}
§46
As soon as Israel decided to obey, the words of reproof were followed by a message of encouragement. Then spake Haggai . . . unto the people, saying, I am with you, saith the Lord. And the Lord stirred up the spirit of Zerubbabel and of Joshua, and of all the remnant of the people; and they came and did work in the house of the Lord of hosts, their God. Verses 13, 14.{PK 575.3}[22]
§47
他们重新着手建殿之后不到一个月，建造的人又得到了另一项勉励的信息。主亲自借着他的先知劝勉他们，说：“所罗巴伯啊，……你当刚强，……约书亚啊，你也当刚强，这地的百姓，你们都当刚强作工，因为我与你们同在；这是万军之耶和华说的。”（该2:4）[23]{PK 575.4}
§48
In less than a month after the work on the temple was resumed, the builders received another comforting message. Be strong, O Zerubbabel, the Lord Himself urged through His prophet; be strong, O Joshua; . . . and be strong, all ye people of the land, saith the Lord, and work: for I am with you, saith the Lord of hosts. Haggai 2:4.{PK 575.4}[23]
§49
主曾对西奈山下扎营的以色列人宣布：“我要住在以色列人中间，作他们的上帝。他们必知道我是耶和华他们的上帝，是将他们从埃及地领出来的，为要住在他们中间，我是耶和华他们的上帝。”（出29:45-46）这时他们虽然屡次“悖逆，使主的圣灵担忧，”（赛63:10）上帝却借着他先知所传的信息，再度伸手施行拯救。他要与他们重新立约，应许他的圣灵仍必与他们同在，借此认可他们与他的旨意合作。他又吩咐他们：“不要惧怕。”[24]{PK 575.5}
§50
To Israel encamped before Mount Sinai the Lord had declared: I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their God. And they shall know that I am the Lord their God, that brought them forth out of the land of Egypt, that I may dwell among them: I am the Lord their God. Exodus 29:45, 46. And now, notwithstanding the fact that they had repeatedly rebelled, and vexed His Holy Spirit (Isaiah 63:10), God once more, through the messages of His prophet, was stretching out His hand to save. As a recognition of their co-operation with His purpose, He was renewing His covenant that His Spirit should remain among them; and He bade them, Fear not.{PK 575.5}[24]
§51
主对他现代的儿女也说：“你们都当刚强作工，因为我与你们同在。”基督徒在主里面经常有一位有力的帮助者。主帮助的方法，我们未必明了，但有一点是我们可以确知的，他决不至使凡信靠他的人失望。如果基督徒都认明主曾多少次安排他们的道路，使仇敌对他们所有的企图不能得逞，他们就再不会怨天尤人地蹒跚而行了。他们的信心就必寄于是上帝，而任何试炼也不足使他们动摇了。他们必承认他为他们的智慧与效能，而他也必使他所期望借着他们成就的事得以实现。[25]{PK 576.1}
§52
To His children today the Lord declares, Be strong, . . . and work: for I am with you. The Christian always has a strong helper in the Lord. The way of the Lords helping we may not know; but this we do know: He will never fail those who put their trust in Him. Could Christians realize how many times the Lord has ordered their way, that the purposes of the enemy concerning them might not be accomplished, they would not stumble along complainingly. Their faith would be stayed on God, and no trial would have power to move them. They would acknowledge Him as their wisdom and efficiency, and He would bring to pass that which He desires to work out through them.{PK 576.1}[25]
§53
那借哈该而赐下的恳劝和勉励，后来又经撒迦利亚加以强调并补充，他是上帝兴起为辅助哈该，敦促以色列实行那“起来建造”之命令的。撒迦利亚的第一道信息乃是一个保证，说明上帝的圣言决不落空。也是一个应许，就是要赐福给凡听从这确实无误之预言的人。[26]{PK 576.2}
§54
The earnest pleadings and the encouragements given through Haggai were emphasized and added to by Zechariah, whom God raised up to stand by his side in urging Israel to carry out the command to arise and build. Zechariahs first message was an assurance that Gods word never fails and a promise of blessing to those who would hearken to the sure word of prophecy. {PK 576.2}[26]
§55
以色列人虽然田地荒凉，仅存的余粮即将告罄，四围并有怀具敌意的民族，但他们仍然凭着信心向前迈进，响应上帝信使们的号召，殷勤地致力于修建荒废的圣殿。这乃是需要坚定依赖上帝的工作。当众民克尽本分，力求在心灵和生活方面重得上帝的恩典时，就有一道又一道的信息借着哈该和撒迦利亚赐给他们，保证他们的信心必可大得赏赐，而且上帝论及他们现正兴建其墙垣之圣殿未来荣耀的话语，都不致落空。在日期满足的时候，那位为“万国所羡慕的”主，必以人类的导师和救星的身分，出现于这座殿宇之中。[27]{PK 577.1}
§56
With fields lying waste, with their scant store of provisions rapidly failing, and surrounded as they were by unfriendly peoples, the Israelites nevertheless moved forward by faith in response to the call of Gods messengers, and labored diligently to restore the ruined temple. It was a work requiring firm reliance upon God. As the people endeavored to do their part, and sought for a renewal of Gods grace in heart and life, message after message was given them through Haggai and Zechariah, with assurances that their faith would be richly rewarded and that the word of God concerning the future glory of the temple whose walls they were rearing would not fail. In this very building would appear, in the fullness of time, the Desire of all nations as the Teacher and Saviour of mankind.{PK 577.1}[27]
§57
因此，建殿的人并没有被撇下而独自奋斗，“有上帝的先知在那里帮助他们。”（拉5:2）并且万军之耶和华也曾亲自宣称：“你们都当刚强作工，因为我与你们同在。”（该2:4）[28]{PK 577.2}
§58
Thus the builders were not left to struggle alone; with them were the prophets of God helping them; and the Lord of hosts Himself had declared, Be strong, . . . and work: for I am with you. Ezra 5:2; Haggai 2:4.{PK 577.2}[28]
§59
随着诚心悔改和乐愿凭信心迈进而来的，便是现世方面昌盛的应许。主说：“从今日起，我必赐福与你们。”（该2:19）[29]{PK 577.3}
§60
With heartfelt repentance and a willingness to advance by faith, came the promise of temporal prosperity. From this day, the Lord declared, will I bless you. Verse 19.{PK 577.3}[29]
§61
他们的领袖所罗巴伯，就是他们从巴比伦回来之后经受多年严格试炼的领袖，曾蒙赐予一项最宝贵的信息。主宣称日子必要来到，那时他选民的一切敌人都要被击倒。“万军之耶和华说：我仆人……所罗巴伯啊，到那日，我必以你为印，因我拣选了你。”（该2:23）这时，以色列的省长可以辨明上天领其经过先前一段灰心困恼时期的用意，他也可以在这一切事上看出上帝的旨意。[30]{PK 577.4}
§62
To Zerubbabel their leader--he who, through all the years since their return from Babylon, had been so sorely tried--was given a most precious message. The day was coming, the Lord declared, when all the enemies of His chosen people would be cast down. In that day, saith the Lord of hosts, will I take thee, O Zerubbabel, My servant, . . . and will make thee as a signet: for I have chosen thee. Verse 23. Now the governor of Israel could see the meaning of the providence that had led him through discouragement and perplexity; he could discern Gods purpose in it all.{PK 577.4}[30]
§63
这句对所罗巴伯个人讲的话被记在经上，乃要勉励各世代上帝的儿女。上帝使试炼临到他的儿女，有他一定的用意。他决不勉强引领他们，除非他们能从起初看到末后，并认明他们正在实现之宗旨的光荣、而甘愿拣选受引领。凡他在考验和试炼中所加于他们身上的一切，都是要使他们刚强而为他作工，为他受苦。[31]{PK 578.1}
§64
This personal word to Zerubbabel has been left on record for the encouragement of Gods children in every age. God has a purpose in sending trial to His children. He never leads them otherwise than they would choose to be led if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory of the purpose that they are fulfilling. All that He brings upon them in test and trial comes that they may be strong to do and to suffer for Him.{PK 578.1}[31]
§65
哈该和撒迦利亚所传出的信息，振奋了民众，使他们尽其力所能及的去重建圣殿。但当他们作工的时候，却不幸地遭受到撒玛利亚人和其他敌人的搅扰，这些人千方百计地加以阻挠。有一次，玛代波斯的几个总督来到耶路撒冷，质问那授权给重建圣殿之人的名字。如果当时犹大人不倚靠主的引导，这种质问很可能给他们带来大祸。但“上帝的眼目看顾犹大的长老，以致总督等没有叫他们停工，直到这事奏告大利乌，得着他的回谕。”（拉5:5）总督们得到了很聪明的回答，以致他们决定写信给当时统治玛代波斯的大利乌·赫斯特比，请他注意古列所发的，最初吩咐重建上帝在耶路撒冷的圣殿，并从王的府库中支付建殿费用的诏令。[32]{PK 578.2}
§66
The messages delivered by Haggai and Zechariah roused the people to put forth every possible effort for the rebuilding of the temple; but, as they worked, they were sadly harassed by the Samaritans and others who devised many hindrances. On one occasion the provincial officers of the Medo-Persian realm visited Jerusalem and requested the name of the one who had authorized the restoration of the building. If at that time the Jews had not been trusting in the Lord for guidance, this inquiry might have resulted disastrously to them. But the eye of their God was upon the elders of the Jews, that they could not cause them to cease, till the matter came to Darius. Ezra 5:5. The officers were answered so wisely that they decided to write a letter to Darius Hystaspes, then the ruler of Medo-Persia, directing his attention to the original decree made by Cyrus, which commanded that the house of God at Jerusalem be rebuilt, and that the expenses for the same be paid from the kings treasury. {PK 578.2}[32]
§67
大利乌便寻找这道诏令，结果找到了，于是他就吩咐那些询问的人，务要让重建工作继续进行。他下令说：“不要拦阻上帝殿的工作，任凭犹大人的省长和犹大人的长老，在原处建造上帝的这殿。”[33]{PK 579.1}
§68
Darius searched for this decree, and found it; whereupon he directed those who had made the inquiry to allow the rebuilding of the temple to proceed. Let the work of this house of God alone, he commanded; let the governor of the Jews and the elders of the Jews build this house of God in his place.{PK 579.1}[33]
§69
大利乌继续说：“我又降旨，吩咐你们向犹大人的长老为建造上帝的殿当怎样行，就是从河西的款项中，急速拔取贡银作他们的经费，免得耽误工作。他们与天上的上帝献燔祭所需用的公牛犊、公绵羊、绵羊羔，并所用的麦子、盐、酒、油，都要照耶路撒冷祭司的话，每日供给他们，不得有误；好叫他们献馨香的祭给天上的上帝，又为王和王众子的寿命祈祷。”（拉6:7-10）[34]{PK 579.2}
§70
Moreover, Darius continued, I make a decree what ye shall do to the elders of these Jews for the building of this house of God: that of the kings goods, even of the tribute beyond the river, forthwith expenses be given unto these men, that they be not hindered. And that which they have need of, both young bullocks, and rams, and lambs, for the burnt offerings of the God of heaven, wheat, salt, wine, and oil, according to the appointment of the priests which are at Jerusalem, let it be given them day by day without fail: that they may offer sacrifices of sweet savors unto the God of heaven, and pray for the life of the king, and of his sons. Ezra 6:7-10.{PK 579.2}[34]
§71
王更进一步地降旨宣称，任何人若更改这道命令，必受严厉的刑罚。最后他以如下值得注意的声明作为结束：“若有王和民伸手更改这命令，拆毁这殿，愿那使耶路撒冷的殿作为他名居所的上帝将他们灭绝。我大利乌降这旨意，当速速遵行。”（拉6:12）如此，主便为完成圣殿的工作预备了道路。[35]{PK 579.3}
§72
The king further decreed that severe penalties be meted out to those who should in any wise alter the decree; and he closed with the remarkable statement: The God that hath caused His name to dwell there destroy all kings and people, that shall put to their hand to alter and to destroy this house of God which is at Jerusalem. I Darius have made a decree; let it be done with the speed. Verse 12. Thus the Lord prepared the way for the completion of the temple.{PK 579.3}[35]
§73
在颁布这道谕旨之前几个月，以色列人曾凭着信心继续进行工作，上帝的先知仍然用合时的信息来帮助他们，将上帝对以色列所有的旨意摆在作工的人面前。在哈该所记录的最后信息传出来之后两个月，撒迦利亚看到了一连串有关上帝在地上圣工的异象。这些信息以比喻和表号的方式，正在颇为动荡忧急之时传来，所以对于那些奉以色列上帝的名而前进的人尤具特别的意义。在首领们看来，那原来准许犹大人重建圣殿的命令似乎要被撤销了，前途显得非常暗淡。上帝看出他的子民这时需要有关他无限怜悯与慈爱的启示，借以获得鼓舞和激励。[36]{PK 579.4}
§74
For months before this decree was made, the Israelites had kept on working by faith, the prophets of God still helping them by means of timely messages, through which the divine purpose for Israel was kept before the workers. Two months after Haggais last recorded message was delivered, Zechariah had a series of visions regarding the work of God in the earth. These messages, given in the form of parables and symbols, came at a time of great uncertainty and anxiety, and were of peculiar significance to the men who were advancing in the name of the God of Israel. It seemed to the leaders as if the permission granted the Jews to rebuild was about to be withdrawn; the future appeared very dark. God saw that His people were in need of being sustained and cheered by a revelation of His infinite compassion and love.{PK 579.4}[36]
§75
撒迦利亚在异象中听到主的使者发问说：“万军之耶和华啊，你恼恨耶路撒冷，和犹大的城邑，已经七十年；你不施怜悯要到几时呢？”他说耶和华就用美善的安慰话，回答那与我说话的天使。[37]{PK 580.1}
§76
In vision Zechariah heard the angel of the Lord inquiring, O Lord of hosts, how long wilt Thou not have mercy on Jerusalem and on the cities of Judah, against which Thou hast had indignation these threescore and ten years? And the Lord answered the angel that talked with me, Zechariah declared, with good words and comfortable words.{PK 580.1}[37]
§77
与我说话的天使对我说：“你要宣告说，万军之耶和华如此说。我为耶路撒冷、为锡安，心里极其火热。我甚恼怒那安逸的列国。因我从前稍微恼怒我民，他们就加害过分。所以耶和华如此说。现今我回到耶路撒冷，仍施怜悯。我的殿必重建在其中，准绳必拉在耶路撒冷之上，这是万军之耶和华说的。”（亚1:12-16）[38]{PK 580.2}
§78
So the angel that communed with me said unto me, Cry thou, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; I am jealous for Jerusalem and for Zion with a great jealousy. And I am very sore displeased with the heathen that are at ease: for I was but a little displeased, and they helped forward the affliction. Therefore thus saith the Lord; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: My house shall be built in it, . . . and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem. Zechariah 1:12-16.{PK 580.2}[38]
§79
先知这时又受命发出预言说：“万军之耶和华如此说，我的城邑必再丰盛发达。耶和华必再安慰锡安，拣选耶路撒冷。”（亚1:17）[39]{PK 580.3}
§80
The prophet was now directed to predict, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; My cities through prosperity shall yet be spread abroad; and the Lord shall yet comfort Zion, and shall yet choose Jerusalem. Verse 17.{PK 580.3}[39]
§81
撒迦利亚随后看见有四个角，代表那“打散犹大、以色列和耶路撒冷”的权势。紧接着他又看见四个匠人，代表主所用来恢复他子民和他礼拜之所的执行者。（见亚1:18-21）[40]{PK 581.1}
§82
Zechariah then saw the powers that had scattered Judah, Israel, and Jerusalem, symbolized by four horns. Immediately afterward he saw four carpenters, representing the agencies used by the Lord in restoring His people and the house of His worship. See verses 18-21.{PK 581.1}[40]
§83
撒迦利亚说：“我又举目观看，见一人手拿准绳。我说：你往哪里去？他对我说：要去量耶路撒冷，看有多宽、多长。与我说话的天使去的时候，又有一位天使迎着他来，对他说：你跑去告诉那少年人说：耶路撒冷必有人居住，好像无城墙的乡村；因为人民和牲畜甚多。耶和华说：我要作耶路撒冷四围的火城，并要作其中的荣耀。”[41]{PK 581.2}
§84
I lifted up mine eyes again, Zechariah said, and looked, and behold a man with a measuring line in his hand. Then said I, Whither goest thou? And he said unto me, To measure Jerusalem, to see what is the breadth thereof, and what is the length thereof. And, behold, the angel that talked with me went forth, and another angel went out to meet him, and said unto him, Run, speak to this young man, saying, Jerusalem shall be inhabited as towns without walls for the multitude of men and cattle therein: for I, saith the Lord, will be unto her a wall of fire round about, and will be the glory in the midst of her. Zechariah 2:1-5.{PK 581.2}[41]
§85
上帝已经命令要重建耶路撒冷，所以测量圣城的异象乃是一个保证，说明他必安慰并赐力量给他受苦的儿女，并向他们实行他永约的应许。他宣称他的保卫看顾，要像“四围的火城。”而且他的荣耀必借着他们显现在人的众子之前。他为他子民所要成就的事将使全地都知道。“锡安的居民哪，当扬声欢呼；因为在你们中间的以色列圣者，乃为至大。”（赛12:6）[42]{PK 581.3}
§86
God had commanded that Jerusalem be rebuilt; the vision of the measuring of the city was an assurance that He would give comfort and strength to His afflicted ones, and fulfill to them the promises of His everlasting covenant. His protecting care, He declared, would be like a wall of fire round about; and through them His glory would be revealed to all the sons of men. That which He was accomplishing for His people was to be known in all the earth. Cry out and shout, thou inhabitant of Zion: for great is the Holy One of Israel in the midst of thee. Isaiah 12:6.{PK 581.3}[42]