第45章 寄自罗马的书信
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第45章 寄自罗马的书信
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Chap. 45 - Written From Rome
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（本章根据：歌罗西书及腓立比书）
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使徒保罗在他早期的基督徒经验中，曾获致特别的机会，得以明白上帝对于耶稣门徒的旨意。他曾“被提到第三层天上去；”“到乐园里，听见隐秘的言语，是人不可说的。”他自认曾有许多“主的显现和启示”赐给他。他对于福音真理之原则的了解，与“那些最大的使徒”完全相等。（林后12:2,4,1,11）他已经很清楚而充分地“明白基督的爱，是何等长阔高深，并知道这爱是过于人所能测度的。”（弗3:18-19）[1]{AA 469.1 }
§5
The apostle Paul early in his Christian experience was given special opportunities to learn the will of God concerning the followers of Jesus. He was caught up to the third heaven, into paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter. He himself acknowledged that many visions and revelations had been given him of the Lord. His understanding of the principles of gospel truth was equal to that of the very chiefest apostles. 2 Corinthians 12:2, 4, 1, 11. He had a clear, full comprehension of the breadth, and length, and depth, and height of the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge. Ephesians 3:18, 19. {AA 469.1 }[1]
§6
保罗不能将他在异象中所看到的事都告诉人；因为他的听众中难免有人会误用他的话。但那启示与他的事使他有力量充当领袖和明智的教师，同时也汇成了他晚年传给众教会的信息。他在异象中所受到的印象一直留在心中，使他能以对基督徒的品格作正确的表现。他借着口中的话语和书信所宣传的信息，始终为上帝的教会带来帮助与力量。这信息为今日的信徒说明种种威胁教会的危险，以及他们所必须应付的假道。[2]{AA 469.2 }
§7
Paul could not tell all that he had seen in vision; for among his hearers were some who would have misapplied his words. But that which was revealed to him enabled him to labor as a leader and a wise teacher, and also molded the messages that he in later years sent to the churches. The impression that he received when in vision was ever with him, enabling him to give a correct representation of Christian character. By word of mouth and by letter he bore a message that ever since has brought help and strength to the church of God. To believers today this message speaks plainly of the dangers that will threaten the church, and the false doctrines that they will have to meet. {AA 469.2 }[2]
§8
使徒对于他致书劝告之人所怀抱的愿望，乃是要他们“不再作小孩子，被一切异教之风摇动，飘来飘去；”但是他们却应“在真道上同归于一，认识上帝的儿子，得以长大成人，满有基督长成的身量。”他劝那些在异教社会中跟随耶稣的人，行事“不要再像外邦人存虚妄的心行事；他们心地昏昧，与上帝所赐的生命隔绝了，都因……心里刚硬，”却要“谨慎行事，不要像愚昧人，当像智慧人；要爱惜光阴。”（弗4:14,13,17-18；5:15-16）他勉励信徒要指望那“爱教会，为教会舍己”的基督来到，将教会“献给自己，作个荣耀的教会，毫无玷污皱纹等类的病，乃是圣洁没有瑕疵的。”（弗5:25,27）[3]{AA 470.1 }
§9
The apostles desire for those to whom he addressed his letters of counsel and admonition was that they should be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine; but that they should all come into the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. He entreated those who were followers of Jesus in heathen communities not to walk as other Gentiles walk, in the vanity of their mind, having the understanding darkened, being alienated from the life of God . . . because of the blindness of their heart, but circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, redeeming the time. Ephesians 4:14, 13, 17, 18; 5:15, 16. He encouraged the believers to look forward to the time when Christ, who loved the church, and gave Himself for it, would present it to Himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing--a church holy and without blemish. Ephesians 5:25, 27. {AA 470.1 }[3]
§10
这些并非由于人力而是出自上帝能力所写出来的信息，其中所包含的教训乃是人人都当研究的，也是值得经常讲述因而得益的。其中概述实践的敬虔，记载各教会所应遵循的原则，并说明了那引到永生的途径。[4]{AA 470.2 }
§11
These messages, written with a power not of man but of God, contain lessons which should be studied by all and which may with profit be often repeated. In them practical godliness is outlined, principles are laid down that should be followed in every church, and the way that leads to life eternal is made plain. {AA 470.2 }[4]
§12
保罗在罗马作囚犯时，曾写信给“歌罗西的圣徒，在基督里有忠心的弟兄。”在这书信中，他提到自己听到他们在信仰上坚定不移就非常欣慰，他说这消息是以巴弗带给他的；使徒写道：这以巴弗曾“把你们因圣灵所存的爱心告诉了我们。”接着又说：“因此，我们自从听见的日子，也就为你们不住的祷告祈求，愿你们在一切属灵的智慧悟性上，满心知道上帝的旨意；好叫你们行事为人对得起主，凡事蒙他喜悦，在一切善事上结果子，渐渐的多知道上帝；照他荣耀的权能，得以在各样的力上加力，好叫你们凡事欢欢喜喜的忍耐宽容。”[5]{AA 471.1 }
§13
In his letter to the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse, written while he was a prisoner in Rome, Paul makes mention of his joy over their steadfastness in the faith, tidings of which had been brought him by Epaphras, who, the apostle wrote, declared unto us your love in the Spirit. For this cause, he continued, we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, unto all patience and long-suffering with joyfulness. {AA 471.1 }[5]
§14
保罗就是这样将他对于歌罗西信徒的愿望写了出来。这些话向跟随基督的人所提出的理想是多么地崇高啊！它指明基督徒生活的美好可能性，并说明上帝的儿女所能领受的恩惠乃是无可限量的。他们若不住地在认识上帝的知识上有长进，就可在基督徒的经验方面力上加力，高而又高，直到他们“照他荣耀的权能，”“与众圣徒在光明中同得基业。”[6]{AA 471.2 }
§15
Thus Paul put into words his desire for the Colossian believers. How high the ideal that these words hold before the follower of Christ! They show the wonderful possibilities of the Christian life and make it plain that there is no limit to the blessings that the children of God may receive. Constantly increasing in a knowledge of God, they may go on from strength to strength, from height to height in Christian experience, until by His glorious power they are made meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light. {AA 471.2 }[6]
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使徒在他的弟兄面前高举基督，说明上帝曾借着他创造万物，并借着他成就救赎他们的大功。他宣称那只在太空中托住诸世界、并维持上帝所造全宇宙万有的秩序与运转的手，也就是那为他们钉在十字架上的手。保罗写道：“因为万有都是靠他造的，无论是天上的、地上的、能看见的，不能看见的、或是有位的、主治的、执政的、掌权的，一概都是借着他造的，又是为他造的。他在万有之先，万有也靠他而立。”“你们从前与上帝隔绝，因着恶行，心里与他为敌；但如今他借着基督的肉身受死，叫你们与自己和好，都成了圣洁，没有瑕疵，无可责备，把你们引到自己面前。”[7]{AA 471.3 }
§17
The apostle exalted Christ before his brethren as the One by whom God had created all things and by whom He had wrought out their redemption. He declared that the hand that sustains the worlds in space, and holds in their orderly arrangements and tireless activity all things throughout the universe of God, is the hand that was nailed to the cross for them. By Him were all things created, Paul wrote, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things were created by Him, and for Him: and He is before all things, and by Him all things consist. And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath He reconciled in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy and unblamable and unreprovable in His sight. {AA 471.3 }[7]
§18
上帝的儿子竟不惜屈身抬举堕落的人类。他因此而离开了那在高天之上无罪的诸世界，就是那爱他的“九十九只”而到这个地上来，“为我们的过犯受害，为我们的罪孽压伤。”（赛53:5）他在凡事上都与他的弟兄相同。他成为肉身，就像我们一样。他尝过饥饿、干渴和疲乏的滋味。他也要靠食物维持生命，靠睡眠恢复精力。他在地上作客旅、作寄居的，虽在世上，但不属世界；也像今日的男女一样受过试探和试炼，但仍度着无罪的生活。他柔和、慈悲、富有同情，始终为他人设想，表现着上帝的圣德。“道成了肉身，住在我们中间，充充满满的有恩典有真理。”（约1:14）[8]{AA 472.1 }
§19
The Son of God stooped to uplift the fallen. For this He left the sinless worlds on high, the ninety and nine that loved Him, and came to this earth to be wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our iniquities. Isaiah 53:5. He was in all things made like unto His brethren. He became flesh, even as we are. He knew what it meant to be hungry and thirsty and weary. He was sustained by food and refreshed by sleep. He was a stranger and a sojourner on the earth--in the world, but not of the world; tempted and tried as men and women of today are tempted and tried, yet living a life free from sin. Tender, compassionate, sympathetic, ever considerate of others, He represented the character of God. The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, . . . full of grace and truth. John 1:14. {AA 472.1 }[8]
§20
歌罗西的信徒为异教的邪风恶俗所包围，大有受引诱偏离福音之纯一清洁的心的危险，所以保罗在警告他们严加提防时，就向他们指出基督为他们唯一安全的向导。他写道：“我愿意你们晓得我为你们和老底嘉人，并一切没有与我亲自见面的人，是何等的尽心竭力；要叫他们的心得安慰，因爱心互相联络，以致丰丰足足在悟性中有充足的信心，使他们真知上帝的奥秘，就是基督；所积蓄的一切智慧知识，都在他里面藏着。”[9]{AA 473.1 }
§21
Surrounded by the practices and influences of heathenism, the Colossian believers were in danger of being drawn away from the simplicity of the gospel, and Paul, in warning them against this, pointed them to Christ as the only safe guide. I would that ye knew, he wrote, what great conflict I have for you, and for them at Laodicea, and for as many as have not seen my face in the flesh; that their hearts might be comforted, being knit together in love, and unto all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the acknowledgment of the mystery of God, and of the Father, and of Christ; in whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge. {AA 473.1 }[9]
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“我说这话，免得有人用花言巧语迷惑你们。……你们既然接受了主基督耶稣，就当遵他而行；在他里面生根建造，信心坚固，正如你们所领的教训，感谢的心也更增长了。你们要谨慎，恐怕有人用他的理学，和虚空的妄言，不照着基督，乃照人间的遗传，和世上的小学，就把你们掳去。因为上帝本性一切的丰盛，都有形有体的居住在基督里面。你们在他里面也得了丰盛。他是各样执政掌权者的元首。”[10]{AA 473.2 }
§23
And this I say, lest any man should beguile you with enticing words. . . . As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him: rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Beware lest any man spoil you through philosophy and vain deceit, after the tradition of men, after the rudiments of the world, and not after Christ. For in Him dwelleth all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in Him, which is the head of all principality and power. {AA 473.2 }[10]
§24
基督曾预言那迷惑人的必要兴起，而由于他们的影响，“不法的事”就“增多，”“许多人的爱心”就“渐渐冷淡了。”（太24:12）他曾警告门徒说教会在这一方面所受到的祸害，必定较比从仇敌而来的逼迫危险更甚，保罗一再警告信徒要防备这些假师傅。在一切危险之中，这是他们所最需要提防的；因为他们若接受假师傅，这就必为谬道敞开门户，仇敌就必利用这些谬道使属灵的理解力模糊不明，以致动摇那些新近接受福音信仰之人的信心。基督乃是他们必须用以试验所提出各项道理的标准。凡与他的教训不合的，他们都当拒绝。基督因代罪而被钉，基督从死里复活，基督升上高天，这就是救恩的科学，是他们所应当学习并教导的。[11]{AA 473.3 }
§25
Christ had foretold that deceivers would arise, through whose influence iniquity should abound, and the love of many should wax cold. Matthew 24:12. He had warned the disciples that the church would be in more danger from this evil than from the persecution of her enemies. Again and again Paul warned the believers against these false teachers. This peril, above all others, they must guard against; for by receiving false teachers, they would open the door to errors by which the enemy would dim the spiritual perceptions and shake the confidence of those newly come to the faith of the gospel. Christ was the standard by which they were to test the doctrines presented. All that was not in harmony with His teachings they were to reject. Christ crucified for sin, Christ risen from the dead, Christ ascended on high--this was the science of salvation that they were to learn and teach. {AA 473.3 }[11]
§26
《圣经》对于那包围着基督教会的各项危机所提出的警告，乃是对我们现今的人讲的。在使徒的时代，人们怎样企图借遗传和哲学破坏对于《圣经》的信仰，今日公义的仇敌也照样企图利用“新神学”、进化论、招魂术、通神学，及泛神主义种种动听的说法，要设法引诱人进入被禁止的路径。《圣经》对于许多人，已经变成一盏没有油的灯，因为他们的心意业已转向那产生误解和混乱的各种纯理论宗教信仰的路线了。“新神学”在批判、臆测和篡改等方面所进行的工作，乃是破坏人对于《圣经》为上帝所启示的信仰。这乃是夺取上帝圣言所具有的控制、提高、及鼓舞人生活的能力。多数的人由于招魂术而受教相信欲望就是最高的律法，放纵就是自由，而且人只需向自己负责。[12]{AA 474.1 }
§27
The warnings of the word of God regarding the perils surrounding the Christian church belong to us today. As in the days of the apostles men tried by tradition and philosophy to destroy faith in the Scriptures, so today, by the pleasing sentiments of higher criticism, evolution, spiritualism, theosophy, and pantheism, the enemy of righteousness is seeking to lead souls into forbidden paths. To many the Bible is as a lamp without oil, because they have turned their minds into channels of speculative belief that bring misunderstanding and confusion. The work of higher criticism, in dissecting, conjecturing, reconstructing, is destroying faith in the Bible as a divine revelation. It is robbing Gods word of power to control, uplift, and inspire human lives. By spiritualism, multitudes are taught to believe that desire is the highest law, that license is liberty, and that man is accountable only to himself. {AA 474.1 }[12]
§28
跟从基督的人必要遇见使徒警告歌罗西信徒所要避免的“花言巧语”。他也必遇见人用唯灵论来讲解《圣经》，但他切不可领受。他务要扬声宣明《圣经》中的永恒真理。他要定睛仰望基督，在所指示的道路上稳步前进，弃绝一切与他的教训相违背的思想。上帝的真理要作为他沉思默想的题旨。他要以《圣经》为上帝直接向他讲话的声音。这样，他就必找到那属于上帝的智慧。[13]{AA 474.2 }
§29
The follower of Christ will meet with the enticing words against which the apostle warned the Colossian believers. He will meet with spiritualistic interpretations of the Scriptures, but he is not to accept them. His voice is to be heard in clear affirmation of the eternal truths of the Scriptures. Keeping his eyes fixed on Christ, he is to move steadily forward in the path marked out, discarding all ideas that are not in harmony with His teaching. The truth of God is to be the subject for his contemplation and meditation. He is to regard the Bible as the voice of God speaking directly to him. Thus he will find the wisdom which is divine. {AA 474.2 }[13]
§30
那显明在基督身上的有关上帝的知识，乃是一切得救的人所必须具有的。这就是那改变人品格的知识。人若接受这知识而在生活中实践出来，就必按照基督的形象作新造的人。这就是上帝所邀请他儿女领受的知识，除此以外，其它一切都等于空幻虚无。[14]{AA 475.1 }
§31
The knowledge of God as revealed in Christ is the knowledge that all who are saved must have. This is the knowledge that works transformation of character. Received into the life, it will re-create the soul in the image of Christ. This is the knowledge that God invites His children to receive, beside which all else is vanity and nothingness. {AA 475.1 }[14]
§32
在每一个世代每一个地方，品格建造的真基础向来都是一样的，那就是上帝圣言所标榜的原则。那唯一安全可靠的方针就是遵照上帝所说的而行。“耶和华的训词正直，”“行这些事的人，必永不动摇。”（诗19:8；15:5）众使徒就是用上帝圣言应付当时虚伪的理论，说：“此外没有人能立别的根基。”（林前3:11）[15]{AA 475.2 }
§33
In every generation and in every land the true foundation for character building has been the same--the principles contained in the word of God. The only safe and sure rule is to do what God says. The statutes of the Lord are right, and he that doeth these things shall never be moved. Psalm 19:8; 15:5. It was with the word of God that the apostles met the false theories of their day, saying, Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid. 1 Corinthians 3:11. {AA 475.2 }[15]
§34
歌罗西的信徒在他们悔改受洗的时候，曾亲自宣誓弃绝那过去构成他们生活一部分的信念和行为，而专诚效忠于基督。因此保罗在书信中将这事提醒他们，并恳劝他们不可忘记为要遵守他们的誓约起见，他们必须恒切地努力抗拒那些意图操纵他们的罪恶。他说：“所以你们若真与基督一同复活，就当求在上面的事；那里有基督坐在上帝的右边。你们要思念上面的事，不要思念地上的事。因为你们已经死了，你们的生命与基督一同藏在上帝里面。”[16]{AA 475.3 }
§35
At the time of their conversion and baptism the Colossian believers pledged themselves to put away beliefs and practices that had hitherto been a part of their lives, and to be true to their allegiance to Christ. In his letter, Paul reminded them of this, and entreated them not to forget that in order to keep their pledge they must put forth constant effort against the evils that would seek for mastery over them. If ye then be risen with Christ, he said, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God. {AA 475.3 }[16]
§36
“若有人在基督里，他就是新造的人；旧事已过，都变成新的了。”（林后5:17）许多男女借着基督的能力，已经挣断了恶习的锁链。他们已经否定了自私自利的心理。亵渎的已变为虔诚，醉酒的已变为清醒，淫荡的已变为纯洁。过去带有撒但相貌的人，竟改变成为上帝的形象了。这一种改变本身就是神迹中的神迹。这乃是真道所发动的改变，也是真道的最深奥的奥秘之一。我们无法理解；我们只有相信，正如《圣经》所说，这就是“基督在你们心里成了有荣耀的盼望。”[17]{AA 476.1 }
§37
If any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17. Through the power of Christ, men and women have broken the chains of sinful habit. They have renounced selfishness. The profane have become reverent, the drunken sober, the profligate pure. Souls that have borne the likeness of Satan have become transformed into the image of God. This change is in itself the miracle of miracles. A change wrought by the Word, it is one of the deepest mysteries of the Word. We cannot understand it; we can only believe, as declared by the Scriptures, it is Christ in you, the hope of glory. {AA 476.1 }[17]
§38
当上帝的灵控制心思和意念时，重生的人便会突然发声唱出新歌来；因为他确知上帝的应许已经实现在他的经验中，他的愆尤已蒙赦免，他的罪污已被遮盖了。他已经为自己违背神圣的律法实行向上帝悔改，并相信那位为使人称义而舍命的基督。他“既因信称义，就借着我们的主耶稣基督，得与上帝相和。”（罗5:1）[18]{AA 476.2 }
§39
When the Spirit of God controls mind and heart, the converted soul breaks forth into a new song; for he realizes that in his experience the promise of God has been fulfilled, that his transgression has been forgiven, his sin covered. He has exercised repentance toward God for the violation of the divine law, and faith toward Christ, who died for mans justification. Being justified by faith, he has peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 5:1. {AA 476.2 }[18]
§40
但一个基督徒决不应因他具有这样的经验，就此抱残守缺，而以自己原有的成就为足。因为凡已决心要进入属灵之国的人必要发现未经重生之本性的一切能力与情感，在黑暗国度之势力的支援下，都是和他对阵为敌的。他必须每天重新献身，每天与罪恶搏斗。旧有的习惯，与生俱来的行错倾向，必要挣扎争胜，所以他必须时常谨防这些事，并靠基督的力量争取胜利。[19]{AA 476.3 }
§41
But because this experience is his, the Christian is not therefore to fold his hands, content with that which has been accomplished for him. He who has determined to enter the spiritual kingdom will find that all the powers and passions of unregenerate nature, backed by the forces of the kingdom of darkness, are arrayed against him. Each day he must renew his consecration, each day do battle with evil. Old habits, hereditary tendencies to wrong, will strive for the mastery, and against these he is to be ever on guard, striving in Christs strength for victory. {AA 476.3 }[19]
§42
保罗写信给歌罗西人说：“所以要治死你们在地上的肢体；……当你们在这些事中活着的时候也曾这样行过。但现在你们要弃绝这一切的事，以及恼恨、忿怒、恶毒、毁谤，并口中污秽的言语。……所以你们既是上帝的选民，圣洁蒙爱的人，就要存怜悯、恩慈、谦虚、温柔、忍耐的心：倘若这人与那人有嫌隙，总要彼此包容，彼此饶恕；主怎样饶恕了你们，你们也要怎样饶恕人。在这一切之外，要存着爱心，爱心就是联络全德的。又要叫基督的平安在你们心里作主；你们也为此蒙召，归为一体；且要存感谢的心。”[20]{AA 477.1 }
§43
Mortify therefore your members which are upon the earth, Paul wrote to the Colossians; in the which ye also walked sometime, when ye lived in them. But now ye also put off all these: anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth. . . . Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, long-suffering; forbearing one another, and forgiving one another, if any man have a quarrel against any: even as Christ forgave you, so also do ye. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful. {AA 477.1 }[20]
§44
致歌罗西人的书信对于一切为基督服务的人满有最宝贵的教训，这些教训说明在一个正确代表救主之人的生活上，必可看出专一的宗旨和崇高的目标。一个信徒既脱弃一切足以拦阻他在上进之途发展、或使别人脚步偏离窄路的障碍，就必在自己的日常生活上表现怜悯、恩慈、谦虚、温柔、忍耐和基督的爱来。[21]{AA 477.2 }
§45
The letter to the Colossians is filled with lessons of highest value to all who are engaged in the service of Christ, lessons that show the singleness of purpose and the loftiness of aim which will be seen in the life of him who rightly represents the Saviour. Renouncing all that would hinder him from making progress in the upward way or that would turn the feet of another from the narrow path, the believer will reveal in his daily life mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, forbearance, and the love of Christ. {AA 477.2 }[21]
§46
我们最大的需要乃是那使我们度更高尚、更纯洁、更尊贵之生活的能力。可惜，我们的心思意念中世俗的成分太多，而天国的成分太少了。[22]{AA 478.1 }
§47
The power of a higher, purer, nobler life is our great need. The world has too much of our thought, and the kingdom of heaven too little. {AA 478.1 }[22]
§48
一个基督徒在努力追求上帝为他所定的理想时，决不可有所失望灰心。那借着基督的恩典与能力而达到道德与灵性方面的完全，是应许给众人的。耶稣乃是能力的来源和生命的源头。他引领我们就近他的圣言，并从生命树上摘下叶子来给我们医治这患罪病的心灵。他领我们到上帝的宝座前，并将祈祷的话放在我们口中，借此使我们与他自己有亲密的联络。他为我们的缘故发动天国全能的力量。以致我们步步都接触到他那活泼的能力。[23]{AA 478.2 }
§49
In his efforts to reach Gods ideal for him, the Christian is to despair of nothing. Moral and spiritual perfection, through the grace and power of Christ, is promised to all. Jesus is the source of power, the fountain of life. He brings us to His word, and from the tree of life presents to us leaves for the healing of sin-sick souls. He leads us to the throne of God, and puts into our mouth a prayer through which we are brought into close contact with Himself. In our behalf He sets in operation the all-powerful agencies of heaven. At every step we touch His living power. {AA 478.2 }[23]
§50
上帝对于凡愿意“在一切属灵的智慧悟性上，满心知道上帝的旨意”的人，并不限制他们的进展。他们尽可以借着祈祷，借着警醒，借着在知识与悟性上的长进，“照他荣耀的权能，得以在各样的力上加力。”这样，他们就得以准备妥当为别人作工了。救主的旨意乃是要人经过炼净而成圣之后，来充当他的助手。我们当为这一伟大的特权，感谢那位“叫我们能与众圣徒在光明中同得基业；他救了我们脱离黑暗的权势，把我们迁到他爱子的国里”的主。[24]{AA 478.3 }
§51
God fixes no limit to the advancement of those who desire to be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. Through prayer, through watchfulness, through growth in knowledge and understanding, they are to be strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power. Thus they are prepared to work for others. It is the Saviours purpose that human beings, purified and sanctified, shall be His helping hand. For this great privilege let us give thanks to Him who hath made us meet to be partakers of the inheritance of the saints in light: who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of His dear Son. {AA 478.3 }[24]
§52
保罗达腓立比人的书信，也像达歌罗西人的书信一样，是他在罗马被囚时所写的。腓立比教会曾托以巴弗提送一些礼物给保罗，保罗称这以巴弗提“是我的兄弟，与我一同作工，一同当兵，是你们所差遣的，也是供给我需用的。”以巴弗提在罗马的时候病了，保罗写道：“他……几乎要死；然而上帝怜恤他，不但怜恤他，也怜恤我，免得我忧上加忧。”腓立比的信徒既听说以巴弗提病了，就为他非常担心，因此他便决定回到他们那里去。保罗写道：“他很想念你们众人，并且极其难过，因为你们听见他病了。……所以我越发急速打发他去，叫你们再见他，就可以喜乐，我也可以少些忧愁。故此你们要在主里欢欢乐乐的接待他；而且要尊重这样的人；因他为作基督的工夫，几乎至死，不顾性命，要补足你们供给我的不及之处。”[25]{AA 479.1 }
§53
Pauls letter to the Philippians, like the one to the Colossians, was written while he was a prisoner at Rome. The church at Philippi had sent gifts to Paul by the hand of Epaphroditus, whom Paul calls my brother, and companion in labor, and fellow soldier, but your messenger, and he that ministered to my wants. While in Rome, Epaphroditus was sick, nigh unto death: but God had mercy on him, Paul wrote, and not on him only, but on me also, lest I should have sorrow upon sorrow. Hearing of the sickness of Epaphroditus, the believers at Philippi were filled with anxiety regarding him, and he decided to return to them. He longed after you all, Paul wrote, and was full of heaviness, because that ye had heard that he had been sick. . . . I sent him therefore the more carefully, that, when ye see him again, ye may rejoice, and that I may be the less sorrowful. Receive him therefore in the Lord with all gladness; and hold such in reputation: because for the work of Christ he was nigh unto death, not regarding his life, to supply your lack of service toward me. {AA 479.1 }[25]
§54
保罗托以巴弗提带一封信给腓立比的信徒，他在信中为他们所送与他的礼物表示谢意。在各教会中，腓立比的教会乃是最慷慨供给保罗需要的。使徒在信中说：“腓立比人哪！你们也知道我初传福音，离了马其顿的时候，论到授受的事，除了你们以外，并没有别的教会供给我。就是我在帖撒罗尼迦，你们也一次、两次的，打发人供给我的需用。我并不求什么馈送；所求的就是你们的果子渐渐增多，归在你们的帐上。但我样样都有，并且有余；我已经充足，因我从以巴弗提受了你们的馈送，当作极美的香气，为上帝所收纳所喜悦的祭物。”[26]{AA 479.2 }
§55
By Epaphroditus, Paul sent the Philippian believers a letter, in which he thanked them for their gifts to him. Of all the churches, that of Philippi had been the most liberal in supplying Pauls wants. Now ye Philippians know also, the apostle said in his letter, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only. For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity. Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account. But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odor of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, well-pleasing to God. {AA 479.2 }[26]
§56
“原恩惠平安，从上帝我们的父，并主耶稣基督，归与你们！我每逢想念你们，就感谢我的上帝；（每逢为你们众人祈求的时候，常是欢欢喜喜的祈求，）因为从头一天直到如今，你们是同心合意的兴旺福音。我深信那在你们心里动了善工的必成全这工，直到耶稣基督的日子：我为你们众人有这样的意念，原是应当的，因你们常在我心里；无论我是在捆锁之中，是辩明证实福音的时候，你们都与我一同得恩。我……切切的想念你们众人，这是上帝可以给我作见证的。我所祷告的，就是要你们的爱心，在知识和各样见识上，多而又多；使你们能分别是非；作诚实无过的人，直到基督的日子；并靠着耶稣基督结满了仁义的果子，叫荣耀称赞归与上帝。”[27]{AA 480.1 }
§57
Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all. . . . And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God. {AA 480.1 }[27]
§58
上帝的恩惠在保罗被监禁时支持了他，使他可以在患难中依然喜乐。他凭着信心与确信写信给腓立比的弟兄，说他的被监禁结果反而推进了福音。他说：“弟兄们！我愿意你们知道，我所遭遇的事，更是叫福音兴旺；以致我受的捆锁，在御营全军和其余的人中，已经显明是为基督的缘故；并且那在主里的弟兄，多半因我受的捆锁，就笃信不疑，越发放胆传上帝的道，无所惧怕。”[28]{AA 480.2 }
§59
The grace of God sustained Paul in his imprisonment, enabling him to rejoice in tribulation. With faith and assurance he wrote to his Philippian brethren that his imprisonment had resulted in the furtherance of the gospel. I would ye should understand, brethren, he declared, that the things which happened unto me have fallen out rather unto the furtherance of the gospel; so that my bonds with Christ are manifest in all the palace, and in all other places; and many of the brethren in the Lord, waxing confident by my bonds, are much more bold to speak the word without fear. {AA 480.2 }[28]
§60
保罗的这个经验对于我们颇有教训；因为它显示了上帝行事的方法。主能从那在我们看来似乎是狼狈与失败的景况之下引出胜利。我们的危险就是忘记上帝，仅着眼于那些看得见的事物，而不用信心的眼睛去注视那看不见的事物。每当不幸的事或灾祸临到时，我们就立即归咎于上帝的疏忽或残忍。倘若他认为适宜要剥夺我们在某一方面的利益，我们就感到悲伤，而不停下来想一想上帝这样作可能是为了我们的好处。我们需要知道：管教乃是他伟大计划中的一部分，而且一个基督徒有时在苦难的杖下为主所作的事，可能比他从事积极活动时所作的更多。[29]{AA 481.1 }
§61
There is a lesson for us in this experience of Pauls, for it reveals Gods way of working. The Lord can bring victory out of that which may seem to us discomfiture and defeat. We are in danger of forgetting God, of looking at the things which are seen, instead of beholding by the eye of faith the things which are unseen. When misfortune or calamity comes, we are ready to charge God with neglect or cruelty. If He sees fit to cut off our usefulness in some line, we mourn, not stopping to think that thus God may be working for our good. We need to learn that chastisement is a part of His great plan and that under the rod of affliction the Christian may sometimes do more for the Master than when engaged in active service. {AA 481.1 }[29]
§62
保罗向腓立比人指明基督为他们基督徒生活的模范。“他本有上帝的形象，不以自己与上帝同等为强夺的；反倒虚己，取了奴仆的形象，成为人的样式；既有人的样式，就自己卑微，存心顺服，以至于死，且死在十字架上。”[30]{AA 481.2 }
§63
As their example in the Christian life, Paul pointed the Philippians to Christ, who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in a fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. {AA 481.2 }[30]
§64
他继续说：“这样看来，我亲爱的弟兄！你们既是常顺服的，不但我在你们那里，就是我如今不在你们那里，更是顺服的，就当恐惧战兢，作成你们得救的工夫。因为你们立志行事，都是上帝在你们心里运行，为要成就他的美意。凡所行的都不要发怨言，起争论，使你们无可指摘，诚实无伪，在这弯曲悖谬的世代，作上帝无瑕疵的儿女。你们显在这世代中，好像明光照耀，将生命的道表明出来；叫我在基督的日子，好夸我没有空跑，也没有徒劳。”[31]{AA 481.3 }
§65
Wherefore, my beloved, he continued, as ye have always obeyed, not as in my presence only, but now much more in my absence, work out your own salvation with fear and trembling. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do His good pleasure. Do all things without murmurings and disputings: that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world; holding forth the word of life; that I may rejoice in the day of Christ, that I have not run in vain, neither labored in vain. {AA 481.3 }[31]
§66
这些话记在经中，乃为帮助每一在挣扎中的生灵。保罗高举完全品格的标准，并说明如何可以达到。他说：“当……作成你们得救的工夫，”“因为……是上帝在你们心里运行。”[32]{AA 482.1 }
§67
These words were recorded for the help of every striving soul. Paul holds up the standard of perfection and shows how it may be reached. Work out your own salvation, he says, for it is God which worketh in you. {AA 482.1 }[32]
§68
得救的工夫乃是一种神人合作共同进行的工夫。在上帝与悔改的罪人之间必须有一种合作。要想在品格上培养正确的原则，这乃是必不可少的。人必须认真努力制胜那拦阻他达到完全标准的障碍。但他的成功完全倚赖上帝，人的努力原是不足成事的。若没有神的能力援助，就根本无济于事。上帝作工，人也要作工。抗拒试探必须出于人，但人必须从上帝那里取得能力。在一方面，有无限的智慧、慈悲、和能力；在另一方面则是软弱、有罪和全无救助。[33]{AA 482.2 }
§69
The work of gaining salvation is one of copartnership, a joint operation. There is to be co-operation between God and the repentant sinner. This is necessary for the formation of right principles in the character. Man is to make earnest efforts to overcome that which hinders him from attaining to perfection. But he is wholly dependent upon God for success. Human effort of itself is not sufficient. Without the aid of divine power it avails nothing. God works and man works. Resistance of temptation must come from man, who must draw his power from God. On the one side there is infinite wisdom, compassion, and power; on the other, weakness, sinfulness, absolute helplessness. {AA 482.2 }[33]
§70
上帝希望我们具有对自己的控制权。但他若不获得我们的同意与合作，就无法帮助我们。上帝的圣灵乃是借着那赋予人类的良知良能而运行的。我们若依靠自己，就不能使意志、欲望，与倾向符合上帝的旨意；但如果我们甘心情愿，救主就必为我们成就这事，“将各样的计谋，各样拦阻人认识上帝的那些自高之事，一概攻破了，又将人所有的心意夺回，使他都顺服基督。”（林后10:5）[34]{AA 482.3 }
§71
God wishes us to have the mastery over ourselves. But He cannot help us without our consent and co-operation. The divine Spirit works through the powers and faculties given to man. Of ourselves, we are not able to bring the purposes and desires and inclinations into harmony with the will of God; but if we are willing to be made willing, the Saviour will accomplish this for us, Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ. 2 Corinthians 10:5. {AA 482.3 }[34]
§72
凡愿建立坚强匀称品格的人，凡愿作正常基督徒的人，他就必为基督而奉献一切并实行一切；因为救赎主绝不接受不专一的服务。他必须天天学习攻克己身的意义。他必须研究上帝的圣言，领会其中的精义并遵守其中的训诲。这样，他就可达到基督徒美德的最高标准。上帝要天天与他同工，为他完成一个经得起最后考验的品格。信徒也要天天在世人和天使面前进行一种卓绝的实验，证明福音能为堕落的人类成就何等的大事。[35]{AA 483.1 }
§73
He who would build up a strong, symmetrical character, he who would be a well-balanced Christian, must give all and do all for Christ; for the Redeemer will not accept divided service. Daily he must learn the meaning of self-surrender. He must study the word of God, learning its meaning and obeying its precepts. Thus he may reach the standard of Christian excellence. Day by day God works with him, perfecting the character that is to stand in the time of final test. And day by day the believer is working out before men and angels a sublime experiment, showing what the gospel can do for fallen human beings. {AA 483.1 }[35]
§74
保罗写道：“我不是以为自己已经得着了，我只有一件事，就是忘记背后努力面前的，向着标竿直跑，要得上帝在基督耶稣里从上面召我来的奖赏。”[36]{AA 483.2 }
§75
I count not myself to have apprehended, Paul wrote; but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. {AA 483.2 }[36]
§76
保罗实在有了很多的成就。自从他向基督表示忠顺以来，他的生活充满了不息不倦的服务。他旅行各城各国。到处宣讲十字架的故事，引领人悔改相信福音，并且建立教会。他经常看顾这些教会，并写了许多训勉的书信给他们。有时他也从事手艺，以求糊口。但是保罗在他一生种种忙碌的活动中，始终没有忽略一个伟大的宗旨，就是向着那从上面召他来得的奖赏直跑。他坚定不移地保持一个目的在他面前，就是要效忠于那位在大马士革城门外亲自向他显现的主。没有什么事足以使他转离这个目的。高举髑髅地的十字架，这就是那激发他一切言行的压倒一切的动机。[37]{AA 483.3 }
§77
Paul did many things. From the time that he gave his allegiance to Christ, his life was filled with untiring service. From city to city, from country to country, he journeyed, telling the story of the cross, winning converts to the gospel, and establishing churches. For these churches he had a constant care, and he wrote many letters of instruction to them. At times he worked at his trade to earn his daily bread. But in all the busy activities of his life, Paul never lost sight of one great purpose--to press toward the prize of his calling. One aim he kept steadfastly before him--to be faithful to the One who at the gate of Damascus had revealed Himself to him. From this aim nothing had power to turn him aside. To exalt the cross of Calvary--this was the all-absorbing motive that inspired his words and acts. {AA 483.3 }[37]
§78
那约束保罗在面临艰难与困苦中向前迈进的伟大宗旨，也应当导使每一为基督工作的人完全献身为上帝服务。世俗种种诱惑人的事物必被用来转移他对救主的注意力，但他要向着标竿直跑，向世界、天使和众人证明：那觐见上帝圣面的指望，是值得付出一切达成这指望所需要的努力和牺牲的。[38]{AA 484.1 }
§79
The great purpose that constrained Paul to press forward in the face of hardship and difficulty should lead every Christian worker to consecrate himself wholly to Gods service. Worldly attractions will be presented to draw his attentions from the Saviour, but he is to press on toward the goal, showing to the world, to angels, and to men that the hope of seeing the face of God is worth all the effort and sacrifice that the attainment of this hope demands. {AA 484.1 }[38]
§80
保罗虽然作了囚犯，但他并没有灰心。他从罗马写给各教会的书信，反而鸣奏着一种胜利的音调。他写信给腓立比人说：“你们要靠主常常喜乐；我再说你们要喜乐。……应当一无挂虑；只要凡事借着祷告、祈求和感谢，将你们所要的告诉上帝。上帝所赐出人意外的平安，必在基督耶稣里保守你们的心怀意念。弟兄们！我还有未尽的话；凡是真实的、可敬的、公义的、清洁的、可爱的、有美名的，若有什么德行，若有什么称赞，这些事你们都要思念。”[39]{AA 484.2 }
§81
Though he was a prisoner, Paul was not discouraged. Instead, a note of triumph rings through the letters that he wrote from Rome to the churches. Rejoice in the Lord alway, he wrote to the Philippians, and again I say, Rejoice. . . . Be careful for nothing; but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. {AA 484.2 }[39]
§82
“我的上帝必照他荣耀的丰富，在基督耶稣里，使你们一切所需用的都充足。……愿主耶稣基督的恩常在你们心里！”[40]{AA 484.3 }
§83
My God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. . . . The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all. {AA 484.3 }[40]