第32章 撒但的罗网
§1
第32章 撒但的罗网
§2
Chap. 32 - Snares of Satan
§3
基督与撒但之间的大争战已经进行了几乎六千年之久，现在快要结束了，所以那恶者现今要加倍努力击败基督为人类所成就的工作，并把人紧紧套在他的罗网之内。他的目的是要将世人笼罩在黑暗与顽梗之下，直到救主中保的工作完结，罪人再没有赎罪祭的时候为止。[1]{GC 518.1}
§4
The great controversy between Christ and Satan, that has been carried forward for nearly six thousand years, is soon to close; and the wicked one redoubles his efforts to defeat the work of Christ in mans behalf and to fasten souls in his snares. To hold the people in darkness and impenitence till the Saviours mediation is ended, and there is no longer a sacrifice for sin, is the object which he seeks to accomplish. {GC 518.1}[1]
§5
当人们不作特别的努力去反抗撒但的势力，而不冷不热的精神风行于教会和社会之中的时候，撒但是很放心的；因为这样就不怕那些受他任意支配的人离开他。但什么时候人的心意被唤起来注意永生的事物，以至发问说：“我当怎样行才可以得救？”此时，撒但就要出动设法与基督抗衡，并消灭圣灵的感化。[2]{GC 518.2}
§6
When there is no special effort made to resist his power, when indifference prevails in the church and the world, Satan is not concerned; for he is in no danger of losing those whom he is leading captive at his will. But when the attention is called to eternal things, and souls are inquiring, What must I do to be saved? he is on the ground, seeking to match his power against the power of Christ and to counteract the influence of the Holy Spirit. {GC 518.2}[2]
§7
《圣经》中提到有一次，当上帝的众天使来到上帝面前时，撒但也来到他们中间（见伯1:6）；他并不是来跪拜永生之君，而是来进行他那攻击义人的毒计的。当世人聚集敬拜上帝的时候，他也必以这同样的目的参加。他虽然不为人眼所能看见，但他却在全力作工，要管制敬拜之人的心思意念。他像一位精明干练的将帅，争先筹定种种计划。在他看到上帝的仆人查考《圣经》的时候，他便注意那要传给众人的题目。然后他就要运用自己一切的伎俩和诡诈，来尽力操纵环境，使他们所要欺骗的对象得不到那一次讲道的帮助。撒但要鼓动那最需要警告的人，使他在工商业务上忙得不能脱身，或是用一些别的方法去阻止他，使他听不到那一篇像活的香气叫他活的道理。[3]{GC 518.3}
§8
The Scriptures declare that upon one occasion, when the angels of God came to present themselves before the Lord, Satan came also among them (Job 1:6), not to bow before the Eternal King, but to further his own malicious designs against the righteous. With the same object he is in attendance when men assemble for the worship of God. Though hidden from sight, he is working with all diligence to control the minds of the worshipers. Like a skillful general he lays his plans beforehand. As he sees the messenger of God searching the Scriptures, he takes note of the subject to be presented to the people. Then he employs all his cunning and shrewdness so to control circumstances that the message may not reach those whom he is deceiving on that very point. The one who most needs the warning will be urged into some business transaction which requires his presence, or will by some other means be prevented from hearing the words that might prove to him a savor of life unto life. {GC 518.3}[3]
§9
再者，撒但见到上帝的仆人因那笼罩众人的属灵黑暗而焦虑，他听到他们的恳切祈祷，听到他们求上帝的恩典与能力来打消冷淡、大意与怠惰的迷阵。于是撒但便再发热心去运用自己的手段，引诱人放纵食欲，或其他恣情享乐的事，以便麻木他们的感觉，而听不到他们所最需要明白的事。[4]{GC 519.1}
§10
Again, Satan sees the Lords servants burdened because of the spiritual darkness that enshrouds the people. He hears their earnest prayers for divine grace and power to break the spell of indifference, carelessness, and indolence. Then with renewed zeal he plies his arts. He tempts men to the indulgence of appetite or to some other form of self-gratification, and thus benumbs their sensibilities so that they fail to hear the very things which they most need to learn. {GC 519.1}[4]
§11
撒但深知凡能被他引诱忽略祈祷与查经的人，终必倒在他的势力之下。因此，他便发明种种足以牢笼人心的方法。世上向来有一等人，他们自命是敬虔，却不追求明白进一步的真理，他们所有的宗教无非是在他们所不赞成之人的品格或信仰上吹毛求疵。这种人乃是撒但有力的助手。现今控告弟兄的人真是为数不少；并且当上帝正在作工，而他的仆人正在忠心侍奉他的时候，他们常是很活跃的。他们要在那些热爱并顺从真理之人的言语和行动上加以虚伪的色彩。他们要诬蔑那些最恳切、热心、克己的基督仆人为受骗或骗人的。他们的工作就是要歪曲每一桩忠实高贵行为的动机，用冷言冷语讥刺人，并在没有经验的人心中灌输疑念。他们总要千方百计地使人把纯洁与正义的事看为污秽而邪僻的。[5]{GC 519.2}
§12
Satan well knows that all whom he can lead to neglect prayer and the searching of the Scriptures, will be overcome by his attacks. Therefore he invents every possible device to engross the mind. There has ever been a class professing godliness, who, instead of following on to know the truth, make it their religion to seek some fault of character or error of faith in those with whom they do not agree. Such are Satans right-hand helpers. Accusers of the brethren are not few, and they are always active when God is at work and His servants are rendering Him true homage. They will put a false coloring upon the words and acts of those who love and obey the truth. They will represent the most earnest, zealous, self-denying servants of Christ as deceived or deceivers. It is their work to misrepresent the motives of every true and noble deed, to circulate insinuations, and arouse suspicion in the minds of the inexperienced. In every conceivable manner they will seek to cause that which is pure and righteous to be regarded as foul and deceptive. {GC 519.2}[5]
§13
但是任何人都不必受他们的欺骗。我们能很容易地看出他们是谁的子民，是跟随谁的榜样，作谁的工作。“凭着他们的果子，就可以认出他们来。”（太7:16）他们的态度和行动乃是与撒但，那恶毒的诽谤者，“控告我们弟兄”的魔鬼相同的。（启12:10）[6]{GC 519.3}
§14
But none need be deceived concerning them. It may be readily seen whose children they are, whose example they follow, and whose work they do. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Matthew 7:16. Their course resembles that of Satan, the envenomed slanderer, the accuser of our brethren. Revelation 12:10. {GC 519.3}[6]
§15
这大骗子有许多部下随时散布各种玄虚的错误来陷害世人，他预备许多异端邪说来迎合他所要毁灭之人的各种不同的口味和理解力。他的计划是要引领一些不诚心而未重生的分子进到教会之中，以便助长怀疑与不信，并阻碍一切渴望上帝圣工发展，而自己亦随之而发展的人。现今有许多非真心信仰上帝和《圣经》的人只是对于真理的一些原则表示赞同，便被看为基督徒了。这样，他们就能提出他们的异端邪说，作为《圣经》的道理去传扬。[7]{GC 520.1}
§16
The great deceiver has many agents ready to present any and every kind of error to ensnare souls--heresies prepared to suit the varied tastes and capacities of those whom he would ruin. It is his plan to bring into the church insincere, unregenerate elements that will encourage doubt and unbelief, and hinder all who desire to see the work of God advance and to advance with it. Many who have no real faith in God or in His word assent to some principles of truth and pass as Christians, and thus they are enabled to introduce their errors as Scriptural doctrines. {GC 520.1}[7]
§17
撒但最有成效的骗术之一，就是使人以为自己不管相信什么都是无关重要的。他知道人因爱慕而接受的真理，足使接受者的心灵成圣。因此，他便不断地想出虚伪的理论，寓言，就是“别的福音”来代替真理。从创世以来，上帝的仆人一直必须驳斥一些假师傅，这些师傅不单是阴险分子，也是传讲那危害人心灵之邪说的人。以利亚，耶利米，保罗，都曾毅然决然地反对这些使人背离《圣经》的人。凡自作开明而以正确的宗教信仰为无关紧要的人，乃是那些捍卫圣洁真理之人所不容的。[8]{GC 520.2}
§18
The position that it is of no consequence what men believe is one of Satans most successful deceptions. He knows that the truth, received in the love of it, sanctifies the soul of the receiver; therefore he is constantly seeking to substitute false theories, fables, another gospel. From the beginning the servants of God have contended against false teachers, not merely as vicious men, but as inculcators of falsehoods that were fatal to the soul. Elijah, Jeremiah, Paul, firmly and fearlessly opposed those who were turning men from the word of God. That liberality which regards a correct religious faith as unimportant found no favor with these holy defenders of the truth. {GC 520.2}[8]
§19
现今在基督教界所见到的含糊而离奇的《圣经》解说，和许多互相冲突的宗教理论，都是出于我们大仇敌的作为，他尽力要混乱人的思想，使人不能辨识真理。近代基督教各公会中所存在着的彼此不和，分门别户的情形，大半是由于曲解《圣经》所致，因为各人都要支持自己所爱好的理论。许多人不肯虚心地借仔细查考《圣经》来明白上帝的旨意，而只想发现一些怪异或新奇的事物。[9]{GC 520.3}
§20
The vague and fanciful interpretations of Scripture, and the many conflicting theories concerning religious faith, that are found in the Christian world are the work of our great adversary to confuse minds so that they shall not discern the truth. And the discord and division which exist among the churches of Christendom are in a great measure due to the prevailing custom of wresting the Scriptures to support a favorite theory. Instead of carefully studying Gods word with humility of heart to obtain a knowledge of His will, many seek only to discover something odd or original. {GC 520.3}[9]
§21
有一些人为要支持异端左道或非基督教的规例起见，竟在《圣经》中断章取义，甚至连一节经文也要截掉一半来证明自己的主张，殊不知他们所截掉的半句正足以说明与他们主张相反的意思。他们狡猾如蛇，常引用一些互不相关的章节，根据自己的私意解说，借以掩饰自己的不是。有许多人就这样故意曲解《圣经》。此外还有一些人具有活泼的想象力，他们按自己的幻想解释《圣经》中的比喻和表号，却毫不注意以经解经的方法，只知拿自己的幻想当作《圣经》的教训去传。[10]{GC 521.1}
§22
In order to sustain erroneous doctrines or unchristian practices, some will seize upon passages of Scripture separated from the context, perhaps quoting half of a single verse as proving their point, when the remaining portion would show the meaning to be quite the opposite. With the cunning of the serpent they entrench themselves behind disconnected utterances construed to suit their carnal desires. Thus do many willfully pervert the word of God. Others, who have an active imagination, seize upon the figures and symbols of Holy Writ, interpret them to suit their fancy, with little regard to the testimony of Scripture as its own interpreter, and then they present their vagaries as the teachings of the Bible. {GC 521.1}[10]
§23
人研究《圣经》，若非本着诚恳祷告，虚心领教的精神，则最明显的经文也要像最难懂的经文一样被人曲解。罗马教的领袖选了几段最能符合自己宗旨的《圣经》，加以私意的解释，然后向人传讲，同时不让人有查考《圣经》并明白其中真理的权利。我们应当把全部《圣经》原原本本地传给人。与其把《圣经》歪曲强解，还不如不解释为妙。[11]{GC 521.2}
§24
Whenever the study of the Scriptures is entered upon without a prayerful, humble, teachable spirit, the plainest and simplest as well as the most difficult passages will be wrested from their true meaning. The papal leaders select such portions of Scripture as best serve their purpose, interpret to suit themselves, and then present these to the people, while they deny them the privilege of studying the Bible and understanding its sacred truths for themselves. The whole Bible should be given to the people just as it reads. It would be better for them not to have Bible instruction at all than to have the teaching of the Scriptures thus grossly misrepresented. {GC 521.2}[11]
§25
《圣经》的宗旨原是要作为一切愿意明白创造主旨意之人的向导。上帝已将正确的预言赐给人；天使，甚至基督自己，曾从天上下来，使但以理和约翰知道那即将发生的事。凡是有关我们得救的各项大事，都没有被隐藏在神秘奥义之中。上帝对于这些大事的启示，并没有用费解的方法，使诚心寻找真理的人步入歧途。主耶和华曾借先知哈巴谷说，“将这默示明明的写在版上，使读的人容易读。”（哈2:2）《圣经》的话对于一切以虔诚的心来研究的人，乃是简明的。每一个真正诚实的人必能看明真理的亮光。“散布亮光，是为义人。”（诗97:11）教会中的教友若不热切寻求真理，像寻求隐藏的财宝一样，则教会决不能达到圣洁的地步。[12]{GC 521.3}
§26
The Bible was designed to be a guide to all who wish to become acquainted with the will of their Maker. God gave to men the sure word of prophecy; angels and even Christ Himself came to make known to Daniel and John the things that must shortly come to pass. Those important matters that concern our salvation were not left involved in mystery. They were not revealed in such a way as to perplex and mislead the honest seeker after truth. Said the Lord by the prophet Habakkuk: Write the vision, and make it plain, . . . that he may run that readeth it. Habakkuk 2:2. The word of God is plain to all who study it with a prayerful heart. Every truly honest soul will come to the light of truth. Light is sown for the righteous. Psalm 97:11. And no church can advance in holiness unless its members are earnestly seeking for truth as for hid treasure. {GC 521.3}[12]
§27
人们借着高唱自由主义，就看不出他们仇敌的种种阴谋，也不理会他一直在那里努力达成自己的目的。他既能以人为的学说来代替《圣经》，上帝的律法就要被废弃，各教会也就要处于罪恶的捆绑之下，同时还要以“自由”自豪。[13]{GC 522.1}
§28
By the cry, Liberality, men are blinded to the devices of their adversary, while he is all the time working steadily for the accomplishment of his object. As he succeeds in supplanting the Bible by human speculations, the law of God is set aside, and the churches are under the bondage of sin while they claim to be free. {GC 522.1}[13]
§29
科学的研究对于许多人已经成了一种祸害。上帝固然已经赐下很多亮光，使科学与技术有了惊人的发明，但即或是人间最伟大的思想家，若不在科学的研究上遵循《圣经》的指引，便要在试图考察科学与《圣经》的关系时感到惶惑不解了。[14]{GC 522.2}
§30
To many, scientific research has become a curse. God has permitted a flood of light to be poured upon the world in discoveries in science and art; but even the greatest minds, if not guided by the word of God in their research, become bewildered in their attempts to investigate the relations of science and revelation. {GC 522.2}[14]
§31
人类对于物界和灵界的知识都是局部而不完全的。因此，有许多人对于科学的见解不能符合《圣经》的启示。许多人接受一些理论和学说作为科学的事实，并想以“似是而非的学问”（提前6:20）来批判《圣经》。创造主和他的工作原是超乎他们所能理解的，他们既不能用自然的定律来解释这些事，便认为《圣经》中的历史是不可靠的。这些以新旧约的记载为不可靠的人，往往还要进一步怀疑上帝的存在，并把无穷的能力归功于大自然。他们既割断了真理的锚碇，结果只有撞在无神主义的礁石上。[15]{GC 522.3}
§32
Human knowledge of both material and spiritual things is partial and imperfect; therefore many are unable to harmonize their views of science with Scripture statements. Many accept mere theories and speculations as scientific facts, and they think that Gods word is to be tested by the teachings of science falsely so called. 1 Timothy 6:20. The Creator and His works are beyond their comprehension; and because they cannot explain these by natural laws, Bible history is regarded as unreliable. Those who doubt the reliability of the records of the Old and New Testaments too often go a step further and doubt the existence of God and attribute infinite power to nature. Having let go their anchor, they are left to beat about upon the rocks of infidelity. {GC 522.3}[15]
§33
许多人就是这样偏离了真的信仰而受到魔鬼的诱惑。世人竟要比创造主更聪明，人的哲学竟想搜索上帝所永远不会启示的奥秘。如果世人肯搜求并明白上帝对于自己和自己的旨意所作的启示，他们就必能对于耶和华的荣耀、威严和权能得到那么清楚的认识，以至他们能体会到自己的渺小，并以上帝所已经启示给他们和他们子孙的事为满足了。[16]{GC 522.4}
§34
Thus many err from the faith and are seduced by the devil. Men have endeavored to be wiser than their Creator; human philosophy has attempted to search out and explain mysteries which will never be revealed through the eternal ages. If men would but search and understand what God had made known of Himself and His purposes, they would obtain such a view of the glory, majesty, and power of Jehovah that they would realize their own littleness and would be content with that which has been revealed for themselves and their children. {GC 522.4}[16]
§35
撒但骗术的一个杰作，就是不断地使人查究并臆测上帝所没有显示，而且无意让人明白的事。原来路锡甫就是这样失去他在天上的地位的。他因为上帝旨意的一切秘密没有向他说明，便大为不满，因此他也就全然忽视了上帝在安排他在高位上所指示给他的工作。他在自己属下的天使中引起了这同样不满的精神，使他们堕落。现今他设法把这同样的精神灌注在世人心中，使他们忽视上帝直接的命令。[17]{GC 523.1}
§36
It is a masterpiece of Satans deceptions to keep the minds of men searching and conjecturing in regard to that which God has not made known and which He does not intend that we shall understand. It was thus that Lucifer lost his place in heaven. He became dissatisfied because all the secrets of Gods purposes were not confided to him, and he entirely disregarded that which was revealed concerning his own work in the lofty position assigned him. By arousing the same discontent in the angels under his command, he caused their fall. Now he seeks to imbue the minds of men with the same spirit and to lead them also to disregard the direct commands of God. {GC 523.1}[17]
§37
凡不愿意接受《圣经》中简明而锐利的真理的人，一直想寻找一些足以镇抚良心的悦耳的教训。人所传的道理越不属灵，不需要克己，不需要自卑，便越能得到众人的赞同。这些人竟降低自己的智能，去迎合自己的情欲。他们既然过于聪明自负，就不肯存痛悔的心去查考《圣经》，不肯恳切祈求上帝的指导，他们便没有什么抵御迷惑的保障了。撒但随时准备要满足人心的欲望，并提供他的欺骗来代替真理。昔日罗马教就是这样得到控制世人思想的能力；现今的基督教会也是因为拒绝了那为他们带来十字架的真理而蹈入这同一的覆辙。凡忽视上帝的圣言而只考虑到自己的方便与利益，以便迎合世俗之要求的人，必被上帝遗弃，任凭他们去接受异端邪教作为宗教的真理。凡故意拒绝真理的人，将要接受种种希奇古怪的谬论。有人或许厌恶某一种骗人的事，同时却欣然接受另一种骗人的事。使徒保罗说，有一等人“不领受爱真理的心，使他们得救，”“故此，上帝就给他们一个生发错误的心，叫他们信从虚谎；使一切不信真理，倒喜爱不义的人，都被定罪。”（帖后2:10-12）我们既有这样的警告在面前，就应当慎重考虑自己所接受的是什么道理。[18]{GC 523.2}
§38
Those who are unwilling to accept the plain, cutting truths of the Bible are continually seeking for pleasing fables that will quiet the conscience. The less spiritual, self-denying, and humiliating the doctrines presented, the greater the favor with which they are received. These persons degrade the intellectual powers to serve their carnal desires. Too wise in their own conceit to search the Scriptures with contrition of soul and earnest prayer for divine guidance, they have no shield from delusion. Satan is ready to supply the hearts desire, and he palms off his deceptions in the place of truth. It was thus that the papacy gained its power over the minds of men; and by rejection of the truth because it involves a cross, Protestants are following the same path. All who neglect the word of God to study convenience and policy, that they may not be at variance with the world, will be left to receive damnable heresy for religious truth. Every conceivable form of error will be accepted by those who willfully reject the truth. He who looks with horror upon one deception will readily receive another. The apostle Paul, speaking of a class who received not the love of the truth, that they might be saved, declares: For this cause God shall send them strong delusion, that they should believe a lie: that they all might be damned who believed not the truth, but had pleasure in unrighteousness. 2 Thessalonians 2:10-12. With such a warning before us it behooves us to be on our guard as to what doctrines we receive. {GC 523.2}[18]
§39
大骗子最有效的一个骗术，就是招魂术迷人的教训和虚假的奇事。他装成一个光明的天使，在人所最想不到的地方布置他的罗网。只要人专心研究《圣经》，并恳求上帝使他们明白这经，他们就不致留在黑暗之中而接受虚伪的道理。但人既拒绝真理，就必受骗。[19]{GC 524.1}
§40
Among the most successful agencies of the great deceiver are the delusive teachings and lying wonders of spiritualism. Disguised as an angel of light, he spreads his nets where least suspected. If men would but study the Book of God with earnest prayer that they might understand it, they would not be left in darkness to receive false doctrines. But as they reject the truth they fall a prey to deception. {GC 524.1}[19]
§41
还有一个危险的异端，它否认基督的神性，说基督在降世之前是不存在的。虽然有一大群自称相信《圣经》的人接受这种理论，但它却是与《圣经》中说明救主与天父之关系，以及他的神性和他太初早已存在等最明白的经文直接相抵触的。人若不是极端强辞夺理地曲解《圣经》，便不能接受这种谬论。它不但要降低人们对于救赎工作的概念，而同时也要破坏人的信仰，使人不信《圣经》是出于上帝的启示。这一个结果使这种谬论显得更为可怕，但也是使它更难于应付。人既拒绝上帝所默示的《圣经》过于基督的神性所作的见证，那么，与他们争辩这个问题是枉然的；因为无论多么有理的论据，都不足以说服他们了。“属血气的人不领会上帝圣灵的事，反倒以为愚拙；并且不能知道，因为这些事唯有属灵的人才能看透。”（林前2:14）无论何人若相信这种异端，就不能对于基督的品德和使命，以及上帝救赎人类的大计划，有正确的认识。[20]{GC 524.2}
§42
Another dangerous error is the doctrine that denies the deity of Christ, claiming that He had no existence before His advent to this world. This theory is received with favor by a large class who profess to believe the Bible; yet it directly contradicts the plainest statements of our Saviour concerning His relationship with the Father, His divine character, and His pre-existence. It cannot be entertained without the most unwarranted wresting of the Scriptures. It not only lowers mans conceptions of the work of redemption, but undermines faith in the Bible as a revelation from God. While this renders it the more dangerous, it makes it also harder to meet. If men reject the testimony of the inspired Scriptures concerning the deity of Christ, it is in vain to argue the point with them; for no argument, however conclusive, could convince them. The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned. 1 Corinthians 2:14. None who hold this error can have a true conception of the character or the mission of Christ, or of the great plan of God for mans redemption. {GC 524.2}[20]
§43
此外还有一个迅速蔓延的阴险毒害的异端，说撒但并不是一个实有位格的东西，又说《圣经》中用这种名称不过是代表人的邪情恶欲而已。[21]{GC 524.3}
§44
Still another subtle and mischievous error is the fast-spreading belief that Satan has no existence as a personal being; that the name is used in Scripture merely to represent mens evil thoughts and desires. {GC 524.3}[21]
§45
现今一般讲台上普遍响应着的又一种谬论，说基督的第二次降临乃是在每一个人临死的时候。这种教训使人不相信基督要亲自驾着天云降临。撒但多年以来就是这样说：“看哪，基督在内屋中；”（太24:23-26）可惜有许多人竟接受了这种欺骗而沉沦了。[22]{GC 525.1}
§46
The teaching so widely echoed from popular pulpits, that the second advent of Christ is His coming to each individual at death, is a device to divert the minds of men from His personal coming in the clouds of heaven. For years Satan has thus been saying, Behold, He is in the secret chambers (Matthew 24:23-26); and many souls have been lost by accepting this deception. {GC 525.1}[22]
§47
属世的智慧还教训人说，祈祷是不必要的。科学界的人说，祷告不能得到真实的答复；因为这是与自然律相违的，是一种神迹，而神迹根本是不可能有的。他们说这个宇宙是被一些固定的自然律所支配，连上帝也不能作什么与这些定律相违背的事。这样，按着他们的见解，上帝是受他自己的律法所束缚的，似乎是说上帝律法的运用，足以限制他的自由权。这种教训是与《圣经》的见证相反的。昔日基督与门徒岂不是行过神迹吗？这大有慈悲的同一位救主，今日依然活着，他乐意垂听人们有信心的祈祷，如同他从前在人间生活的时候一样。自然力是与超自然力合作的。上帝的计划原来是要我们凭着信心祈祷，他就必应允；反之，我们若不祈求，他就不赐给我们了。[23]{GC 525.2}
§48
Again, worldly wisdom teaches that prayer is not essential. Men of science claim that there can be no real answer to prayer; that this would be a violation of law, a miracle, and that miracles have no existence. The universe, say they, is governed by fixed laws, and God Himself does nothing contrary to these laws. Thus they represent God as bound by His own laws--as if the operation of divine laws could exclude divine freedom. Such teaching is opposed to the testimony of the Scriptures. Were not miracles wrought by Christ and His apostles? The same compassionate Saviour lives today, and He is as willing to listen to the prayer of faith as when He walked visibly among men. The natural cooperates with the supernatural. It is a part of Gods plan to grant us, in answer to the prayer of faith, that which He would not bestow did we not thus ask. {GC 525.2}[23]
§49
在现今基督教各公会中，有无数的异端邪说和离奇的观念。《圣经》所建立的界石，若是被挪移了一块，其所必致的恶果是人所不能估计得到的。这样作的人总不会以拒绝一项真理为满足。大多数的人必要继续一项又一项地取消真理的原则，直到最后他们完全成为无神主义者为止。[24]{GC 525.3}
§50
Innumerable are the erroneous doctrines and fanciful ideas that are obtaining among the churches of Christendom. It is impossible to estimate the evil results of removing one of the landmarks fixed by the word of God. Few who venture to do this stop with the rejection of a single truth. The majority continue to set aside one after another of the principles of truth, until they become actual infidels. {GC 525.3}[24]
§51
现代流行的神学的种种错误，已经驱使许多原可相信《圣经》的人成为怀疑主义者。他们既不能接受这些违反正义、慈悲、与仁爱的道理，而这些道理又被人说成是《圣经》的教训，他们就不肯接受《圣经》为上帝的圣言了。[25]{GC 525.4}
§52
The errors of popular theology have driven many a soul to skepticism who might otherwise have been a believer in the Scriptures. It is impossible for him to accept doctrines which outrage his sense of justice, mercy, and benevolence; and since these are represented as the teaching of the Bible, he refuses to receive it as the word of God. {GC 525.4}[25]
§53
这正是撒但所要达成的目的。他的最大希望就是要破坏世人对于上帝和《圣经》的信仰。撒但是一切怀疑者的魁首，他竭力要诱惑人来加入他的队伍。怀疑之风现在已经甚为得势。有很多人不敢相信《圣经》，正像他们不敢相信上帝一样——因为《圣经》是指责罪恶的。凡不愿意顺从《圣经》中命令的人就竭力要推翻它的权威。他们读《圣经》，或是听讲台上所讲的《圣经》教训，只是为要在《圣经》或讲章中吹毛求疵。有不少人成了无神主义者，因为他们要辩护或曲宥自己疏忽责任的罪。还有一些人却因傲慢和怠情的心理而取了怀疑派的立场。他们太贪图安逸不肯努力克己去作一些有价值的事，便以批评《圣经》来表显自己有优越的智慧。其实《圣经》中有许多教训不是人有限而未经神圣智慧启迪过的心思所能明了的，因此他们就有了机会可以进行批评。有许多人以为自己站在不信、怀疑、无神派的一边，是自己的长处；这等人虽然在外表上自作开明，但在实际上他们是自负而骄傲的。有许多人只知从《圣经》中找出一些事物来使别人希奇诧异；还有一些人因喜好争辩，就假定站在错误的一方面来批评问题。他们却不明白自己正是自投撒但的罗网。他们既然公开表示不信，便觉得必须坚持自己的立场。这样，他们便与不敬虔的人同流合污，并替自己关闭了乐园的门。[26]{GC 526.1}
§54
And this is the object which Satan seeks to accomplish. There is nothing that he desires more than to destroy confidence in God and in His word. Satan stands at the head of the great army of doubters, and he works to the utmost of his power to beguile souls into his ranks. It is becoming fashionable to doubt. There is a large class by whom the word of God is looked upon with distrust for the same reason as was its Author--because it reproves and condemns sin. Those who are unwilling to obey its requirements endeavor to overthrow its authority. They read the Bible, or listen to its teachings as presented from the sacred desk, merely to find fault with the Scriptures or with the sermon. Not a few become infidels in order to justify or excuse themselves in neglect of duty. Others adopt skeptical principles from pride and indolence. Too ease-loving to distinguish themselves by accomplishing anything worthy of honor, which requires effort and self-denial, they aim to secure a reputation for superior wisdom by criticizing the Bible. There is much which the finite mind, unenlightened by divine wisdom, is powerless to comprehend; and thus they find occasion to criticize. There are many who seem to feel that it is a virtue to stand on the side of unbelief, skepticism, and infidelity. But underneath an appearance of candor it will be found that such persons are actuated by self-confidence and pride. Many delight in finding something in the Scriptures to puzzle the minds of others. Some at first criticize and reason on the wrong side, from a mere love of controversy. They do not realize that they are thus entangling themselves in the snare of the fowler. But having openly expressed unbelief, they feel that they must maintain their position. Thus they unite with the ungodly and close to themselves the gates of Paradise. {GC 526.1}[26]
§55
上帝已经在《圣经》中留下充分的凭据，可以证明《圣经》的神圣性质。凡有关我们得救问题的种种伟大真理，都在《圣经》中很清楚地说明了。主已应许要赐圣灵给一切诚心祈求的人，人靠圣灵的帮助，便可以亲自明白这些真理。上帝已经赐给人类一个稳固的根基，使人可以在其上建立自己的信仰。[27]{GC 526.2}
§56
God has given in His word sufficient evidence of its divine character. The great truths which concern our redemption are clearly presented. By the aid of the Holy Spirit, which is promised to all who seek it in sincerity, every man may understand these truths for himself. God has granted to men a strong foundation upon which to rest their faith. {GC 526.2}[27]
§57
但人有限的智力还是不能充分理解无穷之主的计划与旨意。我们永不能测透上帝。我们万不可用僭越的手，去揭开那蒙蔽着上帝威严的帘幕。使徒说：“深哉，上帝丰富的智慧和知识。他的判断，何其难测！他的踪迹，何其难寻！”（罗11:33）我们最多只能从他向我们所行的事上了解他的作为和动机，以便体验到那配合着无穷大能者的无限仁爱与慈悲。我们的天父本着智慧与公义掌管万事，所以我们不可焦躁不满，惶惑不信，却当屈身敬拜而顺服他。凡有关我们利益的事，他无不尽量地把他的旨意向我们显明；至于在这范围以外的事，我们就当信赖他全能的手和慈爱的心。[28]{GC 527.1}
§58
Yet the finite minds of men are inadequate fully to comprehend the plans and purposes of the Infinite One. We can never by searching find out God. We must not attempt to lift with presumptuous hand the curtain behind which He veils His majesty. The apostle exclaims: How unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out! Romans 11:33. We can so far comprehend His dealings with us, and the motives by which He is actuated, that we may discern boundless love and mercy united to infinite power. Our Father in heaven orders everything in wisdom and righteousness, and we are not to be dissatisfied and distrustful, but to bow in reverent submission. He will reveal to us as much of His purposes as it is for our good to know, and beyond that we must trust the Hand that is omnipotent, the Heart that is full of love. {GC 527.1}[28]
§59
上帝虽已赐人充分的凭证，作为信心的根据，但他总不会为不信之人除去一切怀疑的借口。人若想找疑惑的托辞，总是可以找到的。如果非等到每一个反对的意见圆满解决而再无怀疑的余地之后就不肯接受并顺从《圣经》，这样的人是永远不能得见光明的。[29]{GC 527.2}
§60
While God has given ample evidence for faith, He will never remove all excuse for unbelief. All who look for hooks to hang their doubts upon will find them. And those who refuse to accept and obey Gods word until every objection has been removed, and there is no longer an opportunity for doubt, will never come to the light. {GC 527.2}[29]
§61
不信上帝原是一颗没有重生而与上帝为敌之人的自然现象。但信心乃是圣灵所感召的，并且人唯有保持信心，信心才能成长。人非下一番决心的努力，信心便不能坚强。不信的心也是在得到鼓励之后才加强的。因此，人若不注意上帝所赐那足以支持他们信心的凭据，而让自己疑问并强辩，结果他们便要发现自己的怀疑越来越固执了。[30]{GC 527.3}
§62
Distrust of God is the natural outgrowth of the unrenewed heart, which is at enmity with Him. But faith is inspired by the Holy Spirit, and it will flourish only as it is cherished. No man can become strong in faith without a determined effort. Unbelief strengthens as it is encouraged; and if men, instead of dwelling upon the evidences which God has given to sustain their faith, permit themselves to question and cavil, they will find their doubts constantly becoming more confirmed. {GC 527.3}[30]
§63
那些怀疑上帝的话而不信任他赐恩之应许的人，无异是羞辱了上帝；他们的感化力不是吸引人来归向基督，反而是驱使别人离开他。他们是不结果子的树，枝叶茂密，荫蔽天日，使别的植物在其荫下因不得阳光而凋落枯萎。这种人的一生工作将要永远证明他们的不是。他们正在播撒怀疑和不信的种子，将来必要得到相应的收获。[31]{GC 527.4}
§64
But those who doubt Gods promises and distrust the assurance of His grace are dishonoring Him; and their influence, instead of drawing others to Christ, tends to repel them from Him. They are unproductive trees, that spread their dark branches far and wide, shutting away the sunlight from other plants, and causing them to droop and die under the chilling shadow. The lifework of these persons will appear as a never-ceasing witness against them. They are sowing seeds of doubt and skepticism that will yield an unfailing harvest. {GC 527.4}[31]
§65
对于那些真心渴望摆脱怀疑心理的人只有一个办法可循，那就是不要疑问和强解自己所不明白的事，却要留心主所已经照射在他们身上的亮光，这样他们就必得到更大的亮光。他们应当实行自己所已经明白的每一个本分，然后主就要使他们明白并实行过去所怀疑的本分了。[32]{GC 528.1}
§66
There is but one course for those to pursue who honestly desire to be freed from doubts. Instead of questioning and caviling concerning that which they do not understand, let them give heed to the light which already shines upon them, and they will receive greater light. Let them do every duty which has been made plain to their understanding, and they will be enabled to understand and perform those of which they are now in doubt. {GC 528.1}[32]
§67
撒但能提供一种与真理极其相似的膺造品，来欺骗一切愿意受骗并存心逃避真理而不肯克己牺牲的人，但一个不惜任何代价而诚心要明白真理的人，撒但是无法把他拘留在自己权下的。基督就是真理，也是“真光，照亮一切生在世上的人。”（约1:9）真理的圣灵已经奉差遣，来引领人明白一切的真理。上帝的圣子已经本着自己的权威，声明“你们祈求，就给你们。”“人若立志遵着他的旨意行，就必晓得这教训。”（太7:7；约7:17）[33]{GC 528.2}
§68
Satan can present a counterfeit so closely resembling the truth that it deceives those who are willing to be deceived, who desire to shun the self-denial and sacrifice demanded by the truth; but it is impossible for him to hold under his power one soul who honestly desires, at whatever cost, to know the truth. Christ is the truth and the Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world. John 1:9. The Spirit of truth has been sent to guide men into all truth. And upon the authority of the Son of God it is declared: Seek, and ye shall find. If any man will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine. Matthew 7:7; John 7:17. {GC 528.2}[33]
§69
一般基督徒对于撒但和他的使者陷害他们的奸计是罕有所知的。但那坐在诸天之上的主却要掌管一切，使这些毒计反而完成他深远的旨意。上帝让自己的子民经受如火如荼的严酷试炼，并不是因为他乐于见到他们受苦遭难，乃是因为这种过程是他们所必需的，使他们可以得到最后的胜利。他为顾全自己的荣耀起见，就不能保护他们脱离试探，因为这种考验的目的正是要预备他们去抵抗罪恶的一切诱惑。[34]{GC 528.3}
§70
The followers of Christ know little of the plots which Satan and his hosts are forming against them. But He who sitteth in the heavens will overrule all these devices for the accomplishment of His deep designs. The Lord permits His people to be subjected to the fiery ordeal of temptation, not because He takes pleasure in their distress and affliction, but because this process is essential to their final victory. He could not, consistently with His own glory, shield them from temptation; for the very object of the trial is to prepare them to resist all the allurements of evil. {GC 528.3}[34]
§71
如果上帝的子民肯以顺服和忏悔的心承认并离弃自己的罪，本着信心领受主的应许，则不论是恶人或鬼魔，都不能拦阻上帝的工作，或使上帝不与他们同在。每一次的试探，每一种反对的势力，不论是公开的或是秘密的，他们都能予以有效的抵抗。“万军之耶和华说：不是倚靠势力，不是倚靠才能，乃是倚靠我的灵，方能成事。”（亚4:6）[35]{GC 529.1}
§72
Neither wicked men nor devils can hinder the work of God, or shut out His presence from His people, if they will, with subdued, contrite hearts, confess and put away their sins, and in faith claim His promises. Every temptation, every opposing influence, whether open or secret, may be successfully resisted, not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit, saith the Lord of hosts. Zechariah 4:6. {GC 529.1}[35]
§73
“因为主的眼看顾义人，主的耳听他们的祈祷；……你们若是热心行善，有谁害你们呢？”（彼前3:12-13）在巴兰因厚赂重赏的应许而动心，想要行邪术攻击以色列民的时候，他便献祭给耶和华，祈求他咒诅他的子民，但上帝的灵却禁止他所要宣布的咒语，并迫使他开口说：“上帝没有咒诅的，我焉能咒诅？耶和华没有怒骂的，我焉能怒骂？”“我愿如义人之死而死，我愿如义人之终而终！”及至再度献祭之后，这位不敬虔的先知又说：“我奉命祝福，上帝也曾赐福，此事我不能翻转。他未见雅各家有罪孽，也未见以色列中有奸恶，耶和华他的上帝和他同在，有欢呼王的声音在他们中间。”“断没有法术可以害雅各，也没有占卜可以害以色列；现在必有人论及雅各，就是论及以色列，说，上帝为他行了何等的大事！”第三次筑好祭坛之后，巴兰尽力设法咒诅以色列，但上帝的灵仍是借着这位先知不情愿的口宣明了上帝选民的昌盛繁荣，并斥责了他们仇敌的愚顽恶毒，说：“凡给你祝福的，原他蒙福；凡咒诅你的，愿他受咒诅。”（民23:8,10,20-21,23；24:9）[36]{GC 529.2}
§74
The eyes of the Lord are over the righteous, and His ears are open unto their prayers. . . . And who is he that will harm you, if ye be followers of that which is good? 1 Peter 3:12, 13. When Balaam, allured by the promise of rich rewards, practiced enchantments against Israel, and by sacrifices to the Lord sought to invoke a curse upon His people, the Spirit of God forbade the evil which he longed to pronounce, and Balaam was forced to exclaim: How shall I curse, whom God hath not cursed? or how shall I defy, whom the Lord hath not defied? Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his! When sacrifice had again been offered, the ungodly prophet declared: Behold, I have received commandment to bless: and He hath blessed; and I cannot reverse it. He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath He seen perverseness in Israel: the Lord his God is with him, and the shout of a King is among them. Surely there is no enchantment against Jacob, neither is there any divination against Israel: according to this time it shall be said of Jacob and of Israel, What hath God wrought! Yet a third time altars were erected, and again Balaam essayed to secure a curse. But from the unwilling lips of the prophet, the Spirit of God declared the prosperity of His chosen, and rebuked the folly and malice of their foes: Blessed is he that blesseth thee, and cursed is he that curseth thee. Numbers 23:8, 10, 20, 21, 23; 24:9. {GC 529.2}[36]
§75
那时以色列人是忠心侍奉上帝的，只要他们一直顺从他的律法，则地上或阴间必没有任何权势能胜过他们。巴兰虽被禁止，不得宣布那攻击上帝子民的咒诅，但他后来在引诱以色列人犯罪的事上却成功了。在他们干犯了上帝的诫命之后，他们就把自己与上帝隔绝了，于是他们被撇弃在那毁灭者的权势之下了。[37]{GC 529.3}
§76
The people of Israel were at this time loyal to God; and so long as they continued in obedience to His law, no power in earth or hell could prevail against them. But the curse which Balaam had not been permitted to pronounce against Gods people, he finally succeeded in bringing upon them by seducing them into sin. When they transgressed Gods commandments, then they separated themselves from Him, and they were left to feel the power of the destroyer. {GC 529.3}[37]
§77
撒但很明白，住在基督里面的最软弱的人，也足能得胜黑暗的大军而有余；他也知道若是露出自己的真面目，人们就必抗拒他。因此他设法勾引十字架的战士离开他们那坚强的堡垒，另一方面埋下伏兵，预备毁灭一切冒险到他阵地上来的人。我们唯有虚心信赖上帝，并遵守他的全部诫命，才能得到安全。[38]{GC 530.1}
§78
Satan is well aware that the weakest soul who abides in Christ is more than a match for the hosts of darkness, and that, should he reveal himself openly, he would be met and resisted. Therefore he seeks to draw away the soldiers of the cross from their strong fortification, while he lies in ambush with his forces, ready to destroy all who venture upon his ground. Only in humble reliance upon God, and obedience to all His commandments, can we be secure. {GC 530.1}[38]
§79
人若忽略祷告，则没有一日一时是安全的。我们特别需要求上帝赐智慧，使我们明白他的话。因为《圣经》已将试探者的奸计，以及抵挡他的有效方法都指明了。撒但是善于引用《圣经》的，他常加上自己的解释，希望借此使他们跌倒。所以我们应当虚心研究《圣经》，永不可忘记自己是必须依赖上帝的。我们一方面必须时刻谨防撒但的诡计，一方面应当不住地作信心的祈祷说：“不叫我们遇见试探。”[39]{GC 530.2}
§80
No man is safe for a day or an hour without prayer. Especially should we entreat the Lord for wisdom to understand His word. Here are revealed the wiles of the tempter and the means by which he may be successfully resisted. Satan is an expert in quoting Scripture, placing his own interpretation upon passages, by which he hopes to cause us to stumble. We should study the Bible with humility of heart, never losing sight of our dependence upon God. While we must constantly guard against the devices of Satan, we should pray in faith continually: Lead us not into temptation. {GC 530.2}[39]