第58章 迅速为工作准备
§1
第58章 迅速为工作准备
§2
A Speedy Preparation for Work
§3
向一部分学生提供种种受教育的条件，使他们学完许多不可能完全用得上的课程，这样做对于享有那么多优惠条件的学生是有害无益的，同时也剥夺了其他人所非常需要的学习机会。如果准备的时间不要那么长，花在学习上的精力不那么多，学生们就会有更多的机会来增加对上帝的信心。……我看见有的学生正在丧失灵性，信心软弱，不与上帝保持经常的交通。他们几乎花了全部的时间来研究书本，对于其他似乎一无所知。但是这种准备对他们有什么益处呢？他们花了那么多光阴财物又有什么收获呢？我告诉你，这比损失了全部光阴金钱还要坏……{CT 404.1}[1]
§4
The practice of furnishing a few students with every advantage for perfecting their education in so many lines that it would be impossible for them to make use of them all is an injury rather than a benefit to the one who has so many advantages, and it deprives others of the privileges that they need so much. If there were far less of this long-continued preparation, far less exclusive devotion to study, there would be much more opportunity for an increase of the student’s faith in God.... It has been shown me that some of the students are losing their spirituality, that their faith is becoming weak, and that they do not hold constant communion with God. They spend nearly all their time in the perusal of books; they seem to know but little else. But what advantage will all this preparation be to them? What benefit will they derive for all the time and money spent? I tell you, it will be worse than lost....?{CT 404.1}[1]
§5
如何以最恰当的方式使用学生的教育经费，需要经过非常周密的考虑。你们把大量的钱花在少数人的学业上，同时却有许多人渴望受几个月的教育。一两年的学习对于他们已是一个很大的福份了。如果把所有的钱都花在少数人身上，让他们进行好几年的学习，许多一样值得培养的男女青年就根本得不到帮助了……{CT 404.2}[2]
§6
There should be most careful consideration as to the best manner of expending money in the education of students. While so much is spent to put a few through an expensive course of study, there are many who are thirsting for the knowledge they should get in a few months; one or two years would be considered a great blessing. If all the means is used in putting a few through several years of study, many young men and women just as worthy cannot be assisted at all....?{CT 404.2}[2]
§7
不要过多的教育少数人，而应扩大你服务的范围。不要把为圣工培养工人的钱用在少数人身上，使他们接受超过需要的教育，而其他人则一无所得。要让学生有良好的开端，但不要认为你必须使他们年复一年地学习下去。他们的本分是进入田地工作。而你们的本分是为其他需要你帮助的人服务。{CT 405.1}[3]
§8
Instead of overeducating a few, enlarge the sphere of your charities. Resolve that the means which you use in educating workers for the cause shall not be expended simply upon one, enabling him to get more than he really needs, while others are left without anything at all. Give students a start, but do not feel that it is your duty to carry them year after year. It is their duty to get out into the field to work, and it is your place to extend your charities to others who are in need of assistance....?{CT 405.1}[3]
§9
过分的学习即使是学习真科学，也会造成反常的食欲胃口。吃了还要再吃。它会使人产生一种愿望，要追求超过圣工需要的更多知识。单为知识而追求知识，会动摇人献身于上帝，妨碍人在实际圣洁的道路上前进。……主耶稣只赐下人们能用得上的有用的教训。……门徒们常常产生好奇心，但是耶稣并没有让他们知道对于指导他们工作所不必要的知识。祂却为他们的心灵打开新思想的渠道，赐给他们大量实际敬虔所需要的知识。……{CT 405.2}[4]
§10
Too great devotion to study, even of true science, creates an abnormal appetite, which increases as it is fed. This creates a desire to secure more knowledge than is essential to do the work of the Lord. The pursuit of knowledge merely for its own sake diverts the mind from devotion to God, and checks advance along the path of practical holiness.... The Lord Jesus imparted only such a measure of instruction as could be utilized. ... The minds of the disciples were often excited by curiosity; but instead of gratifying their desire to know things which were not necessary for the proper conduct of their work, He opened new channels of thought to their minds. He gave them much needed instruction upon practical godliness....?{CT 405.2}[4]
§11
【不节制的学习】
§12
学习上不节制就象醉酒一样。纵而不改的人就象醉汉一样，离开安全的道路，在黑暗中徘徊跌倒。主希望每一个学生记住，要专心追求上帝的荣耀。他不可耗费自己的体力和智力来追求尽可能多的科学知识，却应保持旺盛的精力，从事主所指定的工作，帮助人寻见公义的道路。……天国的命令是要作工——作工而为别人造福，归荣耀与上帝……{CT 405.3}[5]
§13
【Intemperance in Study】
§14
Intemperance in study is a species of intoxication, and those who indulge in it, like the drunkard, wander from safe paths and stumble and fall in the darkness. The Lord would have every student bear in mind that the eye must be kept single to the glory of God. He is not to exhaust and waste his physical and mental powers in?seeking to acquire all possible knowledge of the sciences, but is to preserve the freshness and vigor of all his powers to engage in the work which the Lord has appointed him in helping souls to find the path of righteousness.... The command of heaven is to do, to work,—to do something that will reflect glory to God by being a benefit to our fellow men....?{CT 405.3}[5]
§15
上帝拣选和接纳工人，并不是按照他所享有的优惠条件或是他所接受的高等教育。人的价值取决于他认识上帝的能力。……最高的成就是借着认识上帝而来的。“认识祢独一的真神，并且认识祢所差来的耶稣基督，这就是永生”（约17:3）。这种认识乃是一切能力的秘密源泉……{CT 406.1}[6]
§16
The Lord does not choose or accept laborers according to the advantages they have enjoyed, or according to the superior education they have received. The value of the human agent is estimated according to the capacity of the heart to know and understand God.... The highest possible good is obtained through a knowledge of God. “This is life eternal, that they might know Thee the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom Thou hast sent.”?John 17:3. This knowledge is the secret spring from which flows all power....?{CT 406.1}[6]
§17
【摩西的教育】
§18
作为国王的孙子，摩西所接受的教育是非常全面的。按照埃及人对所谓智慧的理解，凡足以使他成为智士的东西，没有一样不教他的。但是那使他胜任一生工作的最有价值的教育，乃是他作牧人时接受的。当他带领羊群穿过的荒野进入谷中绿色的草地时，自然界的上帝将最高的智慧教导他。在大自然的学校里，有基督作他的教师，他学到了谦卑，温柔，信心和依靠的教训。这一切都使他的心与上帝更加新近。在山间的荒野中，他学得了宫廷教育所无法给他的东西——就是纯朴而坚定不移的信心，不断地依靠上帝。{CT 406.2}[7]
§19
【The Education of Moses】
§20
The education received by Moses, as the king’s grandson, was very thorough. Nothing was neglected that would make him a wise man, as the Egyptians understood wisdom. But the most valuable part of Moses’ fitting for his lifework was that which he received as a shepherd. As he led his flocks through the wilds of the mountains and into the green pastures of the valleys, the God of nature taught him the highest wisdom. In the school of nature, with Christ as his teacher, he learned lessons of humility, meekness, faith, and trust, all of which bound his soul closer to God. In the solitude of?the mountains he learned that which all his instruction in the king’s palace was unable to impart to him—simple, unwavering faith and a constant trust in the Lord.?{CT 406.2}[7]
§21
摩西原先以为自己在埃及的学问上所受的教育足以使他能够领导以色列人摆脱奴役。他不是已经学习了一切作为军队的统帅所必需的知识吗？他难道没有受过地上最好学校的教育吗？是的，他感到自己有能力救他的同胞。他就开始工作，设法为他们打抱不平，以博得他们的拥护。他杀了一个欺侮以色列人的埃及人，因而显示了那从起初就杀人者的精神，表明自己还是不能作那慈爱怜悯之上帝的代表。{CT 407.1}[8]
§22
Moses had supposed that his education in the wisdom of Egypt fully qualified him to lead Israel from bondage. Was he not learned in all those things necessary for a general of armies? Had he not had the advantages of the best schools in the land? Yes, he felt that he was able to deliver his people. He set about his work by trying to gain their favor by redressing their wrongs. He killed an Egyptian who was imposing upon one of the Israelites. In this he manifested the spirit of him who was a murderer from the beginning, and proved himself unfit to represent the God of mercy, love, and tenderness.?{CT 407.1}[8]
§23
摩西的第一步工作就掺遭失败。他象许多其他人一样，马上丧失信靠上帝的心，离开所指定的工作。他逃避法老的忿怒，觉得由于他杀埃及人的大罪，上帝必不会让他参加救同胞脱离奴役的工作。但是主容许这些事发生，为要教导摩西会温柔，良善和忍耐。这一切对于每一个主的工人所要获得的成功乃是必不可少的……{CT 407.2}[9]
§24
Moses made a miserable failure of his first attempt; and, like many another, he immediately lost confidence in God and turned his back on his appointed work. He fled from the wrath of Pharaoh. He concluded that because of his great sin in taking the life of the Egyptian, God would not permit him to have any part in the work of delivering his people from their cruel bondage. But the Lord allowed these things that He might teach Moses the gentleness, goodness, and long-suffering that it is necessary for every laborer for the Master to possess in order to be a successful worker in His cause....?{CT 407.2}[9]
§25
摩西既有超伦越群的才能，就习惯于受人奉承和称赞。但是他现在所学习的是一门完全不同的功课。作为一个牧羊人，他必须看顾受苦的羊，照料患病的羊。迷路的，要耐心寻找，不听话的，要宽容对待，要凭着爱心供给幼小的，软弱的和年老的羊的需要。这种经历使人与那大牧人基督更加亲近。他已经与以色列的圣者联合，并取得一致。他信靠伟大的上帝，借着谦卑的祈祷与天父保持交往。他仰望至高的上帝，以求在属灵的事上获得教育，认识作一个忠心牧人的本分。他的生活与天国联系得那么紧密，甚至上帝面对面与他谈话，“好像人与朋友说话一般”(出33:11)。{CT 407.3}[10]
§26
Moses had been taught to expect flattery and praise because of his superior abilities; now he was to learn a different lesson. As a shepherd of sheep, Moses learned to care for the afflicted, to nurse the sick, to seek patiently after the straying, to bear long with the unruly, to supply?with loving solicitude the wants of the young lambs and the necessities of the old and feeble. In this experience he was drawn nearer to the Chief Shepherd. He became united to, submerged in, the Holy One of Israel. He believed in the great God. He held communion with the Father through humble prayer. He looked to the Highest for an education in spiritual things and for a knowledge of his duty as a faithful shepherd. His life became so closely linked with heaven that God talked with him face to face, “as a man speaketh unto his friend.”?Exodus 33:11.?{CT 407.3}[10]
§27
摩西经过这样的教育，就预备听上帝的呼召，把他牧羊的杖换成权柄的杖，离开他的羊群，来担任一班叛逆而拜偶像之百姓的领导。但是他仍然依靠那位看不见的领袖。正如那杖在他手中成为一个工具，他自己也要成为基督手中顺服的工具。他要作上帝子民的牧人。由于他坚定不移地依靠主，许多福分将要临到以色列民。{CT 408.1}[11]
§28
Thus educated, Moses was prepared to heed the call of God to exchange his shepherd’s crook for the rod of authority; to leave his flock of sheep to take the leadership of an idolatrous, rebellious people. But he was still to depend on the invisible Leader. As the rod was an instrument in his hand, so he was to be a willing instrument in the hand of Christ. He was to be the shepherd of God’s people; and through his firm faith and abiding trust in the Lord, many blessings were to come to the children of Israel....?{CT 408.1}[11]
§29
使摩西成为伟人的乃是他对上帝的绝对信靠。主命令他作什么，他就作什么。他若不放弃自信之心，认识到自己的无助，因而信靠上帝，一切智者的学问都不能使他成为上帝作工的通道。他必须甘心地听从上帝的命令，不论这些命令在人看来是否正确。……{CT 408.2}[12]
§30
It was implicit faith in God that made Moses what he was. According to all that the Lord commanded him, so he did. All the learning of the wise men could not make Moses a channel through which the Lord could work, until he lost his self-confidence, realized his own helplessness, and put his trust in God; until he was willing to obey God’s commands, whether they seemed to his human reason to be right or not....?{CT 408.2}[12]
§31
使摩西战胜仇敌的，不是埃及学校的学问，而是坚定不移，始终不渝的信心。这种信心就是在最困难的环境下也没有后退。摩西按照上帝的命令前进，虽然表面上前面没有立足之地。有一百万多人信赖他。他要领他们一步一步一天一天地前进。上帝让祂的子民经过这孤寂的旷野路程，是要使他们在苦难中得到一种经验，知道在危险的时候，只有上帝能拯救他们。他们就是这样学会认识并信靠上帝，以活泼的信心事奉他。{CT 408.3}[13]
§32
It was not the teaching of the schools of Egypt that enabled Moses to triumph over his enemies, but an ever-abiding,?unflinching faith, a faith that did not fail under the most trying circumstances. At the command of God, Moses advanced, although apparently there was nothing ahead for his feet to tread upon. More than a million people were depending on him, and he led them forward step by step, day by day. God permitted these lonely travels through the wilderness that His people might obtain an experience in enduring hardship, and that when they were in peril they might know that there was relief and deliverance in God alone. Thus they might learn to know and to trust God, and to serve Him with a living faith.?{CT 408.3}[13]
§33
【最重要的教训】
§34
上帝并不依靠受过完整教育的人。按照我们一些学校的计划，祂的仆人必须经过长时期而很费精力准备，可是上帝的圣工却不能等待。祂所需要的，是那些重视作祂同工之特权的人，是那些不顾过去所接受的是什么理论，绝对顺从祂的命令，因而尊荣祂的人。凡克已忘我，让圣灵进入内的作工并度完全献身上帝之生活的人，若经过主必要的训练，不出怨言也不中途后退，他们的用处是没有限量的。他们若不因主的责备而灰心，硬着心顽梗不化，不论是老年人或是青年人，主都必每日每时教导他们。祂极愿向人类显明祂的救恩，只要祂的选民扫除了阻碍，祂就必借着人间的渠道，使救恩的活水象奔腾的江河涌流而出。{CT 409.1}[14]
§35
【The Most Important Lesson】
§36
God is not dependent upon men of perfect education. His work is not to wait while His servants go through such lengthy, elaborate preparations as some of our schools are planning to give. He wants men who appreciate the privilege of being laborers together with Him—men who will honor Him by rendering implicit obedience to His requirements, regardless of previously inculcated theories. There is no limit to the usefulness of those who put self to one side, make room for the working of the Holy Spirit upon their hearts, and live lives wholly consecrated to God, enduring the necessary discipline imposed by the Lord without complaining or fainting by the way. If they will not faint at the rebuke of the Lord, and become hardhearted and stubborn, the Lord will teach both old and young, hour by hour, day by day. He longs to reveal His salvation to the children of men; and if His chosen people will remove the?obstructions, He will pour forth the waters of salvation in abundant streams through human channels.?{CT 409.1}[14]
§37
许多人想要在人间的学校中完成教育，而获得推进上帝圣工的效能。他们终必发现自己没有学会最重要的功课。他们没有使自己接受圣灵的感化，并在生活上顺从上帝的一切命令，他们的属灵效能就削弱了。他们失去了那成功地推进圣工所必须有的能力。他们离开了基督的学校，忘记了那大教师的声音，以致祂不能为他们指路。{CT 410.1}[15]
§38
Many who are seeking efficiency for the exalted work of God by perfecting their education in the schools of men will find that they have failed of learning the more important lessons. By neglecting to submit themselves to the impressions of the Holy Spirit, by not living in obedience to all God’s requirements, their spiritual efficiency has become weakened; they have lost what ability they had to do successful work for the Lord. Absenting themselves from the school of Christ, they have forgotten the sound of the Teacher’s voice, and He cannot direct their course.?{CT 410.1}[15]
§39
人可以尽可能从人间的教师那里获得一切知识，但上帝要求他们有更大的智慧。他们必须象摩西那样，学会心里柔和谦卑，不敢依靠自己。我们的救主自己，在为人类经受考验的时候，也认识到凭自己不能做什么。我们也必须懂得，人是没有什么力量的。他只有与上帝的性情有份，才能成为有效的人。{CT 410.2}[16]
§40
Men may acquire all the knowledge possible to be imparted by the human teacher, but God requires of them still greater wisdom. Like Moses, they must learn meekness, lowliness of heart, and distrust of self. Our Saviour Himself, when bearing the test for humanity, acknowledged that of Himself He could do nothing. We also must learn that there is no strength in humanity alone. Man becomes efficient only by becoming partaker of the divine nature.?{CT 410.2}[16]
§41
【寻求上帝的引导】
§42
学生在刚打开书本开始，就要认识到上帝是赐人真智慧的主。他必须步步寻求上帝的指导。若没有上帝参与，就不要制订什么计划。若没有上帝赞同，就不要订立什么契约。要从自始至终以智慧的创始者——上帝为向导，这样，书本的知识就能借着活泼的信心而与无穷的上帝联系起来。学生们不要把自己束缚在需要很长时间的学业中，在这些事上应当受上帝圣灵的引导……{CT 410.3}[17]
§43
【God’s Guidance to Be Sought】
§44
From the first opening of a book the student should recognize God as the One who imparts true wisdom. He should seek divine counsel at every step. No arrangement should be made to which God cannot be a party, no union formed of which He cannot approve. From first to last the Author of wisdom should be recognized as the guide. Thus the knowledge obtained from books?will be bound off by living faith in the infinite God. The student should not permit himself to be bound down to any particular course of study involving long periods of time, but should be guided in such matters by the Spirit of God....?{CT 410.3}[17]
§45
凡足以削弱对真理和主大能的信靠，影响对圣洁生活之羡慕的学习计划，决不要实行。我警告同学们不要在这方面踏入一步，即使是出于导师和权威人士的劝导，除非他们已私下求问上帝，敞开心门让圣灵感化，并在学习计划方面已经得到祂的指示。每一个不圣洁的奢望都要放弃。凡想出头露面的野心也要消灭。凡是人的建议都要带到上帝面前，信靠祂灵的引导……{CT 411.1}[18]
§46
None should be allowed to pursue a course of study that will weaken their faith in the truth or in the Lord’s power, or diminish their respect for a life of holiness. I would warn the students not to advance one step in these lines, not even upon the advice of their instructors or men in positions of authority, unless they have first sought God individually with their hearts thrown open to the influences of the Holy Spirit and have obtained His counsel concerning the contemplated course of study. Let every unholy ambition be blotted out. Let every selfish desire to distinguish yourselves be set aside; let every suggestion from humanity be taken to God, and trust in the guidance of His Spirit....?{CT 411.1}[18]
§47
不要把自己交给人保守，而要说：“主是我的帮助者，我要求问祂的指导，我要遵行祂的旨意。”你若不获得圣灵的合作，你的一切有利条件都不会给你带来福气。你所受最高等的教育也不会使你成为传授亮光的通道。正如埃及的诸神不能救信他们的人一样，我们若没有上帝的启发，就不可能从人那里得到什么资格。{CT 411.2}[19]
§48
Do not commit yourselves to the keeping of men, but say, “The Lord is my helper; I will seek His counsel; I will be a doer of His will.” All the advantages you may have cannot be a blessing to you, neither can the highest education qualify you to become a channel of light, unless you have the co-operation of the divine Spirit. It is as impossible for us to receive qualifications from men, without the divine enlightenment, as it was for the gods of Egypt to deliver those who trusted in them.?{CT 411.2}[19]
§49
学生们不要以为每一个延长学业的建议都是与主的计划相符的。要在祷告中把每一个这样的建议带到主面前，寻求祂的引导，不是一次，而是一次又一次。要恳求祂直到你已确知什么是上帝的旨意，什么是人的意思。……{CT 411.3}[20]
§50
Students must not suppose that every suggestion for them to prolong their studies is in harmony with God’s plan. Take every such suggestion to the Lord in prayer, and seek His guidance, not once only, but again and?again. Plead with Him until you are convinced whether the counsel is of God or man....?{CT 411.3}[20]
§51
主说：“总要警醒祷告，免得入了迷惑”（太26:4）。“要警醒，”免得你的学习课程占的比重太多，你又全神贯注于学习中，以致心思过劳，失去追求敬虔的愿望。许多学生原先入学的动机和目标已丧失了。他们希望获得高等教育的不圣洁的奢望，已经使他们牺牲了真理。他们追求出人头地的强烈愿望已使他们将天父的旨意置已脑后。然而真知识必使人因真理使他们成圣而度圣洁的生活。{CT 412.1}[21]
§52
The Lord says, “Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation.”?Matthew 26:41. “Watch” lest your studies accumulate to such proportions and become of such absorbing interest to you that your mind is overburdened and the desire for godliness is crushed out of your soul. With many students the motive and aim which caused them to enter school have gradually been lost sight of, and an unholy ambition to secure a high-class education has led them to sacrifice the truth. Their intense interest to secure a high place among men has caused them to leave the will of their heavenly Father out of their calculations; but true knowledge leads to holiness of life through sanctification of the truth.?{CT 412.1}[21]
§53
学生们在增加课程的同时，往往将上头来的智慧放在次要地位。他们越在学习上进步，就越少信靠上帝。他们把大量的学问看作是成功的生活所必不可少的。但是大家若认真考虑一下基督的教训“离了我你们就不能做什么”（约15:5）。他们的做法就完全不同了。教育若不包括真宗教的活泼原则，不包括事奉，荣耀救赎主的知识，就是有害无益的。如果学生们接受大量属世课程的教育，以致到了逐步失去爱上帝的心，疏忽祷告，无法提高灵性的地步，那就完全是重大的损失了。停止追求这等教育，把你的心灵从退化的景况中挽救回来的好处，远胜过接受最好的教育，而同时看不到永久的利益。……{CT 412.2}[22]
§54
Too often, as the studies accumulate, the wisdom from above has been given a secondary place, and the farther the student advances, the less confidence he has in God. He looks upon much learning as the very essence of success in life; but if all would give due consideration to the statement of Christ, “Without Me ye can do nothing” (John 15:5), they would make different plans. Without the vital principles of true religion, without the knowledge of how to serve and glorify the Redeemer, education is more harmful than beneficial. When education in human lines is pushed to such an extent that the love of God wanes in the heart, that prayer is neglected, and that there is a failure to cultivate the spiritual attributes, it is wholly disastrous. It would be far better to cease seeking to obtain an education, and to recover your soul from its languishing condition, than to gain the best of educations and lose sight of eternal advantages....?{CT 412.2}[22]
§55
但是我并没有意思要对教育进行限制，因为上帝也没有下什么限制。我是说：我们的教育不能停留在这个世界所提供的知识上。一直到永恒的岁月，上帝的选民要勤学不息。但是我要对那些危害心灵、有损于我们宗旨的教育方法加以限制。为了这个宗旨，我们花费了不少光阴和钱财。教育是人生一项严肃的工作。但是要获得真教育，就必须具有那只能来自上帝的智慧。教育的各方面都要表显爱主上帝。但是花费多年时间学习一门书本知识乃是一个错误。学生在经过一段时期学习以后，就不要再劝他们马上学习另一门漫长的课程，而当劝他们担负起他们所预备担任的工作。要鼓励他们运用已经获得的知识。……{CT 413.1}[23]
§56
I would not in any case counsel restriction of the education to which God has set no limit. Our education does not end with the advantages that this world can give. Through all eternity the chosen of God will be learners. But I would advise restriction in following those methods of education which imperil the soul and defeat the purpose for which time and money are spent. Education is a grand lifework; but to obtain true education it is necessary to possess that wisdom which comes from God alone. The Lord God should be represented in every phase of education; but it is a mistake to devote years to the study of one line of book knowledge. After a period of time has been devoted to study, let no one advise students to enter immediately upon another extended line of study, but rather advise them to enter upon the work for which they have been preparing. Let them be encouraged to put into use the education already obtained....?{CT 413.1}[23]
§57
许多人思想需要更新，改变并按照上帝的计划受塑造。许多人由于过度的学习，正在摧残自己的智力，灵力和体力。他们由于在寻求教育时养成了不节制的习惯，而给自己带来了今生和来生的损失。他们行将失去在基督的学校里学习谦卑柔和教训的愿望。{CT 413.2}[24]
§58
The minds of many need to be renewed, transformed, and molded after God’s plan. Many are ruining themselves physically, mentally, and morally by overdevotion to study. They are defrauding themselves for time and for eternity through practicing habits of intemperance in seeking to gain an education. They are losing their desire to learn in the school of Christ lessons of meekness and lowliness of heart....?{CT 413.2}[24]
§59
【看到基督快来】
§60
学生们应当经常想到，时候不多了，他们应当赶快做好准备参加当代重要的工作。……主嘱咐我对你们说，你们不知道危急关头会多么快来到。它临到我们就象是贼一样。现在太阳仍然在天空中照耀，照常运行。诸天仍在述说上帝的荣耀。世人仍然在吃喝嫁娶，耕种建造。商人仍然在买卖贸易。刊物照例一期一期地出版。人们互相排挤，谋权高位。贪爱宴乐的人还到剧院，赛马场和赌场去。刺激性的娱乐到处流行。但是宽容的时期很快要结束了，众人的命运将要永远决定了。只有少数人一心相信我们有一个天国要争取，有一个地狱要逃避，然而这些人的信心是从行为上显示出来的。{CT 413.3}[25]
§61
【In View of Christ’s Near Return】
§62
The thought to be kept before students is that time is short and that they must make speedy preparation for doing the work that is essential for this time.... I am bidden to say to you that you know not how soon the?crisis will come. It is stealing gradually upon us, as a thief. The sun shines in the heavens, passing over its usual round, and the heavens still declare the glory of God; men are pursuing their usual course of eating and drinking, planting and building, marrying and giving in marriage; merchants are still engaged in buying and selling; publications are still issuing one upon another; men are jostling one against another, seeking to get the highest place; pleasure lovers are still attending theaters, horse races, gambling hells, and the highest excitement prevails; but probation’s hour is fast closing, and every case is about to be eternally decided. There are few who believe with heart and soul that we have a heaven to win and a hell to shun; but these show their faith by their works.?{CT 413.3}[25]
§63
基督再来的兆头在迅速应验。撒但看见自己作工的时候不多了，就让他的爪牙激动世上的种种潮流，使人上当受骗，忙忙碌碌，神志恍惚，直到宽容的时期结束，恩典的门永远关闭。{CT 414.1}[26]
§64
The signs of Christ’s coming are fast fulfilling. Satan sees that he has but a short time in which to work, and he has set his agencies to work to stir up the elements of the world, that men may be deceived, deluded, and kept occupied and entranced until the day of probation shall be ended and the door of mercy be forever shut.?{CT 414.1}[26]
§65
这个世界上的国家现在还不是我们主和基督的国。不要自欺。要醒悟，迅速行动起来。因为黑夜将到，那时没有人能作工了。凡希望为救人而工作的学生到你这里来时，不要鼓励他们在学了一个课程后再学另一门课。不要把教育的时期延长至好多年。你如果这样作，就会使他们认为时候还早得很。这个计划会成为他们心灵的网罗。{CT 414.2}[27]
§66
The kingdoms of this world have not yet become the kingdoms of our Lord and of His Christ. Do not deceive yourselves; be wide awake and move rapidly, for the night cometh in which no man can work. Do not encourage students who come to you burdened with the work of saving their fellow men, to enter upon course after course of study. Do not lengthen out to many years the time for obtaining an education. By so doing you give them the impression that there is time?enough, and this very plan proves a snare to their souls.?{CT 414.2}[27]
§67
许多人在入校学习前要比毕业后好得多。当时他们有较好的属灵判别力，对上帝和祂的命令有较多的认识。但后来他们被成名成家的思想所刺激，受到鼓励增加课程，直到头昏脑胀。他们以书本为偶像。为了获得教育，竟然愿意牺牲健康和灵性。他们克扣祈祷的时间，没有善用行善的机会。他们没有运用已经学到的知识，在救灵的科学上进步。传道工作越来越来越不愿意做，追求书本知识的愿望却越发强烈，他们由于所学的功课，而与智慧的上帝隔开。一些人却祝贺他们的进步，鼓励他们一级一级往上登……{CT 415.1}[28]
§68
Many are better prepared, have more spiritual discrimination and knowledge of God, and know more of His requirements, when they enter upon their course of study than when they are graduated. They become inspired with an ambition to become learned men and are encouraged to add to their studies until they become infatuated. They make their books their idol and are willing to sacrifice health and spirituality in order to obtain an education. They limit the time which they should devote to prayer and fail to improve the opportunities which they have to do good. They fail to put to use the knowledge which they have already obtained and do not advance in the science of winning souls. Missionary work becomes less and less desirable, while the passion to excel in book knowledge increases abnormally. In pursuing their studies they separate from the God of wisdom. Some congratulate them on their advancement and encourage them to take degree after degree....?{CT 415.1}[28]
§69
现在的问题是“你相信真理吗？你相信第三位天使的信息吗？你若相信，就当实践你的信仰。……”宽容的时期决不容许长年的训练。上帝正在呼唤。请听祂说话的声音“你今天到葡萄园里去作工”（太21:28）。现在正是做工的时候……{CT 415.2}[29]
§70
The question was asked, “Do you believe the truth? do you believe the third angel’s message? If you do believe, then act your faith.” ... Probationary time will not permit of long-protracted years of drill. God calls; hear His voice as He says, “Go work today in My vineyard.”?Matthew 21:28. Now, just now, is the time to work....?{CT 415.2}[29]
§71
“主乘旋风而来，云彩为祂脚下的尘土”（鸿1:3）。但愿人人都认识到上帝的长久忍耐！祂现在还抑制着自己的能力，控制着自己的全能。但愿人能明白上帝现在还没有因世人的刚愎而感到厌倦。祂仍为最不配的人留有赦免的希望。但是祂的忍耐不是永无止境的。谁己经为那突然的事变作好准备了呢？那时上帝不再如此对待罪人了。有谁准备好逃避那必将临到一切犯法者的刑罚呢？……{CT 415.2}[30]
§72
“The Lord hath His way in the whirlwind and in the storm, and the clouds are the dust of His feet.”?Nahum 1:3. O that men might understand the patience and long-suffering of God! He is putting under restraint His?own attributes. His omnipotent power is under the control of Omnipotence. O that men would understand that God refuses to be wearied out with the world’s perversity and still holds out the hope of forgiveness even to the most undeserving! But His forbearance will not always continue. Who is prepared for the sudden change that will take place in God’s dealing with sinful men? Who will be prepared to escape the punishment that will certainly fall upon transgressors? ...?{CT 415.3}[30]
§73
现在有大量的工作要做。主的葡萄园需要工人。传道人要趁着被迫停止工作之前进入工作园地。现在各处都有敞开的门户。学生们不要等到学了满年数，因为我们前面的年数不多了。我们必须走趁着白日作工。{CT 416.1}[31]
§74
There is a large work to be done, and the vineyard of the Lord needs laborers. Missionaries should enter the field before they are compelled to cease labor. There are now open doors on every side; students cannot afford to wait to complete years of training, for the years before us are not many, and we need to work while the day lasts....?{CT 416.1}[31]
§75
但你们不要误以为我的话是不赞成教育。我只是警告那些处于危险中的人，把合理的事作到不合理的极端，太注重世界的教育了。我们应当重视基督徒经验的发展，因为没有这种经验，学生的教育必徒劳无功。{CT 416.2}[32]
§76
Understand that I say nothing in these words to depreciate education, but I speak to warn those who are in danger of carrying that which is lawful to unlawful extremes, and of making altogether too much of human education. Rather insist upon the development of a Christian experience, for without this the education of the student will be of no avail.?{CT 416.2}[32]
§77
你如果看清楚学生们有因单注重功课，而忽视研究圣记经的危险，就不可把进一步学习、办人延长学习期限的试探放在他们面前。圣经中所提供的教训会指示他们如何使自己的心灵在将来得蒙悦纳。如果过分延长学习，那些会使学生的教育有益于人类的东西就会消失。……{CT 416.3}[33]
§78
If you see that students are in danger of becoming engrossed in their studies to such an extent as to neglect the study of that Book which gives them information as to how to secure the future welfare of their souls, then do not present the temptation of going deeper, of protracting the time for educational discipline. In this way all that will make the student’s education of value to the world will be sunk out of sight....?{CT 416.3}[33]
§79
在末日来到之前，学校总是需要的，教育也总是需要的。但是我们要十分小心，免得教育夺走了对于属灵事物的兴趣。如果我们劝学生一门接着一门地学习功课，使他们以为这样才算是全面的教育，这是很危险的。这样的教育无论从哪一方面都是有缺陷的。主说：“我要灭绝智慧人的智慧，废弃聪明人的聪明。智慧人在哪里？文士在哪里？这世上的辩士在哪里？上帝岂不是叫这世上的智慧变成愚拙吗？世人凭自己的智慧既不认识上帝，上帝就乐意用人所当作愚拙的道理，拯救那些信的人”（林前1:19-21）。{CT 417.1}[34]
§80
As long as time shall last, we shall have need of schools. There will always be need of education; but we must be careful lest education absorb every spiritual interest. There is positive peril in advising students to pursue one line of education after another and in leading them to think that by so doing they will attain perfection. The education thus obtained will prove to be deficient in every way. The Lord says: “I will destroy the wisdom of the wise, and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent. Where is the wise? where is the scribe? where is the disputer of this world? hath not God made foolish the wisdom of this world? For after that in the wisdom of God the world by wisdom knew not God, it pleased God by the foolishness of preaching to save them that believe.”?1 Corinthians 1:19-21.?{CT 417.1}[34]
§81
摩西曾经学习过埃及人的一切智慧。按照上帝的安排，他接受了广泛的教育，但是那种教育的大部分必须视为愚拙，其影响必须经过四十年看顾羊群照料小羊的经验来消除。今日有许多从事上帝圣工的人，如果也能象摩西那样独居一处，为环境所迫而担任卑微的工作，直到他们的心变得温柔……他们就不会这么易于夸耀自己的才能，强调高等教育的知识能够代替真正认识上帝的知识了。……{CT 417.2}[35]
§82
Moses was learned in all the wisdom of the Egyptians. In the providence of God he received a broad education, but a large part of that education had to be unlearned and accounted as foolishness. Its impression had to be blotted out by forty years of experience in caring for the sheep and the tender lambs. If many who are connected with the work of the Lord could be isolated as was Moses, and could be compelled by circumstances to follow some humble vocation until their hearts became tender, ... they would not be so prone to magnify their own abilities, or seek to demonstrate that the wisdom of an advanced education could take the place of a sound knowledge of God....?{CT 417.2}[35]
§83
基督的门徒不是蒙召夸耀人，而是夸耀一切智慧的源头——上帝。但愿教育工作者能让圣灵有机会在人心中作工。圣灵把那最伟大的教师显示在我们中间，尽管你的知识可以越学越高，把宽容时期的每一分钟都用来追求知识，你仍不得完全。及至光阴流逝之后，你也许会问自己，我为那些在半夜黑暗中的人作了什么善事呢？我有没有把认识上帝的知识，甚至是把我花了那么多光阴金钱所学到的知识传授给他们？{CT 417.3}[36]
§84
The disciples of Christ are not called upon to magnify men, but to magnify God, the Source of all wisdom. Let educators give the Holy Spirit room to do Its work upon?human hearts. The greatest Teacher is represented in the midst of us by the Holy Spirit. However you may study, though you may reach higher and still higher, and occupy every moment of your probationary time in the pursuit of knowledge, you will not become complete. When time is over, you would have to ask yourselves the question, What good have I done to those who are in midnight darkness? To whom have I communicated the knowledge of God or even the knowledge of those things for which I have spent so much time and money??{CT 417.3}[36]
§85
主不久就要在天上说：“成了，不义的叫他仍旧不义，污秽的，叫他仍旧污秽，为义的，叫他仍旧为义，圣洁的，叫他仍旧圣洁，看哪，我必快来赏罚在我，要照各人所行的报应他”（启22:11-12）。当这道命令宣布时，每个人的命运都决定了。{CT 418.1}[37]
§86
It will soon be said in heaven, “It is done.” “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still. And, behold, I come quickly; and My reward is with Me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”?Revelation 22:11, 12. When this fiat goes forth, every case will have been decided.?{CT 418.1}[37]
§87
工人们若肯从事较小的工作，稳步而谦卑地实行它，负起基督的轭，挑起祂的担，这样做的益处要远远胜过为从事大的工作浪费多年时间作准备，却没有把许多儿女领到上帝面前，没有任何战利品带到耶稣脚前。……{CT 418.2}[38]
§88
Far better would it be for laborers to take less work and go about it slowly and humbly, wearing the yoke of Christ and bearing His burdens, than to devote years of preparation for a large work and then fail to bring sons and daughters to God, fail to have any trophies to lay at the feet of Jesus....?{CT 418.2}[38]
§89
有多少明白现代真理的人，是按照真理的原则作工的吗？他们是做了一些工作，但是还有更多的工作需要去做。现在所有的人都应当点起灯并把光照耀出去。但是许多人却没有用恩典的油来补充自己的灯，使之剔净点亮，在今天就照耀出去。为明天作长期打算的人实在太多了，但这是不对的。我们应当教育每一个人有关今日必作之工的重要性。人人都要为上帝为同胞而工作。每一个人都要有智慧，不要闲懒等候什么人来派他作工。那委派工作的人太忙，在等候他指示的时候，光阴过去了。上帝将赐你智慧马上改正过来。主还在向你呼召：“我儿，你今天到我葡萄园里去作工。”“你们今日若听祂的话，就不可硬着心”（来3:7-8）。主的这项呼唤是以一个亲切的词“我儿”为称呼的，多么慈爱，多么温柔而又是多么迫切。祂的邀请也是一道命令。——《教育特别证言》108-146页致巴特尔克里克疗养院和大学的教师1895年3月21日{CT 418.3}[39]
§90
How many who know the truth for this time are working in harmony with its principles? It is true that something is being done; but more, far more, should have been done. The work is accumulating, and the time for doing it is diminishing. All should now be burning and shining lights, and yet many are failing to keep their lamps supplied with the oil of grace, trimmed and burning,?so that light may gleam out today. Too many are counting on a long stretch of tomorrow, but this is a mistake. Let everyone be educated in such a way as to show the importance of the special work for today. Let everyone labor for God and for souls; let each show wisdom and never be found in idleness, waiting for someone to set him to work. The “someone” who could set you to work is overcrowded with responsibilities, and time is lost in waiting for his directions. God will give you wisdom in reforming at once; for the call is still made, “Son, go work today in My vineyard.” “Today if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.”?Hebrews 3:7, 8. The Lord prefaces the requirement with the endearing word “son.” How tender, how compassionate, yet withal, how urgent! His invitation is also a command.—Special Testimonies On Education, 108-146; written March 21, 1895, to the teachers in the Sanitarium and College at Battle Creek, Michigan.?{CT 418.3}[39]
§91
认识自己乃是一项了不起的知识，人若真正认识自己，就会谦卑地敞开心门，让主来发展智力，塑造和培养品格。教师若没有认识到自己心中的亏欠，放弃一切削弱属灵生命的计划，就决不可能作出蒙悦纳的工作来。当教师们乐意放弃那些与永生无关的东西时，就可以说他们正在恐惧战兢作成自己得救的工夫，为永恒聪明地建造了。{CT 419.1}[40]
§92
To know oneself is great knowledge. True self-knowledge leads to a humility that will open the way for the Lord to develop the mind and mold and discipline the character. No teacher can do acceptable work who does not bear in mind his own deficiencies and does not put aside all plans that would weaken spiritual life. When teachers are willing to lay aside that which is unessential for the life eternal, then it can be said that they are working out their own salvation with fear and trembling, and that they are building wisely for eternity.?{CT 419.1}[40]