第22章 约翰被囚及殉道
§1
第22章 约翰被囚及殉道
§2
Chap. 22 - Imprisonment and Death of John
§3
（本章根据：太11:1-11,14:1-11；可6:17-28；路7:19-28）
§4
施洗约翰是第一个宣布基督之国降临，也是第一个为基督受苦的人。他从前呼吸的是旷野中的自由空气，围绕他的是倾听他教诲的群众，现在他却被关在高墙之内，成了希律安提帕堡垒中的一个囚犯。约翰曾在安提帕的辖境内的约旦河东岸作工很久。希律自己也听过他讲道，约翰发出的悔改的劝告，曾使这荒淫的君王战栗不安。“希律知道约翰是义人，是圣人，所以敬畏他……听他讲论，就多照着行，并且乐意听他。”约翰也忠诚地对待希律，并谴责他与弟媳希罗底不正当的结合。希律一度作过很软弱的挣扎，想要斩断那捆绑他的情欲锁链，但希罗底将他紧紧地缠在她的圈套里，并向约翰寻仇，怂恿希律将他下在监里。[1]{DA 214.1}
§5
John the Baptist had been first in heralding Christs kingdom, and he was first also in suffering. From the free air of the wilderness and the vast throngs that had hung upon his words, he was now shut in by the walls of a dungeon cell. He had become a prisoner in the fortress of Herod Antipas. In the territory east of Jordan, which was under the dominion of Antipas, much of Johns ministry had been spent. Herod himself had listened to the preaching of the Baptist. The dissolute king had trembled under the call to repentance. Herod feared John, knowing that he was a just man and an holy; . . . and when he heard him, he did many things, and heard him gladly. John dealt with him faithfully, denouncing his iniquitous alliance with Herodias, his brothers wife. For a time Herod feebly sought to break the chain of lust that bound him; but Herodias fastened him the more firmly in her toils, and found revenge upon the Baptist by inducing Herod to cast him into prison. {DA 214.1}[1]
§6
约翰的一生是忙碌的一生。如今这幽森和无所事事的牢狱生活，使他非常苦闷。时间一天一天地过去，案情并无好转，他就渐渐怀疑沮丧起来。约翰的门徒没有撇弃他，希律准他们到监牢里来探望。他们就将耶稣的工作和众人归附他的情形，都一五一十地告诉约翰。但他们怀疑，如果这位新兴的教师真是弥赛亚的话，他为什么不设法使约翰获释？他怎能坐视自己忠心的先锋失去自由，或许还可能丧命呢？[2]{DA 214.2}
§7
The life of John had been one of active labor, and the gloom and inaction of his prison life weighed heavily upon him. As week after week passed, bringing no change, despondency and doubt crept over him. His disciples did not forsake him. They were allowed access to the prison, and they brought him tidings of the works of Jesus, and told how the people were flocking to Him. But they questioned why, if this 2new teacher was the Messiah, He did nothing to effect Johns release. How could He permit His faithful herald to be deprived of liberty and perhaps of life? {DA 214.2}[2]
§8
这些疑问不是没有影响的，约翰心中竟起了疑惑，是在其它情形之下不会产生的。撒但听见约翰的门徒所说的话，又看到这些话如何扎在上帝这个信使的心灵上，就十分得意。唉！往往有些人自以为是某个义人的朋友，急于向他表忠心，谁知实际上反作了他最可怕的敌人！他们所说的话，往往非但不能使人信心坚固，反而叫人灰心丧志！[3]{DA 215.1}
§9
These questions were not without effect. Doubts which otherwise would never have arisen were suggested to John. Satan rejoiced to hear the words of these disciples, and to see how they bruised the soul of the Lords messenger. Oh, how often those who think themselves the friends of a good man, and who are eager to show their fidelity to him, prove to be his most dangerous enemies! How often, instead of strengthening his faith, their words depress and dishearten! {DA 215.1}[3]
§10
施洗约翰像救主的门徒一样，不明白基督之国的性质。他期望耶稣登上大卫的宝座。但日复一日，救主并没有声明自己拥有王权，约翰就困惑不安起来。他过去曾向百姓宣布，为要预备主前面的道路，以赛亚的预言必须应验；大小山冈都要削平，弯曲的地方要修直，高高低低的道路要整平。因此，他期望世人的高位和大权都被推翻。他曾预指弥赛亚为“手里拿着簸箕，要扬净他的场，把麦子收在仓里，把糠用不灭的火烧尽”的那一位。约翰凭着以利亚的心志和能力来到以色列，也像他一样，希望主显示自己为“那降火显应的上帝”。[4]{DA 215.2}
§11
Like the Saviours disciples, John the Baptist did not understand the nature of Christs kingdom. He expected Jesus to take the throne of David; and as time passed, and the Saviour made no claim to kingly authority, John became perplexed and troubled. He had declared to the people that in order for the way to be prepared before the Lord, the prophecy of Isaiah must be fulfilled; the mountains and hills must be brought low, the crooked made straight, and the rough places plain. He had looked for the high places of human pride and power to be cast down. He had pointed to the Messiah as the One whose fan was in His hand, and who would thoroughly purge His floor, who would gather the wheat into His garner, and burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire. Like the prophet Elijah, in whose spirit and power he had come to Israel, he looked for the Lord to reveal Himself as a God that answereth by fire. {DA 215.2}[4]
§12
施洗约翰在履行自己的使命时，毫无顾虑地斥责罪恶，不分地位高低。就是希律王犯罪，他也敢直言申斥。为了尽忠尽职，他竟不顾自己的性命。现在到了监里，他等着那“犹大支派的狮子”来，打消压迫者的威风，拯救穷苦和呼救的人。然而耶稣似乎只以招收门徒、教训百姓和医治病患为己任。当罗马人的轭一天重似一天地压在以色列人身上，当希律王和他邪恶的情妇任意妄为，当困苦遭难的冤声上达于天之时，耶稣竟坐在税吏的筵席上，与他们一同吃喝。[5]{DA 215.3}
§13
In his mission the Baptist had stood as a fearless reprover of iniquity, both in high places and in low. He had dared to face King Herod with the plain rebuke of sin. He had not counted his life dear unto himself, that he might fulfill his appointed work. And now from his dungeon he watched for the Lion of the tribe of Judah to cast down the pride of the oppressor, and to deliver the poor and him that cried. But Jesus seemed to content Himself with gathering disciples about Him, and healing and teaching the people. He was eating at the tables of the publicans, while every day the Roman yoke rested more heavily upon Israel, while King Herod and his vile paramour worked their will, and the cries of the poor and suffering went up to heaven. {DA 215.3}[5]
§14
这一切，在这位旷野的先知看来，是猜不透的谜。有时鬼魔窃窃的低语使他的心灵痛苦至极，恐怖的黑影渐渐地笼罩了他。人们长久仰望的那位救星会不会还没有出现？那么，他自己感觉迫切要传的信息又是什么意思呢？约翰对自己工作的效果感觉非常失望。他曾希望那从上帝传来的信息，能像古代约西亚王和以斯拉宣读律法时一样（代下34；尼8:9:），有同样的效果，使人深刻悔改归向耶和华。为了完成这一使命，他已牺牲了一生，难道全是徒然的吗？[6]{DA 216.1}
§15
To the desert prophet all this seemed a mystery beyond his fathoming. There were hours when the whisperings of demons tortured his spirit, and the shadow of a terrible fear crept over him. Could it be that the long-hoped-for Deliverer had not yet appeared? Then what meant the message that he himself had been impelled to bear? John had been bitterly disappointed in the result of his mission. He had expected that the message from God would have the same effect as when the law was read in the days of Josiah and of Ezra (2 Chronicles 34; Nehemiah 8, 9); that there would follow a deep-seated work of repentance and returning unto the Lord. For the success of this mission his whole life had been sacrificed. Had it been in vain? {DA 216.1}[6]
§16
约翰看见自己的门徒因爱他而对耶稣生了疑心，就感到烦恼。他在他们身上难道是白费心机了？他现在不能继续工作，是不是因为以前没有忠于使命呢？所应许的救星若已来到，而约翰也曾尽了自己的本分，那么，耶稣现在岂不应该推翻压迫者的权势，并释放他的先锋吗？[7]{DA 216.2}
§17
John was troubled to see that through love for him, his own disciples were cherishing unbelief in regard to Jesus. Had his work for them been fruitless? Had he been unfaithful in his mission, that he was now cut off from labor? If the promised Deliverer had appeared, and John had been found true to his calling, would not Jesus now overthrow the oppressors power, and set free His herald? {DA 216.2}[7]
§18
然而，约翰始终没有放弃他对基督的信心。他想起天上来的声音和圣灵像鸽子降下的情形，又想到耶稣无瑕的纯洁，再回忆自己在救主面前时，圣灵降在他身上的能力，以及众先知预言的见证，——这一切都证明拿撒勒人耶稣就是上帝所应许的那一位。[8]{DA 216.3}
§19
But the Baptist did not surrender his faith in Christ. The memory of the voice from heaven and the descending dove, the spotless purity of Jesus, the power of the Holy Spirit that had rested upon John as he came into the Saviours presence, and the testimony of the prophetic scriptures,--all witnessed that Jesus of Nazareth was the Promised One. {DA 216.3}[8]
§20
约翰不愿与他的同伴谈论他的疑惑和忧虑，他决定差人去问耶稣。于是将这事委托他的两个门徒，希望借他们与救主的会谈，来巩固他们的信心，并给他们的弟兄带来可靠的保证，同时还希望听到基督直接对他要说些什么话。[9]{DA 216.4}
§21
John would not discuss his doubts and anxieties with his companions. He determined to send a message of inquiry to Jesus. This he entrusted to two of his disciples, hoping that an interview with the Saviour would confirm their faith, and bring assurance to their brethren. And he longed for some word from Christ spoken directly for himself. {DA 216.4}[9]
§22
约翰的门徒来见耶稣，问他说：“那将要来的是你吗，还是我们等候别人呢？”[10]{DA 216.5}
§23
The disciples came to Jesus with their message, Art Thou He that should come, or do we look for another? {DA 216.5}[10]
§24
不久前，约翰还指着耶稣向众人宣布说：“看哪，上帝的羔羊，除去世人罪孽的。这就是我曾说‘有一位在我以后来，反成了在我以前的。’”（约1:29-30）而现在竟问：“那将要来的是你吗？”按普通人情来说，这件事实在令人非常失望，非常痛心。约翰既是忠实的开路先锋，尚且没有辨明基督的使命，那么，只知追求私利的民众还能对此有什么好见解呢？[11]{DA 216.6}
§25
How short the time since the Baptist had pointed to Jesus, and proclaimed, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. He it is, who coming after me is preferred before me. John 1:29, 27. And now the question, Art Thou He that should come? It was keenly bitter and disappointing to human nature. If John, the faithful forerunner, failed to discern Christs mission, what could be expected from the self-seeking multitude? {DA 216.6}[11]
§26
救主没有立即回答那两个门徒的问题。他们站在旁边，心中诧异耶稣为何默不作声。同时，有患病和受苦的人，到耶稣面前来求医。瞎子在人群之间，摸索着前来，各种患者，有自己赶路来的，有被朋友搀来的，都急切地要挤到耶稣面前。大医师的声音开通了聋子的耳朵。他的一句话，一次抚摸，使瞎子得见光明，看到了自然的美景、友人的笑容和救主的慈颜。耶稣斥责病魔，驱逐热症。他的声音达到垂死之人的耳中，他们就起来，健康如常了。疯瘫而被鬼附的人，听了基督的吩咐，就不再发疯，而来敬拜耶稣了。耶稣一面医治病人，一面教训百姓。被拉比们视为不洁而远远避开的穷苦农工，团团围着耶稣，他就对他们讲说永生之道。[12]{DA 216.7}
§27
The Saviour did not at once answer the disciples question. As they stood wondering at His silence, the sick and afflicted were coming to Him to be healed. The blind were groping their way through the crowd; 2diseased ones of all classes, some urging their own way, some borne by their friends, were eagerly pressing into the presence of Jesus. The voice of the mighty Healer penetrated the deaf ear. A word, a touch of His hand, opened the blind eyes to behold the light of day, the scenes of nature, the faces of friends, and the face of the Deliverer. Jesus rebuked disease and banished fever. His voice reached the ears of the dying, and they arose in health and vigor. Paralyzed demoniacs obeyed His word, their madness left them, and they worshiped Him. While He healed their diseases, He taught the people. The poor peasants and laborers, who were shunned by the rabbis as unclean, gathered close about Him, and He spoke to them the words of eternal life. {DA 216.7}[12]
§28
一天的光阴就这样过去了，一切事，约翰的门徒都看见、听见了。最后耶稣叫了他们来，吩咐他们将所看见的告诉约翰，又加上一句说:“凡不因我跌倒的,就有福了。”（路7:23）耶稣的神性在满足困苦人类的需要上得到了证明。他屈身为人，降到我们卑微的地位，他的荣耀就在此显明了。[13]{DA 217.1}
§29
Thus the day wore away, the disciples of John seeing and hearing all. At last Jesus called them to Him, and bade them go and tell John what they had witnessed, adding, Blessed is he, whosoever shall find none occasion of stumbling in Me. Luke 7:23, R. V. The evidence of His divinity was seen in its adaptation to the needs of suffering humanity. His glory was shown in His condescension to our low estate. {DA 217.1}[13]
§30
约翰的门徒传达了这个信息，这就够了。约翰想起先知论弥赛亚的话说：“耶和华用膏膏我，叫我传好信息给谦卑的人，差遣我医好伤心的人，报告被掳的得释放，被囚的出监牢；报告耶和华的恩年。”（赛61:1-2）基督的工作，不但证明他是弥赛亚，也显明了他的国需用何种方式来建立。从前在旷野里传给以利亚的真理也启示给约翰了：“那时，耶和华从那里经过，在他面前有烈风大作，崩山碎石，耶和华却不在风中；风后地震，耶和华却不在其中；地震后有火，耶和华也不在火中。”（王上19:11-12）火后,上帝才用“微小的声音”对先知说话。耶稣推行他的工作，也是如此，他不动干戈，不夺政权，乃是用仁慈牺牲的生活感化人心。[14]{DA 217.2}
§31
The disciples bore the message, and it was enough. John recalled the prophecy concerning the Messiah, The Lord hath anointed Me to preach good tidings unto the meek; He hath sent Me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and the opening of the prison to them that are bound; to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord. Isaiah 61:1, 2. The works of Christ not only declared Him to be the Messiah, but showed in what manner His kingdom was to be established. To John was opened the same truth that had come to Elijah in the desert, when a great and strong wind rent the mountains, and brake in pieces the rocks before the Lord; but the Lord was not in the wind: and after the wind an earthquake; but the Lord was not in the earthquake: and after the earthquake a fire; but the Lord was not in the fire: and after the fire, God spoke to the prophet by a still small voice. 1 Kings 19:11, 12. So Jesus was to do His work, not with the clash of arms and the overturning of thrones and kingdoms, but through speaking to the hearts of men by a life of mercy and self-sacrifice. {DA 217.2}[14]
§32
约翰克己生活的原则，就是弥赛亚之国的原则。他深知这一切是与当时以色列领袖们的主张和希望背道而驰的。约翰所认为足能证明基督神性的凭据，在他们却不成为凭据。他们是在等候一位经上所未曾应许的弥赛亚。约翰此时看出救主的使命，只能引起他们的忌恨和谴责。身为救主的先锋，他所尝的无非是救主自己必须喝尽的苦杯。[15]{DA 218.1}
§33
The principle of the Baptists own life of self-abnegation was the principle of the Messiahs kingdom. John well knew how foreign all this was to the principles and hopes of the leaders in Israel. That which was to him convincing evidence of Christs divinity would be no evidence to them. They were looking for a Messiah who had not been promised. John saw that the Saviours mission could win from them only hatred and condemnation. He, the forerunner, was but drinking of the cup which Christ Himself must drain to its dregs. {DA 218.1}[15]
§34
救主所说，“凡不因我跌倒的，就有福了”这句话，对约翰虽有一种温和的责备，但在他身上还是起了作用。他现在更清楚地认识了基督使命的性质，就献身与上帝，只要能最好地对他所深爱的事业有所贡献，或生或死，都置之度外了。[16]{DA 218.2}
§35
The Saviours words, Blessed is he, whosoever shall find none occasion of stumbling in Me, were a gentle reproof to John. It was not lost upon him. Understanding more clearly now the nature of Christs mission, he yielded himself to God for life or for death, as should best serve the interests of the cause he loved. {DA 218.2}[16]
§36
约翰的门徒离去之后，耶稣便对众人讲论约翰。救主的心对这位现在被囚在希律监牢中的忠实见证人，深表同情。他不愿让百姓认为上帝已丢弃了约翰，以为他在忧患中已失去信心。他说：“你们从前出去到旷野，是要看什么呢？要看风吹动的芦苇吗？”[17]{DA 218.3}
§37
After the messengers had departed, Jesus spoke to the people concerning John. The Saviours heart went out in sympathy to the faithful witness now buried in Herods dungeon. He would not leave the people to conclude that God had forsaken John, or that his faith had failed in the day of trial. What went ye out into the wilderness to see? He said. A reed shaken with the wind? {DA 218.3}[17]
§38
约旦河边那高高的芦苇随风摆动，正能代表那些评断约翰使命的拉比们。他们随着舆论摇摆，既不愿领受约翰扎心的警告，又因惧怕百姓，不敢公开反对他的工作。但上帝的使者却不是这样畏首畏尾的。那聚集在基督周围的群众曾见过约翰的工作，也听过他大胆指责罪恶。无论是自以为义的法利赛人，祭司阶层的撒都该人，或是希律王和他的朝臣、王侯、士兵、税吏和乡民，约翰都一视同仁，直言不讳。他不是风前摆动的芦苇，随人的毁誉摇晃不定。虽在牢狱之中，他对上帝的忠心和维护公义的热诚，与当年在旷野中，传上帝的警告时没有两样。他忠于原则，坚如磐石。[18]{DA 218.4}
§39
The tall reeds that grew beside the Jordan, bending before every breeze, were fitting representatives of the rabbis who had stood as critics and judges of the Baptists mission. They were swayed this way and that by the winds of popular opinion. They would not humble themselves to receive the heart-searching message of the Baptist, yet for fear of the people they dared not openly oppose his work. But Gods messenger was of no such craven spirit. The multitudes who were gathered about Christ had been witnesses to the work of John. They had heard his fearless rebuke of sin. To the self-righteous Pharisees, the priestly Sadducees, King Herod and his court, princes and soldiers, publicans and peasants, John had spoken with equal plainness. He was no trembling reed, swayed by the winds of human praise or prejudice. In the prison he was the same in his loyalty to God and his zeal for righteousness as when he preached Gods message in the wilderness. In his faithfulness to principle he was as firm as a rock. {DA 218.4}[18]
§40
耶稣继续说：“你们出去到底是要看什么？要看穿细软衣服的人吗？那穿华丽衣服、宴乐度日的人是在王宫里。”上帝呼召约翰去斥责当时骄奢淫逸的风气。他那俭朴的服装和克己的生活，与他的使命相称。富丽的衣饰和今生的奢华，上帝的仆人不应有份，那是属于住“在王宫里”的权贵们的，因世上的权柄与财富是他们的。耶稣要人注意约翰的衣服与祭司和首领们服装的差别。这些官长穿的是锦缎，戴的是珠玉。他们喜爱炫耀，弄得人眼花缭乱，以博得人们更大的尊重。他们渴望得到人的称赞，过于追求上帝所悦纳的内心清洁。如此显明自己不是忠于上帝，而是忠于属世之国。[19]{DA 218.5}
§41
Jesus continued, But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? Behold, they which are gorgeously appareled, and live delicately, are in kings courts. John had been called to reprove the sins and excesses of his time, and his plain dress and self-denying life 2were in harmony with the character of his mission. Rich apparel and the luxuries of this life are not the portion of Gods servants, but of those who live in kings courts, the rulers of this world, to whom pertain its power and its riches. Jesus wished to direct attention to the contrast between the clothing of John, and that worn by the priests and rulers. These officials arrayed themselves in rich robes and costly ornaments. They loved display, and hoped to dazzle the people, and thus command greater consideration. They were more anxious to gain the admiration of men than to obtain the purity of heart which would win the approval of God. Thus they revealed that their allegiance was not given to God, but to the kingdom of this world. {DA 218.5}[19]
§42
耶稣说：“你们出去究竟是要看什么？要看先知吗？我告诉你们：是的，他比先知大多了。经上记着说：‘我要差遣我的使者在你前面预备道路。’所说的就是这个人。”[20]{DA 219.1}
§43
But what, said Jesus, went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet. For this is he, of whom it is written,-- Behold, I send My messenger before Thy face, Which shall prepare Thy way before Thee. {DA 219.1}[20]
§44
“我实在告诉你们：凡妇人所生的，没有一个兴起来大过施洗约翰的。”天使在约翰出世之前，向撒迦利亚宣告说：“他在主面前将要为大。”（路1:15）在上天看来，是什么构成伟大呢？不是世人之所谓伟大；不在于财富、地位、家世或才智。倘若不考虑更高的附带条件，单说才智是值得尊敬的话，那么，我们第一个就应当向撒但致敬，因为他的智力从来无人能及。然而，将天赋的才干滥用以追求一己的私利，则才干越大，所造成的灾祸也越严重。上帝重视的是道德的高尚。爱心与纯洁是上帝最珍视的美德。约翰在主眼中为大，因他在犹太公会所差来的代表并众百姓和他自己的门徒面前，不求自己的荣耀，却向众人指明耶稣就是上帝所应许的那一位。他对基督的工作所表现的无私喜乐，是人类所能表现的最高尚的品质。[21]{DA 219.2}
§45
Verily I say unto you, Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist. In the announcement to Zacharias before the birth of John, the angel had declared, He shall be great in the sight of the Lord. Luke 1:15. In the estimation of Heaven, what is it that constitutes greatness? Not that which the world accounts greatness; not wealth, or rank, or noble descent, or intellectual gifts, in themselves considered. If intellectual greatness, apart from any higher consideration, is worthy of honor, then our homage is due to Satan, whose intellectual power no man has ever equaled. But when perverted to self-serving, the greater the gift, the greater curse it becomes. It is moral worth that God values. Love and purity are the attributes He prizes most. John was great in the sight of the Lord, when, before the messengers from the Sanhedrin, before the people, and before his own disciples, he refrained from seeking honor for himself, but pointed all to Jesus as the Promised One. His unselfish joy in the ministry of Christ presents the highest type of nobility ever revealed in man. {DA 219.2}[21]
§46
那些听过约翰为耶稣作见证的人，在约翰死后论到他说：“约翰一件神迹没有行过，但约翰指着这人所说的一切话都是真的。”（约10:41）约翰的工作并不是像以利亚所作的那样叫火从天降下，或是使死人复活；也不是奉上帝的名挥动摩西权能的杖。他乃是奉差遣宣扬救主的降临，并唤起众人预备迎接他。“约翰指着这人所说的一切话都是真的。”像这样为基督作见证，是主对他的每位门徒的要求。[22]{DA 219.3}
§47
The witness borne of him after his death, by those who had heard his testimony to Jesus, was, John did no miracle: but all things that John spake of this Man were true. John 10:41. It was not given to John to call down fire from heaven, or to raise the dead, as Elijah did, nor 2to wield Moses rod of power in the name of God. He was sent to herald the Saviours advent, and to call upon the people to prepare for His coming. So faithfully did he fulfill his mission, that as the people recalled what he had taught them of Jesus, they could say, All things that John spake of this Man were true. Such witness to Christ every disciple of the Master is called upon to bear. {DA 219.3}[22]
§48
作为弥赛亚的先锋，约翰“比先知大多了”。因为众先知都是从远处望见基督的降临,约翰却能亲眼看见他，亲耳听见那从天上来证明他是弥赛亚的声音，并将他介绍给以色列人为上帝所差来的那一位。耶稣却说：“天国里最小的比他还大。”[23]{DA 220.1}
§49
As the Messiahs herald, John was much more than a prophet. For while prophets had seen from afar Christs advent, to John it was given to behold Him, to hear the testimony from heaven to His Messiahship, and to present Him to Israel as the Sent of God. Yet Jesus said, He that is least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he. {DA 220.1}[23]
§50
先知约翰是连结新旧约时代两种制度的链环。作为上帝的代表，他显明了律法和先知与基督救恩的关系。他是较小的光，在他以后还有个更大的光要来。圣灵启发了约翰的心，使他能光照同胞。但照在堕落之人身上的其它亮光，无论是过去的，是未来的，都比不上耶稣的教训和榜样所发出的光那么亮。在那预表性的献祭礼节中，人只能隐约地体会基督和他的使命，就是约翰也没有完全领会那借救主而有的将来不朽坏的生命。[24]{DA 220.2}
§51
The prophet John was the connecting link between the two dispensations. As Gods representative he stood forth to show the relation of the law and the prophets to the Christian dispensation. He was the lesser light, which was to be followed by a greater. The mind of John was illuminated by the Holy Spirit, that he might shed light upon his people; but no other light ever has shone or ever will shine so clearly upon fallen man as that which emanated from the teaching and example of Jesus. Christ and His mission had been but dimly understood as typified in the shadowy sacrifices. Even John had not fully comprehended the future, immortal life through the Saviour. {DA 220.2}[24]
§52
除了履行使命的快乐之外，约翰的一生是饱经忧患的。除了在旷野，他的声音很少被人听见。他的命运是孤苦的，连他自己工作的效果也没让他看见。他没有权利与基督同在，亲眼目睹这更大之光所显示的神能。他没能看见瞎眼的人重见光明，患病的人得蒙医治，死了的人得以复活。他也没能看见，基督每句话所发的光，照在预言诸应许上的荣耀。从这方面来讲，那能目睹基督大能的作为，耳闻他训言的最小的门徒，也比施洗约翰所享有的特权更大，所以说“比他还大”。[25]{DA 220.3}
§53
Aside from the joy that John found in his mission, his life had been one of sorrow. His voice had been seldom heard except in the wilderness. His was a lonely lot. And he was not permitted to see the result of his own labors. It was not his privilege to be with Christ and witness the manifestation of divine power attending the greater light. It was not for him to see the blind restored to sight, the sick healed, and the dead raised to life. He did not behold the light that shone through every word of Christ, shedding glory upon the promises of prophecy. The least disciple who saw Christs mighty works and heard His words was in this sense more highly privileged than John the Baptist, and therefore is said to have been greater than he. {DA 220.3}[25]
§54
约翰的名声此时已由听过他讲道的群众传遍了全地。所以大家对他下监的结果非常关注。他的生活无瑕无疵，群众对他又有好感，人们相信，总不至于有暴虐的手段加在他身上吧。[26]{DA 220.4}
§55
Through the vast throngs that had listened to Johns preaching, his fame had spread throughout the land. A deep interest was felt as to the result of his imprisonment. Yet his blameless life, and the strong public sentiment in his favor, led to the belief that no violent measures would be taken against him. {DA 220.4}[26]
§56
希律相信约翰是上帝的先知，一心打算释放他，可是因为怕希罗底，故迟迟未行。[27]{DA 220.5}
§57
Herod believed John to be a prophet of God, and he fully intended 2to set him at liberty. But he delayed his purpose from fear of Herodias. {DA 220.5}[27]
§58
希罗底知道不可能用直接的手段使希律同意置约翰于死地，所以她决意用狡计来达到目的。在希律王的生日，将要设筵招待国内官员和宫廷的权贵，那时必是欢宴醉酒。这样，希罗底就可趁希律不备，任她摆布。[28]{DA 221.1}
§59
Herodias knew that by direct measures she could never win Herods consent to the death of John, and she resolved to accomplish her purpose by stratagem. On the kings birthday an entertainment was to be given to the officers of state and the nobles of the court. There would be feasting and drunkenness. Herod would thus be thrown off his guard, and might then be influenced according to her will. {DA 221.1}[28]
§60
到了希律王的生日，王和他的大臣正在狂欢痛饮，希罗底便差她的女儿撒罗米入厅跳舞，以娱嘉宾。她正当青春妙龄，艳丽的美色使耽于声色的贵人为之神魂颠倒。照当时的风俗，贵妇们是不在这一类的宴会露面的。所以当这以色列的祭司与公侯家族之女（译者按：希罗底的祖母，是犹太祭司希尔卡努斯二世HyrcanusⅡ的孙女。）出来献舞助兴时，这种恭维使希律显得格外光彩。[29]{DA 221.2}
§61
When the great day arrived, and the king with his lords was feasting and drinking, Herodias sent her daughter into the banqueting hall to dance for the entertainment of the guests. Salome was in the first flush of womanhood, and her voluptuous beauty captivated the senses of the lordly revelers. It was not customary for the ladies of the court to appear at these festivities, and a flattering compliment was paid to Herod when this daughter of Israels priests and princes danced for the amusement of his guests. {DA 221.2}[29]
§62
希律王酣饮已久，头昏目眩，情欲压倒了理智。他看见的只是欢乐的宴会、狂饮的宾客、狼藉的杯盘、闪烁的酒盅、耀目的灯光及曼舞的少女。在这放荡无羁的兴头上，他便想作一件夸耀的事，好在群臣面前得到颂扬。他就发誓应许满足希罗底女儿提出的任何要求，就是半壁江山，也决不含糊。[30]{DA 221.3}
§63
The king was dazed with wine. Passion held sway, and reason was dethroned. He saw only the hall of pleasure, with its reveling guests, the banquet table, the sparkling wine and the flashing lights, and the young girl dancing before him. In the recklessness of the moment, he desired to make some display that would exalt him before the great men of his realm. With an oath he promised to give the daughter of Herodias whatever she might ask, even to the half of his kingdom. {DA 221.3}[30]
§64
撒罗米急忙到母亲跟前，要知道她当求些什么。他母亲的回答早已准备好了——施洗约翰的头。撒罗米不明白母亲复仇之心何以如此凶恨，不愿提出这个要求；但母命难违，希罗底的决心压倒了一切。撒罗米就回到王面前，提出了这可怕的请求：“我愿王立时把施洗约翰的头放在盘子里给我。”（可6:25）[31]{DA 221.4}
§65
Salome hastened to her mother, to know what she should ask. The answer was ready,--the head of John the Baptist. Salome knew not of the thirst for revenge in her mothers heart, and she shrank from presenting the request; but the determination of Herodias prevailed. The girl returned with the terrible petition, I will that thou forthwith give me in a charger the head of John the Baptist. Mark 6:25, R. V. {DA 221.4}[31]
§66
希律张皇失措，狂欢顿时停止，一种不祥的寂静突然临到这宴乐的场所。希律王想到要害约翰的命，不禁大为震惊。然而他已发了誓，不愿有反复无常或卤莽的表现。他发誓原是为尊敬宾客，倘若他们中间有人说一句反对他履行他诺言的话，那么他必乐于免先知一死。他给他们机会为约翰说话。他们从前曾长途跋涉去听约翰讲道，也知道他是一个无罪的人，又是上帝的忠仆。这时撒罗米的要求虽然使他们大为震惊，但他们已沉溺于酒色，无心作何诤言。没有人讲一句话来解救这位上天的使者的性命。这些人虽然在国内身居高位，肩负重任，可是他们竟纵情于宴乐醉酒，以致理性麻痹。他们的头脑因酒酣耳热、声色当前而失了常态，良心也因而昏蒙了。他们的静默无言,无异将上帝的先知判处死刑，去满足一个荡妇的复仇之心。[32]{DA 221.5}
§67
Herod was astonished and confounded. The riotous mirth ceased, and an ominous silence settled down upon the scene of revelry. The king was horror-stricken at the thought of taking the life of John. Yet his word was pledged, and he was unwilling to appear fickle or rash. The oath had been made in honor of his guests, and if one of them had offered a word against the fulfillment of his promise, he would gladly have spared the prophet. He gave them opportunity to speak in the prisoners behalf. They had traveled long distances in order to hear the preaching of John, and they knew him to be a man without crime, and a servant of God. But though shocked at the girls demand, they were 2too besotted to interpose a remonstrance. No voice was raised to save the life of Heavens messenger. These men occupied high positions of trust in the nation, and upon them rested grave responsibilities; yet they had given themselves up to feasting and drunkenness until the senses were benumbed. Their heads were turned with the giddy scene of music and dancing, and conscience lay dormant. By their silence they pronounced the sentence of death upon the prophet of God to satisfy the revenge of an abandoned woman. {DA 221.5}[32]
§68
希律等机会想逃避履行他的誓言，终归徒然，于是他无可奈何地下令将先知斩首。过一会儿，约翰的头就被拿来放在王和宾客面前。从此那忠心劝告希律转离罪恶的口就永远封闭了；那呼召人悔改的声音，也永远听不见了。一夜狂欢，竟牺牲了一位最大先知的性命。[33]{DA 222.1}
§69
Herod waited in vain to be released from his oath; then he reluctantly commanded the execution of the prophet. Soon the head of John was brought in before the king and his guests. Forever sealed were those lips that had faithfully warned Herod to turn from his life of sin. Never more would that voice be heard calling men to repentance. The revels of one night had cost the life of one of the greatest of the prophets. {DA 222.1}[33]
§70
哎！由于本应秉公执法之人没有节制，往往使无辜的人徒然牺牲！凡饮酒的人，必须为自己在酒的麻醉之下所行的一切不义之事负责。人的知觉被酒麻痹之后，就不能平心静气地判断曲直，也没有清醒的头脑来辨别是非。这等人就为撒但开了路，使撒但能利用他来迫害无辜。“酒能使人亵慢，浓酒使人喧嚷，凡因酒错误的，就无智慧。”于是“公平转而退后，……离恶的人反成掠物。”（箴20:1；赛59:14-15）凡握有生杀之权的人，若是醉酒纵欲，就当算为犯法。执法的人，自己必须守法，他们必须有自制的能力；必须完全掌握自己的体力、智力和道义力，才能保持敏锐的理智和高度的正义感。[34]{DA 222.2}
§71
Oh, how often has the life of the innocent been sacrificed through the intemperance of those who should have been guardians of justice! He who puts the intoxicating cup to his lips makes himself responsible for all the injustice he may commit under its besotting power. By benumbing his senses he makes it impossible for him to judge calmly or to have a clear perception of right and wrong. He opens the way for Satan to work through him in oppressing and destroying the innocent. Wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging: and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise. Proverbs 20:1. Thus it is that judgment is turned away backward, . . . and he that departeth from evil maketh himself a prey. Isaiah 59:14, 15. Those who have jurisdiction over the lives of their fellow men should be held guilty of a crime when they yield to intemperance. All who execute the laws should be lawkeepers. They should be men of self-control. They need to have full command of their physical, mental, and moral powers, that they may possess vigor of intellect, and a high sense of justice. {DA 222.2}[34]
§72
施洗约翰的头送到希罗底面前，希罗底接到时，发出得意的狞笑。她庆幸大仇已报，并妄自以为希律的良心必不再受责备了。然而她所犯的罪终不能使她快乐。她秽名四溢，为人所憎厌；同时，希律心中的悔恨，反使他比以前听约翰警告时更为苦恼。约翰的教训并未止息，其影响将流传万代，直到世界的末了。[35]{DA 222.3}
§73
The head of John the Baptist was carried to Herodias, who received it with fiendish satisfaction. She exulted in her revenge, and flattered herself that Herods conscience would no longer be troubled. But no happiness resulted to her from her sin. Her name became notorious and abhorred, while Herod was more tormented by remorse than he had been by the warnings of the prophet. The influence of Johns teachings was not silenced; it was to extend to every generation till the close of time. {DA 222.3}[35]
§74
此后，希律的罪行经常闪现在他眼前。他不断受良心的谴责，想求解脱而不得。希律对约翰的信心也没动摇。每当他想到约翰的克己生活、严正态度、诚恳的劝诫、正确的忠告、以及如何惨死，心中总不得安宁。当他办理国事和受人尊敬时，他脸上强作笑容和庄重的仪表，而心中总是焦虑不安，觉得有咒诅在身，因而恐惧战兢。[36]{DA 223.1}
§75
Herods sin was ever before him. He was constantly seeking to find relief from the accusings of a guilty conscience. His confidence in John was unshaken. As he recalled his life of self-denial, his solemn, earnest appeals, his sound judgment in counsel, and then remembered how he had come to his death, Herod could find no rest. Engaged in the affairs of the state, receiving honors from men, he bore a smiling face and dignified mien, while he concealed an anxious heart, ever oppressed with the fear that a curse was upon him. {DA 223.1}[36]
§76
约翰所说，人所行的事没有一件能瞒过上帝，这话已深深铭刻在希律心中。他深信上帝是无所不在的，因此他必已看见宴会厅里的狂欢，耳闻那执行约翰死刑的命令，看见希罗底的欣喜和她对指责她之人的首级所施的侮辱。希律从前听约翰讲的许多话，此时又在他良心上发出声音，比在旷野传道时更为清晰。[37]{DA 223.2}
§77
Herod had been deeply impressed by the words of John, that nothing can be hidden from God. He was convinced that God was present in every place, that He had witnessed the revelry of the banqueting room, that He had heard the command to behead John, and had seen the exultation of Herodias, and the insult she offered to the severed head of her reprover. And many things that Herod had heard from the lips of the prophet now spoke to his conscience more distinctly than had the preaching in the wilderness. {DA 223.2}[37]
§78
后来希律听见基督的作为，就非常不安。他以为上帝已使约翰从死里复活，并赐给他更大的能力，差他出去指责罪恶。他时刻惧怕约翰会来宣布他和他全家的罪状，以报杀身之仇。此时希律正收获上帝所说犯罪的结果：“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28:65－67）罪人自己的思想，就是他的原告，良心的谴责使人日夜不得安宁，人间的痛苦莫甚于此。[38]{DA 223.3}
§79
When Herod heard of the works of Christ, he was exceedingly troubled. He thought that God had raised John from the dead, and sent him forth with still greater power to condemn sin. He was in constant fear that John would avenge his death by passing condemnation upon him and his house. Herod was reaping that which God had declared to be the result of a course of sin,--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 28:65-67. The sinners own thoughts are his accusers; and there can be no torture keener than the stings of a guilty conscience, which give him no rest day nor night. {DA 223.3}[38]
§80
许多人对施洗约翰的遭遇都觉得莫名其妙。他们怀疑上帝为什么让他在狱中受苦丧命。这种不可思议的天意，不是我们世人所能看透的。然而我们若想到约翰无非是与基督一同受苦的人，那么，我们对上帝的信心就不至动摇了。凡跟从基督的人，都必戴上牺牲的冠冕。他们都必难免被自私的人所不理解，并要成为撒但所猛烈攻击的目标。撒但立国的宗旨，就是要毁灭这种牺牲的精神，这精神无论在哪里出现，他都必加以攻击。[39]{DA 223.4}
§81
To many minds a deep mystery surrounds the fate of John the Baptist. They question why he should have been left to languish and die in prison. The mystery of this dark providence our human vision cannot penetrate; but it can never shake our confidence in God when we remember that John was but a sharer in the sufferings of Christ. All who follow Christ will wear the crown of sacrifice. They will surely be misunderstood by selfish men, and will be made a mark for the fierce assaults of Satan. It is this principle of self-sacrifice that his kingdom is established to destroy, and he will war against it wherever manifested. {DA 223.4}[39]
§82
约翰在幼年、青年和成年时期，都显出了坚强的性格和道义的力量。他在旷野发的人声：“预备主的道，修直他的路。”（太3:3）撒但听了就为其国的安全担心。约翰将罪的极端邪恶显得非常清楚，信息所及，人人发颤。于是撒但在许多人身上的控制力就被击破了。他纠缠不休地要使约翰放弃他那绝对献身给上帝的人生，却终于失败了。而且他又不能胜过耶稣。在旷野的试探中，撒但打了败仗，心中愤恨之极。于是他决意要打击约翰，使基督悲伤。撒但既不能引诱基督犯罪，就要叫他受苦。[40]{DA 224.1}
§83
The childhood, youth, and manhood of John had been characterized by firmness and moral power. When his voice was heard in the wilderness saying, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make His paths straight (Matthew 3:3), Satan feared for the safety of his kingdom. The sinfulness of sin was revealed in such a manner that men trembled. Satans power over many who had been under his control was broken. He had been unwearied in his efforts to draw away the Baptist from a life of unreserved surrender to God; but he had failed. And he had failed to overcome Jesus. In the temptation in the wilderness, Satan had been defeated, and his rage was great. Now he determined to bring sorrow upon Christ by striking John. The One whom he could not entice to sin he would cause to suffer. {DA 224.1}[40]
§84
耶稣没有出来拯救他的仆人，因知道约翰经得起这种考验。救主固然极愿到约翰那里，使幽暗的监狱因他的莅临得到光明；但他不能置身于仇敌手中而危及自己的使命。他固然愿意拯救他忠心的仆人，只是为了后世，为一切将要经过监狱而遭死亡的千万圣徒的益处，约翰必须喝殉道的苦杯。将来，当基督的门徒在凄凉的牢狱中受苦，或在刀剑、刑架、火刑等刑具之下丧命时，他们虽然看来似乎已为上帝和世人所弃绝，但想起施洗约翰的忠心，如何为基督所亲口称许，而他们也遭遇这同样的经历，他们心中将能得到何等的安慰啊！[41]{DA 224.2}
§85
Jesus did not interpose to deliver His servant. He knew that John would bear the test. Gladly would the Saviour have come to John, to brighten the dungeon gloom with His own presence. But He was not to place Himself in the hands of enemies and imperil His own mission. Gladly would He have delivered His faithful servant. But for the sake of thousands who in after years must pass from prison to death, John was to drink the cup of martyrdom. As the followers of Jesus should languish in lonely cells, or perish by the sword, the rack, or the fagot, apparently forsaken by God and man, what a stay to their hearts would be the thought that John the Baptist, to whose faithfulness Christ Himself had borne witness, had passed through a similar experience! {DA 224.2}[41]
§86
撒但能削减上帝仆人在世上的寿命，然而那“与基督一同藏在上帝里面”的生命，（西3:3）他却不能毁灭。他庆幸自己已使基督悲伤，却不能战胜约翰。死亡只能让他永远脱离试探的势力。在这场战争中，撒但正在暴露自己的真面目。他在全宇宙的注视之下，显明他对上帝和世人所有的仇恨。[42]{DA 224.3}
§87
Satan was permitted to cut short the earthly life of Gods messenger; but that life which is hid with Christ in God, the destroyer could not reach. Colossians 3:3. He exulted that he had brought sorrow upon Christ, but he had failed of conquering John. Death itself only placed him forever beyond the power of temptation. In this warfare, Satan was revealing his own character. Before the witnessing universe he made manifest his enmity toward God and man. {DA 224.3}[42]
§88
约翰虽然没有得到奇妙的拯救，但上帝并没有撇弃他。天使时常与他作伴，将有关基督的预言和《圣经》中宝贵的应许指示他。这乃是他的依靠，也是将来上帝百姓的依靠。“我就常与你们同在，直到世界的末了。”（太28:20）这应许是对施洗约翰说的，也是对他的继承人说的。[43]{DA 224.4}
§89
Though no miraculous deliverance was granted John, he was not forsaken. He had always the companionship of heavenly angels, who opened to him the prophecies concerning Christ, and the precious promises of Scripture. These were his stay, as they were to be the stay of Gods people through the coming ages. To John the Baptist, as to those that came after him, was given the assurance, Lo, I am with you all the days, even unto the end. Matthew 28:20, R. V., margin. {DA 224.4}[43]
§90
上帝向来只引领凡愿意接受他指引的儿女。他们若能从起初看到末后，并看出他们与上帝同工所从事使命的无上光荣，他们自己也必作出这最明智的选择了。被接升天的以诺和乘坐火车火马上升的以利亚，都不比这独自死在监狱中的施洗约翰更伟大，更高贵。“因为你们蒙恩，不但得以信服基督，并要为他受苦。”（腓1:29）在上天所能赐给世人的一切恩赐中，与基督一同受苦，是最重要的委托，也是最伟大的光荣。[44]{DA 224.5}
§91
God never leads His children otherwise than they would choose to be led, if they could see the end from the beginning, and discern the glory 2of the purpose which they are fulfilling as co-workers with Him. Not Enoch, who was translated to heaven, not Elijah, who ascended in a chariot of fire, was greater or more honored than John the Baptist, who perished alone in the dungeon. Unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on Him, but also to suffer for His sake. Philippians 1:29. And of all the gifts that Heaven can bestow upon men, fellowship with Christ in His sufferings is the most weighty trust and the highest honor. {DA 224.5}[44]