第22章 预言的应验
§1
第22章 预言的应验
§2
Chap. 22 - Prophecies Fulfilled
§3
一八四四年春季，就是复临信徒第一次指望救主降临的时候过去之后，那些凭着信心仰望他显现的人曾一度被困在怀疑和彷徨之中。世人虽然都认为他们是完全失败，是显然受了欺骗，但他们仍从《圣经》中找到安慰。许多人继续研究《圣经》，重新检查自己信仰的根据，并仔细钻研预言，为要得着进一步的亮光。《圣经》对于他们的见解所提供的佐证是清楚而确凿的。许多不容误会的预兆都证明基督再来的日子已近。况且许多罪人的悔改和基督徒属灵生命的奋兴所彰显上帝的特别恩赐，都证明这一个信息是从天上来的。所以信徒虽然不能解释自己失望的原因，但他们总相信自己过去的一段经验乃是出于上帝的引领。[1]{GC 391.1}
§4
When the time passed at which the Lords coming was first expected,--in the spring of 1844,--those who had looked in faith for His appearing were for a season involved in doubt and uncertainty. While the world regarded them as having been utterly defeated and proved to have been cherishing a delusion, their source of consolation was still the word of God. Many continued to search the Scriptures, examining anew the evidences of their faith and carefully studying the prophecies to obtain further light. The Bible testimony in support of their position seemed clear and conclusive. Signs which could not be mistaken pointed to the coming of Christ as near. The special blessing of the Lord, both in the conversion of sinners and the revival of spiritual life among Christians, had testified that the message was of Heaven. And though the believers could not explain their disappointment, they felt assured that God had led them in their past experience. {GC 391.1}[1]
§5
在他们所相信有关基督再来的许多预言中，交织着一些特别适合于他们那彷徨和悬虑之心情的教训，这些教训鼓励他们忍耐等候，并相信现在似乎黑暗的事终必有明朗的一天。[2]{GC 391.2}
§6
Interwoven with prophecies which they had regarded as applying to the time of the second advent was instruction specially adapted to their state of uncertainty and suspense, and encouraging them to wait patiently in the faith that what was now dark to their understanding would in due time be made plain. {GC 391.2}[2]
§7
在这些预言中有哈巴谷二章一至四节的教训：“我要站在守望所，立在望楼上观看，看耶和华对我说什么话，我可用什么话向他诉冤。他对我说，将这默示明明的写在版上，使读的人容易读。因为这默示有一定的日期，快要应验，并不虚谎；虽然迟延，还要等候；因为必然临到，不再迟延。迦勒底人自高自大，心不正直；唯义人因信得生。”[3]{GC 392.1}
§8
Among these prophecies was that of Habakkuk 2:1-4: I will stand upon my watch, and set me upon the tower, and will watch to see what He will say unto me, and what I shall answer when I am reproved. And the Lord answered me, and said, Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it. For the vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. Behold, his soul which is lifted up is not upright in him: but the just shall live by his faith. {GC 392.1}[3]
§9
早在一八四二年，这段预言中的指示：“将这默示明明的写在版上，使读的人容易读，”曾使一个传道人斐奇查理设计一幅预言图表，来说明但以理和启示录的异象。在这个图表出版之后，当时的信徒便相信这是应验了上帝所传给哈巴谷的预言。可是没有人注意到这同一段预言，也指明这异象应验的过程中，必有一段显然迟延的时期，也就是一个等待的时期。但在大失望之后，以下的话就显明了它的意义：“这默示有一定的日期，快要应验，并不虚谎；虽然迟延，还要等候；因为必然临到，不再迟延，义人因信得生。”[4]{GC 392.2}
§10
As early as 1842 the direction given in this prophecy to write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it, had suggested to Charles Fitch the preparation of a prophetic chart to illustrate the visions of Daniel and the Revelation. The publication of this chart was regarded as a fulfillment of the command given by Habakkuk. No one, however, then noticed that an apparent delay in the accomplishment of the vision--a tarrying time--is presented in the same prophecy. After the disappointment, this scripture appeared very significant: The vision is yet for an appointed time, but at the end it shall speak, and not lie: though it tarry, wait for it; because it will surely come, it will not tarry. . . . The just shall live by his faith. {GC 392.2}[4]
§11
那时以西结的一段预言也使信徒得到力量和安慰：“耶和华的话临到我说，人子啊，在你们以色列地，怎么有这俗语说，日子迟延，一切异象都落了空呢？你要告诉他们说，主耶和华如此说，……日子临近，一切的异象都必应验。……我耶和华说话，所说的必定成就，不再耽延。”“以色列家的人说，他所见的异象，是关乎后来许多的日子，所说的预言，是指着极远的时候。所以你要对他们说，主耶和华如此说，我的话没有一句再耽延的，我所说的必定成就。”（结12:21-25,27-28）[5]{GC 392.3}
§12
A portion of Ezekiels prophecy also was a source of strength and comfort to believers: The word of the Lord came unto me, saying, Son of man, what is that proverb that ye have in the land of Israel, saying, The days are prolonged, and every vision faileth? Tell them therefore, Thus saith the Lord God. . . . The days are at hand, and the effect of every vision. . . . I will speak, and the word that I shall speak shall come to pass; it shall be no more prolonged. They of the house of Israel say, The vision that he seeth is for many days to come, and he prophesieth of the times that are far off. Therefore say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God; There shall none of My words be prolonged any more, but the word which I have spoken shall be done. Ezekiel 12:21-25, 27, 28. {GC 392.3}[5]
§13
那些等候主的信徒因此就欢喜了。他们相信那从起初看到末后的主曾在古时预先看到他们的失望，而赐给他们这些鼓励和有希望的勉言。若是没有这几段经文来劝勉他们忍耐等候并坚信上帝的话，他们就必在那考验的时辰失去信心了。[6]{GC 393.1}
§14
The waiting ones rejoiced, believing that He who knows the end from the beginning had looked down through the ages and, foreseeing their disappointment, had given them words of courage and hope. Had it not been for such portions of Scripture, admonishing them to wait with patience and to hold fast their confidence in Gods word, their faith would have failed in that trying hour. {GC 393.1}[6]
§15
马太二十五章里十个童女的比喻也说明复临信徒的经验。在马太二十四章，基督答复门徒所发有关他降临和世界末日之预兆的问题时，他曾指出从他第一次降临到第二次降临的时期中，世界历史和教会历史上的一些主要事件，例如耶路撒冷的毁灭，教会在异教和罗马教的逼迫之下所经受的大患难，以及日月黑暗，众星坠落等事。此后，他便谈到他得国降临的事，并叙述了那等候他降临的两等仆人的比喻。随即有第二十五章开头的话说：“那时，天国好比十个童女。”这话是为我们指出末期的教会，也就是第二十四章末了几节经文所讲论的。这个比喻用近东地区的婚礼来说明末期教会的经验。[7]{GC 393.2}
§16
The parable of the ten virgins of Matthew 25 also illustrates the experience of the Adventist people. In Matthew 24, in answer to the question of His disciples concerning the sign of His coming and of the end of the world, Christ had pointed out some of the most important events in the history of the world and of the church from His first to His second advent; namely, the destruction of Jerusalem, the great tribulation of the church under the pagan and papal persecutions, the darkening of the sun and moon, and the falling of the stars. After this He spoke of His coming in His kingdom, and related the parable describing the two classes of servants who look for His appearing. Chapter 25 opens with the words: Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins. Here is brought to view the church living in the last days, the same that is pointed out in the close of chapter 24. In this parable their experience is illustrated by the incidents of an Eastern marriage. {GC 393.2}[7]
§17
“那时，天国好比十个童女，拿着灯，出去迎接新郎。其中有五个是愚拙的；五个是聪明的。愚拙的拿着灯，却不预备油；聪明的拿着灯，又预备油在器皿里。新郎迟延的时候，他们都打盹睡着了。半夜有人喊着说，新郎来了，你们出来迎接他。”（太25:1-6）[8]{GC 393.3}
§18
Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom. And five of them were wise, and five were foolish. They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them: but the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. {GC 393.3}[8]
§19
新郎的来到预表第一位天使所宣告的基督再来。童女出来迎接，代表那因基督再来的信息而普遍展开的改革运动。这个比喻像第二十四章里的比喻一样，指出两等人。他们都带着灯，就是《圣经》，并靠灯光出去迎接新郎。但“愚拙的拿着灯，却不预备油；聪明的拿着灯，又预备油在器皿里。”这后一等人已经领受了上帝的恩典，就是那使人重生，并光照他们的圣灵的能力，唯独这灵能使《圣经》成为脚前的灯和路上的光。他们曾存敬畏上帝的心去考查《圣经》，为要明白真理；他们也曾恳切追求心灵和生活的纯洁。这一等人亲自得了实在的经验，并对上帝和他的话具有一种信心，这种信心是灰心和迟延所不能磨灭的。其余的人则“拿着灯，却不预备油。”他们是出于情感的冲动。这严肃的信息曾引起他们的恐惧，但他们只以弟兄们的信仰为依靠，并满意自己感情上明灭不定的灯火，而没有追求彻底明白真理，也没有追求心中真实有圣灵作工。这等人曾满心盼望立即得着赏赐而出去迎接救主，但他们没有准备应付迟延和失望。及至考验临到，他们的信心便支持不住，他们的灯火便暗淡无光了。[9]{GC 393.4}
§20
The coming of Christ, as announced by the first angels message, was understood to be represented by the coming of the bridegroom. The widespread reformation under the proclamation of His soon coming, answered to the going forth of the virgins. In this parable, as in that of Matthew 24, two classes are represented. All had taken their lamps, the Bible, and by its light had gone forth to meet the Bridegroom. But while they that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them, the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps. The latter class had received the grace of God, the regenerating, enlightening power of the Holy Spirit, which renders His word a lamp to the feet and a light to the path. In the fear of God they had studied the Scriptures to learn the truth, and had earnestly sought for purity of heart and life. These had a personal experience, a faith in God and in His word, which could not be overthrown by disappointment and delay. Others took their lamps, and took no oil with them. They had moved from impulse. Their fears had been excited by the solemn message, but they had depended upon the faith of their brethren, satisfied with the flickering light of good emotions, without a thorough understanding of the truth or a genuine work of grace in the heart. These had gone forth to meet the Lord, full of hope in the prospect of immediate reward; but they were not prepared for delay and disappointment. When trials came, their faith failed, and their lights burned dim. {GC 393.4}[9]
§21
“新郎迟延的时候，他们都打盹睡着了。”新郎的迟延代表信徒所指望救主回来的日子过了期，以及随之而来的失望和显然的迟延。在这个彷徨的时期中，那些经验肤浅和不冷不热的信徒很快就动摇了。他们作基督徒的努力也松弛了；但那些把信心建立在亲自查考《圣经》的基础上的人已经把脚立在磐石上，是失望的浪潮所不能冲毁的。“他们都打盹睡着了。”一等人因不关心而放弃了信仰，另一等人则耐心等候更清楚的亮光。但在那考验的黑夜里，这些人的热心和虔诚似乎多少也有所减退。那些不冷不热的信徒再不能依靠弟兄们的信心来支持他们。各人或站立或跌倒，完全在于自己。[10]{GC 394.1}
§22
While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. By the tarrying of the bridegroom is represented the passing of the time when the Lord was expected, the disappointment, and the seeming delay. In this time of uncertainty, the interest of the superficial and halfhearted soon began to waver, and their efforts to relax; but those whose faith was based on a personal knowledge of the Bible had a rock beneath their feet, which the waves of disappointment could not wash away. They all slumbered and slept; one class in unconcern and abandonment of their faith, the other class patiently waiting till clearer light should be given. Yet in the night of trial the latter seemed to lose, to some extent, their zeal and devotion. The halfhearted and superficial could no longer lean upon the faith of their brethren. Each must stand or fall for himself. {GC 394.1}[10]
§23
约在此时，狂热的风潮开始发作了。一些曾经表示热心相信基督再来的人不再以上帝的圣言为唯一绝无错误的向导，却声称自己受了圣灵的直接引领，结果就完全被自己的情绪，感觉，和幻想所支配了。有一些人则表现一种盲目而偏执的热忱，并且排斥一切不赞同他们的人。他们狂热的见解和行动，是一般的复临信徒所不同情的；但这些狂热之徒终于使整个真理的伟业受到羞辱。[11]{GC 395.1}
§24
About this time, fanaticism began to appear. Some who had professed to be zealous believers in the message rejected the word of God as the one infallible guide and, claiming to be led by the Spirit, gave themselves up to the control of their own feelings, impressions, and imaginations. There were some who manifested a blind and bigoted zeal, denouncing all who would not sanction their course. Their fanatical ideas and exercises met with no sympathy from the great body of Adventists; yet they served to bring reproach upon the cause of truth. {GC 395.1}[11]
§25
那时，撒但正在努力用这种方法反对并破坏上帝的工作。众人已经因复临的信息而大受感动；成千的罪人已经悔改信主，并有许多忠诚分子献身宣扬真理，就在那迟延的时期，也是如此。那时邪恶之君见自己的许多臣仆离开了他；所以为要使上帝的圣工蒙受羞辱起见，他就设法欺哄一些似乎有信仰的人，驱使他们走向极端。于是他的爪牙就准备利用这等人的每一个错误，每一次的失败，和每一件不体面的事，加以夸大的宣传，使复临运动的信徒和信仰显着可憎。因此撒但竭力使他所控制的许多人表示相信基督的复临，而同时还让他控制他们的心，这样的分子越多，撒但就越能指出这一等人为全体信徒的代表。[12]{GC 395.2}
§26
Satan was seeking by this means to oppose and destroy the work of God. The people had been greatly stirred by the advent movement, thousands of sinners had been converted, and faithful men were giving themselves to the work of proclaiming the truth, even in the tarrying time. The prince of evil was losing his subjects; and in order to bring reproach upon the cause of God, he sought to deceive some who professed the faith and to drive them to extremes. Then his agents stood ready to seize upon every error, every failure, every unbecoming act, and hold it up before the people in the most exaggerated light, to render Adventists and their faith odious. Thus the greater the number whom he could crowd in to make a profession of faith in the second advent while his power controlled their hearts, the greater advantage would he gain by calling attention to them as representatives of the whole body of believers. {GC 395.2}[12]
§27
撒但是那“控告弟兄的”，所以他的灵常鼓动人去窥伺并暴露上帝子民的错误和缺点，至于他们的善行，则一字不提。每逢上帝努力救人的时候，撒但也必活跃起来。每当神的众子来待立在耶和华面前时，撒但也必来在其中。在每一次的奋兴中，他总要把一些内心不圣洁，思想不稳健的人带进来。当这样的人接受了真理的某几点并在信徒中得到地位之后，撒但便要利用他们传出一些理论来迷惑一般没有防备的人。一个人虽然和上帝的儿女来往，甚至进入礼拜堂并参加主的圣餐，这并不足以证明他就是一个真基督徒。撒但常爱参加最严肃的聚会，他露面的方式就是借着他所能利用的爪牙工具。[13]{GC 395.3}
§28
Satan is the accuser of the brethren, and it is his spirit that inspires men to watch for the errors and defects of the Lords people, and to hold them up to notice, while their good deeds are passed by without a mention. He is always active when God is at work for the salvation of souls. When the sons of God come to present themselves before the Lord, Satan comes also among them. In every revival he is ready to bring in those who are unsanctified in heart and unbalanced in mind. When these have accepted some points of truth, and gained a place with believers, he works through them to introduce theories that will deceive the unwary. No man is proved to be a true Christian because he is found in company with the children of God, even in the house of worship and around the table of the Lord. Satan is frequently there upon the most solemn occasions in the form of those whom he can use as his agents. {GC 395.3}[13]
§29
邪恶之君必要在上帝的子民向天城迈进的路程上，步步与他们为难。在教会的全部历史中，没有一次的改革运动不是冒着严重的障碍而前进的。在保罗的日子也是这样。这位使徒无论在什么地方兴起教会，就必有一些自称是接受这信仰的人带来一些异端邪道，这些异端如果被众信徒接受的话，就必把热爱真理的心排斥出去了。路德也曾因一些狂热之徒的作风而经受许多困难和烦恼，这些人说有上帝直接借着他们讲话，所以他们重看自己的感想和意见过于《圣经》的见证。许多缺少信心和经验的人反而会感觉十分自满，他们喜欢“说说听听”新奇的事，结果就受了这些新教师的迷惑，并帮助撒但的爪牙去破坏上帝借路德所建立的圣工。卫斯理弟兄二人和其他以自己的影响和信心为世人造福的人，也都曾处处遭遇撒但之诡计所策动的过激、偏执和不圣洁的分子所发起的各等各式的狂热。[14]{GC 396.1}
§30
The prince of evil contests every inch of ground over which Gods people advance in their journey toward the heavenly city. In all the history of the church no reformation has been carried forward without encountering serious obstacles. Thus it was in Pauls day. Wherever the apostle raised up a church, there were some who professed to receive the faith, but who brought in heresies, that, if received, would eventually crowd out the love of the truth. Luther also suffered great perplexity and distress from the course of fanatical persons who claimed that God had spoken directly through them, and who therefore set their own ideas and opinions above the testimony of the Scriptures. Many who were lacking in faith and experience, but who had considerable self-sufficiency, and who loved to hear and tell some new thing, were beguiled by the pretensions of the new teachers, and they joined the agents of Satan in their work of tearing down what God had moved Luther to build up. And the Wesleys, and others who blessed the world by their influence and their faith, encountered at every step the wiles of Satan in pushing overzealous, unbalanced, and unsanctified ones into fanaticism of every grade. {GC 396.1}[14]
§31
威廉·米勒耳一点也不赞同那些造成狂热现象的影响。他像路德一样，声称每一个灵必须受上帝圣言的试验。他说：“魔鬼今日在某一些人的思想上是控制得非常有力的。而我们又怎能知道他是出于什么灵的感动呢？《圣经》有回答说：‘凭着他们的果子，就可以认出他们来。’世上有许多的灵已经出来了；而且有命令吩咐我们要试验那些灵。凡不使我们在今生自守、公义、敬虔度日的灵就不是基督的灵。我越来越相信这些狂热的运动和撒但有很密切的关系。……在我们当中有很多人自命完全圣洁，实际上却在随从人的遗传，况且他们同一些不如此自负的人一样不明白真理。”“邪恶的灵必使我们远离真理；而上帝的灵能引领我们明白真理。但你或许要问，一个人可能是错了，但他总以为自己拥有真理，那么怎样呢？我们回答说，圣灵和《圣经》必然是一致的。如果一个人用《圣经》来审查自己，而发现自己能与全部《圣经》协调，他就可以确信自己拥有真理；但如果他发现那引领他的灵与上帝的律法或《圣经》一贯的教训不能符合，他就应当谨慎自己的脚步，唯恐陷入魔鬼的网罗。”“从人们脸上的神色，眼中的泪珠或富有感情的几句话里，我所能看出内心虔诚的表现，要比全基督教界所发出的狂呼乱喊更多呢？”[15]{GC 396.2}
§32
William Miller had no sympathy with those influences that led to fanaticism. He declared, with Luther, that every spirit should be tested by the word of God. The devil, said Miller, has great power over the minds of some at the present day. And how shall we know what manner of spirit they are of? The Bible answers: By their fruits ye shall know them.. . . There are many spirits gone out into the world; and we are commanded to try the spirits. The spirit that does not cause us to live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world, is not the Spirit of Christ. I am more and more convinced that Satan has much to do in these wild movements. . . . Many among us who pretend to be wholly sanctified, are following the traditions of men, and apparently are as ignorant of truth as others who make no such pretensions.--Bliss, pages 236, 237. The spirit of error will lead us from the truth; and the Spirit of God will lead us into truth. But, say you, a man may be in an error, and think he has the truth. What then? We answer, The Spirit and word agree. If a man judges himself by the word of God, and finds a perfect harmony through the whole word, then he must believe he has the truth; but if he finds the spirit by which he is led does not harmonize with the whole tenor of Gods law or Book, then let him walk carefully, lest he be caught in the snare of the devil.--The Advent Herald and Signs of the Times Reporter, vol. 8, No. 23 (Jan. 15, 1845). I have often obtained more evidence of inward piety from a kindling eye, a wet cheek, and a choked utterance, than from all the noise of Christendom.--Bliss, page 282. {GC 396.2}[15]
§33
在宗教改革的日子，这运动的敌人曾把狂热派所惹起的祸患都归罪于那些最反对这种风潮的人。后来那些反对复临运动的人也用了这同样的手段。他们不止是诬蔑并夸大极端主义者和狂热派的谬论，而还要散布许多毫无根据的谰言。这些人是被偏见和仇恨所鼓动。他们曾因基督快要复临的信息而感到不安。他们唯恐这信息是真的，而又希望它是假的，这就是他们逼迫复临信徒和复临信息的真原因。[16]{GC 397.1}
§34
In the days of the Reformation its enemies charged all the evils of fanaticism upon the very ones who were laboring most earnestly against it. A similar course was pursued by the opposers of the advent movement. And not content with misrepresenting and exaggerating the errors of extremists and fanatics, they circulated unfavorable reports that had not the slightest semblance of truth. These persons were actuated by prejudice and hatred. Their peace was disturbed by the proclamation of Christ at the door. They feared it might be true, yet hoped it was not, and this was the secret of their warfare against Adventists and their faith. {GC 397.1}[16]
§35
有一些狂热之徒钻进了复临信徒的团体，这并不足以证明这运动不是出于上帝，正如保罗和路德时代的教会中虽然发现有骗子和狂热之徒，也不足以否定他们的工作。只要上帝的百姓从睡梦中警醒，并诚恳地从事悔罪改革的工作；只要他们查考《圣经》，学习那在耶稣里的真理；只要他们完全献身于上帝，他们就必看到许多现象，说明撒但仍是活跃而警惕着的。他必利用一切迷人的方法来显扬他的能力，并发动他领域之内全部堕落的使者来帮助他。[17]{GC 398.1}
§36
The fact that a few fanatics worked their way into the ranks of Adventists is no more reason to decide that the movement was not of God than was the presence of fanatics and deceivers in the church in Pauls or Luthers day a sufficient excuse for condemning their work. Let the people of God arouse out of sleep and begin in earnest the work of repentance and reformation; let them search the Scriptures to learn the truth as it is in Jesus; let them make an entire consecration to God, and evidence will not be wanting that Satan is still active and vigilant. With all possible deception he will manifest his power, calling to his aid all the fallen angels of his realm. {GC 398.1}[17]
§37
造成狂热和分裂状态的缘故，决不是因为基督再来的信息广为传开。这种不良的现象是在一八四四年的夏季，正当复临信徒对自己真实境遇惶惑不定的时候才出现的。原来第一位天使的信息和那随之而来的“半夜的呼声”，正足以抑制狂热和分裂的事。因为那些在这两次严肃的运动中有分的人是彼此十分和谐的。他们彼此相爱，并热爱他们所希望快要看见的耶稣。同一的信仰和同一的指望，已成了他们抵御撒但的盾牌，并使他们超出一切属于血气的影响。[18]{GC 398.2}
§38
It was not the proclamation of the second advent that caused fanaticism and division. These appeared in the summer of 1844, when Adventists were in a state of doubt and perplexity concerning their real position. The preaching of the first angels message and of the midnight cry tended directly to repress fanaticism and dissension. Those who participated in these solemn movements were in harmony; their hearts were filled with love for one another and for Jesus, whom they expected soon to see. The one faith, the one blessed hope, lifted them above the control of any human influence, and proved a shield against the assaults of Satan. {GC 398.2}[18]
§39
“新郎迟延的时候，他们都打盹，睡着了。半夜有人声喊着说，新郎来了，你们出来迎接祂。那些童女就都起来收拾灯”（太25:5-7）。一八四四年夏季，就是在复临信徒起先以为二千三百日结束的春季与后来发现预言实际延伸到的这一年的秋季之间，他们用了圣经的话去传“新郎来了！”的信息。{GC 398.3}
§40
While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept. And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him. Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps. Matthew 25:5-7. In the summer of 1844, midway between the time when it had been first thought that the 2300 days would end, and the autumn of the same year, to which it was afterward found that they extended, the message was proclaimed in the very words of Scripture: Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! {GC 398.3}[19]
§41
那发起这次运动的，乃是他们对于那确定二千三百日的起点的新发现，就是说：亚达薛西王重建耶路撒冷的命令是在公元前四五七年秋季，而不是在他们失望前所认为的春季生效的。那二千三百年既从四五七年秋季算起，就必在一八四四年秋季结束。[20]{GC 398.4}
§42
That which led to this movement was the discovery that the decree of Artaxerxes for the restoration of Jerusalem, which formed the starting point for the period of the 2300 days, went into effect in the autumn of the year 457 B.C., and not at the beginning of the year, as had been formerly believed. Reckoning from the autumn of 457, the 2300 years terminate in the autumn of 1844. (See Appendix note for page 329.) {GC 398.4}[20]
§43
还有以旧约《圣经》的预表为根据的论据，也确定秋季为举行“洁净圣所”之礼节的时候，当信徒注意到那些有关基督第一次降临的预表是怎样应验的，这个问题就更为明朗化了。[21]{GC 399.1}
§44
Arguments drawn from the Old Testament types also pointed to the autumn as the time when the event represented by the cleansing of the sanctuary must take place. This was made very clear as attention was given to the manner in which the types relating to the first advent of Christ had been fulfilled. {GC 399.1}[21]
§45
逾越节的羔羊之被杀，乃是基督舍命的预表。保罗说：“我们逾越节的羔羊基督，已经被杀献祭了。”（林前5:7）在逾越节期内所献初熟庄稼的摇捆则预表基督的复活。保罗论到主的复活和他百姓的复活，说：“初熟的果子是基督；以后在他来的时候，是那些属基督的。”（林前15:23）正像那在收割庄稼之前最先割下来要摇的禾捆一样，基督乃是那在将来复活时被收入上帝仓库的蒙赎之民初熟的果子。[22]{GC 399.2}
§46
The slaying of the Passover lamb was a shadow of the death of Christ. Says Paul: Christ our Passover is sacrificed for us. 1 Corinthians 5:7. The sheaf of first fruits, which at the time of the Passover was waved before the Lord, was typical of the resurrection of Christ. Paul says, in speaking of the resurrection of the Lord and of all His people: Christ the first fruits; afterward they that are Christs at His coming. 1 Corinthians 15:23. Like the wave sheaf, which was the first ripe grain gathered before the harvest, Christ is the first fruits of that immortal harvest of redeemed ones that at the future resurrection shall be gathered into the garner of God. {GC 399.2}[22]
§47
这些预表不但在事实上，而且也在时间上应验了。在犹太历的正月十四，就是一千五百年来，宰杀逾越节羔羊的日子，基督既同门徒吃了逾越节的筵席，就设立了圣餐礼，这个礼节将要记念他的死，作为“上帝的羔羊，除去世人罪孽的。”在那同一天晚上，他被恶人捉拿，要把他钉死在十字架上。他又作为摇捆所预表的对象在第三天复活了，“成为睡了之人初熟的果子。”（林前15:20）并成为一切复活之义人的典型，他们卑贱的身体将要改变形状，“和他自己荣耀的身体相似。”（腓3:21）[23]{GC 399.3}
§48
These types were fulfilled, not only as to the event, but as to the time. On the fourteenth day of the first Jewish month, the very day and month on which for fifteen long centuries the Passover lamb had been slain, Christ, having eaten the Passover with His disciples, instituted that feast which was to commemorate His own death as the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world. That same night He was taken by wicked hands to be crucified and slain. And as the antitype of the wave sheaf our Lord was raised from the dead on the third day, the first fruits of them that slept, a sample of all the resurrected just, whose vile body shall be changed, and fashioned like unto His glorious body. Verse 20; Philippians 3:21. {GC 399.3}[23]
§49
照样，一切有关基督再来的预表也必按照表号性之礼节所指明的时候应验。在摩西律法的制度之下，洁净圣所，或赎罪大日，乃是在犹太历的七月初十，（见利26:29-34）那时，大祭司既为全以色列行了赎罪之礼，并借此把他们的罪从圣所里挪去，就出来为百姓祝福。所以当时的信徒认为我们的大祭司基督也要显现来毁灭罪恶与罪人，借以洁净全地，然后将永生的福分赐给他的百姓。所以他们认为七月初十的赎罪大日，即洁净圣所的时候，按公历是一八四四年十月二十二日，也就是救主复临的时候。这与过去所提的证据符合，说明那二千三百日必要在秋季结束，这种结论显明是肯定而无可非议的。[24]{GC 399.4}
§50
In like manner the types which relate to the second advent must be fulfilled at the time pointed out in the symbolic service. Under the Mosaic system the cleansing of the sanctuary, or the great Day of Atonement, occurred on the tenth day of the seventh Jewish month (Leviticus 16:29-34), when the high priest, having made an atonement for all Israel, and thus removed their sins from the sanctuary, came forth and blessed the people. So it was believed that Christ, our great High Priest, would appear to purify the earth by the destruction of sin and sinners, and to bless His waiting people with immortality. The tenth day of the seventh month, the great Day of Atonement, the time of the cleansing of the sanctuary, which in the year 1844 fell upon the twenty-second of October, was regarded as the time of the Lords coming. This was in harmony with the proofs already presented that the 2300 days would terminate in the autumn, and the conclusion seemed irresistible. {GC 399.4}[24]
§51
在马太二十五章的比喻中，紧接着等待和睡觉的时期便是新郎的来临。这和以上根据预言和预表所提出的论据是完全符合的。这些论据有力的说明了其本身的真实性；于是在成千的信徒宣传了这“半夜的呼声”。[25]{GC 400.1}
§52
In the parable of Matthew 25 the time of waiting and slumber is followed by the coming of the bridegroom. This was in accordance with the arguments just presented, both from prophecy and from the types. They carried strong conviction of their truthfulness; and the midnight cry was heralded by thousands of believers. {GC 400.1}[25]
§53
这个运动像潮水一样扫荡了全地。从这城到那城，从这村到那村，深入最遥远的地区，直到一切等候基督的上帝子民都被唤醒了。在这个消息传扬之下，狂热的现象云消雾散了。信徒的怀疑和困恼也已解除；他们的心被希望和勇气所鼓舞。这次工作不像一般出于感情的刺激而不受《圣经》和圣灵控制的运动那样有极端的趋势。它乃像古时以色列人在听到耶和华的仆人传来责备信息之后所发起的自卑和转向耶和华的运动。它呈现了上帝在每一个世代所发动之工作的特点。这特点少有狂欢的表现，而多有深刻自省，悔改认罪和放弃世俗的精神。许多经过内心挣扎之人的抱负是要预备迎见救主。他们恒切祈祷，毫无保留地献身给上帝。[26]{GC 400.2}
§54
Like a tidal wave the movement swept over the land. From city to city, from village to village, and into remote country places it went, until the waiting people of God were fully aroused. Fanaticism disappeared before this proclamation like early frost before the rising sun. Believers saw their doubt and perplexity removed, and hope and courage animated their hearts. The work was free from those extremes which are ever manifested when there is human excitement without the controlling influence of the word and Spirit of God. It was similar in character to those seasons of humiliation and returning unto the Lord which among ancient Israel followed messages of reproof from His servants. It bore the characteristics that mark the work of God in every age. There was little ecstatic joy, but rather deep searching of heart, confession of sin, and forsaking of the world. A preparation to meet the Lord was the burden of agonizing spirits. There was persevering prayer and unreserved consecration to God. {GC 400.2}[26]
§55
米勒耳形容那时的工作说：“我们当中并没有人表示极度的欢乐；大家好像是把欢乐的事留到将来，因为将来天地万物都要一同欢庆，并有说不出的喜乐和盈溢着的荣耀。我们当中也没有人大声喊叫，这也留到将来；那时从天上必要发出“呼叫的声音’；歌唱的人也止息了；他们正等待参加天使的队伍和天上的歌咏队呢。我们当中也没有争论的事；众人都有一样的心思，一样的意念。”[27]{GC 401.1}
§56
Said Miller in describing that work: There is no great expression of joy: that is, as it were, suppressed for a future occasion, when all heaven and earth will rejoice together with joy unspeakable and full of glory. There is no shouting: that, too, is reserved for the shout from heaven. The singers are silent: they are waiting to join the angelic hosts, the choir from heaven. . . . There is no clashing of sentiments: all are of one heart and of one mind.--Bliss, pages 270, 271. {GC 401.1}[27]
§57
另有一个参加这运动的人证明说：“这运动到处引起了深刻的反省，使人在上帝和高天之下虚心自卑。它使人的感情不再迷恋于今世的事物，使人互相和睦解怨，彼此认罪，在上帝面前伤心痛哭，向他忏悔祈祷，为要得蒙赦免与悦纳。它使人空前地谦虚与自卑。正像上帝借约珥吩咐人在他大而可畏的日子未到之前所要作的，它使人撕裂心肠，不撕裂衣服，借着禁食，痛哭和悲哀归向耶和华。正如上帝借撒迦利亚所说的他曾将那施恩叫人恳求的灵浇灌他的儿女；他们也曾仰望他们所扎的并为他悲哀，……那些等候主复临的人都曾在他面前刻苦己心。”[28]{GC 401.2}
§58
Another who participated in the movement testified: It produced everywhere the most deep searching of heart and humiliation of soul before the God of high heaven. It caused a weaning of affections from the things of this world, a healing of controversies and animosities, a confession of wrongs, a breaking down before God, and penitent, brokenhearted supplications to Him for pardon and acceptance. It caused self-abasement and prostration of soul, such as we never before witnessed. As God by Joel commanded, when the great day of God should be at hand, it produced a rending of hearts and not of garments, and a turning unto the Lord with fasting, and weeping, and mourning. As God said by Zechariah, a spirit of grace and supplication was poured out upon His children; they looked to Him whom they had pierced, there was a great mourning in the land, . . . and those who were looking for the Lord afflicted their souls before Him.--Bliss, in Advent Shield and Review, vol. I, p. 271 (January, 1845). {GC 401.2}[28]
§59
自从使徒的日子以来，没有任何宗教运动比一八四四年秋季的运动更少搀有人的缺欠和撒但的诡计。就是经过了许多年，凡参加过那次运动而仍坚立在真理基础上的人，仍可感受到那次工作的神圣的影响，并能证明那是出于上帝的。[29]{GC 401.3}
§60
Of all the great religious movements since the days of the apostles, none have been more free from human imperfection and the wiles of Satan than was that of the autumn of 1844. Even now, after the lapse of many years, all who shared in that movement and who have stood firm upon the platform of truth still feel the holy influence of that blessed work and bear witness that it was of God. {GC 401.3}[29]
§61
等待新郎的人一听见“新郎来了，你们出来迎接他，”便“起来收拾灯。”他们以空前的热烈情绪研究上帝的圣言。有天使奉命从天上下来唤醒那些已经灰心的人，预备他们去接受这信息。这次的工作没有依靠人的智慧和学问，却是依靠上帝的大能。最先听见而最先响应上帝呼召的不是最有天才的人；而是最谦卑，最忠诚的人。农夫把未收的庄稼留在田里，工匠撇下他们的工具，都以欢喜的热泪出去宣扬警告。那些先前领导圣工的人倒是最后参加这次运动的。一般的教会却闭门拒绝这信息，于是许多接受的人便退出了这些教会。在上帝的领导之下，这个信息同第二位天使的信息联合起来了，并加强了圣工的力量。[30]{GC 402.1}
§62
At the call, The Bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet Him, the waiting ones arose and trimmed their lamps; they studied the word of God with an intensity of interest before unknown. Angels were sent from heaven to arouse those who had become discouraged and prepare them to receive the message. The work did not stand in the wisdom and learning of men, but in the power of God. It was not the most talented, but the most humble and devoted, who were the first to hear and obey the call. Farmers left their crops standing in the fields, mechanics laid down their tools, and with tears and rejoicing went out to give the warning. Those who had formerly led in the cause were among the last to join in this movement. The churches in general closed their doors against this message, and a large company of those who received it withdrew from their connection. In the providence of God this proclamation united with the second angels message and gave power to that work. {GC 402.1}[30]
§63
“新郎来了！”的信息虽然有清楚而确切的经文为根据，但它并不是一个足资辩论的题目。它却带有一种动人的力量。所以没有人怀疑，没有人问难。从前在基督胜利的进入耶路撒冷的时候，从各地云集来过节的人都蜂拥到橄榄山上，于是在他们参加那护送耶稣的行列时，他们也就感染到当时的热烈情绪，并同声喊叫，“奉主名来的，是应当称颂的！”（太21:9）那些拥到复临运动会场的非信徒——有的是出于好奇，也有的仅仅出于讥刺的动机——也曾同样地感受到那推动“新郎来了”之信息的力量。[31]{GC 402.2}
§64
The message, Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! was not so much a matter of argument, though the Scripture proof was clear and conclusive. There went with it an impelling power that moved the soul. There was no doubt, no questioning. Upon the occasion of Christs triumphal entry into Jerusalem the people who were assembled from all parts of the land to keep the feast flocked to the Mount of Olives, and as they joined the throng that were escorting Jesus they caught the inspiration of the hour and helped to swell the shout: Blessed is He that cometh in the name of the Lord! Matthew 21:9. In like manner did unbelievers who flocked to the Adventist meetings--some from curiosity, some merely to ridicule--feel the convincing power attending the message: Behold, the Bridegroom cometh! {GC 402.2}[31]
§65
那时信徒有强大的信心，就是必得大赏赐的信心，使自己的祈祷得蒙应允。恩惠的圣灵像落在干渴的土地上的雨水一样，降在热切寻求的人身上。那些准备很快就迎见救赎主的人感到一种说不出来而严肃的喜乐。当他的恩典丰丰富富地降在那些忠诚相信的人身上时，圣灵感化和抑制的能力使他们的心熔化了。[32]{GC 402.3}
§66
At that time there was faith that brought answers to prayer--faith that had respect to the recompense of reward. Like showers of rain upon the thirsty earth, the Spirit of grace descended upon the earnest seekers. Those who expected soon to stand face to face with their Redeemer felt a solemn joy that was unutterable. The softening, subduing power of the Holy Spirit melted the heart as His blessing was bestowed in rich measure upon the faithful, believing ones. {GC 402.3}[32]
§67
那些接受这信息的人谨慎而严肃地等候他们所指望迎见救主的时候。每天早晨他们感觉自己第一个本分就是得蒙上帝悦纳的凭据。他们的心灵团结一致，所以他们时常在一起彼此代祷。他们常在幽静的地方聚集，与上帝交通，使他们祈祷的声音从田野间和树林中升到天上。他们认为救主的嘉纳比他们每日的饮食更为重要，如果有乌云遮蔽他们的心灵，他们就不能安心，直到它消散为止。当他们感受到赦罪之恩的印证时，他们就渴望看见他们所热爱的主。[33]{GC 403.1}
§68
Carefully and solemnly those who received the message came up to the time when they hoped to meet their Lord. Every morning they felt that it was their first duty to secure the evidence of their acceptance with God. Their hearts were closely united, and they prayed much with and for one another. They often met together in secluded places to commune with God, and the voice of intercession ascended to heaven from the fields and groves. The assurance of the Saviours approval was more necessary to them than their daily food; and if a cloud darkened their minds, they did not rest until it was swept away. As they felt the witness of pardoning grace, they longed to behold Him whom their souls loved. {GC 403.1}[33]
§69
但这次他们又是注定要失望了。他们所等候的时期过去了，而他们的救主并没有显现。他们曾以坚稳的信心指望他复临，所以这时他们的心情正像马利亚来到救主的坟前而发现一个空墓的时候一样。那时她悲叹说：“有人把我主挪了去，我不知道放在哪里。”（约20:13）[34]{GC 403.2}
§70
But again they were destined to disappointment. The time of expectation passed, and their Saviour did not appear. With unwavering confidence they had looked forward to His coming, and now they felt as did Mary when, coming to the Saviours tomb and finding it empty, she exclaimed with weeping: They have taken away my Lord, and I know not where they have laid Him. John 20:13. {GC 403.2}[34]
§71
不相信这信息的世人一度唯恐这信息或许是真的，所以不免有一种严肃感一时抑制着他们。在时候过去之后，这种感觉没有立时消退，起先众人不敢向失望的人夸胜，但后来众人既看不到什么上帝忿怒的征象，他们就再没有什么惧怕，于是重新进行辱骂嘲笑。有许多曾经承认相信救主快要复临的人放弃了信仰。有一些人一度笃信无疑的人因失望而感觉再没有脸见人，巴不得能逃出这世界才好。像约拿一样，他们埋怨上帝，向他求死。那些曾经把信仰建立在别人的意见而不是在《圣经》上的人，这时又准备改变看法了。那讥诮的人把一些不坚固而怯懦的信徒说服了，于是这些人一同宣称今后再不可能有什么值得惧怕或等待的事了。时候既然过去，而主又没有来，现今的世界可能就一直这样存留下去好几千年，也未可知。[35]{GC 403.3}
§72
A feeling of awe, a fear that the message might be true, had for a time served as a restraint upon the unbelieving world. After the passing of the time this did not at once disappear; at first they dared not triumph over the disappointed ones; but as no tokens of Gods wrath were seen, they recovered from their fears and resumed their reproach and ridicule. A large class who had professed to believe in the Lords soon coming, renounced their faith. Some who had been very confident were so deeply wounded in their pride that they felt like fleeing from the world. Like Jonah, they complained of God, and chose death rather than life. Those who had based their faith upon the opinions of others, and not upon the word of God, were now as ready again to change their views. The scoffers won the weak and cowardly to their ranks, and all these united in declaring that there could be no more fears or expectations now. The time had passed, the Lord had not come, and the world might remain the same for thousands of years. {GC 403.3}[35]
§73
那些认真诚心的信徒已经为基督舍弃了一切，并曾感受到他特别与他们同在。他们也相信他们已经向世界传了最后的警告，他们希望很快就被接去与他们神圣的夫子和天使同在，所以他们已经很少和那些没有接受这信息的人来往。他们曾热切地祈祷说：“主耶稣啊，我愿你来，愿你快来。”但结果他没有来。现在他们必须重新负起每日操劳和困恼的重担，并忍受那些嘲笑他们之人的讥讽和辱骂，这真是信心和忍耐最艰苦的考验。[36]{GC 404.1}
§74
The earnest, sincere believers had given up all for Christ and had shared His presence as never before. They had, as they believed, given their last warning to the world; and, expecting soon to be received into the society of their divine Master and the heavenly angels, they had, to a great extent, withdrawn from the society of those who did not receive the message. With intense desire they had prayed: Come, Lord Jesus, and come quickly. But He had not come. And now to take up again the heavy burden of lifes cares and perplexities, and to endure the taunts and sneers of a scoffing world, was a terrible trial of faith and patience. {GC 404.1}[36]
§75
但这次的失望还没有像从前基督第一次降临时他的门徒所经验的失望那么大呢。当耶稣胜利地骑驴进入耶路撒冷时，他的门徒却信他即将登上大卫的宝座，并拯救以色列脱离那些压迫他们的人。他们以热切的希望和快乐的预感，争先向他们的王表示尊敬。许多人把自己的衣袍铺在路上，让他经过，或拿棕树枝散铺在他脚前。他们在热烈的狂欢中，共同地喊叫说：“和散那归于大卫的子孙！”当法利赛人因这种欢乐的表现而受到搅扰并发怒时，他们就请耶稣斥责他的门徒。耶稣回答说：“我告诉你们，若是他们闭口不说，这些石头必要呼叫起来。”（路19:40）预言是必定要应验的。那些门徒正在实现上帝的旨意，但他们还是注定要痛苦失望的。过了不多几日，他们便亲眼看到救主惨痛的死，并把他放在坟墓里。他们所希望的许多事竟没有一样实现，所以他们的希望也就和耶稣一同死了。及至他们的主胜利地从坟墓里出来时，他们才看明这一切早已在预言中指出来了，并看明基督必须受害，从死里复活。（徒17:3）[37]{GC 404.2}
§76
Yet this disappointment was not so great as was that experienced by the disciples at the time of Christs first advent. When Jesus rode triumphantly into Jerusalem, His followers believed that He was about to ascend the throne of David and deliver Israel from her oppressors. With high hopes and joyful anticipations they vied with one another in showing honor to their King. Many spread their outer garments as a carpet in His path, or strewed before Him the leafy branches of the palm. In their enthusiastic joy they united in the glad acclaim: Hosanna to the Son of David! When the Pharisees, disturbed and angered by this outburst of rejoicing, wished Jesus to rebuke His disciples, He replied: If these should hold their peace, the stones would immediately cry out. Luke 19:40. Prophecy must be fulfilled. The disciples were accomplishing the purpose of God; yet they were doomed to a bitter disappointment. But a few days had passed ere they witnessed the Saviours agonizing death, and laid Him in the tomb. Their expectations had not been realized in a single particular, and their hopes died with Jesus. Not till their Lord had come forth triumphant from the grave could they perceive that all had been foretold by prophecy, and that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead. Acts 17:3. {GC 404.2}[37]
§77
五百年前，主曾借先知撒迦利亚说：“锡安的民哪，应当大大喜乐，耶路撒冷的民哪，应当欢呼，看哪，你的王来到你这里，他是公义的，并且施行拯救，谦谦和和地骑着驴，就是骑着驴的驹子。”（亚9:9）如果门徒当时知道基督正在走向审判和死亡，他们就不可能应验这个预言了。[38]{GC 405.1}
§78
Five hundred years before, the Lord had declared by the prophet Zechariah: Rejoice greatly, O daughter of Zion; shout, O daughter of Jerusalem: behold, thy King cometh unto thee: He is just, and having salvation; lowly, and riding upon an ass, and upon a colt the foal of an ass. Zechariah 9:9. Had the disciples realized that Christ was going to judgment and to death, they could not have fulfilled this prophecy. {GC 405.1}[38]
§79
照样，米勒耳和他的同工也应验了预言，并把圣灵所预言的信息传给世人；如果他们事先充分地明白那指明他们先要失望而在主复临之前还有另一个信息要传给各国的预言，他们就不会把头一个信息传出去了。可见第一和第二位天使的信息是在预定的时候传开的，并且成就了上帝所要成就的工作。[39]{GC 405.2}
§80
In like manner Miller and his associates fulfilled prophecy and gave a message which Inspiration had foretold should be given to the world, but which they could not have given had they fully understood the prophecies pointing out their disappointment, and presenting another message to be preached to all nations before the Lord should come. The first and second angels messages were given at the right time and accomplished the work which God designed to accomplish by them. {GC 405.2}[39]
§81
那时世人一直在观望着，总想时候一过，而基督没有显现，复临运动的整个系统将要完全瓦解。虽然有许多人因强烈的试探而放弃了信仰，但仍有一些人坚立不动。复临运动所结的果子，就是那随着这运动而发展的虚心自卑、反省己罪、舍弃世俗和改正生活的精神，证明这运动是出于上帝的。他们不敢否认圣灵的大能确已为复临信息作了见证，同时他们也查不出自己对于预言时期的算法有什么错误。连他们最有学识的敌人也未能推翻他们解释预言的方法。因此他们在没有得到《圣经》的凭据之前，不能同意放弃他们经过诚恳祈祷，研究《圣经》而得出的结论；那时他们的思想曾受圣灵的光照，内心曾因他活泼的能力而火热起来；这些结论曾受许多著名的宗教教师和世上的智慧人最严格的批评和最恶毒的反对，又曾经受许多拥有学问和口才联合之势力的攻击，但始终没有因大人物的讥讽和小人的辱骂而动摇。[40]{GC 405.3}
§82
The world had been looking on, expecting that if the time passed and Christ did not appear, the whole system of Adventism would be given up. But while many, under strong temptation, yielded their faith, there were some who stood firm. The fruits of the advent movement, the spirit of humility and heart searching, of renouncing of the world and reformation of life, which had attended the work, testified that it was of God. They dared not deny that the power of the Holy Spirit had witnessed to the preaching of the second advent, and they could detect no error in their reckoning of the prophetic periods. The ablest of their opponents had not succeeded in overthrowing their system of prophetic interpretation. They could not consent, without Bible evidence, to renounce positions which had been reached through earnest, prayerful study of the Scriptures, by minds enlightened by the Spirit of God and hearts burning with its living power; positions which had withstood the most searching criticisms and the most bitter opposition of popular religious teachers and worldly-wise men, and which had stood firm against the combined forces of learning and eloquence, and the taunts and revilings alike of the honorable and the base. {GC 405.3}[40]
§83
固然，他们所期望的事没有实现，但这并不足以动摇他们对于《圣经》的信心。约拿曾在尼尼微的街道上宣传说，再过四十天那城就要倾覆了，后来上帝悦纳了尼尼微人的自卑，并把他们的宽容时期延长了。虽然如此，约拿的信息仍是出于上帝的，而且尼尼微也照他的旨意受了试验。所以复临信徒相信上帝也是这样引领了他们去传扬审判的警告。他们说：“这个警告已经试验了每一个听见这信息之人的心，使一等人生出喜爱救主复临的心，而使另一等人憎恨他的复临；这种心情无论是显露的或是隐藏的，总为上帝所鉴察。可见这信息已经划清一条界线，使一切愿意省察自己内心的人可以知道如果救主来了，他们必要站在哪一边——他们还要喊着说，‘看哪，这是我们的上帝；我们素来等候他，他必拯救我们；’或是要‘向山和岩石说，倒在我们身上吧，把我们藏起来，躲避坐宝座者的面目，和羔羊的忿怒。’我们确信上帝已经如此试验了他的子民，并已考验他们的信心，要知道他们在考验之下是否要畏缩，不敢立在他所要他们占的地位上；并且是否能放弃这世界，笃信上帝的圣言。”[41]{GC 406.1}
§84
True, there had been a failure as to the expected event, but even this could not shake their faith in the word of God. When Jonah proclaimed in the streets of Nineveh that within forty days the city would be overthrown, the Lord accepted the humiliation of the Ninevites and extended their period of probation; yet the message of Jonah was sent of God, and Nineveh was tested according to His will. Adventists believed that in like manner God had led them to give the warning of the judgment. It has, they declared, tested the hearts of all who heard it, and awakened a love for the Lords appearing; or it has called forth a hatred, more or less perceivable, but known to God, of His coming. It has drawn a line, . . . so that those who will examine their own hearts, may know on which side of it they would have been found, had the Lord then come--whether they would have exclaimed, Lo! this is our God, we have waited for Him, and He will save us; or whether they would have called to the rocks and mountains to fall on them to hide them from the face of Him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb. God thus, as we believe, has tested His people, has tried their faith, has proved them, and seen whether they would shrink, in the hour of trial, from the position in which He might see fit to place them; and whether they would relinquish this world and rely with implicit confidence in the word of God.--The Advent Herald and Signs of the Times Reporter, vol. 8, No. 14 (Nov 13, 1844). {GC 406.1}[41]
§85
米勒耳·威廉以下的话，足以代表那些依然相信自己过去的经验是出于上帝引领之人所抱的态度：“如果我能重新作人，而所能看明的真理和过去完全一样的话，那么我也只得照我过去所作的去作，才能对得起上帝和人。”“我想我的衣服上可以不再染有别人的血。我感觉我已经尽到我的责任，所以无论何人灭亡，罪都不在我身上。”这个属上帝的人写着说，“我虽然两次失望，但我仍不灰心，也不丧志。我对于基督再来的信仰依然是坚强的。我所作的无非是我经过多年的审慎考虑之后，认明是我们所必须尽到的严肃义务。如果我错了，那么我是错在爱心的一边——爱我的同胞，并向上帝尽责。”“我确知一件事，就是我过去所宣讲的，都是我所诚心相信的，而且上帝也曾与我同在，他的能力已经在我的工作上表现出来，并且这工作有了良好的效果。”“成千的人，照人的眼光看来，已经因这有关时间的道理而开始研究《圣经》了；而且因此他们借着信心和基督宝血的功劳，也已经与上帝和好了。”“我从来没有设法讨骄傲之人的喜欢，或因世人的敌意而恐惧。现在我也决不求他们的友谊，或越出范围去惹他们的仇恨。我永不会因苟全性命而同他们妥协，如果上帝的美意是要我死的话，并希望自己也不会怕死。”[42]{GC 406.2}
§86
The feelings of those who still believed that God had led them in their past experience are expressed in the words of William Miller: Were I to live my life over again, with the same evidence that I then had, to be honest with God and man I should have to do as I have done. I hope that I have cleansed my garments from the blood of souls. I feel that, as far as it was in my power, I have freed myself from all guilt in their condemnation. Although I have been twice disappointed, wrote this man of God, I am not yet cast down or discouraged. . . . My hope in the coming of Christ is as strong as ever. I have done only what, after years of solemn consideration, I felt it my solemn duty to do. If I have erred, it has been on the side of charity, love to my fellow men, and conviction of duty to God. One thing I do know, I have preached nothing but what I believed; and God has been with me; His power has been manifested in the work, and much good has been effected. Many thousands, to all human appearance, have been made to study the Scriptures by the preaching of the time; and by that means, through faith and the sprinkling of the blood of Christ, have been reconciled to God. --Bliss, pages 256, 255, 277, 280, 281. I have never courted the smiles of the proud, nor quailed when the world frowned. I shall not now purchase their favor, nor shall I go beyond duty to tempt their hate. I shall never seek my life at their hands, nor shrink, I hope, from losing it, if God in His good providence so orders. --J. White, Life of Wm. Miller, page 315. {GC 406.2}[42]
§87
上帝没有丢弃他的子民；他的灵仍与那些不肯冒昧否定过去所接受的亮光，或转过来痛斥复临运动的人同在。在希伯来书中，有勉励和忠告的话给那些在这个危机中受考验而忍受等候的信徒说：“所以你们不可丢弃勇敢的心，存这样的心必得大赏赐。你们必须忍耐，使你们行完了上帝的旨意，就可以得着所应许的。因为还有一点点时候，那要来的就来，并不迟延。只是义人必因信得生；他若退后，我心里就不喜欢他。我们却不是退后入沉沦的那等人；乃是有信心以至灵魂得救的人。”（来10:35-39）[43]{GC 407.1}
§88
God did not forsake His people; His Spirit still abode with those who did not rashly deny the light which they had received, and denounce the advent movement. In the Epistle to the Hebrews are words of encouragement and warning for the tried, waiting ones at this crisis: Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, My soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul. Hebrews 10:35-39. {GC 407.1}[43]
§89
这段勉言显然是上帝对末期的教会所讲的，其中指明救主复临迫近的话就可以说明这一点：“因为还有一点点时候，那要来的就来，并不迟延。”这话也暗示一种显然的迟延，说救主似乎要耽搁一时。可见本节经文所发挥的教训是特别适合复临信徒这时的经验。它所警戒的人有放弃信心的危险。他们已经因顺从上帝的灵和《圣经》的引领而遵行他的旨意。但他们还不明白他在他们过去的经验中有什么旨意，也看不明自己的前途，因此他们怀疑上帝究竟是不是在引领着他们。这时以下的话就适用了：“义人必因信得生。”当那“半夜的呼声”之光辉照耀他们的路途，而他们又能看到预言应验和许多时兆出现，来说明基督的复临已经近了的时候，他们可以说是凭着眼见而行走。但这时在他们因失望而悲伤，他们只能借着相信上帝和他的圣言而站立得稳。讥诮的人向他们说：“你们是受骗了。放弃信仰吧，承认复临运动是出于撒但的吧！”但上帝的话却声明：“他若退后，我心里就不喜欢他。”这时若有什么人放弃信仰或否定那推进这运动的圣灵的能力，他就是“退后入沉沦”的人了。他们却因保罗以下的话受了勉励，坚定不移；“你们不可丢弃勇敢的心；”“你们必须忍耐，”“因为还有一点点的时候，那要来的就来，并不迟延。”他们唯一安全的途径乃是保守他们已经从上帝那里所领受的光，坚守他的应许并继续查考《圣经》而忍耐等候更进一步的亮光。[44]{GC 408.1}
§90
That this admonition is addressed to the church in the last days is evident from the words pointing to the nearness of the Lords coming: For yet a little while, and He that shall come will come and will not tarry. And it is plainly implied that there would be a seeming delay and that the Lord would appear to tarry. The instruction here given is especially adapted to the experience of Adventists at this time. The people here addressed were in danger of making shipwreck of faith. They had done the will of God in following the guidance of His Spirit and His word; yet they could not understand His purpose in their past experience, nor could they discern the pathway before them, and they were tempted to doubt whether God had indeed been leading them. At this time the words were applicable: Now the just shall live by faith. As the bright light of the midnight cry had shone upon their pathway, and they had seen the prophecies unsealed and the rapidly fulfilling signs telling that the coming of Christ was near, they had walked, as it were, by sight. But now, bowed down by disappointed hopes, they could stand only by faith in God and in His word. The scoffing world were saying: You have been deceived. Give up your faith, and say that the advent movement was of Satan. But Gods word declared: If any man draw back, My soul shall have no pleasure in him. To renounce their faith now, and deny the power of the Holy Spirit which had attended the message, would be drawing back toward perdition. They were encouraged to steadfastness by the words of Paul: Cast not away therefore your confidence; ye have need of patience, for yet a little while, and He that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Their only safe course was to cherish the light which they had already received of God, hold fast to His promises, and continue to search the Scriptures, and patiently wait and watch to receive further light. {GC 408.1}[44]