第43章 在罗马
§1
第43章 在罗马Chap. 43 - In Rome（本章根据：徒28:11-31；腓利门书）
§2
航运一通，百夫长和他的囚犯便动身往罗马去。这时有一只亚力山大的船，“以丢斯双子为记，”是在米利大过冬的，要往西开行，旅客就上了这只船。这次航程虽因逆风稍有耽误，但终于安全地完成了，船就停泊在意大利海岸美丽的部丢利港。[1]{AA 447.1 }
§3
With the opening of navigation, the centurion and his prisoners set out on their journey to Rome. An Alexandrian ship, the Castor and Pollux, had wintered at Melita on her way westward, and in this the travelers embarked. Though somewhat delayed by contrary winds, the voyage was safely accomplished, and the ship cast anchor in the beautiful harbor of Puteoli, on the coast of Italy. {AA 447.1 }[1]
§4
有几个基督徒住在这里，他们恳求使徒与他们同住七天，百夫长欣然给予他这个特权。意大利的基督徒自从接到保罗致罗马人的书信以来，他们一直在热切地盼望他前来访问。他们并未料想到他会以囚犯的身分来与他们相见，不过他的受苦却只有使他们更加爱他。部丢利与罗马城相距只有一百四十里路，而且这个海口和首都之间经常有交通来往，所以罗马的基督徒一得到保罗将要来到的消息，其中有一些人就动身去迎接他。[2]{AA 447.2 }
§5
In this place there were a few Christians, and they entreated the apostle to remain with them for seven days, a privilege kindly granted by the centurion. Since receiving Pauls epistle to the Romans, the Christians of Italy had eagerly looked forward to a visit from the apostle. They had not thought to see him come as a prisoner, but his sufferings only endeared him to them the more. The distance from Puteoli to Rome being but a hundred and forty miles, and the seaport being in constant communication with the metropolis, the Roman Christians were informed of Pauls approach, and some of them started to meet and welcome him. {AA 447.2 }[2]
§6
百夫长和他的囚犯在登岸后第八天，就启程往罗马去。犹流乐意尽他的权限所及，给予保罗各种便利；可惜他却不能改变他囚犯的身份，也不能解除他那连系在卫兵身上的枷锁。保罗以沉重的心情走向他所长久希望访问的世界都城。这时的景况与他所预期的该是多么不同啊！他将怎样在被锁和受辱的情形之下传扬福音呢？他想要在罗马引领多人归向真理的希望似乎注定要落空了。[3]{AA 448.1 }
§7
On the eighth day after landing, the centurion and his prisoners set out for Rome. Julius willingly granted the apostle every favor which it was in his power to bestow; but he could not change his condition as a prisoner, or release him from the chain that bound him to his soldier guard. It was with a heavy heart that Paul went forward to his long-expected visit to the worlds metropolis. How different the circumstances from those he had anticipated! How was he, fettered and stigmatized, to proclaim the gospel? His hopes of winning many souls to the truth in Rome, seemed destined to disappointment. {AA 448.1 }[3]
§8
最后，这一批行人到了距离罗马四十里的亚比乌市。当他们穿过那拥挤在大道上的群众时，这个白发的老人，与一班相貌凶恶的囚犯连锁在一起，常受众人嘲笑的蔑视，并成了粗暴讥刺的对象。[4]{AA 448.2 }
§9
At last the travelers reach Appii Forum, forty miles from Rome. As they make their way through the crowds that throng the great thoroughfare, the gray-haired old man, chained with a group of hardened-looking criminals, receives many a glance of scorn and is made the subject of many a rude, mocking jest. {AA 448.2 }[4]
§10
忽然之间听到一声欢呼，只见一个人从经过的群众中跳了出来，眼中流着喜乐的热泪，抱着这个囚犯的颈项，如同一个儿子欢迎他久别的父亲一样。当许多人的眼睛因亲切的期望而敏锐起来时，这种景象就接二连三地重演了，许多人认出这个带着锁链的囚犯就是那在哥林多、腓立比、以弗所向他们讲述永生之道的那一位。[5]{AA 448.3 }
§11
Suddenly a cry of joy is heard, and a man springs from the passing throng and falls upon the prisoners neck, embracing him with tears and rejoicing, as a son would welcome a long-absent father. Again and again is the scene repeated as, with eyes made keen by loving expectation, many discern in the chained captive the one who at Corinth, at Philippi, at Ephesus, had spoken to them the words of life. {AA 448.3 }[5]
§12
当这些亲切的门徒热烈地聚集于这位他们在福音里的父亲身旁时，全体行人都停住了。罗马士兵虽然不耐久待，但他们却无意阻挠这一快乐的相会；因为他们也已学会尊敬并重视他们的这个囚犯了。众门徒在那疲劳而被痛苦困累的脸上，看到反射出来的基督的形象。他们向保罗保证他们并没有忘记他，也没有止息对他的敬爱；他们感激他的恩情，因为他使他们有快乐的希望鼓舞着他们的生活，并使他们在上帝面前有平安。在挚爱的热情中，要是他们能获得这种特权，他们真愿将他背在肩头上一路走到城里去。[6]{AA 448.4 }
§13
As the warmhearted disciples eagerly flock around their father in the gospel, the whole company is brought to a standstill. The soldiers are impatient of delay, yet they have not the heart to interrupt this happy meeting; for they, too, have learned to respect and esteem their prisoner. In that worn, pain-stricken face, the disciples see reflected the image of Christ. They assure Paul that they have not forgotten him nor ceased to love him; that they are indebted to him for the joyful hope which animates their lives and gives them peace toward God. In the ardor of their love they would bear him upon their shoulders the whole way to the city, could they but have the privilege. {AA 448.4 }[6]
§14
路加说保罗看见了他的弟兄们，“就感谢上帝，放心壮胆；”这句话的意义少有人能领会。使徒在这些不以他的捆锁为耻，反而同情他，为他哭泣的信徒之中高声赞美上帝。那笼罩在他心灵上的愁云完全消散了。他过去的基督徒生活乃是一连串的试炼、痛苦和失望，但这时他觉得已经得到丰富的报赏了。于是他以更坚稳的脚步和喜乐的心情继续他的行程。他既不埋怨过去，也不害怕将来。他明知有捆锁和苦难在等待着他；但他也知道他已经拯救多人脱离无穷的更可怕的捆绑，他就因自己为基督的缘故所受的苦而欢喜快乐。[7]{AA 449.1 }
§15
Few realize the significance of those words of Luke, that when Paul saw his brethren, he thanked God, and took courage. In the midst of the weeping, sympathizing company of believers, who were not ashamed of his bonds, the apostle praised God aloud. The cloud of sadness that had rested upon his spirit was swept away. His Christian life had been a succession of trials, sufferings, and disappointments, but in that hour he felt abundantly repaid. With firmer step and joyful heart he continued on his way. He would not complain of the past, nor fear for the future. Bonds and afflictions awaited him, he knew; but he knew also that it had been his to deliver souls from a bondage infinitely more terrible, and he rejoiced in his sufferings for Christs sake. {AA 449.1 }[7]
§16
到了罗马，百夫长犹流就把众囚犯交给御营的统领。他为保罗所作的好报告，以及非斯都写的文书，使这位统领对保罗颇有好感，因此他不但没有被关在监里，反而蒙准住在他自己所租的房子里。虽然他经常必须和一个卫兵锁在一起，但他却有自由接见他的朋友，并为推进基督的圣工而效力。[8]{AA 449.2 }
§17
At Rome the centurion Julius delivered up his prisoners to the captain of the emperors guard. The good account which he gave of Paul, together with the letter from Festus, caused the apostle to be favorably regarded by the chief captain, and, instead of being thrown into prison, he was permitted to live in his own hired house. Although still constantly chained to a soldier, he was at liberty to receive his friends and to labor for the advancement of the cause of Christ. {AA 449.2 }[8]
§18
早些年从罗马被驱逐的犹太人，许多已经蒙准回来，所以这时罗马城的犹太人为数甚多。保罗决意在他的仇敌还没有机会进行离间之前，首先将有关他自己和他工作的种种事实向这些人说明。因此，他在到达罗马三天之后，就召集他们的领导人物来，以简单直接的方式说明自己为什么作一个囚犯到罗马来。[9]{AA 450.1 }
§19
Many of the Jews who had been banished from Rome some years previously, had been allowed to return, so that large numbers were now to be found there. To these, first of all, Paul determined to present the facts concerning himself and his work, before his enemies should have opportunity to embitter them against him. Three days after his arrival in Rome, therefore, he called together their leading men and in a simple, direct manner stated why he had come to Rome as a prisoner. {AA 450.1 }[9]
§20
他说：“弟兄们！我虽没有作什么事干犯本国的百姓和我们祖宗的规条，却被锁绑，从耶路撒冷解在罗马人的手里。他们审问了我，就愿意释放我；因为在我身上，并没有该死的罪。无奈犹太人不服，我不得已，只好上告于该撒；并非有什么事，要控告我本国的百姓。因此，我请你们来见面说话，我原为以色列人所指望的，被这链子捆锁。”[10]{AA 450.2 }
§21
Men and brethren, he said, though I have committed nothing against the people, or customs of our fathers, yet was I delivered prisoner from Jerusalem into the hands of the Romans. Who, when they had examined me, would have let me go, because there was no cause of death in me. But when the Jews spake against it, I was constrained to appeal unto Caesar; not that I had aught to accuse my nation of. For this cause therefore have I called for you, to see you, and to speak with you: because that for the hope of Israel I am bound with this chain. {AA 450.2 }[10]
§22
他没有讲到自己在犹太人手中所受的侮辱，也没有提到他们屡次要刺杀他的计谋。他的言语审慎和善。他无意于求得到人的注意或同情，而是要维护真理并保持福音的荣誉。[11]{AA 450.3 }
§23
He said nothing of the abuse which he had suffered at the hands of the Jews, or of their repeated plots to assassinate him. His words were marked with caution and kindness. He was not seeking to win personal attention or sympathy, but to defend the truth and to maintain the honor of the gospel. {AA 450.3 }[11]
§24
他的听众在回答中说明，他们并未收到什么公函或私人信件控告他，也没有什么犹太人到罗马来告发他任何的罪行。他们也表示极愿亲自听他说明他信仰基督的缘由。他们说：“因为这教门，我们晓得是到处被毁谤的。”[12]{AA 451.1 }
§25
In reply, his hearers stated that they had received no charges against him by letters public or private, and that none of the Jews who had come to Rome had accused him of any crime. They also expressed a strong desire to hear for themselves the reasons of his faith in Christ. As concerning this sect, they said, we know that everywhere it is spoken against. {AA 451.1 }[12]
§26
他们自己既有这种愿望，保罗就请他们约定日子，以便他将福音的真理转告他们。到了约定的日子，有许多人前来聚集，“保罗从早到晚，对他们讲论这事，证明上帝国的道，引摩西的律法和先知的书，以耶稣的事劝勉他们。”他述说了自己的经验，并以简明、真诚而有力的话从旧约《圣经》中提出论据来。[13]{AA 451.2 }
§27
Since they themselves desired it, Paul bade them set a day when he could present to them the truths of the gospel. At the time appointed, many came together, to whom he expounded and testified the kingdom of God, persuading them concerning Jesus, both out of the law of Moses, and out of the prophets, from morning till evening. He related his own experience, and presented arguments from the Old Testament Scriptures with simplicity, sincerity, and power. {AA 451.2 }[13]
§28
这位使徒说明宗教并不在于礼节和仪式，信条和理论。如果是的话，那么属肉体的人就能考查而明白，像他们明白属世的事物一样。保罗教人了解宗教乃是实际的救人的力量，是完全从上帝而来的原则，是有上帝更新再造之能在心灵上运行的个人的经验。[14]{AA 451.3 }
§29
The apostle showed that religion does not consist in rites and ceremonies, creeds and theories. If it did, the natural man could understand it by investigation, as he understands worldly things. Paul taught that religion is a practical, saving energy, a principle wholly from God, a personal experience of Gods renewing power upon the soul. {AA 451.3 }[14]
§30
他说明摩西曾如何向以色列遥指基督为他们应当听从的“先知”，众先知曾如何见证他为上帝救治罪恶的良方，以无罪者的身分来背负死罪之人的罪孽。他并没有在他们遵守仪式和礼节的事上找错，却说明了当他们非常严紧地保持仪文的礼节时，他们竟拒绝了那作为一切制度之实体的主。[15]{AA 451.4 }
§31
He showed how Moses had pointed Israel forward to Christ as that Prophet whom they were to hear; how all the prophets had testified of Him as Gods great remedy for sin, the guiltless One who was to bear the sins of the guilty. He did not find fault with their observance of forms and ceremonies, but showed that while they maintained the ritual service with great exactness, they were rejecting Him who was the antitype of all that system. {AA 451.4 }[15]
§32
保罗声称自己在尚未悔改之前，已经认识基督，并不是由于个人的体认，而是与众人一样，单凭那有关将要来临之弥赛亚的性质与工作的概念。他之所以拒绝拿撒勒人耶稣，认他为骗子，就因为他未曾应验这一概念。但如今保罗对于基督和他使命的见解，则远为属灵、远为高超；因为他已经悔改了。使徒强调他并不是凭着外貌介绍基督给他们。在基督降世为人的时候，希律曾见过他；亚那曾见过他；彼拉多和祭司与官长们都曾见过他；罗马的兵丁也曾见过他。但是他们并未用信心的眼睛看他；他们没有认明他是那得了荣耀的救赎主。凭着信心了解基督，对他生出一种属灵的认识，较比他在地上显现时亲眼看见他更为可贵。保罗这时所享受与基督的交通，较比单单属世的人间的友谊更为密切，更为持久。[16]{AA 452.1 }
§33
Paul declared that in his unconverted state he had known Christ, not by personal acquaintance, but merely by the conception which he, in common with others, cherished concerning the character and work of the Messiah to come. He had rejected Jesus of Nazareth as an impostor because He did not fulfill this conception. But now Pauls views of Christ and His mission were far more spiritual and exalted, for he had been converted. The apostle asserted that he did not present to them Christ after the flesh. Herod had seen Christ in the days of His humanity; Annas had seen Him; Pilate and the priests and rulers had seen Him; the Roman soldiers had seen Him. But they had not seen Him with the eye of faith; they had not seen Him as the glorified Redeemer. To apprehend Christ by faith, to have a spiritual knowledge of Him, was more to be desired than a personal acquaintance with Him as He appeared on the earth. The communion with Christ which Paul now enjoyed was more intimate, more enduring, than a mere earthly and human companionship. {AA 452.1 }[16]
§34
当保罗讲论他所知道的，见证他所看见的，有关拿撒勒人耶稣为以色列的希望时，那些诚心追求真理的人都感服了。他的话至少在某一些人的心中，已留下了永不磨灭的印象。但是其它的人却顽梗不化地拒绝接受《圣经》中的明白见证，甚至于由一个蒙圣灵特别光照的人向他们提出，他们仍不肯接受。他们虽然不能反驳他的确据，但他们还是拒绝接受他所得的结论。[17]{AA 452.2 }
§35
As Paul spoke of what he knew, and testified of what he had seen, concerning Jesus of Nazareth as the hope of Israel, those who were honestly seeking for truth were convinced. Upon some minds, at least, his words made an impression that was never effaced. But others stubbornly refused to accept the plain testimony of the Scriptures, even when presented to them by one who had the special illumination of the Holy Spirit. They could not refute his arguments, but they refused to accept his conclusions. {AA 452.2 }[17]
§36
保罗到达罗马很久之后，耶路撒冷的犹太人才来出面控告他。他们过去的计谋屡次遭受挫败；如今保罗既要在罗马帝国的最高法庭之前受审，他们就决心不再冒一次失败的危险。吕西亚、腓力斯、非斯都和亚基帕都曾声明他们相信保罗是无辜的。他的仇敌只有用阴谋来求得该撒皇帝偏向他们，才能有成功的希望。迁延时日自必有助于他们的目的，因为这样就可以提供时间来给他们贯彻并执行他们的计谋；所以他们等候了一段时间，然后才亲自来到罗马呈上他们对于使徒的控告。[18]{AA 453.1 }
§37
Many months passed by after Pauls arrival in Rome, before the Jews of Jerusalem appeared in person to present their accusations against the prisoner. They had been repeatedly thwarted in their designs; and now that Paul was to be tried before the highest tribunal of the Roman Empire, they had no desire to risk another defeat. Lysias, Felix, Festus, and Agrippa had all declared their belief in his innocence. His enemies could hope for success only in seeking by intrigue to influence the emperor in their favor. Delay would further their object, as it would afford them time to perfect and execute their plans, and so they waited for a while before preferring their charges in person against the apostle. {AA 453.1 }[18]
§38
在上帝的神意安排之下，这种迟延结果竟促进了福音。由于那些看管保罗之人的优待，他蒙准住在一所宽大的房子里，得以自由接见朋友，也可以每天向那些来听的人讲说真理。他这样继续工作达二年之久，“放胆传讲上帝国的道，将主耶稣基督的事教导人，并没有人禁止。”[19]{AA 453.2 }
§39
In the providence of God this delay resulted in the furtherance of the gospel. Through the favor of those who had Paul in charge, he was permitted to dwell in a commodious house, where he could meet freely with his friends and also present the truth daily to those who came to hear. Thus for two years he continued his labors, preaching the kingdom of God, and teaching those things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ, will all confidence, no man forbidding him. {AA 453.2 }[19]
§40
在这一段时期中，他并没有忘记他在多处所建立的教会。使徒看出那威胁着新近悔改之人的种种危险，就尽量借着含有警告与实际教训的书信应付他们的需要。他又从罗马差遣献身的工人出去，不但为这些教会，也在他自己所未曾访问过的地区从事工作。这些工人既为智慧的牧者，就坚固了保罗所十分顺利开始的工作；而使徒自己借着经常与他们通信，得知众教会的情况和危险，就能运用他的明智监督照顾一切。[20]{AA 453.3 }
§41
During this time the churches that he had established in many lands were not forgotten. Realizing the dangers that threatened the converts to the new faith, the apostle sought so far as possible to meet their needs by letters of warning and practical instruction. And from Rome he sent out consecrated workers to labor not only for these churches, but in fields that he himself had not visited. These workers, as wise shepherds, strengthened the work so well begun by Paul; and the apostle, kept informed of the condition and dangers of the churches by constant communication with them, was enabled to exercise a wise supervision over all. {AA 453.3 }[20]
§42
这样，保罗表面上虽然截断了积极的工作，但他这时却较比往年自由旅行各教会时反而发挥了更广泛更持久的影响。保罗既为主的缘故被囚，弟兄们爱他的心就更为坚强了；他既为基督的缘故被捆锁，他的话语就较比他亲自在他们中间时博得了更大的注意和尊敬。直等保罗离开众信徒之后，他们才看出他为他们所背负的担子是何等的沉重。前此他们因为自己缺少他的智慧、机警和不屈不挠的努力，所以大都原谅自己，不肯担负责任和重担；如今，他们既须在缺少经验的情形之下学习从前所曾经规避的教训，他们从前既未重视他亲身的工作，因此他们就珍视他的警告、劝诫、和教训了。而且当他们得悉他在长期被囚中所有的勇敢与信心时，他们就受了激励，要在基督的事业上具有更大的忠诚与热心了。[21]{AA 454.1 }
§43
Thus, while apparently cut off from active labor, Paul exerted a wider and more lasting influence than if he had been free to travel among the churches as in former years. As a prisoner of the Lord, he had a firmer hold upon the affections of his brethren; and his words, written by one under bonds for the sake of Christ, commanded greater attention and respect than they did when he was personally with them. Not until Paul was removed from them, did the believers realize how heavy were the burdens he had borne in their behalf. Heretofore they had largely excused themselves from responsibility and burden bearing because they lacked his wisdom, tact, and indomitable energy; but now, left in their inexperience to learn the lessons they had shunned, they prized his warnings, counsels, and instructions as they had not prized his personal work. And as they learned of his courage and faith during his long imprisonment they were stimulated to greater fidelity and zeal in the cause of Christ. {AA 454.1 }[21]
§44
保罗在罗马时的助手，其中有许多是他从前的同伴和同工。“亲爱的医生”路加在保罗一路到耶路撒冷，在该撒利亚被囚的两年中，以及在他往罗马危险的航程上都与他作伴，这时仍与他同在。提摩太也在那里服侍他使他得到安慰。又有“忠心的执事”，并和保罗“一同作主仆人的”“亲爱的弟兄”推基古忠贞地帮助他。底马和马可也和他同在。亚里达古和以巴弗则是与他“一同坐监的。”（见西4:7-14）[22]{AA 454.2 }
§45
Among Pauls assistants at Rome were many of his former companions and fellow workers. Luke, the beloved physician, who had attended him on the journey to Jerusalem, through the two years imprisonment at Caesarea, and upon his perilous voyage to Rome, was with him still. Timothy also ministered to his comfort. Tychicus, a beloved brother, and a faithful minister and fellow servant in the Lord, stood nobly by the apostle. Demas and Mark were also with him. Aristarchus and Epaphras were his fellow prisoners. Colossians 4:7-14. {AA 454.2 }[22]
§46
马可自从早年表白他的信仰以来，他的基督徒经验已经加深了。当他更缜密地研究基督的生和死时，他就对于救主的使命，辛劳与斗争，获得更清楚的见解了。马可在基督手脚的钉痕上看出他为人类服务的标记，以及他为拯救丧亡之人所有舍已的程度，他就甘愿跟从救主走在自我牺牲的路上。如今他既与被囚的保罗同甘共苦，他就比从前更加明白得到基督乃为至宝；而得着世界却丧失基督宝血所救赎的生命乃是无限的损失。马可在面临严酷的试炼和苦难之下，仍然坚定不移，作保罗聪明而心爱的助手。[23]{AA 455.1 }
§47
Since the earlier years of his profession of faith, Marks Christian experience had deepened. As he had studied more closely the life and death of Christ he had obtained clearer views of the Saviours mission, its toils and conflicts. Reading in the scars in Christs hands and feet the marks of His service for humanity, and the length to which self-abnegation leads to save the lost and perishing, Mark had become willing to follow the Master in the path of self-sacrifice. Now, sharing the lot of Paul the prisoner, he understood better than ever before that it is infinite gain to win Christ, infinite loss to win the world and lose the soul for whose redemption the blood of Christ was shed. In the face of severe trial and adversity, Mark continued steadfast, a wise and beloved helper of the apostle. {AA 455.1 }[23]
§48
底马虽曾一时坚定不移，后来却放弃了基督的圣工。保罗提到这事，写道：“底马贪爱现今的世界，就离弃我。”（提后4:10）底马竟以一切重要高贵的事来换取属世的利益。作这种交易，眼光该是何等浅近啊！底马不论怎样夸耀他自己所拥有的，但他仅有属世的财富和尊荣，他实在还是贫穷的；而马可既甘愿为基督受苦，他就拥有永恒的财富，上天要算他为上帝的后嗣，并与上帝的儿子同作后嗣。[24]{AA 455.2 }
§49
Demas, steadfast for a time, afterward forsook the cause of Christ. In referring to this, Paul wrote, Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world. 2 Timothy 4:10. For worldly gain, Demas bartered every high and noble consideration. How shortsighted the exchange! Possessing only worldly wealth or honor, Demas was poor indeed, however much he might proudly call his own; while Mark, choosing to suffer for Christs sake, possessed eternal riches, being accounted in heaven an heir of God and a joint heir with His Son. {AA 455.2 }[24]
§50
由于保罗在罗马的工作而将心献与上帝的那班人中有一个名叫阿尼西母的，他原是信奉异教的奴隶，因得罪了他的主人，歌罗西的基督徒腓利门，而逃到罗马。保罗要本着他心所存的仁爱，先设法解救这个可怜的逃亡者的贫穷和苦难，然后尽力将真理的光照耀他黑暗的内心。阿尼西母既听了生命的道，就承认他的罪，悔改相信基督了。[25]{AA 456.1 }
§51
Among those who gave their hearts to God through the labors of Paul in Rome was Onesimus, a pagan slave who had wronged his master, Philemon, a Christian believer in Colosse, and had escaped to Rome. In the kindness of his heart, Paul sought to relieve the poverty and distress of the wretched fugitive and then endeavored to shed the light of truth into his darkened mind. Onesimus listened to the words of life, confessed his sins, and was converted to the faith of Christ. {AA 456.1 }[25]
§52
阿尼西母的敬虔和真诚，像他对于保罗的亲切照顾和他推进福音工作的热忱一样，使保罗非常钟爱他。保罗看出阿尼西母品格的特性，足以在布道工作上成为他有益的助手，所以劝他即速回到腓利门那里去，请求他的饶恕，并为将来作计划。使徒应许负责为他偿还他所亏负腓利门的款项。这时保罗正要派遣推基古带信给小亚细亚的各教会，所以就差阿尼西母和他同去。这事对于这个要如此将自己交给他所亏负之主人的奴仆，真是一种严重的考验，但他既已真诚地悔改了，所以就没有转离自己的本分。[26]{AA 456.2 }
§53
Onesimus endeared himself to Paul by his piety and sincerity, no less than by his tender care for the apostles comfort, and his zeal in promoting the work of the gospel. Paul saw in him traits of character that would render him a useful helper in missionary labor, and he counseled him to return without delay to Philemon, beg his forgiveness, and plan for the future. The apostle promised to hold himself responsible for the sum of which Philemon had been robbed. Being about to dispatch Tychicus with letters to various churches in Asia Minor, he sent Onesimus with him. It was a severe test for this servant thus to deliver himself up to the master he had wronged; but he had been truly converted, and he did not turn aside from his duty. {AA 456.2 }[26]
§54
保罗让阿尼西母带信给腓利门，在信中使徒用他素常的机智和仁爱为这个悔改的奴仆求情，并表示希望今后将他留下伺候自己。这信一开始就以腓利门为一个朋友和同工而向他亲切问候：[27]{AA 456.3 }
§55
Paul made Onesimus the bearer of a letter to Philemon, in which, with his usual tact and kindness, the apostle pleaded the cause of the repentant slave and expressed a desire to retain his services in the future. The letter began with an affectionate greeting to Philemon as a friend and fellow laborer: {AA 456.3 }[27]
§56
“愿恩惠平安从上帝我们的父，和主耶稣基督，归与你们。我祷告的时候提到你，常为你感谢我的上帝；因为听说你的爱心，并你向主耶稣和众圣徒的信心；愿你与人所同有的信心显出功效，使人知道你们各样善事都是为基督作的。”使徒提醒腓利门，他所具有的善良的意志和品格上的优点，都是出于基督的恩惠；唯有这种恩惠才能使他与乖谬犯罪的人有所区别。而且这同一恩惠也能使堕落的罪犯成为上帝的儿女，并成为福音有用的工人。[28]{AA 457.1 }
§57
Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; that the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. The apostle reminded Philemon that every good purpose and trait of character which he possessed was due to the grace of Christ; this alone made him different from the perverse and the sinful. The same grace could make the debased criminal a child of God and a useful laborer in the gospel. {AA 457.1 }[28]
§58
保罗原可督促腓利门履行基督徒的本分，但他宁愿用恳请的言辞说：“像我这有年纪的保罗，现在又是为基督耶稣被囚的，……为我在捆锁中所生的儿子阿尼西母求你；他从前与你没有益处，但如今与你我都有益处。”[29]{AA 457.2 }
§59
Paul might have urged upon Philemon his duty as a Christian; but he chose rather the language of entreaty: As Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ, I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds; which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me. {AA 457.2 }[29]
§60
使徒请求腓利门：由于阿尼西母的改变信仰，而接纳这个悔改的奴隶为他自己的孩子，如果阿尼西母甘愿与原来的主人同在，就要向他表示这样的善意，当他“不再是奴仆，乃是高过奴仆，是亲爱的兄弟。”保罗表示自己愿意留下阿尼西母，在他受捆锁中伺候他，正如腓利门自己所愿意作的；但除非腓利门自己同意释放这个奴仆，他就不愿得到他的服侍。[30]{AA 457.3 }
§61
The apostle asked Philemon, in view of the conversion of Onesimus, to receive the repentant slave as his own child, showing him such affection that he would choose to dwell with his former master, not now as a servant, but above a servant, a brother beloved. He expressed his desire to retain Onesimus as one who could minister to him in his bonds as Philemon himself would have done, though he did not desire his services unless Philemon should of his own accord set the slave free. {AA 457.3 }[30]
§62
使徒熟知当时一般作主人的怎样严厉地对待奴隶，他也知道腓利门曾因他仆人的行动而大为激怒。他设法使所写的信能以引起腓利门基督徒的最深切最温慈的感情。阿尼西母的悔改已使他变成一位同道弟兄，所以任何加在这个新近悔改之人身上的刑罚，保罗就必认为是加在他自己的身上一样。[31]{AA 457.4 }
§63
The apostle well knew the severity which masters exercised toward their slaves, and he knew also that Philemon was greatly incensed because of the conduct of his servant. He tried to write to him in a way that would arouse his deepest and tenderest feelings as a Christian. The conversion of Onesimus had made him a brother in the faith, and any punishment inflicted on this new convert would be regarded by Paul as inflicted on himself. {AA 457.4 }[31]
§64
保罗自愿承担阿尼西母所负的债，以便使这个犯过者得以免除受刑的耻辱，而再能享受他所丧失的权利。他写给腓利门说：“你若以我为同伴，就收纳他，如同收纳我一样。他若亏负你，或欠你什么，都归在我的帐上；我必偿还，这是我保罗亲笔写的。”[32]{AA 458.1 }
§65
Paul voluntarily proposed to assume the debt of Onesimus in order that the guilty one might be spared the disgrace of punishment, and might again enjoy the privileges he had forfeited. If thou count me therefore a partner, he wrote to Philemon, receive him as myself. If he hath wronged thee, or oweth thee aught, put that on mine account; I Paul have written it with mine own hand, I will repay it. {AA 458.1 }[32]
§66
这是多么合适的例证，说明基督对于悔改之罪人的爱啊！那曾经欺诈主人的奴仆，本身没有什么可以偿还的。那曾经夺取上帝多年服务的罪人，也没有清偿债务的方法。于是耶稣就介入罪人与上帝之间，说：我愿偿付这债。且让罪人得豁免吧！我愿替他受苦受难。[33]{AA 458.2 }
§67
How fitting an illustration of the love of Christ for the repentant sinner! The servant who had defrauded his master had nothing with which to make restitution. The sinner who has robbed God of years of service has no means of canceling the debt. Jesus interposes between the sinner and God, saying, I will pay the debt. Let the sinner be spared; I will suffer in his stead. {AA 458.2 }[33]
§68
保罗在提出承担阿尼西母的债务之后，就提醒腓利门他自己所亏欠于使徒的是多么地大。上帝既然以保罗作为引领他悔改的媒介，所以连他自己也是亏欠于保罗的。于是他以亲切恳挚的要求，请腓利门应允这件皆大欢喜的事，俾使保罗自己的心得畅快，正如他从前借着慷慨的捐输使众圣徒的心得畅快一样。他又加上一句说：“我写信给你，深信你必顺服，知道你所要行的必过于我所说的。”[34]{AA 458.3 }
§69
After offering to assume the debt of Onesimus, Paul reminded Philemon how greatly he himself was indebted to the apostle. He owed him his own self, since God had made Paul the instrument of his conversion. Then, in a tender, earnest appeal, he besought Philemon that as he had by his liberalities refreshed the saints, so he would refresh the spirit of the apostle by granting him this cause of rejoicing. Having confidence in thy obedience, he added, I wrote unto thee, knowing that thou wilt also do more than I say. {AA 458.3 }[34]
§70
保罗写给腓利门的书信显明福音在主仆之间的关系上所发生的影响。奴隶的占有乃是全罗马帝国既定的制度，在保罗作工的众教会中，大多数都有主人和奴隶一同信道。在城市中，奴隶的数目往往超过自由民的数目，为使奴隶顺服起见，非常严厉的律法乃认为是必不可少的。一个富裕的罗马人往往占有数以百计的各种等级、各个国籍，和具有各样技能的奴隶。他有全权控制这些无倚无靠之人的身心，他可以将任何痛苦加在他们的身上。如果其中任何一个为报复或自卫起见，敢于伸手攻击他的主人，则这个犯上者的全家都要被残忍地牺牲了。最轻微的过错、偶然的误事，或一时的疏忽，往往都要遭受无情的处罚。[35]{AA 459.1 }
§71
Pauls letter to Philemon shows the influence of the gospel upon the relation between master and servant. Slave-holding was an established institution throughout the Roman Empire, and both masters and slaves were found in most of the churches for which Paul labored. In the cities, where slaves often greatly outnumbered the free population, laws of terrible severity were regarded as necessary to keep them in subjection. A wealthy Roman often owned hundreds of slaves, of every rank, of every nation, and of every accomplishment. With full control over the souls and bodies of these helpless beings, he could inflict upon them any suffering he chose. If one of them in retaliation or self-defense ventured to raise a hand against his owner, the whole family of the offender might be inhumanly sacrificed. The slightest mistake, accident, or carelessness was often punished without mercy. {AA 459.1 }[35]
§72
有一些比较注意人道的主人对于他们的仆人较为宽大；但绝大多数的富贵人家，既都毫无约束地纵情于贪欲、色欲、与食欲之中，便使他们的奴仆成为任性和暴虐下的可怜牺牲品了。整个制度的趋向乃是毫无希望而日益堕落的。[36]{AA 459.2 }
§73
Some masters, more humane than others, were more indulgent toward their servants; but the vast majority of the wealthy and noble, given up without restraint to the indulgence of lust, passion, and appetite, made their slaves the wretched victims of caprice and tyranny. The tendency of the whole system was hopelessly degrading. {AA 459.2 }[36]
§74
保罗的工作并不是专横或贸然地颠覆社会既定的秩序。他若试图这样行，势必阻碍福音的成功。但他所教导的原则却实足以打击到奴隶制度的基础，如果付诸实施，这些原则就必将这整个制度推翻了。他宣称：“主的灵在哪里，那里就得以自由。”（林后3:17）奴仆悔改之后就成为基督身子上的一个肢体了，既然如此，大家就当看他是弟兄，是与他主人同享上帝恩惠与福音特权的后嗣而对待他爱护他。在另一方面，仆人也当履行自己的本分，“不要只在眼前侍奉，像是讨人欢喜的；要像基督的仆人，从心里遵行上帝的旨意。”（弗6:6）[37]{AA 459.3 }
§75
It was not the apostles work to overturn arbitrarily or suddenly the established order of society. To attempt this would be to prevent the success of the gospel. But he taught principles which struck at the very foundation of slavery and which, if carried into effect, would surely undermine the whole system. Where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty, he declared. 2 Corinthians 3:17. When converted, the slave became a member of the body of Christ, and as such was to be loved and treated as a brother, a fellow heir with his master to the blessings of God and the privileges of the gospel. On the other hand, servants were to perform their duties, not with eyeservice, as men pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart. Ephesians 6:6. {AA 459.3 }[37]
§76
基督教在主人与奴仆之间，在君王与臣民之间，在福音使者与那些在基督里洗净罪恶的堕落罪人之间，造成一种牢不可破的结合。他们既已在同一宝血里洗净了，并受了同一位圣灵的鼓舞；所以他们就在基督耶稣里都成为一体了。[38]{AA 460.1 }
§77
Christianity makes a strong bond of union between master and slave, king and subject, the gospel minister and the degraded sinner who has found in Christ cleansing from sin. They have been washed in the same blood, quickened by the same Spirit; and they are made one in Christ Jesus. {AA 460.1 }[38]