第20章 青年传道人
§1
第二十章 青年传道人Young Ministers
§2
摩西蒙上帝指示去获得一种经验，照管、体贴、温柔地关怀他的羊群，以便作为忠心的牧人，准备好在上帝呼召他时，去照管祂的子民。从事传讲真理之伟大工作的人，需要有相似的经验。传道人为要把人带到那赐生命的泉源，必须自己先从那泉源取饮。他必须看到上帝儿子为拯救堕落人类而做出的无限牺牲，他自己的心灵也必须被不死之爱的精神所充满。上帝若指定我们去做艰苦的工作，我们必须毫无怨言地去做。道路若是艰难危险，上帝计划是要让我们温顺地跟从，并且向祂呼求得力量。应该从我们一些传道人的经验中得到教训。他们一点儿也未经历过艰难和试炼，却总是视自己为殉道者。他们还要学会对上帝选择的道路充满感激，记念我们救恩的创始者。应该用比在业务交易中所付出的更大的恳切、活力和热心，从事传道人的工作，因为这项工作更加神圣，结果也更加重要。每一天的工作都应当在那永恒的记录中表明“做得好”；以便不再有工作的机会时，这项工作已彻底完成。我们的传道人，尤其是年轻人，应该认识到为使他们适合做严肃的工作和配与天使为伍而必须做的预备工作。我们为要在天上有家，就必须在尘世将天国珍藏在自己的心里。我们若不处在这种情形，最好还是不要参与上帝的工作。{GW92 133.2}
§3
In the providence of God, Moses obtained an experience in care-taking, in thoughtfulness, in tender solicitude for his flock, that he might, as a faithful shepherd, be ready when God should call him to take charge of his people. A similar experience is essential for those who engage in the great work of preaching the truth. In order to lead souls to the life-giving fountain, the preacher must first drink at the fountain himself. He must see the infinite sacrifice made by the Son of God to save fallen men, and his own soul must be imbued with the spirit of undying love. If God appoints us hard labor to perform, we must do it without a murmur. If the path is difficult and dangerous, it is God’s plan to have us follow in meekness, and cry unto him for strength. A lesson is to be learned from the experience of some of our ministers who have known nothing comparatively of difficulties and trials, yet ever look upon themselves as martyrs. They have yet to learn to accept with thankfulness the way of God’s choosing, remembering the Author of our salvation. The work of the minister should be pursued with an earnestness, energy, and zeal as much greater than that put forth in business transactions as the labor is more sacred and the result more momentous. Each day’s work should tell in the eternal records as “well done;” so that if no other day should be granted in which to labor, the work would be thoroughly finished. Our ministers, young men especially, should realize the preparation necessary to fit them for their solemn work, and to prepare them for the society of pure angels. In order to be at home in heaven, we must have heaven enshrined in our hearts here. If this is not the case with us, it were better than we had no part in the work of God. {GW92 133.2}
§4
传道事工被不圣洁的传道人败坏了。传道事工若没有更高尚更属灵的标准，福音真理就会变得越来越没有能力。人心就好比园中富饶的土壤，若不予以适当的开垦，无知的野草和荆棘就会枝繁叶茂。心思和意念需要天天培养，若是疏忽，就会产生邪恶。上帝赋予一个人的本领越多，他要作出的进步就越大，他利用自己的光阴和才干来荣耀上帝的责任也越大。心智不可处于休眠状态，若不用它来获得知识，就会陷入到无知、迷信和空想之中。智力若不得到应有的培养来荣耀上帝，就会变得强有力地促使人走向灭亡。{GW92 134.1}
§5
The ministry is corrupted by unsanctified ministers. Unless there shall be altogether a higher and more spiritual standard for the ministry, the truth of the gospel will become more and more powerless. The human mind is represented by the rich soil of a garden. Unless it shall receive proper cultivation, it will be overgrown with the weeds and briers of ignorance. The mind and heart need culture daily, and neglect will be productive of evil. The more natural ability God has bestowed upon an individual, the greater the improvement he is required to make, and the greater his responsibility to use his time and talents for the glory of God. The mind must not remain dormant. If it is not exercised in the acquisition of knowledge, there will be a sinking into ignorance, superstition, and fancy. If the intellectual faculties are not cultivated as they should be to glorify God, they will become powerful aids in leading to perdition. {GW92 134.1}
§6
年轻人应该谨防变得华而不实和独立不羁，同时也应该不断取得显著进步。他们应该抓住每一个机会，培养更加高尚慷慨的品格特性。年轻人若是愿意认识到自己时时刻刻对上帝的依赖，并且怀有一种祈祷的精神，随时随地向上帝倾心吐意，就能更加明白上帝的旨意。……{GW92 135.1}
§7
While young men should guard against being pompous and independent, they should be continually making marked improvement. They should accept every opportunity to cultivate the more noble, generous traits of character. If young men would feel their dependence upon God every moment, and cherish a spirit of prayer, a breathing out of the soul to God at all times and in all places, they might better know the will of God....{GW92 135.1}
§8
为圣工赢得最大的胜利不是藉着辛苦的辩论，充足的设备，充裕的影响力和大量的钱财，而是藉着在密室与上帝同在，用诚恳而熬炼人的信心持住那大能的膀臂。雅各发现自己完全无力抵抗，处在无助的状态时，便极其恳切地向上帝倾心吐意。上帝的使者恳求放行，但雅各不愿放手。这个被打击的人忍受着身体的疼痛，用活泼信心所给予的胆量提出了他的恳切祈求。他说：“你不给我祝福，我就不容你去”（创32:26）。{GW92 135.2}
§9
The greatest victories which are gained to the cause are not by labored argument, ample facilities, abundance of influence, and plenty of means; but they are those victories which are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power. When Jacob found himself utterly prostrate and in a helpless condition, he poured out his soul to God in an agony of earnestness. The angel of God pleaded to be released; but Jacob would not let go his hold. The stricken man, suffering bodily pain, presented his earnest supplication with the boldness which living faith imparts. “I will not let thee go,” he said, “except thou bless me.” [Genesis 32:26.]{GW92 135.2}
§10
上帝的道中有深奥的事，若无上帝的灵帮助，人心就决不会发现。救赎的计划中也有测不透的奥秘，有限的心智决不能领会。没有经验的青少年最好耗费心神和运用自己的能力去理解明显的事；因为他们若不具有比现在更多的属灵光照，就要花一生的时间去学习上帝明显的旨意。他们若珍爱了已经拥有的亮光，并且实际应用了所拥有的亮光，就能向前迈进一步了。上帝的天意乃是一所长期学校，祂总是在其中带领人们去注意真正的人生目标。没有人太年幼，也没有人太年老，以致不能在这所学校中学习，用功领会那神圣的教师所教的功课。祂是真牧人，祂按名叫自己的羊。迷路的羊听到祂的声音说：“这是正路，要行在其间”（赛30:21）。{GW92 135.3}
§11
There are deep mysteries in the word of God, which will never be discovered by minds that are unaided by the Spirit of God. There are also unsearchable mysteries in the plan of redemption, which finite minds can never comprehend. Inexperienced youth might better tax their minds and exercise their ability to gain an understanding of matters that are revealed; for unless they possess more spiritual enlightenment than they now have, it would take a lifetime to learn the revealed will of God. When they have cherished the light they already have, and made a practical use of it, they will be able to take a step forward. God’s providence is a continual school, in which he is ever leading men to see the true aims of life. None are too young, and none too old, to learn in this school, by paying diligent heed to the lessons taught by the Divine Teacher. He is the True Shepherd, and he calls his sheep by name. By the wanderers his voice is heard, saying, “This is the way, walk ye in it.” [Isaiah 30:21.]{GW92 135.3}
§12
那些在今生属世的本分上没有取得成功的青年，不可能真正预备好承担更高的责任。宗教经验，只有通过挣扎、挫折、严格的自律和诚恳的祈祷，才能获得。必须用果敢的信心抓紧应许，然后许多人就可容光焕发地从与上帝密切的交通出来，象雅各一样说：“我面对面见了上帝，我的性命仍得保全”（创32:30）。{GW92 136.1}
§13
Young men who have never made a success in the temporal duties of life will be equally unprepared to engage in the higher duties. A religious experience is attained only through conflict, through disappointment, through severe discipline of self, through earnest prayer. Living faith must grasp the promises unflinchingly, and then many may come from close communion with God with shining faces, saying, as did Jacob, “I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved.” [Genesis 32:30.]{GW92 136.1}
§14
通向天国的阶梯，必须一步一步攀登，每前进一步，都会给下一步带来力量。上帝恩典在人心上运行的改变之能，是一种很少人领会的工作，因为人们太懒惰了，没有做出必需的努力。青年传道人在不适合工作时就四处走动和受人伺候，对他们有一种腐化的影响。他们不知道自己的位置，也不持守本位。他们没有受坚定的原则所制约。他们不懂装懂地讲论自己并不知道的事，于是那些接受他们为教师的人就被误导了。一个这样的人在人心中引起的怀疑，几个人竭尽所能都抵消不了。心眼小的人喜欢诡辩、批评、质疑，以为这是智力敏锐的标志。但这反而显明他们缺乏文雅和高尚的情操。他们若努力造就自己，提高自己的思想境界，就会好得多了。花儿怎样转向太阳，让明亮的光线促成其美丽与匀称，青年也当怎样转向那公义的日头，让天上的亮光照在他们身上，完善他们的品格，使他们在上帝的事上有深刻持久的经验。这样，他们就能将神圣的光线反照到他人身上。那些宁愿收集疑惑不信和怀疑的人，不会在恩典或属灵上长进，也不配负担将真理传给他人的严肃责任。 {GW92 136.2}
§15
The steps upward to heaven must be taken one at a time; every advance step strengthens us for the next. The transforming power of the grace of God upon the human heart is a work which many do not comprehend, because they are too indolent to make the necessary effort. The lessons which young ministers learn in going about and being waited upon when they have not a fitness for the work, have a demoralizing influence upon them. They do not know their place and keep it. They are not balanced by firm principles. They talk knowingly of things they know nothing of, and hence those who accept them as teachers are misled. One such person will inspire more skepticism in minds than several will be able to counteract, do the best they can. Men of small minds delight to quibble, to criticise, to seek for something to question, thinking this a mark of sharpness; but instead it shows a mind lacking refinement and elevation. How much better to be engaged in seeking to cultivate themselves, and to ennoble and elevate their minds. As a flower turns to the sun, that the bright rays may aid in perfecting its beauty and symmetry, so should the youth turn to the Son of Righteousness, that Heaven’s light may shine upon them, perfecting their characters and giving them a deep and abiding experience in the things of God. Then they may reflect the divine rays of light upon others. Those who choose to gather doubts, and unbelief, and skepticism, will experience no growth in grace or spirituality, and are unfitted for the solemn responsibility of bearing the truth to others. {GW92 136.2}
§16
要警告世人将要临到的厄运。那些躺在罪孽过犯中昏睡的人睡得那么深，象死了一样，以致需要上帝的声音藉着十分清醒的传道人唤醒他们。传道人若不悔改归正，人们也不会悔改归正。如今在我们中间盛行冷淡的形式主义，必须让位于经验上敬虔的活泼能力。真理的理论是没有错误的；它是完全清晰和谐的。但青年传道人虽然能把真理讲得很流利，却不明白自己所说话语的真意。他们不赏识自己所介绍之真理的价值，也没怎么认识到这些真理使前辈们付出了什么代价，他们以祈祷和眼泪经受试炼和反对，寻找真理如同寻找隐藏的珍宝。真理之链的每一个新链环对他们来说都如试验过的金子一般宝贵。这些链环如今连成了一个完美的整体。藉着恳切地祈求亮光和知识，真理已从迷信和谬误的垃圾中被挖掘出来，且如无价的宝珠被介绍给人。{GW92 137.1}
§17
The world is to be warned of its coming doom. The slumbers of those who are lying in sin and error are so deep, so deathlike, that the voice of God through a wide-awake minister is needed to awaken them. Unless the ministers are converted, the people will not be. The cold formalism that is now prevailing among us must give place to the living energy of experimental godliness. There is no fault with the theory of the truth; it is perfectly clear and harmonious. But young ministers may speak the truth fluently, and yet have no real sense of the words they utter. They do not appreciate the value of the truth they present, and little realize what it has cost those who, with prayers and tears, through trial and opposition, have sought for it as for hid treasures. Every new link in the chain of truth was to them as precious as tried gold. These links are now united in a perfect whole. Truths have been dug out of the rubbish of superstition and error, by earnest prayer for light and knowledge, and have been presented to the people as precious pearls of priceless value.{GW92 137.1}
§18
福音乃是来自永恒世界的亮光和盼望对人类的一个启示。亮光并非一下子全部迸射出来，而是照我们所能承受的来到。渴求认识上帝旨意的勤学好问的人决不会感到满足；他们查究得越深，就越认识到自己的无知，悲叹自己的盲目。上帝是一切智慧和能力之源，人若愿意将自己的努力与上帝的恩典结合，他所能达到的高尚高贵的造诣是无法想象的。“上帝为爱祂的人所预备的是眼睛未曾看见，耳朵未曾听见，人心也未曾想到的”（林前2:9）。 {GW92 137.2}
§19
The gospel is a revelation to man of beams of light and hope from the eternal world. All the light does not burst upon us at once, but it comes as we can bear it. Inquiring minds that hunger for a knowledge of God’s will are never satisfied; the deeper they search, the more they realize their ignorance and deplore their blindness. It is beyond the power of man to conceive the high and noble attainments that are within his reach, if he will combine human effort with the grace of God, who is the Source of all wisdom and power. And there is an eternal weight of glory beyond. “Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.” [1 Corinthians 2:9.] {GW92 137.2}
§20
我们拥有传给世人的最严肃的信息。这真理越来越受到不信之人的尊重，因为它是无可反驳的。考虑到这个事实，我们的年轻人就变得自信和自我膨胀了。他们拿着别人已经阐明的真理，不研究或不恳切祷告就去应付反对，参加辩论，沉湎于犀利和俏皮的言辞，自以为这就是在做福音传道人的工作。这些人需要象保罗一样经历彻底的悔改，才能适合上帝的工作。传道人必须是他们所传真理的活代表。他们必须有更加属灵的生活，表现出更加纯朴的特色。他们所讲的话必须从上帝领受，然后传给人。必须吸引人们的注意力。我们的信息要么是活的香气叫人活，要么是死的香气叫人死。众生的命运悬悬待定。众多人的都在断定谷。应该听到有声音喊着说：“若耶和华是上帝，就当顺从耶和华；若巴力是上帝，就当顺从巴力”（王上18:21）。{GW92 138.1}
§21
We have the most solemn message of truth ever borne to the world. This truth is more and more respected by unbelievers, because it cannot be controverted. In view of this fact, our young men become self-confident and self-inflated. They take the truths which have been brought out by other minds, and without study or earnest prayer, meet opponents and engage in contests, indulging in sharp speeches and witticisms, flattering themselves that this is doing the work of a gospel minister. In order to be fitted for God’s work, these men need as thorough a conversion as Paul experienced. Ministers must be living representatives of the truth they preach. They must have greater spiritual life, characterized by greater simplicity. The words must be received from God and given to the people. The attention of the people must be arrested. Our message is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The destiny of souls is balancing. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. A voice should be heard crying, “If the Lord be God, follow him; but if Baal, then follow him.” [1 Kings 18:21.]{GW92 138.1}
§22
迅速、积极而热心的行动可以救一个犹豫不决的人。无人能断定没有圣灵的恩膏而试图讲道会造成多少损失。在每一次聚会中，都有人犹豫不决，几乎听劝，要完全归向上帝。这种决定涉及今生永世。然而传道人心中往往没有真理信息的精神及能力，因此没有对犹豫不决的人发出直接的呼吁。结果感受己罪的人心中未能获得深刻的印象。他们在离开聚会时，没有比来时更愿意接受基督的功劳。他们决定等到更合适的机会，然而机不再来。那种不虔诚的讲道象该隐的祭物一样，没有救主。绝好的机会失去了，这些生灵的案件决定了。以漠然的态度讲道，感觉不到对生灵的负担，这岂不是太危险了吗？ {GW92 138.2}
§23
Prompt, energetic, and earnest action may save an undecided soul. No one can tell how much is lost by attempting to preach without the unction of the Holy Spirit. There are souls in every congregation who are hesitating, almost persuaded to be wholly for God. The decision is being made for time and for eternity; but it is too often the case that the minister has not the spirit and power of the message of truth in his own heart, hence no direct appeals are made to those souls that are trembling in the balance. The result is that impressions are not deepened upon the hearts of the convicted ones; and they leave the meeting feeling less inclined to accept the service of Christ than when they came. They decide to wait for a more favorable opportunity; but it never comes. That godless discourse, like Cain’s offering, lacked the Saviour. The golden opportunity is lost, and the cases of these souls are decided. Is not too much at stake to preach in an indifferent manner, and without feeling the burden of souls? {GW92 138.2}
§24
在这个道德黑暗的时代，单用枯燥的理论不能感动人心。传道人必须与上帝有活泼的联络。他们讲道必须叫人看出他们相信自己所讲的。从属上帝的人口中讲出的活泼真理，会使罪人战兢服罪，喊着说：“耶和华是上帝；我决心完全站在主这边。”上帝的使者决不应停止追求来自上头的更大亮光和能力的努力。他应当在挫折和黑暗中继续辛苦的工作，继续祈祷，继续盼望，决心彻底明白圣经，在各样恩赐上都不落后。只要有一个人可以受益，他就应以新的勇气推进每一次的努力。有一项工作，一项热心的工作要完成。基督为之而死的生灵处在危险中。只要耶稣仍在说：“我总不撇下你，也不丢弃你”（来13:5），只要公义的冠冕仍为得胜者存留，只要我们的中保仍在为罪人代求，基督的传道人就应该本着盼望，以不倦的精力和恒切的信心作工。{GW92 139.1}
§25
In this age of moral darkness it will take something more than dry theory to move souls. Ministers must have a living connection with God. They must preach as though they believed what they said. Living truths, falling from the lips of the man of God, will cause sinners to tremble, and the convicted to cry out, “Jehovah is the God; I am resolved to be wholly on the Lord’s side.” Never should the messenger of God cease his strivings for greater light and power from above. He should toil on, pray on, hope on, amid discouragement and darkness, determined to gain a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures, and to come behind in no gift. As long as there is one soul to be benefited, he should press forward with new courage at every effort. There is work, earnest work, to be accomplished. Souls for whom Christ died are in peril. So long as Jesus has said, “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee,” [Hebrews 13:5.] so long as the crown of righteousness is offered to the overcomer, so long as our Advocate pleads in the sinner’s behalf, ministers of Christ should labor in hope, with tireless energy and persevering faith.{GW92 139.1}
§26
但是上帝的真理若由年轻且没有经验的人传讲，他们的心也很少被上帝的恩典感动，圣工就会衰退。……胆敢承担责任从上帝的口中领受话语且将之传给人们的人，使自己对所讲的真理和所发挥的影响负责。他们若真是属上帝的人，他们的盼望就不在自己，而在祂会为他们和藉着他们所做的。他们不会自我膨胀地出去，叫人们注意他们的机灵和聪明；而会感到自己的责任，且以属灵的活力作工，踏定主所走过的舍己的道路。他们的每一步都表现出自我牺牲。他们因自己没有能力在上帝的圣工中做更多的事而忧伤。他们的道路是一条试炼挣扎的路；但这条路上却印有他们救赎主的足迹，主是他们救恩的元帅，因所受的苦难得以完全。{GW92 139.2}
§27
But while the truth of God is carried by young and inexperienced men whose hearts are scarcely touched by the grace of God, the cause will languish.... Men who dare to assume the responsibilities of receiving the word from the mouth of God and giving it to the people, make themselves accountable for the truth they present and the influence they exert. If they are truly men of God, their hope is not in themselves, but in what he will do for them and through them. They do not go forth self-inflated, calling the attention of the people to their smartness and aptness; they feel their responsibility, and work with spiritual energy, treading in the path of self-denial which the Master trod. Self-sacrifice is seen at every step, and they mourn because of their inability to do more in the cause of God. Their path is one of trial and conflict; but it is marked by the foot-prints of their Redeemer, the Captain of their salvation, who was made perfect through suffering.{GW92 140.2}
§28
主手下的牧人在自己的工作中，必须紧紧跟随牧长的指示，表现牧长的精神。到处都可遇见怀疑和背道的事。上帝需要在祂圣工中工作的人有钢铁般忠诚的心，会坚守纯正，不为环境所屈。他们在试炼和阴暗中，与因盼望而前途明亮和外部环境事事顺心时一样，显出自己的本色。在狮子坑中的但以理，与站在王面前，被上帝的亮光环绕的但以理，是一样的。在黑暗的地牢中等候，明知残忍的尼禄的判决必要来到的保罗，与在亚基帕的庭前演讲的保罗，是一样的。一个在最痛苦的考验时辰和最令人气馁的环境中坚心倚赖上帝的人，与他在兴旺的时候，在上帝的恩宠和亮光似乎在他身上的时候，是一样的。信心达到那不可见的，并且握住永恒的事。……{GW92 140.1}
§29
In their labor the under-shepherds must closely follow the directions and manifest the spirit of the Chief Shepherd. Skepticism and apostasy are met everywhere. God wants men to labor in his cause who have hearts as true as steel, and who will stand steadfast in integrity, undaunted by circumstances. Amid trial and gloom they are just what they were when their prospects were brightened by hope, and when their outward surroundings were all that they could desire. Daniel in the lions’ den is the same Daniel who stood before the king, encircled by the light of God. Paul in the dark dungeon, awaiting the sentence which he knew was to come from the cruel Nero, is the same Paul who addressed the court of the Areopagus. A man whose heart is stayed upon God in the hour of his most afflicting trials and most discouraging surroundings, is just what he was in prosperity, when the light and favor of God seemed to be upon him. Faith reaches to the unseen, and grasps eternal things....{GW92 140.1}
§30
传道人应该敢于真诚。保罗写信给提摩太说：“不可叫人小看你年轻，总要在言语、行为、爱心、信心、清洁上，都作信徒的榜样。……这些事你要殷勤去做，并要在此专心，使众人看出你的长进来。你要谨慎自己和自己的教训，要在这些事上恒心；因为这样行，又能救自己，又能救听你的人”（提前4:12,15,16）。受圣灵感动的作者在圣经中明示了上帝的话语和旨意。我们应当将之系在心上，并且遵照圣经的训诲而行；这样，我们才会走得安全。每一章每一节都是上帝在与人交通。在研究真道时，饥渴慕义的心就会受到上帝话语的感动。怀疑论对于谦卑查考圣经的人毫无作用。—4T. 442，449. {GW92 140.2}
§31
Ministers should dare to be true, Paul wrote to Timothy: “Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.” “Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.” [1 Timothy 4:12, 15, 16.] The word and will of God are expressed in the Scriptures by inspired penmen. We should bind them as frontlets between our eyes, and walk according to their precepts; then we shall walk safely. Every chapter and every verse is a communication from God to man. In studying the word, the soul that hungers and thirsts for righteousness will be impressed by the divine utterances. Skepticism can have no power over a soul that with humility searches the Scriptures.—Testimonies for the Church 4:442. {GW92 140.2}
§32
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§33
我们中间只有很少的传道人。因为上帝的圣工似乎非常需要帮助，有些人就受诱导以为几乎任何一个自称要做传道人的会蒙悦纳。有些人以为，因为人们会祷告，并且在聚会时能够较为自由地进行劝勉，他们就有资格作为工人前去作工。在他们受到证明之前，或者他们的工作能显出任何良好的果效之前，上帝未曾差遣的人们就受到某些缺乏经验之弟兄的鼓励和奉承。然而工作表明了工人的品质。他们是分散和混乱的，而非收聚和建造的。可能有少数人因他们的工作接受了真理，但这些人通常升不到比那些教导他们真理的人更高的地步，在他们的行为中会见到同样的缺乏。{GW92 141.1}
§34
There are but few preachers among us. And because the cause of God seemed to need help so much, some have been led to think that almost any one claiming to be a minister would be acceptable. Some have thought that because persons could pray and exhort with a degree of freedom in meeting, they were qualified to go forth as laborers. And before they were proved, or could show any good fruit of their labors, men whom God has not sent have been encouraged and flattered by some brethren lacking experience. But their work shows the character of the workman. They scatter and confuse, but do not gather in and build up. A few may receive the truth as the fruit of their labors; but these generally rise no higher than those from whom they learned the truth. The same lack which marked their own course is seen in their converts.{GW92 141.1}
§35
这项事业的成功并不依赖于我们拥有大量的传道人，但极其重要的乃是，那些参与上帝圣工的人应该是真的感到上帝召他们去从事之工的负担和神圣性的人。少数自我牺牲的敬虔的人，对自己的估计虽甚微小，却能成就更多的工作，过于虽有许多传道人，但其中却有一部分人不配做工，却自信而且自夸其才干所能成就的。在园地中有许多这样的人，他们最好是在家乡做某种别的工作，因为他们会使忠心的传道人不得不几乎始终要跟在他们后面去纠正他们的错误影响。年轻传道人将来的效用有赖于他们开始工作的态度。有上帝的圣工在心的弟兄们那么渴望看到真理的前进，以致他们有危险为未经验证的传道人做得太多，慷慨地支助他们钱财并使他们有影响力。应该让那些进入福音园地的人自己去赢得名声，即使他们必须经历考验和困乏。他们应该先充分尽到自己的职责。 {GW92 141.2}
§36
The success of this cause does not depend upon our having a large number of ministers; but it is of the highest importance that those who do labor in connection with the cause of God should be men who really feel the burden and sacredness of the work to which he has called them. A few self-sacrificing, godly men, small in their own estimation, can do a greater amount of good than a much larger number, if a part of these are unqualified for the work, yet self-confident and boastful of their own talents. A number of these in the field, who would better fill some calling at home, would make it necessary that nearly all the time of the faithful ministers be spent in following after them to correct their wrong influence. The future usefulness of young preachers depends much upon the manner in which they enter upon their labors. Brethren who have the cause of God at heart are so anxious to see the truth advance that they are in danger of doing too much for ministers who have not been proved, by helping them liberally to means, and giving them influence. Those who enter the gospel field should be left to earn themselves a reputation, even if it must be through trials and privations. They should first give full proof of their ministry. {GW92 141.2}
§37
有经验的弟兄应该谨慎，不该期待这些年轻的传道人去帮助并带领他们，而应觉得有责任看管这些年轻的传道人，指导，劝告并带领他们，象父亲般地关怀他们。年轻的传道人应该有秩序，有坚定的宗旨，和作工的心志，好使他们不白吃任何人的饭。他们不该行走各地，介绍适足引起偏见的我们信仰的一些要点，还未将现代真理的证据说出一半就离开了。那些认为自己在上帝的圣工中有本分要尽的年轻人，不该负起教导真理的责任，直到他们获得特权，在有系统经验的传道人影响之下作工；他们应该向他学习，就象学校的学生向老师学习一样。他们不应该到处走，没有明确的目的或成熟的计划进行工作。{GW92 142.1}
§38
Brethren of experience should be guarded; and instead of expecting these young preachers to help and lead them, should feel a responsibility upon them to take charge of these young preachers, to instruct, advise, and lead them, to have a fatherly care for them. Young ministers should have system, a firm purpose, and a mind to work, that they may eat no man’s bread for naught. They should not go from place to place, and introduce some points of our faith calculated to stir up prejudice, and leave before the evidences of present truth are half presented. Young men who think that they have a duty to do in connection with the work should not take the responsibility of teaching the truth, until they have availed themselves of the privilege of being under the influence of some experienced preacher who is systematic in his work; they should learn of him as a pupil at school would learn of his teacher. They should not go hither and thither, with no definite object or matured plans to carry out in their labor.{GW92 142.1}
§39
一些人没有什么经验，也没有资格教导真理，却又不愿意向有经验的弟兄请教。他们自以为是传道人，与那些久经考验、经验丰富的人平起平坐，还不感到满足，非要自己当领导不可，以为自己既是传道人，就知道一切该知道的事。这样的传道人确实没有自知之明。他们缺乏谦逊的态度，把自己的能力估计得过高。有经验的传道人既认识到这项工作的神圣性，又感到身上担子的分量，就分外谨慎。他们认为与弟兄商量乃是一个特权。弟兄们若是在工作计划或讲话的方式中提出改进的意见，他们也决不会生气。{GW92 143.1}
§40
Some who have but little experience, and are least qualified to teach the truth, are the last to ask counsel of their experienced brethren. They put on the minister, and place themselves on a level with those of long and tried experience, and are not satisfied unless they can lead, thinking that because they are ministers, they know all that is worth knowing. Such preachers certainly lack a true knowledge of themselves. They do not possess becoming modesty, and have altogether too high an opinion of their own abilities. Ministers of experience, who realize the sacredness of the work, and feel the weight of the cause upon them, are jealous of themselves. They consider it a privilege to advise with their brethren, and are not offended if improvements are suggested in their plans of labor, or in their manner of speaking.{GW92 143.1}
§41
那些从各教派出来接受第三位天使信息的传道人，在他们应该学习的时候，却往往想要教导人。有些人在充分了解现代真理的原则之前，有大量从前的教训需要放弃。在这些传道人身上，有大工需要成就，以做好准备为不信的人做工。他们若贸然出为他人做工，就会给上帝的圣工带来损害。他们既缺乏做工的资格，就需要两三个忠心的传道人跟在他们后面，纠正他们的错误影响。对上帝的圣工来说，把这样的传道人养在家中，不给园地造成损害，倒是更划算一些。{GW92 143.2}
§42
Those ministers who have come out from the different denominations to embrace the third angel’s message often wish to teach when they should be learners. Some have a great share of their former teaching to unlearn before they can fully learn the principles of present truth. Ministers will injure the cause of God by going forth to labor for others when there is as great a work to be done for them to fit them for their labors, as they may wish to do for unbelievers. If they are unqualified for the work, it will require the labor of two or three faithful ministers to follow after and correct their wrong influence. In the end it would be cheaper for the cause of God to give such ministers a good support to remain at home and do no injury in the field.{GW92 143.2}
§43
有些人一贯认为传道人是特别有灵感的，是主藉以讲话的唯一媒介。若是年长而有长期经验的人在传道人身上看到过失，并建议他改进他的态度，声调或姿势，他有时就觉得受了伤害，并且辩护说上帝召他时就是这样的，能力是上帝的而不是他自己的，上帝必须为他做这事，他并没有按照人的智慧讲道等等。以为一个人若不达到一定的兴奋程度就不能讲道，这乃是一个错误。如此依赖感觉的人，当他们觉得要劝勉人时可能有用；但他们决不会成为良善负责的工人。当工作进展艰难，每件事都呈现出令人气馁的外观时，易兴奋的人和那些依赖感觉的人就没有预备好担他们分所应担的担子了。在灰心和黑暗的时候，有能冷静思考的人是多么重要啊，他们不依赖环境，而是信赖上帝，并且在黑暗中作工，象在光明中作得一样好。根据原则侍奉上帝的人，虽然他们的信心可能会受严厉的考验，但会见到他们安然依靠耶和华从未失败的膀臂。 {GW92 143.3}
§44
Preachers have been regarded by some as especially inspired, as being only mediums for the Lord to speak through. If the aged and those of long experience see failings in a minister, and suggest improvements in his manners, in the tone of his voice, or in his gestures, he has sometimes felt hurt, and has reasoned that God called him just as he was, that the power was of God and not of himself, and that God must do the work for him, that he did not preach according to man’s wisdom, etc. It is a mistake to think that a man cannot preach unless he becomes wrought up to a high degree of excitement. Men who are thus dependent upon feeling, may be of use in exhortation, when they feel just like it, but they will never make good, burden-bearing laborers. When the work moves hard, and everything assumes a discouraging aspect, the excitable and those dependent upon feeling are not prepared to bear their share of the burdens. In times of discouragement and darkness, how important to have calm, thinking men, who are not dependent on circumstances, but who trust God, and labor on in the darkness as well as in the light. Men who serve God from principle, although their faith may be severely tried, will be seen leaning securely upon the never-failing arm of Jehovah. {GW92 143.3}
§45
年轻的传道人，和曾经是传道人的人，若在态度上一直是粗鲁无礼的，在言谈表情上不是完全谦虚纯洁的，就不适于从事这工作，除非他们给出完全悔改的证据。说一句欠考虑的话所造成的伤害可能比他们所举办的一系列聚会带来的益处还多。他们离开了应该总是高举的真理的标准，在社会面前将之降到了尘埃。他们所带领悔改的人通常达不到比传道人为他们举起的标准更高的标准。站在活人和死人中间的人应当是完全公义的人。传道人不应片刻丢掉戒备。他是在作工提高别人，把他们带上真理的立场。他要向别人说明真理已为他有所成就。他应该看到这些粗心、粗暴、庸俗表情的害处，应该抛弃并轻视凡具有这种性质的事。他若不这样做，他所带领悔改的人就会效法他。当忠心的传道人跟在他们后面对这些悔改的人作工，要纠正他们的错误时，他们就会指着传道人为自己开脱。你们若谴责他的做法，他们就会转而问你们：他们自己既是罪人，你们为什么支持他们，使他们有影响力，派他们出来向罪人传道呢？ {GW92 144.1}
§46
Young preachers, and men who have once been ministers, who have been coarse and rough in their manners, making expressions in their conversation which were not perfectly modest and chaste, are not fit to engage in this work until they give evidence of an entire reform. One word spoken unadvisedly may do more harm than a series of meetings held by them will do good. They leave the standard of truth, which should be ever exalted, lowered to the dust before the community. Their converts generally come up no higher than the standard raised for them by the ministers. Men who are standing between the living and the dead, should be just right. The minister should not be off his guard for a single moment. He is laboring to elevate others by bringing them up upon the platform of truth. Let him show to others that the truth has done something for him. He should see the evil of these careless, rough, vulgar expressions, and should put away and despise everything of this character. Unless he does this, his converts will pattern after him. And when faithful ministers shall follow after, and labor with these converts to correct their wrongs, they will excuse themselves by referring to the minister. If you condemn his course, they will turn to you and ask, “Why do you uphold and give influence to men by sending them out to preach to sinners, while they are sinners themselves?” {GW92 144.1}
§47
我们所从事的工作乃是一项责任重大而且尊贵的工作。那些劳苦传道教导人的人自己应该是善行的模范。他们应该在圣洁、清洁和秩序上作榜样。上帝仆人的外表，无论在讲台上还是在讲台外，都应当是那种活泼传道人的样式。藉着他的敬虔榜样所成就的，可以比他仅仅在台上讲道而台下的影响却不值得效法要多得多。那些在这项圣工中操劳的人，乃是在向世人传讲曾交给凡人的最高尚的真理。{GW92 145.1}
§48
The work in which we are engaged is a responsible and exalted work. Those who minister in word and doctrine should themselves be patterns of good works. They should be examples in holiness, cleanliness, and order. The appearance of the servant of God, out of the pulpit and in, should be that of a living preacher. He can accomplish far more by his godly example than by merely preaching in the desk, while his influence out of the desk is not worthy of imitation. Those who labor in this cause are bearing to the world the most elevated truth that was ever committed to mortals.{GW92 145.1}
§49
上帝所拣选在这圣工中工作的人，必给出他们所蒙崇高恩召的证据，并会认为他们的最高本分就是成长进步，直到成为能干的工人。然后，当他们表现出热心，善用上帝所托付给他们的才干时，他们就应得到明智的帮助。但所给予他们的鼓励不可带有奉承的气味，因为撒但自己会做足够多的那种勾当。那些认为自己有责任讲道的人不应使自己和自己的家庭立刻受弟兄们的供养支持。他们没有权利这样做，直到他们能显出他们作工的良好果效。而今有藉着奉承，藉着减轻他们生活的担子，伤害年轻的传道人和那些经验很少之人的危险。当不讲道时，他们应该做他们所能做的以自养。这是最好的方式，可以试验他们蒙召传道的性质。若是他们愿意传道只是因为他们可以作为传道人受到供养，教会就应采取明智的做法，不久就应解除他们传道的担子，让他们去做更为有利可图的事。保罗虽是一位极有口才的传道人，奇迹般地悔改归主去做一项特别的工作，他也没有脱离劳动。他说：“直到如今，我们还是又饥又渴，又赤身露体，又挨打，又没有一定的住处，并且劳苦，亲手作工。被人咒骂，我们就祝福；被人逼迫，我们就忍受”（林前4:11,12）。“我们也未尝白吃人的饭，倒是辛苦劳碌，昼夜做工，免得叫你们一人受累”（帖后3:8）。 {GW92 145.2}
§50
Men who are chosen of God to labor in this cause, will give proof of their high calling, and will regard it as their highest duty to grow and improve until they shall become able workmen. Then, as they manifest an earnestness to improve upon the talent which God has intrusted to them, they should be helped judiciously. But the encouragement given them should not savor of flattery, for Satan himself will do enough of that kind of work. Men who think that they have a duty to preach, should not be sustained in throwing themselves and their families at once upon the brethren for support. They are not entitled to this until they can show good fruits of their labor. There is danger now of injuring young preachers, and those who have but little experience, by flattery, and by relieving them of burdens in life. When not preaching, they should be doing what they can for their own support. This is the best way to test the nature of their call to preach. If they desire to preach only that they may be supported as ministers, and the church pursue a judicious course, they will soon lose their burden, and leave preaching for a more profitable business. Paul, a most eloquent preacher, miraculously converted by God to do a special work, was not above labor. He says, “Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling-place; and labor, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it.” “Neither did we eat any man’s bread for naught; but wrought with labor and travail night and day, that we might not be chargeable to any of you.” [1 Corinthians 4:11, 12; 2 Thessalonians 3:8.] {GW92 145.2}
§51
我蒙指示，许多人并没有正确地估计他们中间的才干。有些弟兄不明白怎样的讲道才干才最适于推进真理的圣工，而只想满足他们当前的感情。他们想也不想就对一位讲者表示偏爱，因为他在讲道时表现了相当大的热情，讲了虽然悦耳且能片刻鼓舞人心却不会留下持久印象的奇闻轶事。同时，他们会低估一位常常祈祷虔诚研究的传道人，因为他可能以一种平静的态度和连贯的形式把我们立场的证据陈列于人前。他的工作不受赏识，他也往往受到冷遇。{GW92 146.1}
§52
I have been shown that many do not rightly estimate the talents which are among them. Some brethren do not understand what preaching talent would be the best for the advancement of the cause of truth, but think only of the present gratification of their feelings. Without reflection they will show preference for a speaker who manifests considerable zeal in his preaching, and relates anecdotes which please the ear and animate the mind for a moment, but leave no lasting impression. At the same time they will put a low estimate upon a preacher who has prayerfully studied that he may present before the people the arguments of our position in a calm manner, and in a connected form. His labor is not appreciated, and he is often treated with indifference.{GW92 146.1}
§53
一个人可能用热烈悦耳的方式讲道，却不能把任何新思想或真聪明传达给人心。通过这种讲道得到印象只能持续到讲道结束。当调查这种讲道的结果时，几乎找不到果子。这些浮华的恩赐并不是有益的，不适于推进真理的圣工，不是在艰难地区可以信赖的恩赐。在教导真理的工作中，有必要用圣经的证据很好地加强我们立场的要点。坚决的主张可以止息不信者的声音，但不会使他信服。被差到园地中的工人不只是要使信徒们受益。拯救生灵才是伟大的目标。—1T. 442. {GW92 146.2}
§54
A man may preach in a spirited manner and please the ear, but convey no new idea or real intelligence to the mind. The impressions received through such preaching last no longer than while the speaker’s voice is heard. When search is made for the fruit of such labor, there is little to be found. These flashy gifts are not as beneficial, and as well adapted to advance the cause of truth, as a gift that can be trusted in difficult places. In the work of teaching the truth it is necessary that the important points of our position be well fortified with Scripture evidences. Assertions may silence the unbeliever, but will not convince him. Believers are not the only ones for whose benefit laborers are sent into the field. The salvation of souls is the great object.—Testimonies for the Church 1:442. {GW92 146.2}