第51章 中心的牧者
§1
第51章 中心的牧者
§2
Chap. 51 - A Faithful Undershepherd
§3
（本章根据：彼得前书）
§4
使徒行传很少提及使徒彼得晚年的工作。他在五旬节圣灵沛降之后的忙碌传道年日中，曾与其它使徒不倦地致力于帮助每年逢节期来耶路撒冷朝拜的犹太人。[1]{AA 514.1 }
§5
Little mention is made in the book of Acts of the later work of the apostle Peter. During the busy years of ministry that followed the outpouring of the Spirit on the Day of Pentecost, he was among those who put forth untiring efforts to reach the Jews who came to Jerusalem to worship at the time of the annual festivals. {AA 514.1 }[1]
§6
当耶路撒冷及十字架使者所访问的其它地区的信徒人数增多时，彼得所具的才能对于早期基督教会显明是有莫大的贡献。他为拿撒勒人耶稣所作见证的影响，延伸到远近各地。他身上负有双重的责任：他一方面在不信的人面前为弥赛亚作了积极的见证，热切地设法使他们悔改归正；同时他也为信徒作了一番特别的工作，加强他们对于基督的信心。[2]{AA 514.2 }
§7
As the number of believers multiplied in Jerusalem and in other places visited by the messengers of the cross, the talents possessed by Peter proved of untold value to the early Christian church. The influence of his testimony concerning Jesus of Nazareth extended far and wide. Upon him had been laid a double responsibility. He bore positive witness concerning the Messiah before unbelievers, laboring earnestly for their conversion; and at the same time he did a special work for believers, strengthening them in the faith of Christ. {AA 514.2 }[2]
§8
彼得蒙召担任牧者，乃是在他学会舍己和完全依赖神能之后。基督在彼得否认他之前，曾对他说：“你回头以后，要坚固你的弟兄。”（路22:32）这些话意味着彼得将来为那些相信之人所要从事的广大而有效的工作。为了这一工作，彼得自己犯罪、受苦、和悔改的经验已使他有所准备。唯有在他得悉自己的软弱之后，他才能体会到信徒的需要倚靠基督。在试探的狂风暴雨之下，他已经明了：人唯有完全不靠自己，而笃信救主，才能步履安详。[3]{AA 515.1 }
§9
It was after Peter had been led to self-renunciation and entire reliance upon divine power, that he received his call to act as an undershepherd. Christ had said to Peter, before his denial of Him, When thou art converted, strengthen thy brethren. Luke 22:32. These words were significant of the wide and effectual work which this apostle was to do in the future for those who should come to the faith. For this work, Peters own experience of sin and suffering and repentance had prepared him. Not until he had learned his weakness, could he know the believers need of dependence on Christ. Amid the storm of temptation he had come to understand that man can walk safely only as in utter self-distrust he relies upon the Saviour. {AA 515.1 }[3]
§10
当基督最后与门徒在海边相聚时，彼得经过基督三次问他“你爱我吗？”的试验之后，（见约21:15-17）就恢复了他在十二门徒之中的地位。他的工作已经派给他了：他必须喂养主的羊群。现在他既已悔改而蒙悦纳，他不但要设法拯救那些在羊圈之外的羊，也要作群羊的牧者。[4]{AA 515.2 }
§11
At the last meeting of Christ with His disciples by the sea, Peter, tested by the thrice-repeated question, Lovest thou Me? (John 21:15-17), had been restored to his place among the Twelve. His work had been appointed him; he was to feed the Lords flock. Now, converted and accepted, he was not only to seek to save those without the fold, but was to be a shepherd of the sheep. {AA 515.2 }[4]
§12
基督只向彼得提出一个服务的条件，“你爱我么？”这是一个必不可少的资格。纵然彼得具有其它一切的资格，却没有基督的爱，他就不能作上帝羊群的忠心牧者。知识、仁爱、口才、热诚，这一切固然都是从事善工所不可或缺的；但基督传道人的心中若没有基督的爱，他的工作就必失败。[5]{AA 515.3 }
§13
Christ mentioned to Peter only one condition of service--Lovest thou Me? This is the essential qualification. Though Peter might possess every other, yet without the love of Christ he could not be a faithful shepherd over the flock of God. Knowledge, benevolence, eloquence, zeal--all are essential in the good work; but without the love of Christ in the heart, the work of the Christian minister is a failure. {AA 515.3 }[5]
§14
基督的爱并不是一种间歇性的感情，而是一种活泼的原则，要表现是心灵中一种恒久的原动力。如果牧者的品格和行为可作他所宣传之真理的范例，主就必对工作表示嘉纳。如此牧者和羊群就必合而为一，因他们在基督里的共同指望而团结一致了。[6]{AA 516.1 }
§15
The love of Christ is not a fitful feeling, but a living principle, which is to be made manifest as an abiding power in the heart. If the character and deportment of the shepherd is an exemplification of the truth he advocates, the Lord will set the seal of His approval to the work. The shepherd and the flock will become one, united by their common hope in Christ. {AA 516.1 }[6]
§16
救主对待彼得的方法对于他和他的弟兄都有教训。彼得虽然否认了他的主，但耶稣对于他的爱却始终没有动摇。所以当使徒负起向别人传道的责任时，他也要以忍耐、同情与饶恕之爱对待每一个犯错的人。他要想起自己的软弱和失败，并且要像基督对待他一样，去柔和地对待所交给他的羊群和小羊。[7]{AA 516.2 }
§17
The Saviours manner of dealing with Peter had a lesson for him and his brethren. Although Peter had denied his Lord, the love which Jesus bore him had never faltered. And as the apostle should take up the work of ministering the word to others, he was to meet the transgressor with patience, sympathy, and forgiving love. Remembering his own weakness and failure, he was to deal with the sheep and lambs committed to his care as tenderly as Christ had dealt with him. {AA 516.2 }[7]
§18
属血气的人自己虽然犯罪，却极易于严厉对待一般受试探和犯错误的人。他们不能测透人心，他们不明白人心中所有争斗和痛苦。他们还需要学习如何凭爱心责备人，如何在受打击后而得以医治，如何在警告中为人存留希望。[8]{AA 516.3 }
§19
Human beings, themselves given to evil, are prone to deal untenderly with the tempted and the erring. They cannot read the heart; they know not its struggle and its pain. Of the rebuke that is love, of the blow that wounds to heal, of the warning that speaks hope, they have need to learn. {AA 516.3 }[8]
§20
彼得在他传道的时期中，自始至终忠心地看守所交付他照管的羊群，借此证明他配得肩负救主所赋予他的委托和责任。他以高举拿撒勒人耶稣为以色列的希望，人类的救主。他使他自己的生活受到那位“大工师”的管教。他竭尽自己的能力设法教导信徒从事积极的服务。他那敬虔的榜样与不倦的努力，激发了许多有为的青年完全献身从事传道的工作。因此彼得作教育家和领袖的感化力与时俱增。他一方面始终没有忘记自己特别为犹太人工作所负的责任；同时他仍能在许多地区作他的见证，使多人坚信福音。[9]{AA 516.4 }
§21
Throughout his ministry, Peter faithfully watched over the flock entrusted to his care, and thus proved himself worthy of the charge and responsibility given him by the Saviour. Ever he exalted Jesus of Nazareth as the Hope of Israel, the Saviour of mankind. He brought his own life under the discipline of the Master Worker. By every means within his power he sought to educate the believers for active service. His godly example and untiring activity inspired many young men of promise to give themselves wholly to the work of the ministry. As time went on, the apostles influence as an educator and leader increased; and while he never lost his burden to labor especially for the Jews, yet he bore his testimony in many lands and strengthened the faith of multitudes in the gospel. {AA 516.4 }[9]
§22
彼得在他传道工作的晚年，受感写信给“那分散在本都、加拉太、加帕多家、亚西亚、庇推尼寄居的”信徒。他的书信竟成了工具，得用以鼓励凡忍受磨炼和苦难之人的勇气，加强他们的信心，并促使凡经受百般试炼而有放弃上帝之虞的人重新从事善工。这两封信带有一种印象，显明写信的人是多与基督一同受苦，并多受他的安慰；又显明他整个人已完全因恩典而变化，而且他的永生指望也是又坚固又牢靠。[10]{AA 517.1 }
§23
In the later years of his ministry, Peter was inspired to write to the believers scattered throughout Pontus, Galatia, Cappadocia, Asia, and Bithynia. His letters were the means of reviving the courage and strengthening the faith of those who were enduring trial and affliction, and of renewing to good works those who through manifold temptations were in danger of losing their hold upon God. These letters bear the impress of having been written by one in whom the sufferings of Christ and also His consolation had been made to abound; one whose entire being had been transformed by grace, and whose hope of eternal life was sure and steadfast. {AA 517.1 }[10]
§24
这位年迈上帝的仆人在他第一封信的开头，就向他的主献上了赞美与感恩。他赞叹着说：“愿颂赞归与我们主耶稣基督的父上帝，他曾照自己的大怜悯，借耶稣基督从死里复活，重生了我们，叫我们有活泼的盼望，可以得着不能朽坏、不能玷污、不能衰残，为你们存留在天上的基业。你们这因信蒙上帝能力保守的人，必能得着所预备，到末世要显现的救恩。”[11]{AA 517.2 }
§25
At the very beginning of his first letter the aged servant of God ascribed to his Lord a tribute of praise and thanksgiving. Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, he exclaimed, which according to His abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you, who are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation ready to be revealed in the last time. {AA 517.2 }[11]
§26
早期的基督徒即使在严重的艰难痛苦中，仍然因这一得以在新天新地承受可靠基业的指望而欢喜。彼得写道：“因此，你们是大有喜乐；但如今，在百般的试炼中暂时忧愁，叫你们的信心既被试验，就比那被火试验，仍然能坏的金子更显宝贵，可以在耶稣基督显现的时候得着称赞、荣耀、尊贵。你们虽然没有见过他，却是爱他；如今虽不得看见，却……有说不出来、满有荣光的大喜乐；并且得着你们信心的果效，就是灵魂的救恩。”[12]{AA 517.3 }
§27
In this hope of a sure inheritance in the earth made new, the early Christians rejoiced, even in times of severe trial and affliction. Ye greatly rejoice, Peter wrote, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see Him not, . . . ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory: receiving the end of your faith, even the salvation of your souls. {AA 517.3 }[12]
§28
使徒的这些话乃是写来教训每一世代信徒的，并且对于那些生存在“万物的结局近了”之时的人具有特别的意义。他的劝勉与警告，以及他充满信心与勇敢的话，乃是每一决心保守信心“坚持到底”的人所需要的（来3:14）。[13]{AA 518.1 }
§29
The apostles words were written for the instruction of believers in every age, and they have a special significance for those who live at the time when the end of all things is at hand. His exhortations and warnings, and his words of faith and courage, are needed by every soul who would maintain his faith steadfast unto the end. Hebrews 3:14. {AA 518.1 }[13]
§30
彼得力图教导信徒明白：保守思想不去迷恋所禁止的论题，或避免将心力耗费在无关紧要的题旨上，该是何等的重要。凡决心不上撒但圈套的人，必须善于保守心灵所有的通路；他们必须不读、不看、不听任何足以引起不洁思想的事物。不可任凭思想漫无目的地徘徊于灵魂仇敌所提供的每一个题目。务须忠心防守己心，否则，外在的邪恶就必唤醒内在的恶念，结果心灵就必徘徊于黑暗之中了。彼得写道：“所以要约束你们的心，谨慎自守，专心盼望耶稣基督显现的时候所带给你们的恩；……不要效法从前蒙昧无知的时候，那放纵私欲的样子。那召你们的既是圣洁，你们在一切所行的事上也要圣洁；因为经上记着说：‘你们要圣洁，因为我是圣洁的。’”[14]{AA 518.2 }
§31
The apostle sought to teach the believers how important it is to keep the mind from wandering to forbidden themes or from spending its energies on trifling subjects. Those who would not fall a prey to Satans devices, must guard well the avenues of the soul; they must avoid reading, seeing, or hearing that which will suggest impure thoughts. The mind must not be left to dwell at random upon every subject that the enemy of souls may suggest. The heart must be faithfully sentineled, or evils without will awaken evils within, and the soul will wander in darkness. Gird up the loins of your mind, Peter wrote, be sober, and hope to the end for the grace that is to be brought unto you at the revelation of Jesus Christ; . . . not fashioning yourselves according to the former lusts in your ignorance: but as He which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy. {AA 518.2 }[14]
§32
“当存敬畏的心，度你们在世寄居的日子。知道你们得赎，脱去你们祖宗所传流虚妄的行为，不是凭着能坏的金银等物，乃是凭着基督的宝血，如同无瑕疵、无玷污的羔羊之血。基督在创世以前是预先被上帝知道的，却在这末世才为你们显现。你们也因着他，信那叫他从死里复活、又给他荣耀的上帝，叫你们的信心和盼望都在于上帝。”[15]{AA 519.1 }
§33
Pass the time of your sojourning here in fear: forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a Lamb without blemish and without spot: who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you, who by Him do believe in God, that raised Him up from the dead, and gave Him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God. {AA 519.1 }[15]
§34
如果金银足以换取人类的得救，则一位宣称“银子是我的，金子是我的”的主（该2:8）该是多么轻而易举地完成这事。但是违背律法的罪人唯有借赖上帝儿子的宝血，才能得蒙救赎。救赎的计划乃是以牺牲为基础的。使徒保罗写道：“你们知道我们主耶稣基督的恩典；他本来富足，却为你们成了贫穷，叫你们因他的贫穷，可以成为富足。”（林后8:9）基督为我们舍了自己，为要救赎我们脱离一切的罪孽。因此救恩的最高福惠，就是“上帝的恩赐，在我们的主基督耶稣里，乃是永生。”（罗6:23）[16]{AA 519.2 }
§35
Had silver and gold been sufficient to purchase the salvation of men, how easily might it have been accomplished by Him who says, The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine. Haggai 2:8. But only by the precious blood of the Son of God could the transgressor be redeemed. The plan of salvation was laid in sacrifice. The apostle Paul wrote, Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich. 2 Corinthians 8:9. Christ gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity. And as the crowning blessing of salvation, the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 6:23. {AA 519.2 }[16]
§36
彼得继续说：“你们既因顺从真理，洁净了自己的心，以致爱弟兄没有虚假，就当从心里彼此切实相爱。”上帝的道，真理乃是主彰显他的圣灵与能力的媒介。顺从真理就结出好的果子“爱弟兄没有虚假。”这种爱是出于上天的，并促使人有导致高尚的动机和无私的行为。[17]{AA 519.3 }
§37
Seeing ye have purified your souls in obeying the truth through the Spirit unto unfeigned love of the brethren, Peter continued, see that ye love one another with a pure heart fervently. The word of God--the truth--is the channel through which the Lord manifests His Spirit and power. Obedience to the word produces fruit of the required quality--unfeigned love of the brethren. This love is heaven-born and leads to high motives and unselfish actions. {AA 519.3 }[17]
§38
当真理成了人生的固定原则时，这人就“蒙了重生，不是由于能坏的种子，乃是由于不能坏的种子，是借着上帝活泼常存的道。”这种新生乃是接受基督为“上帝的道”的结果。当上帝的真理借着圣灵而铭刻在人的心版上时，新的观念就必被唤起，那至今仍然潜伏的力量也必被激起而与上帝合作。[18]{AA 520.1 }
§39
When truth becomes an abiding principle in the life, the soul is born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever. This new birth is the result of receiving Christ as the Word of God. When by the Holy Spirit divine truths are impressed upon the heart, new conceptions are awakened, and the energies hitherto dormant are aroused to co-operate with God. {AA 520.1 }[18]
§40
这就是彼得和与他同工之门徒的经验。基督乃是向世人启示真理的主。那不能坏的种子，上帝的道借着他已撒在人的心里。但这位伟大教师的许多最宝贵的教训，却是向一班当时还不能领会的人讲述的。及至他升天之后，圣灵就使门徒想起他的教训来，于是他们在昏睡中的悟性就觉醒了。这些真理的意义就以新启示的面貌突然出现在他们的意识中，结果纯正不杂的真理就占有地位了。这样，他那奇妙的生活变成了他们的经验。“道”就借着他所指派的这些人作见证，他们也就宣讲那大能的真理：“道成了肉身，住在我们中间，充充满满的有恩典有真理。”“从他丰满的恩典里我们都领受了，而且恩上加恩。”（约1:14,16）[19]{AA 520.2 }
§41
Thus it had been with Peter and his fellow disciples. Christ was the revealer of truth to the world. By Him the incorruptible seed--the word of God--was sown in the hearts of men. But many of the most precious lessons of the Great Teacher were spoken to those who did not then understand them. When, after His ascension, the Holy Spirit brought His teachings to the remembrance of the disciples, their slumbering senses awoke. The meaning of these truths flashed upon their minds as a new revelation, and truth, pure and unadulterated, made a place for itself. Then the wonderful experience of His life became theirs. The Word bore testimony through them, the men of His appointment, and they proclaimed the mighty truth, The Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, . . . full of grace and truth. And of His fullness have all we received, and grace for grace. John 1:14, 16. {AA 520.2 }[19]
§42
使徒勉励信徒要研读《圣经》，并要正确地明白《圣经》，借此可为永生作好准备工作。彼得知道在每一获得最后胜利之人的经验中，都不免有困苦艰难；但他也知道人若能明白《圣经》，这就必帮助他在受试探的时候想起一些应许，借以安慰他的心怀并加强他依靠全能者的信心。[20]{AA 521.1 }
§43
The apostle exhorted the believers to study the Scriptures, through a proper understanding of which they might make sure work for eternity. Peter realized that in the experience of every soul who is finally victorious there would be scenes of perplexity and trial; but he knew also that an understanding of the Scriptures would enable the tempted one to bring to mind promises that would comfort the heart and strengthen faith in the Mighty One. {AA 521.1 }[20]
§44
他宣称：“凡有血气的，尽都如草；他的美荣，都像草上的花。草必枯干，花必凋谢；唯有主的道是永存的。所传给你们的福音就是这道。所以你们既除去一切的恶毒、诡诈，并假善、嫉妒，和一切毁谤的话，就要爱慕那纯净的灵奶，像才生的婴孩爱慕奶一样，叫你们因此渐长，以致得救。你们若尝过主恩的滋味，就必如此。”[21]{AA 521.2 }
§45
All flesh is as grass, he declared, and all the glory of man as the flower of grass. The grass withereth, and the flower thereof falleth away: but the word of the Lord endureth forever. And this is the word which by the gospel is preached unto you. Wherefore laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evilspeakings, as newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby: if so be ye have tasted that the Lord is gracious. {AA 521.2 }[21]
§46
接到彼得书信的信徒，许多是住在异教之人中间的，所以他们是否忠于自己的高尚身份，实在关系重大。使徒强调他们作基督耶稣之门徒的特权。他写道：“你们是被拣选的族类，是有君尊的祭司，是圣洁的国度，是属上帝的子民；要叫你们宣扬那召你们出黑暗入奇妙光明者的美德。你们从前算不得子民，现在却作了上帝的子民；从前未曾蒙怜恤，现在却蒙了怜恤。”[22]{AA 521.3 }
§47
Many of the believers to whom Peter addressed his letters, were living in the midst of heathen, and much depended on their remaining true to the high calling of their profession. The apostle urged upon them their privileges as followers of Christ Jesus. Ye are a chosen generation, he wrote, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should show forth the praises of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light: which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy. {AA 521.3 }[22]
§48
“亲爱的弟兄啊！你们是客旅，是寄居的。我劝你们要禁戒肉体的私欲；这私欲是与灵魂争战的。你们在外邦人中，应当品行端正，叫那些毁谤你们是作恶的，因看见你们的好行为，便在鉴察的日子，归荣耀给上帝。”[23]{AA 522.1 }
§49
Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul; having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation. {AA 522.1 }[23]
§50
使徒简明地描述信徒对于政府当局所应持有的态度，说：“你们为主的缘故，要顺服人的一切制度，或是在上的君王，或是君王所派罚恶赏善的臣宰。因为上帝的旨意原是要你们行善，可以堵住那糊涂无知人的口。你们虽是自由的，却不可借着自由遮盖恶毒，总要作上帝的仆人。务要尊敬众人，亲爱教中的弟兄，敬畏上帝，尊敬君王。”[24]{AA 522.2 }
§51
The apostle plainly outlined the attitude that believers should sustain toward the civil authorities: Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lords sake: whether it be to the king, as supreme; or unto governors, as unto them that are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers, and for the praise of them that do well. For so is the will of God, that with well-doing ye may put to silence the ignorance of foolish men: as free, and not using your liberty for a cloak of maliciousness, but as the servants of God. Honor all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the king. {AA 522.2 }[24]
§52
使徒劝告作仆人的要服从主人；他说明：“凡事要存敬畏的心顺服主人；不但顺服那善良温和的，就是那乖僻的也要顺服。倘若人为叫良心对得住上帝，就忍受冤屈的苦楚，这是可喜爱的。你们若因犯罪受责打，能忍耐，有什么可夸的呢？但你们若因行善受苦，能忍耐，这在上帝看是可喜爱的。你们蒙召原是为此；因基督也为你们受过苦，给你们留下榜样，叫你们跟随他的脚踪行。他并没有犯罪，口里也没有诡诈。他被骂不还口；受害不说威吓的话；只将自己交托那按公义审判人的主。他被挂在木头上亲身担当了我们的罪，使我们既然在罪上死，就得以在义上活。因他受的鞭伤，你们便得了医治。你们从前好像迷路的羊，如今却归到你们灵魂的牧人监督了。”[25]{AA 522.3 }
§53
Those who were servants were advised to remain subject to their masters with all fear; not only to the good and gentle, but also to the froward. For this is thankworthy, the apostle explained, if a man for conscience toward God endure grief, suffering wrongfully. For what glory is it, if, when ye be buffeted for your faults, ye shall take it patiently? but if, when ye do well, and suffer for it, ye take it patiently, this is acceptable with God. For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow His steps: who did no sin, neither was guile found in His mouth: who, when He was reviled, reviled not again; when He suffered, He threatened not; but committed Himself to Him that judgeth righteously: who His own self bare our sins in His own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed. For ye were as sheep going astray; but are now returned unto the Shepherd and Bishop of your souls. {AA 522.3 }[25]
§54
使徒劝告信主的妇女要言行贞洁，服装朴实。他劝她们“不要以外面的辫头发、戴金饰、穿美衣为妆饰；只要以里面存着长久温柔安静的心为妆饰；这在上帝面前是极宝贵的。”[26]{AA 523.1 }
§55
The apostle exhorted the women in the faith to be chaste in conversation and modest in dress and deportment. Whose adorning, he counseled, let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. {AA 523.1 }[26]
§56
这个教训适用于各世代的信徒。“凭着他们的果子，就可以认出他们来。”（太7:20）以温柔安静的心为内在的妆饰，乃是极其宝贵的。在真基督徒的生活中，外表的装饰总是与内在的平安和圣洁相称的。基督说：“若有人要跟从我，就当舍己，背起他的十字架，来跟从我，”（太16:24）克己牺牲乃是基督徒生活的特征。凡行走上主为赎民所预备之道路的人，一定会显明自己在衣著方面的爱好也转变了。[27]{AA 523.2 }
§57
The lesson applies to believers in every age. By their fruits ye shall know them. Matthew 7:20. The inward adorning of a meek and quiet spirit is priceless. In the life of the true Christian the outward adorning is always in harmony with the inward peace and holiness. If any man will come after Me, Christ said, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me. Matthew 16:24. Self-denial and sacrifice will mark the Christians life. Evidence that the taste is converted will be seen in the dress of all who walk in the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord. {AA 523.2 }[27]
§58
爱美与求美的心原是正当的；但上帝却希望我们先爱慕并追求最高尚的美，就是那永不朽坏的美。任何外表的妆饰，都不足以在价值或可爱方面与“温柔安静的心”、以及地上一切圣徒将来所要穿着的“又白又洁”的“细麻衣”相比。（启19:14）这种服装必能使他们在今世显为美丽可爱，并在来世作为进入万世之主的宫殿的凭证。他的应许乃是：“他们要穿白衣与我同行，因为他们是配得过的。”（启3:4）[28]{AA 523.3 }
§59
It is right to love beauty and to desire it; but God desires us to love and seek first the highest beauty, that which is imperishable. No outward adorning can compare in value or loveliness with that meek and quiet spirit, the fine linen, white and clean (Revelation 19:14), which all the holy ones of earth will wear. This apparel will make them beautiful and beloved here, and will hereafter be their badge of admission to the palace of the King. His promise is, They shall walk with Me in white: for they are worthy. Revelation 3:4. {AA 523.3 }[28]
§60
这位使徒本乎先知的慧眼展望到基督教会所行将遭遇的危险时期，便劝勉众信徒要在面临试验和痛苦之下坚持谨守。他写道：“亲爱的弟兄啊！有火炼的试验临到你们，不要以为奇怪。”[29]{AA 524.1 }
§61
Looking forward with prophetic vision to the perilous times into which the church of Christ was to enter, the apostle exhorted the believers to steadfastness in the face of trial and suffering. Beloved, he wrote, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you. {AA 524.1 }[29]
§62
试验乃是基督学校中所施教育的一部分，要炼净上帝的儿女除去一切属世的渣滓。上帝的儿女之所以遭遇艰苦的经验，正是因为他们有上帝引领他们。试验和障碍乃是锻炼人的方法，也是他所指定使人成功的条件。监察人心的主对于他们的弱点，远比他们自己所能明了的更为清楚。他看出某些人所具有的资格若加以正确指导，就可用来推进他的圣工。于是由于天意的安排，他令这些人落到不同的处境和种种情况之中，使他们可以发现一些他们自己过去所没有注意到的缺点。他赐给他们克服这些缺点的机会，以便准备自己从事服务。他往往容许苦难的火焰继续燃烧，使他们得以炼净。[30]{AA 524.2 }
§63
Trial is part of the education given in the school of Christ, to purify Gods children from the dross of earthliness. It is because God is leading His children that trying experiences come to them. Trials and obstacles are His chosen methods of discipline, and His appointed conditions of success. He who reads the hearts of men knows their weaknesses better than they themselves can know them. He sees that some have qualifications which, if rightly directed, could be used in the advancement of His work. In His providence He brings these souls into different positions and varied circumstances, that they may discover the defects that are concealed from their own knowledge. He gives them opportunity to overcome these defects and to fit themselves for service. Often He permits the fires of affliction to burn, that they may be purified. {AA 524.2 }[30]
§64
上帝对于他产业的照顾是不息不倦的。他所容许临到他儿女的每一种患难，都是为他们今生和永久的利益所不可或缺的。他必洁净他的教会，正如基督在地上传道时洁净圣殿一样。凡他所加在他百姓身上的考验与试炼，都是为要使他们得到更深的虔诚和更大的力量去推进十字架的胜利。[31]{AA 524.3 }
§65
Gods care for His heritage is unceasing. He suffers no affliction to come upon His children but such as is essential for their present and eternal good. He will purify His church, even as Christ purified the temple during His ministry on earth. All that He brings upon His people in test and trial comes that they may gain deeper piety and greater strength to carry forward the triumphs of the cross. {AA 524.3 }[31]
§66
在彼得的经验中，他曾经有一段时期不愿在基督的工作上见到十字架。当救主向门徒说明他所面临的苦难和死亡时，彼得惊叹着说：“主啊！万不可如此！这事必不临到你身上。”（太16:22）彼得之所以提出劝谏，乃是出于自怜，因而畏缩不愿与基督一同受苦。对于这个门徒，这一为他迟迟领会的艰苦教训乃是：基督在地上的道路必须经过痛苦与屈辱。但他要在考验的火焰的炽热衷学会这个教训，这时，他那一度活跃的身体已因历年辛劳而老态龙钟了，但他却能以写道：“亲爱的弟兄啊！有火炼的试验临到你们，不要以为奇怪，（似乎是遭遇非常的事）倒要欢喜；因为你们是与基督一同受苦，使你们在他荣耀显现的时候，也可以欢喜快乐。”[32]{AA 525.1 }
§67
There had been a time in Peters experience when he was unwilling to see the cross in the work of Christ. When the Saviour made known to the disciples His impending sufferings and death, Peter exclaimed, Be it far from Thee, Lord: this shall not be unto Thee. Matthew 16:22. Self-pity, which shrank from fellowship with Christ in suffering, prompted Peters remonstrance. It was to the disciple a bitter lesson, and one which he learned but slowly, that the path of Christ on earth lay through agony and humiliation. But in the heat of the furnace fire he was to learn its lesson. Now, when his once active form was bowed with the burden of years and labors, he could write, Beloved, think it not strange concerning the fiery trial which is to try you, as though some strange thing happened unto you: but rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christs sufferings; that, when His glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy. {AA 525.1 }[32]
§68
使徒向教会的长老讲论他们作基督羊群牧者的责任说：“务要牧养在你们中间上帝的群羊，按着上帝旨意照管他们；不是出于勉强，乃是出于甘心；也不是因为贪财，乃是出于乐意。也不是辖制所托付你们的，乃是作群羊的榜样。到了牧长显现的时候，你们必得那永不衰残的荣耀冠冕。”[33]{AA 525.2 }
§69
Addressing the church elders regarding their responsibilities as undershepherds of Christs flock, the apostle wrote: Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over Gods heritage, but being ensamples to the flock. And when the Chief Shepherd shall appear, ye shall receive a crown of glory that fadeth not away. {AA 525.2 }[33]
§70
凡居于牧者地位的人务要殷勤看守主的羊群。这并不是要专横独裁地排斥批评，却要予以勉励、坚固，并提高标准。传道工作并非仅指讲道说教；而也包括真诚的个人之工。地上的教会原由一班容易犯错误的男女所组成的，他们需要忍耐、辛劳、努力，以便接受训练和教育，在今生作成得蒙悦纳的工作，并在来生获得荣耀与永生的赏赐。现今所需要的乃是忠心的牧者，他们既不至过分夸赞上帝的子民，也不至苛刻地对待他们，却必以生命的粮来喂养他们。这些人在自己的生活中，天天感受到圣灵更新的能力，并对于他们所为之效劳的人们怀有坚强无私之爱。[34]{AA 526.1 }
§71
Those who occupy the position of undershepherds are to exercise a watchful diligence over the Lords flock. This is not to be a dictatorial vigilance, but one that tends to encourage and strengthen and uplift. Ministry means more than sermonizing; it means earnest, personal labor. The church on earth is composed of erring men and women, who need patient, painstaking effort that they may be trained and disciplined to work with acceptance in this life, and in the future life to be crowned with glory and immortality. Pastors are needed--faithful shepherds--who will not flatter Gods people, nor treat them harshly, but who will feed them with the bread of life--men who in their lives feel daily the converting power of the Holy Spirit and who cherish a strong, unselfish love toward those for whom they labor. {AA 526.1 }[34]
§72
作牧者的人受命应付教会中所发生的离间、苦毒、嫉妒等事故时，他就有一番机智的功夫要作，并且需要以基督的精神妥当的处理事情。传道人的工作不但须在讲台上，也要借着个人之工发出忠心的警告，责备罪恶，纠正错误。那刚愎任性的心或许反对忠告，并可能对上帝的仆人加以误断与批评。这时他务要记得：“唯独从上头来的智慧，先是清洁，后是和平，温良柔顺，满有怜悯，多结善果，没有偏见，没有假冒。并且使人和平的，是用和平所栽种的义果。”（雅3:17-18）[35]{AA 526.2 }
§73
There is tactful work for the undershepherd to do as he is called to meet alienation, bitterness, envy, and jealousy in the church, and he will need to labor in the spirit of Christ to set things in order. Faithful warnings are to be given, sins rebuked, wrongs made right, not only by the ministers work in the pulpit, but by personal labor. The wayward heart may take exception to the message, and the servant of God may be misjudged and criticized. Let him then remember that the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, and easy to be entreated, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality, and without hypocrisy. And the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace of them that make peace. James 3:17, 18. {AA 526.2 }[35]
§74
福音工作者的任务乃是“使众人都明白，这历代以来隐藏在创造万物之上帝里的奥秘，是如何安排的。”（弗3:9）如果一个人加入这种工作只拣选那最不需要克己牺牲的部分，单以讲道为满足，而将个人的布道工作留交别人，则他所做的工作必不得蒙上帝的悦纳。基督所为之受死的人们因缺少良好指导的个人之工而趋于灭亡；所以人若加入传道工作，而不愿从事牧养羊群所必需的个人之工，他就是误解他所接受的呼召了。[36]{AA 527.1 }
§75
The work of the gospel minister is to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God. Ephesians 3:9. If one entering upon this work chooses the least self-sacrificing part, contenting himself with preaching, and leaving the work of personal ministry for someone else, his labors will not be acceptable to God. Souls for whom Christ died are perishing for want of well-directed, personal labor; and he has mistaken his calling who, entering upon the ministry, is unwilling to do the personal work that the care of the flock demands. {AA 527.1 }[36]
§76
一个真牧人所具有的精神乃是忘我的精神。他因为要从事上帝的工作就忘了自己。他借着讲道和在各人家中作个人布道之工来了解他们的需要，他们的痛苦，他们的困难；并且他与那位伟大的背负重担之主合作，去分尝他们的艰难，安慰他们的愁苦，救济他们灵性上的饥饿，并引领他们的心皈依上帝。传道人在这工作上必有天使效力，而他自己也在那使人有得救智慧的真理上受到进一步的教导和启迪。[37]{AA 527.2 }
§77
The spirit of the true shepherd is one of self-forgetfulness. He loses sight of self in order that he may work the works of God. By the preaching of the word and by personal ministry in the homes of the people, he learns their needs, their sorrows, their trials; and, co-operating with the great Burden Bearer, he shares their afflictions, comforts their distresses, relieves their soul hunger, and wins their hearts to God. In this work the minister is attended by the angels of heaven, and he himself is instructed and enlightened in the truth that maketh wise unto salvation. {AA 527.2 }[37]
§78
使徒在他给那些在都会中居负责地位之人的指导中，也列举了一些普通的原则，是一切参加教会组织的人所应当遵从的。羊群中较为年轻的成员也受劝，要在实行基督化的谦卑上学习长者的榜样。他说：“你们年幼的，也要顺服年长的。就是你们众人，也都要以谦卑束腰，彼此顺服；因为上帝阻挡骄傲的人，赐恩给谦卑的人。所以你们要自卑，服在上帝大能的手下，到了时候他叫你们升高；你们要将一切的忧虑卸给上帝，因为他顾念你们。务要谨守、警醒；因为你们的仇敌魔鬼，如同吼叫的狮子，遍地游行，寻找可吞吃的人；你们要用坚固的信心抵挡他。”[38]{AA 527.3 }
§79
In connection with his instruction to those in positions of trust in the church, the apostle outlined some general principles that were to be followed by all who were associated in church fellowship. The younger members of the flock were urged to follow the example of their elders in the practice of Christlike humility: Likewise, ye younger, submit yourselves unto the elder. Yea, all of you be subject one to another, and be clothed with humility: for God resisteth the proud, and giveth grace to the humble. Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith. {AA 527.3 }[38]
§80
彼得就是这样在教会受着特殊考验的时候写信给众信徒。这时已经有许多人与基督一同受苦，而且教会不久将要经受一段可怕的逼迫时期。再过短短的几年，许多曾经在教会中作教师和领袖的人将要为福音的缘故舍命。再过不久，凶狠的豺狼必要进来，不爱惜羊群。但这些事没有一件足以使凡将自己的希望集中于基督的人灰心。彼得用鼓励和乐观的话指引信徒不要介意当前的考验和将来的苦楚，而要注意那“不能朽坏、不能玷污、不能衰残……的基业。”他热切地祈祷说：“那赐诸般恩典的上帝，曾在基督里召你们，得享他永远的荣耀，等你们暂受苦难之后，必要亲自成全你们，坚固你们，赐力量给你们。愿权能归给他，直到永永远远！阿们！”[39]{AA 528.1 }
§81
Thus Peter wrote to the believers at a time of peculiar trial to the church. Many had already become partakers of Christs sufferings, and soon the church was to undergo a period of terrible persecution. Within a few brief years many of those who had stood as teachers and leaders in the church were to lay down their lives for the gospel. Soon grievous wolves were to enter in, not sparing the flock. But none of these things were to bring discouragement to those whose hopes were centered in Christ. With words of encouragement and good cheer Peter directed the minds of the believers from present trials and future scenes of suffering to an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away. The God of all grace, he fervently prayed, who hath called us unto His eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered awhile, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. To Him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen. {AA 528.1 }[39]