第42章 工作方法
§1
第四十二章 工作方法Methods of Labor
§2
从事上帝圣工的人，无论在什么地位，都应该全心工作。基甸军队的经验有给我们的教训。凡心思在工作上的人都很认真，不会停下来跪在溪边渴水，而是用手捧水喝，因为他们急着去战斗，这些人才是上帝使用的人；而那些为喝水而从容准备，把时间花在这上面的人，却被打发回家了。耶和华以色列的上帝正在察看每一个工人，看他认不认真，心中有没有救灵的负担。上帝看祂的仆人们是用指尖触及这些活人的利益，还是用全力把握它们。诺克斯曾呼喊说：“请给我英格兰，否则我就死了，”——这种角力上帝是不会拒绝的。要是人人都象诺克斯这样对生灵感到关心，主就会与他们同工，也会把生灵赐给他们为工价。他们就不会因成功而洋洋自得，也不会有片刻担心别人会得到他们应该得到的信誉；反而会因生灵得救而十分感谢上帝，口唱心和地日夜赞美主。这种工人才是上帝要使之在祂的圣工中大得能力的人。{GW92 297.1}
§3
All who labor in the cause of God in any capacity, should be whole-hearted in the work. There is a lesson for us in the experience of Gideon’s army. Those whose hearts were in the work were so earnest that they would not stop to kneel by the brook to drink, but dipped up the water in their hands as they hurried on to the battle, and these are the ones whom God used; while those who made deliberate preparations to drink, and took their time for it, were sent back to their homes. The Lord God of Israel is watching every worker, to see whether he is in earnest, whether he carries upon his heart the burden of souls. God sees whether his servants touch these living interests with the ends of their fingers, or whether they grasp them with all their might. If all had the interest that Knox felt when he cried, “Give me Scotland, or I die!”—a wrestling with God that will not be denied,—the Lord would work with their efforts, and would give them souls for their hire. They would not be lifted up because of their success, nor would they for a moment fear that some one else would receive the credit due to them; but they would be so grateful to God for the souls saved that his praise would be in their hearts and on their lips day and night. It is such workers that God will make mighty in his cause.{GW92 297.1}
§4
我们总的来说太没信心了，观念也太狭隘了。基甸的军队大获全胜，不是因为他们的人数，而是因为他们以活泼的信心遵行了主的特别指示。我们若是制定狭隘的计划，就会看不到什么成就。{GW92 297.2}
§5
We are altogether too faithless, and too narrow in our views. Gideon’s army prevailed, not because of their numbers, but because in living faith they followed the special directions of God. If we make narrow plans, we shall see very little accomplished.{GW92 297.2}
§6
许多努力虽然花费很大，却很不成功，因为并不满足时候或地方的需要。我们多年来一直设法使人们铭记更加聪明地作工的必要性。上帝希望我们不断地认识到，我们周围的人是基督的血所买来的，这些人得救还是沦丧，在很大程度上取决于我们的行为举止和工作方式。{GW92 297.3}
§7
Many efforts, though made at great expense, have been in a large measure unsuccessful because they did not meet the wants of the time or the place. For years we have sought to impress upon our people the necessity of working more intelligently. God would have us realize constantly that those around us are the purchase of the blood of Christ, and that it depends very much upon our deportment and manner of labor whether these souls are saved or lost. {GW92 297.3}
§8
我们的许多传道人必须经过切磋琢磨才能在那些受过教育的人面前可蒙悦纳地讲解圣经。心智会显出自己的缺陷。但它若习惯于挖掘真理如同挖掘隐藏的珍宝，不久就会成为知识的库房；此外，很殷勤地查考圣经还会发展人的心智，使之与对圣道的认识相称。{GW92 298.1}
§9
Many of our ministers will have to be sharpened and polished before they can explain the Scriptures acceptably before those who are educated. The mind will reveal its own deficiencies. But if it is accustomed to dig for the truth as for hid treasures, it will soon become a treasure-house of knowledge; and more than this, the very diligence of the laborer in searching the Scriptures will develop his mind proportionately in the understanding of the word.{GW92 298.1}
§10
我们在传福音给穷人和没有学问的人时，不应忘记将其最动人的亮光传给那些有能力有才干的人。然而要想这么做，我们的工人就必须成为有知识的人。他们不能沉沦到低下的水平，觉得自己怎么工作、或说什么，并不要紧。我们必须怀有活泼的信心，基督的灵必须在我们里面，指导我们的工作。然后我们的努力才会符合上帝的心意。因为对主缺乏信心和真正的勇气，所以从前一直没有为更有知识的阶层作出更大的努力。我指的并不是最富有的人；他们往往以这世界为他们的神，很难让他们看到真理的力量会使他们与世人分别。虽然如此，若是付出正确的努力，有些富人就会接受最后的信息。主已使人成为祂的管家，已把钱财托付给他们，好推展祂的工作。当穷人已经竭尽所能推进圣工的时候，主就会把富人带进来，好继续开展工作。{GW92 298.2}
§11
While we are to preach the gospel to the poor and unlearned, we should not neglect to present it, in its most attractive light, to those who have ability and talent. But in order to do this, our workers must be men of intelligence. They cannot sink down to a low level, feeling that it does not matter much how they labor, or what they say. We must cherish living faith, and the Spirit of Christ must be in us, to direct our labors. Then our efforts will meet the mind of God. It is because of lack of faith and real courage in the Lord that greater efforts for the more intelligent classes have not been made before. It is not the most wealthy that I refer to; too often they have made this world their god, and it is very difficult for them to see the force of truths that would separate them from the world. Nevertheless, there are men of wealth who will accept the last message, if the right kind of labor is put forth. The Lord has made men his stewards, and has intrusted to them the means to carry forward his work. When the poor have done all they can to advance the cause, the Lord will bring in men of means to carry on the work.{GW92 298.2}
§12
应该始终表明我们是改革者，而非顽固偏执的人。当我们的工人进入一个新的地区时，他们应该设法与当地几个教会的牧师们相识。由于忽略了这样做，已经造成很大的损失。如果我们的传道人能表现自己是友好而合群的，在行为举止上并不以他们所传的信息为耻，就会取得很好的效果，使这些牧师和他们的会众对真理产生良好的印象。如果他们愿意的话，至少也该给他们一个表示好意和赞成的机会。我们的工人们应该非常小心，不要给人以印象，以为他们是来偷羊的狼，而要使传道人明白他们的立场和他们使命的目标，就是唤起百姓注意圣经的真理。这些真理中有许多对所有基督徒来说都是非常宝贵的。在这里有我们与其它教派的信徒共同的立场。在与他们熟悉之后，我们应当主要谈论大家都感兴趣的题目，这类题目不会直截了当地引向意见分歧的题目。{GW92 299.1}
§13
It should ever be manifest that we are reformers, but not bigots. When our laborers enter a new field, they should seek to become acquainted with the pastors of the several churches in the place. Much has been lost by neglecting to do this. If our ministers show themselves friendly and sociable, and do not act as though they were ashamed of the message they bear, it will have an excellent effect, and may give these pastors and their congregations favorable impressions of the truth. At any rate, it is right to give them a chance to be kind and favorable if they will. Our laborers should be very careful not to give the impression that they are wolves stealing in to get the sheep, but should let the ministers understand their position and the object of their mission,—to call the attention of the people to the precious truths of God’s word. There are many of these which are dear to all Christians. Here is common ground, upon which we can meet people of other denominations; and in becoming acquainted with them, we should dwell mostly upon topics in which all feel an interest, and which will not lead directly and pointedly to the subjects of disagreement.{GW92 299.1}
§14
我们在进入一个新的地方工作时，应该注意不要在天主教徒心中引起偏见，也不要做什么事让他们以为我们是他们的敌人。主已指示我看到他们中间有许多人会得救。上帝肯定会试验这班人，正如祂在试验我们一样；他们在祂面前的地位，取决于他们乐意接受祂所赐亮光的程度。我们应该在各水边撒种；因为是上帝叫种子生长。—MS.{GW92 299.2}
§15
On entering a new place to labor, we should be careful not to create prejudice in the minds of the Catholics, or do anything to lead them to think us their enemies. The Lord has shown to me that there are many among them who will be saved. God will just as surely test this people as he is testing us; and according to their willingness to accept the light he gives them, will be their standing before him. We should sow the seed beside all waters; for it is God that gives the increase.—MS.{GW92 299.2}
§16
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§17
使徒保罗在拒绝他的工作方式时说：“我虽是自由的，无人辖管；然而我甘心作了众人的仆人，为要多得人。向犹太人，我就作犹太人，为要得犹太人；向律法以下的人，我虽不在律法以下，还是作律法以下的人，为要得律法以下的人。向没有律法的人，我就作没有律法的人，为要得没有律法的人；其实我在上帝面前，不是没有律法；在基督面前，正在律法之下。向软弱的人，我就作软弱的人，为要得软弱的人。向什么样的人，我就作什么样的人。无论如何，总要救些人”（林前9:19-22）。{GW92 299.3}
§18
The apostle Paul, in describing his manner of labor, says: “Though I be free from all men, yet have I made myself servant unto all, that I might gain the more. And unto the Jews I became as a Jew, that I might gain the Jews; to them that are under the law, as under the law, that I might gain them that are under the law; to them that are without law, as without law, (being not without law to God, but under the law to Christ,) that I might gain them that are without law. To the weak became I as weak, that I might gain the weak: I am made all things to all men, that I might by all means save some.” [1 Corinthians 9:19-22.] {GW92 299.3}
§19
保罗并没有以一种会引起偏见的方式接近犹太人。他并没有冒险使他们成为他的敌人，告诉他们必须信靠拿撒勒人耶稣；反而详细讲述旧约圣经中见证弥赛亚及其使命和工作的预言和应许。他一步一步地引导他们，向他们说明尊荣上帝律法的重要性。他也给了仪文律法应得的尊敬，说明基督原是设立整个献祭崇祀制度的那一位。在详细讲述了这些事之后，他既表明自己对这些事有清楚的认识，就把听众带到基督的第一次降临，说明被钉的耶稣应验了仪文律法的细节。他向他们说明从髑髅地的十字架发出的光辉如何赋予整个犹太制度意义和荣耀。他接近了外邦人，不是藉着先高举律法，而是藉着高举基督，然后才说明律法的约束性要求。他就这样改变自己的工作方式，总是因地制宜地形成他的信息；然而，虽然在耐心作工之后，他在很大程度上取得了成功，但还是有许多人不愿意信服。无论以什么方法传讲适合现代的特别真理，有些人也不愿意信服。虽然如此，为上帝作工的人应该仔细研究最佳方法，以便不至引起不必要的偏见，激起听众心中好斗的精神。{GW92 300.1}
§20
Paul did not approach the Jews in a way to excite their prejudices. He did not run the risk of making them his enemies by telling them the first thing that they must believe on Jesus of Nazareth; but he dwelt on the prophecies and promises of the Old Testament Scriptures, which testify of the Messiah, of his mission and his work. He led them on step by step, showing them the importance of honoring the law of God. He also gave due honor to the ceremonial law, showing that Christ was the one who instituted the whole system of sacrificial service. After dwelling upon these things, evincing that he had a clear understanding of them himself, he brought his hearers down to the first advent of Christ, and proved that in the crucified Jesus the specifications of the ceremonial law had been fulfilled. He showed them plainly how the light from the cross of Calvary gave significance and glory to the whole Jewish economy. He approached the Gentiles, not by exalting the law at first, but by exalting Christ, and then showing the binding claims of the law. Thus he varied his manner of labor, always shaping his message to the circumstances under which he was placed; and yet, though after patient labor he was successful to a large degree, many would not be convinced. There are some who will not be convinced by any method of presenting the special truths for this time. The laborer for God should, nevertheless, study carefully the best methods, in order that he may not needlessly arouse prejudice or stir up combativeness in his hearers.{GW92 300.1}
§21
基督对祂的门徒说过：“我还有好些事要告诉你们，但你们现在担当不了”（约16:12）。他们早期的教育导致他们的许多观点都是错误的，他们那时还没预备好明白和领受一些他们若不这样祂原会教导他们的事。祂若把那些事指教他们，就会把他们搞糊涂，且会引起质问和难以消除的疑惑。{GW92 301.1}
§22
Christ said to his disciples, “I have yet many things to say unto you, but ye cannot bear them now.” [John 16:12.] As the result of their early education, their ideas upon many points were incorrect, and they were not then prepared to understand and receive some things which he would otherwise have taught them. His instructions would have confused their minds, and raised questioning and unbelief that would have been difficult to remove.{GW92 301.1}
§23
基督藉着表明自己的爱，吸引听众的心。然后，照着他们所能接受的程度，一点一点地向他们讲明天国伟大的真理。我们也应当学习按着人的情况，改进自己的工作——设身处地与人相处。虽然我们要向世人传扬上帝律法的要求，但我们决不可忘记爱，即基督的爱，才是唯一能软化人心并领人顺从的大能。圣经的一切伟大真理都是以基督为中心的；只要正确理解，它们都是通向基督的。应当宣扬基督为伟大救赎计划的阿拉法与俄梅戛，是始和终。要向人们讲述这种题目，加强他们对上帝和圣经的信心，引导他们亲自查考圣经的教训。及至他们在研究圣经中步步前进时，他们就必有更好的准备，欣赏圣经宝贵真理的美与和谐。{GW92 301.2}
§24
Christ drew the hearts of his hearers to him by the manifestation of his love, and then, little by little, as they were able to bear it, he unfolded to them the great truths of the kingdom. We also must learn to adapt our labors to the condition of the people,—to meet men where they are. While the claims of the law of God are to be presented to the world, we should never forget that love—the love of Christ—is the only power that can soften the heart, and lead to obedience. All the great truths of the Scriptures center in Christ; rightly understood, all lead to him. Let Christ be presented as the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, of the great plan of redemption. Present to the people such subjects as will strengthen their confidence in God and in his word, and lead them to investigate its teachings for themselves. And as they go forward, step by step, in the study of the Bible, they will be better prepared to appreciate the beauty and harmony of its precious truths.{GW92 301.2}
§25
上帝的工人必须有宽宏的品格。他们不可作一门心思、工作方式千篇一律的人。他们必须能够使自己的努力多样化，以满足人们在不同环境和情况下的需要。上帝希望祂的仆人无论老少都不断提高，学习如何能更好地照顾众人的需要。他们不应该心满意足地安定下来，以为自己的道路是完全的，别人必须象他们那样工作。{GW92 301.3}
§26
God’s workmen must have breadth of character. They must not be men of one idea, stereotyped in their manner of working. They must be able to vary their efforts, to meet the needs of the people under different circumstances and conditions. God would have his servants, old and young, continually improving, learning better how to minister to the wants of all. They should not settle down contented, thinking that their ways are perfect, and that others must work just as they do.{GW92 301.3}
§27
那些奉派去开新工的人应当小心，不要让人把他们的缺点捧为美德，从而阻碍上帝的工作。我们带到人们面前的是试验人的真理，在每次的努力中，都应展现这些真理真实的美。工人不应该乱丢真理，随意展现自己品格或态度上的怪癖。要把自我保持在幕后；让它在耶稣里消失不见。让上帝的工作带有神圣的印记。{GW92 302.1}
§28
Those who are appointed to open the work in new fields should be careful that their defects are not exalted as virtues, thus retarding the work of God. It is testing truths that we are bringing before the people, and in every effort these truths should be presented in their real beauty. The laborer should not throw about the truth the peculiarities of his own character, or manner. Keep self in the background; let it be lost sight of in Jesus. Let the work of God bear the impress of the divine.{GW92 302.1}
§29
我们的人因随从这种狭隘的计划，没有接触较有知识、受过更好教育的阶层，而蒙受巨大的损失。我们所做的工作，常常使不信的人以为这等人是无关重要的，只是宗教热情的某一错误分支而已，完全不值得注意。因缺乏聪明的工作方法，造成了重大的损失。我们所作的每一努力都应赋予圣工以特色和尊严。接触传道人和有影响的人，需要有大智慧。为什么我们的人要忽略他们呢？这些人要按照托付给他们的才干向上帝负责。多给的就多要。我们难道不应该深入研究，多多求主赐智慧，使我们知道如何接触这些阶层的人吗？我们难道不应该用聪明和智慧去争取这些人吗？他们如果真正悔改了，就会成为上帝手中精致的工具，去接触其他的人。{GW92 302.2}
§30
Much has been lost by our people through the following such narrow plans that the most intelligent, better-educated classes are not reached. Too often the work has been so conducted as to impress unbelievers that it is of very little consequence,—some stray off-shoot of religious enthusiasm, entirely beneath their notice. Much has been lost for want of wise methods of labor. Every effort should be made to give character and dignity to the work. It requires much wisdom to reach ministers and men of influence. But why should they be neglected as they have been by our people? These men are responsible to God just in proportion to the talents intrusted to them. Where much is given, much will be required. Should there not be deeper study and much more prayer for wisdom, that we may learn how to reach these classes? Should not wisdom and tact be used to gain these souls, who, if truly converted, will be polished instruments in the hands of God to reach others?{GW92 302.2}
§31
我们不应仅仅受属世的方针促动；而应受对上帝的爱和对基督替死之生灵的爱激励，设法接触那些会转而为拯救他人而操劳的人。我们若是能争取已蒙上帝托付大能力的人归向基督和真理，我们的感化力就会因他们而不断扩大，成为一种深远的为善力量。{GW92 302.3}
§32
We would not be actuated by mere worldly policy; but from love to God, and to souls for whom Christ died, we should seek to reach those who in their turn will labor for others. If we can win to Christ and the truth souls to whom God has intrusted large capabilities, our influence will through them be constantly extending, and will become a far-reaching power for good.{GW92 302.3}
§33
上帝有一项工作要完成，是工人们还没有充分领会的。传道人和世上的智慧人都要接受现代真理亮光的考验。要把第三位天使的信息，本其真正的尊贵，明智而审慎地传给他们。我们必须诚恳地寻求上帝，全面地进行研究，彻底开动脑筋制定计划，将上帝的圣工推到更高的层面。这是它应有的位置，但人的狭隘观念和计划限制和贬低了这项工作。{GW92 303.1}
§34
God has a work to be done which the workers have not yet fully comprehended. Ministers and the world’s wise men are to be tested by the light of present truth. The third angel’s message is to be set before them judiciously, in its true dignity. There must be most earnest seeking of God, most thorough study; for the mental powers will be taxed to the utmost in laying plans which will place the work of God on a more elevated platform. That is where it should always have stood, but men’s narrow ideas and restricted plans have limited and lowered it.{GW92 303.1}
§35
在付出极其认真的努力把带真理带到那些已蒙上帝托以重任的人面前之后，若是他们拒绝了，也不要灰心。真理在基督的日子也被拒绝过。{GW92 303.2}
§36
After most earnest effort has been made to bring the truth before those whom God has intrusted with large responsibilities, be not discouraged if they reject it. Truth was rejected in the days of Christ.{GW92 303.2}
§37
在力陈努力接触更高阶层的重要性时，不要让任何人以为贫穷和没有学问的人要予以忽略。正确的工作方法决不会排斥这些人。基督弥赛亚身份的证据之一，就传福音给贫穷的人。我们应当研究如何使各阶层的人都有机会明白现代的特殊真理。我们的工人若只是接触较低的阶层，就可能甚至不能使这些人受益。他们或许看到了真理，但他们宛如被穷困捆绑着，只能看到要是接受了真理就会挨饿。我们的努力若是能包括较高的阶层，就能更成功地接触较低的阶层。{GW92 303.3}
§38
When the importance of laboring to reach the higher classes is urged, let none receive the idea that the poor and unlearned are to be neglected. Right methods of labor will not in any sense exclude these. It was one of the evidences of Christ’s Messiahship that the poor had the gospel preached to them. We should study to give all classes an opportunity to understand the special truths for this time. When our labors are so conducted as to reach only the lower classes, we may fail in benefiting even these. They may be brought to see the truth, but they are, as it were, in the bondage of poverty, and can see before them only starvation should they accept the truth. If our efforts are so conducted as to include the upper classes, we shall be more successful in reaching the lower also.{GW92 303.3}
§39
务要藉着秩序井然的生活和敬虔的谈吐维护圣工的尊严。不要担心标准提得太高。从事传道工作的家庭应该接近人心。耶稣的精神应充满工人的心中；愉快同情的话语，热爱他人灵魂的无私表现，会打破骄傲和自私的屏障，向不信的人表明我们有基督的爱；然后真理就必找到进入人心的路径。这就是我们的工作，也是上帝计划的实现。要抛弃一切粗鄙和不雅，保持谦让、文雅和基督化的礼貌。要谨防变成唐突鲁莽的人。不可视这些癖性为美德；因为上帝不这样看。要尽力避免不必要地得罪人。{GW92 303.4}
§40
Be sure to maintain the dignity of the work by a well-ordered life and godly conversation. Never be afraid of raising your standard too high. The families who engage in the missionary work should come close to hearts. The spirit of Jesus should pervade the soul of the worker; it is the pleasant, sympathetic words, the manifestation of disinterested love for their souls, that will break down the barriers of pride and selfishness, and show to unbelievers that we have the love of Christ, and then the truth will find its way to the heart. This is our work, and the fulfilling of God’s plan. All coarseness and roughness must be put away from us. Courtesy, refinement, Christian politeness, must be cherished. Guard against being abrupt and blunt. Do not regard such peculiarities as virtues, for God does not so regard them. Endeavor not to offend any unnecessarily. {GW92 303.4}
§41
有个大危险，就是在圣工中与年长的工人联合同工的年轻人，会连老传道人的缺点都学来。无论老幼都应提防这种危险。人人都当追求上帝之灵软化人、折服人的感化力，基督化的温柔和对生灵的爱。那些奉派出去一起作工的人，应该撇弃自我，把自己的癖性放在一边，追求同心合意地执行上帝的旨意。为要使工作取得进步，他们必须和谐同工。{GW92 304.1}
§42
There is great danger that young men who are associated with older workers in the cause, will copy even the defects of the older ministers. This should be guarded against by both old and young. All should seek to have the softening, subduing influence of the Spirit of God, Christlike tenderness, and love for souls. Those who are sent out to labor together, should put self away, lay aside their own peculiarities, and seek to unite, heart and soul, in carrying out God’s will. In order to work to advantage, they must work in harmony.{GW92 304.1}
§43
我们需要更多的、多而又多的基督的精神，更少的、少而又少的自我和使我们与同胞远离的品格特性。我们通过在自己的生活中彰显基督的恩典，可以在很大程度上拆毁这些障碍。耶稣已把祂的货财一个时代又一个时代地托付给教会。一千八百多年来，一个世代又一个世代一直在收集起这份世袭的委托，不断增加的责任一直传到我们这个时代的人。我们现在认识到我们的责任了吗？我们感觉到我们是上帝恩典的管家了吗？我们相信最低下、最卑微的事奉也蒙悦纳，只要那不是为要遂行我们的意愿，而是为要遵行我们主的旨意、促进祂的荣耀吗？我们务必不可穿着自己的衣服，而要穿着基督的义袍。—MS.（引自给外国差会工人的一封信）{GW92 304.2}
§44
We want more, much more, of the spirit of Christ, and less, much less, of self and the peculiarities of character which keep us apart from our fellow-men. We can do much to break down these barriers by revealing the grace of Christ in our own lives. Jesus has intrusted his goods to the church, age after age. One generation after another for over eighteen hundred years has been gathering up this hereditary trust, until the increasing responsibilities have descended to the people of our time. Do we now realize our responsibility? Do we feel that we are stewards of God’s grace? Do we believe that the lowest, humblest service will be accepted, if it is only directed to doing, not our own, but our Master’s will, to promote his glory? We must be clothed, not with our own garments, but with the robe of Christ’s righteousness.—MS. [From a Letter to the Workers in a Foreign Mission.]{GW92 304.2}
§45
脾气秉性和工作方式显然不同的工人们联合同工时，各人都要始终小心看守自己强势的品格特性，并且要运用基督的柔和，否则就会有彼此疏离的危险。这种分离会阻碍工作，羞辱上帝。弟兄们，你们不应该采取独立行动，或做出彼此反对的举动。要一起祷告；存谦卑的心一起商量，乐于受指教。这会使你们达到上帝愿意作你们的策士的地步。工人们若放纵一种顽固自信的精神，就很容易置身于上帝的智慧和能力无法帮助他们工作的地步，得不到忠告，在困难和考验中得不到帮助。{GW92 305.1}
§46
When laborers are associated together who decidedly vary, both in natural disposition and character, and in their manner of labor, each will need to keep a careful watch over his own strong traits of character, and to exercise the meekness of Christ, or he will be in danger of drawing apart from the others. Such a separation would retard the work and dishonor God. Brethren, you should make no move independently or in opposition to one another. Pray together; counsel together in humility, willing to be instructed. This will bring you where God will be your counselor. By indulging a stubborn, self-confident spirit, workers can easily place themselves where divine wisdom and power cannot aid them in their labors, where they cannot have help in counsel, in difficulties, and trials.{GW92 305.1}
§47
你们既与上帝同工，就当彼此接近。不论是否在讲台上，都要发出相亲相爱、彼此信任、互相尊重的宝贵教训。要实行自己的教训。要记住新信徒是以你们为榜样的。{GW92 305.2}
§48
As laborers together with God, you should come close to one another. Precious lessons of love, confidence, respect for one another, must be given, both in and out of the desk. You must live that which you teach. Remember that the new converts look to you for an example.{GW92 305.2}
§49
你们的一些服务对象可能觉得自己的方法最好，希望按他们的方法行事。但你们若有基督的精神和谦卑，表现出彼此尊重和相爱，上帝必能使你们按祂所悦纳的方法完成工作。要为自己的心灵而努力，直到你们制服了自我，使基督在你们身上看见祂的形像。你们能给予所教导的人最感人的教训，就是基督化的品格。{GW92 305.3}
§50
Some for whom you labor will wish to have the work done in their own way, thinking that their way is best; but if you have the spirit, the meekness of Christ, if you show respect and love for one another, God will enable you to perfect the work in a manner that will please him. Work for your own souls until self is subdued, until Christ recognizes his image in you. The most impressive lesson that you can give to those whom you educate, will be that of a Christ-like character.{GW92 305.3}
§51
尤其是在国外的园地，如果不精心制定计划，工作就无法完成。当你尽力按照上级的指导工作的时候，许多预料不到、猝不及防的情况会发生。战场上的人不能不冒一些风险，或采取紧急行动应付危机。工人们不应该觉得每一个举动都要等候总部指示，而应在恳切祷告、一起磋商之后，在所处情况下尽力而为。在我们要去的各国中，无论在哪里从事改革工作，我们都可以与他人联合，这么做是可取的；然而有些事我们将不得不独自推进。虽然只要在行得通和不矛盾的地方，我们都应该使自己适应他人，但有许多事是工人们必须以自己的方式去做的。因此他们彼此间的团结就更为必要了。{GW92 305.4}
§52
In foreign fields especially, the work cannot be accomplished, except by well-considered plans. While you should endeavor to labor in harmony with the instructions of those at the head of the work, many unforeseen circumstances will arise for which they could make no provision. There must be something ventured, some risks run, by those on the field of battle. There will be crises in which prompt action is necessary. The workers should not in every movement feel that they should wait to receive directions from head-quarters, but after counseling together, with earnest prayer, they should do the best they can under the circumstances. Wherever in the work of reform we can unite with others, in the countries to which we go, it is advisable to do this; but there are some things we shall have to carry forward by ourselves. While we should adapt ourselves to others wherever this is practicable and consistent, there are many things in which the laborers must work in their own way. Hence the greater necessity for union among themselves. {GW92 305.4}
§53
在国外开辟园地时要有良好的开始，这是特别重要的。工人们要小心，免得被狭隘的计划所限制。当经济状况要求节约的时候，就有因节约而得不偿失的危险。我们的一些布道区中曾发生过这样的事情。那里的工人们挖空心思节约圣工的开支。如果不这样做，成就可能要大得多。而且就全盘而计，动用库房的款项也会减少。{GW92 306.1}
§54
When missions are opened in foreign fields, it is of especial importance that the work be started right. The laborers should be careful that they do not restrict it by narrow plans. While the state of the treasury demands that economy should be exercised, there is danger of an economy which results in loss rather than gain. This has actually been the case in some of our missions, where the workers have bent their powers almost wholly to planning how to get along in the least expensive manner. With different management, far more might have been accomplished; and on the whole less means would have been taken from the treasury.{GW92 306.1}
§55
我们在新的园地发展缓慢，因为我们所传的特殊真理不投世人所好。遵守第七日为安息日，对于每一个接受真理的人乃是一个沉重的十字架。许多人虽然看到我们的道理有圣经的依据，却不敢接受，因为他们不愿与众不同，或因为遵守真理而被切断财源。因此在计划把真理传给人时需要有大智慧。有些地方的工作，必须从小规模开始，慢慢进行。这就是工人们所能作的一切了。然而在许多地方，一开始就可作出更广大更坚决的努力，可得到良好的效果。我们在英国的工作，当初弟兄们开始工作时，若不是尽力用那样节省的方法，今日就会有更大的发展了。他们那时若租用上等的会堂，大规模地推进工作，显出我们有伟大的真理，结果就必获得胜利，得到更大的成功。上帝要我们在可能的范围内，用使人得到最佳第一印象的方法开始工作。{GW92 306.2}
§56
In new fields our growth has been slow, because the special truths which we present are not popular with the world. The observance of the seventh-day Sabbath is a heavy cross for every one who accepts the truth. Many who can see that our doctrines are sustained by the Scriptures, shrink from accepting them, because they do not wish to be peculiar, or because by obedience to the truth they would be cut off from their means of support. Because of these things much wisdom is needed in planning how to bring the truth before the people. In some places the work must begin in a small way, and advance slowly. This is all that the laborers can do. But in many cases a wider and more decided effort might be made at the outset, with good results. The work in England might now be much farther advanced than it is if our brethren, at the beginning of the work there, had not tried to work in so cheap a way. If they had hired good halls, and carried forward the work as though we had great truths, which would surely be victorious, they would have had greater success. God would have the work started in such a way that the first impressions given shall be, as far as they go, the very best that can be made. {GW92 306.2}
§57
要小心维护传道工作的高尚特色。从事我们传道工作的，不论男女，都要经常扪心自问：“我是怎样的人？我应该做怎样的人？应该做怎样的事？”大家都要记住，他们不能将自己所没有的给别人；因此他们不应满足于他们自然的做法和习惯而不思改进。保罗说自己不是已经得着了，而是“向着标竿直跑”（腓3:14）。我们如果要完善匀称的品格，就应该时时改进，不断进步。{GW92 307.1}
§58
Be careful to maintain the elevated character of the missionary work. Let all, both men and women connected with the missions, be constantly inquiring, “What am I? and what ought I to be and to do?” Let all consider that they cannot give to others what they do not possess themselves; therefore they should not settle down content with their natural ways and habits, seeking to make no change for the better. Paul says he had not attained, but, “I press toward the mark.” [Philippians 3:14.] There must be constant reformation, unceasing advancement, if we would perfect a symmetrical character.{GW92 307.1}
§59
我们的工人中，没有谁的仪态和习惯是不需要多多改进的；若不下这种工夫，工人们若不时时追求更高的造诣，就会在工作中彼此大受阻碍。不断会有改变发生，新的责任会出现，新的工作园地会开放，惟有团结一致、组织周密的努力才能取得成功。{GW92 307.2}
§60
There are none of our workers whose manners and habits do not need much improvement; and unless this is made, unless the workers are constantly seeking for higher attainments, they will greatly hinder one another in the work. Changes will be constantly occurring, new duties will arise, new fields of labor will open, and united, thoroughly organized effort alone can bring success.{GW92 307.2}
§61
在我们的工作中，到目前为止，一直以来太多倾向于把灯放在斗底下或床底下，而不是放在灯台上以便照亮全家的人了。不要做出任何特别的努力去高抬人，而要设法使圣工显为大。要提升你们的心思，好赏识圣工的伟大。不要让你自己狭隘的计划和有限的想法形成你在上帝圣工中的工作方法。{GW92 307.3}
§62
In our work heretofore there has been too much of a disposition to put the light under a bushel, or under a bed, rather than on a candlestick, where it might give light to all that are in the house. Let no especial effort be made to exalt the men, but seek to magnify the work. Bring your minds up to appreciate its greatness. Let not your own narrow plans and limited ideas be allowed to shape your methods of working in God’s cause. {GW92 307.3}
§63
不要在交易中显出小气吝啬的精神。要是一个人停下来为一点钱讨价还价，那些与他打交道的人就会宣布他是一个骗子，且会提防他，以为他想要骗他们。然而你若让一点利，对方也就很有可能向你让一点利。小气生小气。那些采取这种做法的人看不出别人多么鄙视这种行为，于是宝贵的真理事业就带上了他们缺点的印记。我们不要效法世人的交易方式，而要彰显慷慨无私的基督精神。{GW92 308.1}
§64
Do not show a spirit of littleness in deal. If one stops to haggle over a small sum, those with whom he deals will pronounce him a sharper, and will be on their guard, thinking that he means to cheat them. But if a trifle is yielded in favor of another, he will be likely to work on the same plan. Littleness begets littleness. Those who pursue this course do not see how contemptible it appears to others, and the precious cause of truth bears the stamp of their defect. We are not to imitate the world’s manner of dealing, but to reveal the generous, unselfish spirit of Christ.{GW92 308.1}
§65
上帝曾就以色列人的安营给出特别的指示，好叫一切都秩序井然。凡与会幕有关的一切都设计得使人们感到上帝的威严和圣洁，以及祂要求凡参与事奉祂之人的纯洁。这些安排不仅仅是为了让以色列人受益。上帝计划犹太制度的秩序与和谐及尊贵的性质要在周围的列国中造成一种印象，向他们彰显真神上帝的某种品格，以及祂希望祂的子民成为怎样的人。同样的原则也适应于现在的工作。要记住世人凡事都是按外表判断的。要仔细研究上帝的道，研究曾赐给古以色列人的指示，并且让你们一切的安排都要正确地代表那位使你们作工的主。—MS.（引自给外国差会工人的一封信）{GW92 308.2}
§66
God gave the Israelites special directions concerning the arrangement of their camp, that all might be in perfect order. And everything connected with the tabernacle was designed to impress the people with the majesty and holiness of God, and the purity he requires of all who engage in his service. These arrangements were not merely for the benefit of Israel. God designed that the order and harmony, the exalted character of the Jewish economy, should make an impression upon surrounding nations, revealing to them something of the character of the true God, and what he desires his people to be. The same principles apply to the work at this time. Remember that with the world everything is judged by appearances. Study carefully the word of God, the instructions given to ancient Israel, and let all your arrangements be such as rightly to represent Him in whose cause you labor.—MS. [From a letter to the workers in a Foreign Mission.]{GW92 308.2}