第18章 “去到路上和篱笆那里”
§1
第18章 “去到路上和篱笆那里”
§2
Chap. 18—“Go Into the Highways and Hedges”
§3
（根据路14:1,12-24）
§4
有一次，救主在一个法利赛人的筵席上做客。祂接受穷人的邀请，也接受富人的邀请。祂按照自己的习惯，把当前的局面与真理的教训联系起来。犹太人每逢遇到民族和宗教的欢乐节期时，总要举行圣宴会。他们把这种筵会看作是永生福乐的预表。他们喜欢谈论他们将来与亚伯拉罕、以撒、雅各一同坐席，而外邦人只能站在外边，以羡慕的心情观望着。现在基督就用大筵席的比喻来说明祂所要提出的警告和教训。犹太人一贯把上帝所赐今世和来生的一切福分看作是他们独家享有的。他们不肯将上帝的恩惠分给外邦人。基督用这个比喻来说明他们那时正在拒绝慈怜的邀请，就是上帝之国的呼召。祂说，他们所轻看的邀请将来要传给他们所鄙视的人，那些他们向来所视为长了大麻风、连衣服也不可沾的人。{COL 219.1}[1]
§5
This chapter is based on?Luke 14:1,?12-24.
§6
The Saviour was a guest at the feast of a Pharisee. He accepted invitations from the rich as well as the poor, and according to His custom He linked the scene before Him with His lessons of truth. Among the Jews the sacred feast was connected with all their seasons of national and religious rejoicing. It was to them a type of the blessings of eternal life. The great feast at which they were to sit down with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, while the Gentiles stood without, and looked on with longing eyes, was a theme on which they delighted to dwell. The lesson of warning and instruction which Christ desired to give, He now illustrated by the parable of a great supper. The blessings of God, both for the present and for the future life, the Jews thought to shut up to themselves. They denied God’s mercy to the Gentiles. By the parable Christ showed that they were themselves at that very time rejecting the invitation of mercy, the call to God’s kingdom.?He showed that the invitation which they had slighted was to be sent to those whom they despised, those from whom they had drawn away their garments as if they were lepers to be shunned.?{COL 219.1}[1]
§7
这个法利赛人在选择宴席的宾客时，总是先考虑自己的利益。基督对祂说：“你摆设午饭或晚饭，不要请你的朋友、弟兄、亲属和富足的邻舍，恐怕他们也请你，你就得了报答。你摆设筵席，倒要请那贫穷的、残废的、瘸腿的、瞎眼的，你就有福了！因为他们没有什么可报答你。到义人复活的时候，你要得着报答。”{COL 220.1}[2]
§8
In choosing the guests for his feast, the Pharisee had consulted his own selfish interest. Christ said to him, “When thou makest a dinner or a supper, call not thy friends, nor thy brethren, neither thy kinsmen, nor thy rich neighbors, lest they also bid thee again, and a recompense be made thee. But when thou makest a feast, call the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind: and thou shalt be blessed; for they cannot recompense thee: for thou shalt be recompensed at the resurrection of the just.”?{COL 220.1}[2]
§9
基督在这里重述了祂曾藉着摩西赐给以色列人的教训。主曾指示他们在举行圣筵时，“你城里寄居的，并孤儿寡妇，都可以来，吃得饱足”（申14:29）。这些宴会要作为以色列人实际的教训。百姓藉此得享真正好客的喜乐，并常年看顾孤苦和贫穷的人。这些筵席还有更广泛的意义，说明上帝所赐给以色列人的属灵福惠，不是单给他们自己享用的。上帝已经赐给他们生命的粮。他们要分赠给世人。{COL 220.2}[3]
§10
Christ was here repeating the instruction He had given to Israel through Moses. At their sacred feasts the Lord had directed that “the stranger, and the fatherless, and the widow, which are within thy gates, shall come, and shall eat, and be satisfied.”?Deuteronomy 14:29. These gatherings were to be as object lessons to Israel. Being thus taught the joy of true hospitality, the people were throughout the year to care for the bereaved and the poor. And these feasts?had a wider lesson. The spiritual blessings given to Israel were not for themselves alone. God had given the bread of life to them, that they might break it to the world.?{COL 220.2}[3]
§11
他们没有实行这项工作。基督的话责备了他们的自私。祂的话不合法利赛人的口味。他们中间有一人想转移话题，就故作正经地说：“在上帝国里吃饭的有福了。”这个人说话的语气十分自信，好像他确知天国有他的分。他的态度很像一些信徒的态度。他们一方面因蒙基督拯救而快乐，一方面却不肯实行上帝所应许赐救恩的条件。他的精神像巴兰祷告时的精神：“我愿如义人之死而死，我愿如义人之终而终”（民23:10）。这个法利赛人没有想到他自己配不配进天国，只想到他希望在天国所享受的福分。他的用意是把席间宾客的心从有关他们实际职责的话题转移。他想使他们越过今生而遥望义人复活的将来。{COL 221.1}[4]
§12
This work they had not fulfilled. Christ’s words were a rebuke to their selfishness. To the Pharisees His words were distasteful. Hoping to turn the conversation into another channel, one of them, with a sanctimonious air, exclaimed, “Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.” This man spoke with great assurance, as if he himself were certain of a place in the kingdom. His attitude was similar to the attitude of those who rejoice that they are saved by Christ, when they do not comply with the conditions upon which salvation is promised. His spirit was like that of Balaam when he prayed, “Let me die the death of the righteous, and let my last end be like his.”?Numbers 23:10. The Pharisee was not thinking of his own fitness for heaven but of what he hoped to enjoy in heaven. His remark was designed to turn away the minds of the guests at the feast from the subject of their practical duty. He thought to carry them past the present life to the remote time of the resurrection of the just.?{COL 221.1}[4]
§13
基督洞悉这个伪善者的心，就定睛望着他，向众人说明他们今生权利的性质和价值。祂向他们指出，他们若要得享受将来的福乐，就要尽到当前的本分。{COL 221.2}[5]
§14
Christ read the heart of the pretender, and fastening His eyes upon him He opened before the company the character and value of their present privileges. He showed them that they had a part to act at that very time, in order to share in the blessedness of the future.?{COL 221.2}[5]
§15
祂说：“有一人摆设大筵席，请了许多客。到了坐席的时候，打发仆人去对所请的人说：‘请来吧！样样都齐备了。’”可是客人都表现了出奇的冷淡。“众人一口同音地推辞。头一个说：‘我买了一块地，必须去看看。请你准我辞了。’又有一个说：‘我买了五对牛，要去试一试。请你准我辞了。’又有一个说：‘我才娶了妻，所以不能去。’”{COL 221.3}[6]
§16
“A certain man,” He said, “made a great supper, and bade many.” When the time of the feast arrived, the host sent his servant to the expected guests with a second message, “Come; for all things are now ready.” But a strange indifference was shown. “All with one consent began to make excuse. The first said unto him, I have bought a piece of ground, and I must needs go and see it;?I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have bought five yoke of oxen, and I go to prove them; I pray thee have me excused. And another said, I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come.”?{COL 221.3}[6]
§17
这些推辞的理由，没有一个是真正出于不得已的。那个说“必须去看看”那块地的人，已经买好了地。他急于要去看，是由于他的兴趣完全在所买的土地上。那五对牛也买好了。去试一试，只是为了满足买主自己的兴趣。第三个借口也是站不住脚的。被邀的客人已经娶了妻，这并不足以妨碍他赴席。他的妻子一起来也一定会受欢迎的。但他有自己享乐的打算。这些打算在他看来比赴席更重要。他已习惯于从其它社交，而不是从这位主人那里寻求快乐。他没有请求原谅，也没有在推辞中说一句礼貌的话。“不能去”实际上就是“不愿意去”。{COL 222.1}[7]
§18
None of the excuses were founded on a real necessity. The man who “must needs go and see” his piece of ground, had already purchased it. His haste to go and see it was due to the fact that his interest was absorbed in his purchase. The oxen, too, had been bought. The proving of them was only to satisfy the interest of the buyer. The third excuse had no more semblance of reason. The fact that the intended guest had married a wife need not have prevented his presence at the feast. His wife also would have been made welcome. But he had his own plans for enjoyment, and these seemed to him more desirable than the feast he had promised to attend. He had learned to find pleasure in other society than that of the host. He did not ask to be excused, made not even a pretense of courtesy in his refusal. The “I cannot” was only a veil for the truth—“I do not care to come.”?{COL 222.1}[7]
§19
所有的推辞都表现出心不在焉。这些被请之客的兴趣已经完全被别的事物夺走。他们把赴宴的承诺置于脑后。他们的冷淡侮辱了这位好客的朋友。{COL 222.2}[8]
§20
All the excuses betray a preoccupied mind. To these intended guests other interests had become all-absorbing. The invitation they had pledged themselves to accept was put aside, and the generous friend was insulted by their indifference.?{COL 222.2}[8]
§21
基督用大筵席来代表福音所提供的福惠。这福惠就是基督自己。祂是从天上降下来的粮食。救恩的泉源从祂身上涌流出来。主的使者曾向犹太人宣布救主的来临。他们曾指出基督是“上帝的羔羊，除去世人罪孽的”（约1:29）。上帝在祂所摆设的筵席上，向他们提供了上天所能赐的最大恩惠。这种恩惠是人所无法估量的。上帝凭着爱心预备了昂贵的筵席，并且提供了取之不竭的富源。基督说：“人若吃这粮,就必永远活着”（约6:51）。{COL 222.3}[9]
§22
By the great supper, Christ represents the blessings offered through the gospel. The provision is nothing less than Christ Himself. He is the bread that comes down from heaven; and from Him the streams of salvation flow. The Lord’s messengers had proclaimed to the Jews the advent of the Saviour; they had pointed to Christ as “the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.”?John 1:29. In the feast He had provided, God offered to?them the greatest gift that Heaven can bestow—a gift that is beyond computation. The love of God had furnished the costly banquet, and had provided inexhaustible resources. “If any man eat of this bread,” Christ said, “he shall live for ever.”?John 6:51.?{COL 222.3}[9]
§23
但是他们如果要接受这福音筵席的邀请，就必须使自己属世的利益服从一个宗旨，那就是接受基督和祂的义。上帝已经为人类舍弃了一切。祂要人把侍奉祂放在一切属世和私人的考虑之上。祂不接受分心的侍奉。一颗专爱世界的心不可能完全奉献给上帝。{COL 223.1}[10]
§24
But in order to accept the invitation to the gospel feast, they must make their worldly interests subordinate to the one purpose of receiving Christ and His righteousness. God gave all for man, and He asks him to place His service above every earthly and selfish consideration. He cannot accept a divided heart. The heart that is absorbed in earthly affections cannot be given up to God.?{COL 223.1}[10]
§25
这个教训是适用于各个世代的。上帝的羔羊不论往哪里去，我们都必须跟从祂。我们应当接受祂的引导，把与祂交往看得比与地上朋友的交往更加宝贵。基督说：“爱父母过于爱我的，不配作我的门徒；爱儿女过于爱我的，不配作我的门徒”（太10:37）。{COL 223.2}[11]
§26
The lesson is for all time. We are to follow the Lamb of God whithersoever He goeth. His guidance is to be chosen, His companionship valued above the companionship of earthly friends. Christ says, “He that loveth father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me, and he that loveth son or daughter more than Me is not worthy of Me.”?Matthew 10:37.?{COL 223.2}[11]
§27
在基督的时代，许多人每日在餐桌旁擘饼吃饭时，总是重复说：“在上帝国里吃喝的有福了。”但是基督却指出，要寻找客人赴那用无限代价所预备的筵席是多么困难！那些听祂讲话的人知道自己蔑视了恩典的邀请。他们专注于属世的产业、财富和享乐，全都借故推辞了。{COL 223.3}[12]
§28
Around the family board, when breaking their daily bread, many in Christ’s day repeated the words, “Blessed is he that shall eat bread in the kingdom of God.” But Christ showed how difficult it was to find guests for the table provided at infinite cost. Those who listened to His words knew that they had slighted the invitation of mercy. To them worldly possessions, riches, and pleasures were?all-absorbing. With one consent they had made excuse.?{COL 223.3}[12]
§29
现今也是如此。推却宴席邀请的借口，包括了拒绝福音邀请的全部托词。人们声称自己不能因注重福音的要求而妨碍他们属世的前途。他们视自己今生的利益比永恒的事物更有价值。他们从上帝领受的种种福分，反而成为他们的心灵与创造主和救赎主之间的障碍。他们不愿使自己属世的事业受到干扰，就对恩典的使者说：“你暂且去吧！等我得便再叫你来”（徒24:25）。还有一些人提出，他们如果顺从上帝的呼召，就必在自己的社会关系上发生困难。他们说，要他们与自己的亲友不睦是得不偿失的。他们就这样表明自己正是比喻所描述的人物。筵席的主人把他们轻慢的推辞看作是对祂邀请的藐视。{COL 224.1}[13]
§30
So it is now. The excuses urged for refusing the invitation to the feast cover the whole ground of excuses for refusing the gospel invitation. Men declare that they cannot imperil their worldly prospects by giving attention to the claims of the gospel. They count their temporal interests as of more value than the things of eternity. The very blessings they have received from God become a barrier to separate their souls from their Creator and Redeemer. They will not be interrupted in their worldly pursuits, and they say to the messenger of mercy, “Go thy way for this time; when I have a convenient season, I will call for thee.”?Acts 24:25. Others urge the difficulties that would arise in their social relations should they obey the call of God. They say they cannot afford to be out of harmony with their relatives and acquaintances. Thus they prove themselves to be the very actors described in the parable. The Master of the feast regards their flimsy excuses as showing contempt for His invitation.?{COL 224.1}[13]
§31
那个说“我才娶了妻，所以不能去”的人代表一大类人。许多人让自己的妻子或丈夫拦阻自己听从上帝的呼召。丈夫说：“在我妻子反对的情况下，我无法随从良心的指示行事。她的影响会给我这样做带来很大的困难。”妻子听见了恩惠的呼召：“来吧！样样都齐备了。”她却说：“请你准我辞了，我的丈夫不肯接受这恩典的邀请。他说他的事业不允许。我必须随从丈夫，所以不能来。”儿女受了感动。他们也愿意来。可是他们爱自己的父母。既然父母不听从福音的呼召，儿女就认为自己也不能来。于是他们也说：“请你准我辞了。”{COL 224.2}[14]
§32
The man who said, “I have married a wife, and therefore I cannot come,” represents a large class. Many there are who allow their wives or their husbands to prevent them from heeding the call of God. The husband says, “I cannot obey my convictions of duty while my wife is opposed to it. Her influence would make it exceedingly hard for me to do so.” The wife hears the gracious call, “Come; for all things are now ready,” and she says, “‘I pray thee have me excused.’ My husband refuses the invitation of mercy. He says that his business stands in the way. I must go with my husband, and therefore I cannot come.” The children’s hearts are impressed. They desire to come. But they love their father and mother, and since these do not heed the gospel call, the children think that?they cannot be expected to come. They too say, “Have me excused.”?{COL 224.2}[14]
§33
这些人都拒绝了救主的呼召，因为他们担心家庭不睦。他们以为不顺从上帝就能保持家庭的和睦与幸福，但这是一种幻想。凡播撒自私种子的人，必要收获自私的后果。拒绝了基督的爱，就是拒绝了那唯一能提炼和巩固人间之爱的因素。他们不但要丧失天国，而且要丧失那牺牲了天国所企图保持的真正快乐。{COL 225.1}[15]
§34
All these refuse the Saviour’s call because they fear division in the family circle. They suppose that in refusing to obey God they are insuring the peace and prosperity of the home; but this is a delusion. Those who sow selfishness will reap selfishness. In rejecting the love of Christ they reject that which alone can impart purity and steadfastness to human love. They will not only lose heaven, but will fail of the true enjoyment of that for which heaven was sacrificed.?{COL 225.1}[15]
§35
在比喻中，筵席的主人得悉人如何看待他的邀请，“就动怒，对仆人说：‘快出去，到城里大街小巷，领那贫穷的、残废的、瞎眼的、瘸腿的来。’”{COL 225.2}[16]
§36
In the parable, the giver of the feast learned how his invitation had been treated, and “being angry, said to his servant, Go out quickly into the streets and lanes of the city, and bring in hither the poor, and the maimed, and the halt, and the blind.”?{COL 225.2}[16]
§37
主人撇弃了那些藐视他盛情的人，去邀请一班并不富有，也没有房产田地的人。他邀请那些虽然贫穷饥饿，却能赏识他所预备丰盛恩惠的人。基督说：“税吏和娼妓倒比你们先进上帝的国”（太21:31）。这些为人所唾弃的下等人，不论是多么卑贱，也不至于卑贱到上帝的爱心和看顾所不能达到的地步。基督渴望那些疲倦、困苦和受压迫的人都到祂面前来。祂渴望赐给他们在别处所找不到的亮光、喜乐与平安。罪恶深重的人乃是祂诚挚怜爱的对象。祂差遣祂的圣灵温柔地感化他们，千方百计吸引他们归向祂。{COL 225.3}[17]
§38
The host turned from those who despised his bounty, and invited a class who were not full, who were not in possession of houses and lands. He invited those who were?poor and hungry, and who would appreciate the bounties provided. “The publicans and the harlots,” Christ said, “go into the kingdom of God before you.”?Matthew 21:31. However wretched may be the specimens of humanity that men spurn and turn aside from, they are not too low, too wretched, for the notice and love of God. Christ longs to have care-worn, weary, oppressed human beings come to Him. He longs to give them the light and joy and peace that are to be found nowhere else. The veriest sinners are the objects of His deep, earnest pity and love. He sends His Holy Spirit to yearn over them with tenderness, seeking to draw them to Himself.?{COL 225.3}[17]
§39
那位把穷人和瞎子带来的仆人向主人报告说：“你所吩咐已经办了，还有空座。”主对仆人说：“你出去到路上和篱笆那里，勉强人进来，坐满我的屋子。”基督在这里指出，福音的工作要在犹太教范围之外，到世界的大街小巷中展开。{COL 226.1}[18]
§40
The servant who brought in the poor and the blind reported to his master, “It is done as thou hast commanded, and yet there is room. And the Lord said unto the servant, Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.” Here Christ pointed to the work of the gospel outside the pale of Judaism, in the highways and byways of the world.?{COL 226.1}[18]
§41
保罗和巴拿巴遵照这条命令对犹太人说：“上帝的道先讲给你们原是应当的；只因你们弃绝这道，断定自己不配得永生，我们就转向外邦人去。因为主曾这样吩咐我们说：‘我已经立祢作外邦人的光，叫祢施行救恩，直到地极。’外邦人听见这话，就欢喜了，赞美上帝的道；凡预定得永生的人都信了”（徒13:46-48）。{COL 226.2}[19]
§42
In obedience to this command, Paul and Barnabas declared to the Jews, “It was necessary that the word of God should first have been spoken to you; but seeing ye put it from you, and judge yourselves unworthy of everlasting life, lo, we turn to the Gentiles. For so hath the Lord commanded us, saying, I have set Thee to be a light of the Gentiles, that Thou shouldest be for salvation unto the ends of the earth. And when the Gentiles heard this, they were glad, and glorified the word of the Lord; and as many as were ordained to eternal life believed.”?Acts 13:46-48.?{COL 226.2}[19]
§43
基督的门徒所传讲的福音信息，乃是向世界宣布祂的第一次降临。这福音给世人带来了因信祂而得救的好消息。它预先指出祂在荣耀中复临，救赎祂的百姓，向世人提供了借着信心和顺从与众圣徒在光明中同得基业的希望。这个信息正在传给今日的世人，在此时更结合着基督快要复临的宣告。基督所说有关祂复临的预兆已经应验。我们藉着圣经的教训得知主正在门口了。{COL 226.3}[20]
§44
The gospel message proclaimed by Christ’s disciples was the announcement of His first advent to the world. It bore to men the good tidings of salvation through faith in Him. It pointed forward to His second coming in glory to redeem?His people, and it set before men the hope, through faith and obedience, of sharing the inheritance of the saints in light. This message is given to men today, and at this time there is coupled with it the announcement of Christ’s second coming as at hand. The signs which He Himself gave of His coming have been fulfilled, and by the teaching of God’s word we may know that the Lord is at the door.?{COL 226.3}[20]
§45
约翰在《启示录》中预言基督复临前夕福音的传播。他看到一位天使正“飞在空中，有永远的福音要传给住在地上的人，就是各国、各族、各方、各民。他大声说：‘应当敬畏上帝，将荣耀归给祂，因祂施行审判的时候已经到了’”（启14:6,7）。{COL 227.1}[21]
§46
John in the Revelation foretells the proclamation of the gospel message just before Christ’s second coming. He beholds an angel flying “in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel to preach unto them that dwell on the earth, and to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, saying with a loud voice, Fear God, and give glory to Him; for the hour of His judgment is come.”?Revelation 14:6, 7.?{COL 227.1}[21]
§47
在预言中，紧接着这个审判的警告及其连带信息的，就是人子驾着天云降临。宣布审判，就是宣布基督快要复临。这个宣告称为“永远的福音”。所以宣告基督复临，传讲救主快来，乃是福音信息的重要部分。{COL 227.2}[22]
§48
In the prophecy this warning of the judgment, with its connected messages, is followed by the coming of the Son of man in the clouds of heaven. The proclamation of the judgment is an announcement of Christ’s second coming as at hand. And this proclamation is called the everlasting gospel. Thus the preaching of Christ’s second?coming, the announcement of its nearness, is shown to be an essential part of the gospel message.?{COL 227.2}[22]
§49
圣经指出，在末后的日子，人们要一心追求世俗的事业、享乐和财富。他们对于永恒的现实盲然无知。基督说：“挪亚的日子怎样，人子降临也要怎样。当洪水以前的日子，人照常吃喝嫁娶，直到挪亚进方舟的那日，不知不觉洪水来了，把他们全都冲去。人子降临也要这样”（太24:37-39）。{COL 228.1}[23]
§50
The Bible declares that in the last days men will be absorbed in worldly pursuits, in pleasure and money-getting. They will be blind to eternal realities. Christ says, “As the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the Son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day that Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be.”?Matthew 24:37-39.?{COL 228.1}[23]
§51
现今也是这样。人们忙于追求财利和放纵私欲，好像没有上帝，没有天国，也没有来世似的。在挪亚的日子，洪水的警告是要叫人从罪恶中惊醒，并叫他们悔改。照样，基督快来的信息也是让人从世俗事务的醉梦中惊醒。这个警告的目的是要叫人看到永恒的现实，接受主筵席的邀请。{COL 228.2}[24]
§52
So it is today. Men are rushing on in the chase for gain and selfish indulgence as if there were no God, no heaven, and no hereafter. In Noah’s day the warning of the flood was sent to startle men in their wickedness and call them to repentance. So the message of Christ’s soon coming is designed to arouse men from their absorption in worldly things. It is intended to awaken them to a sense of eternal realities, that they may give heed to the invitation to the Lord’s table.?{COL 228.2}[24]
§53
福音的邀请必须传给普世的人类——“各国、各族、各方、各民”（启14:6）。警告和恩典之最后信息的荣光要普照全地。这个信息要传给贫富贵贱一切阶层的人。基督说：“你出去到路上和篱笆那里，勉强人进来，坐满我的屋子。”{COL 228.3}[25]
§54
The gospel invitation is to be given to all the world—“to every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people.”?Revelation 14:6. The last message of warning and mercy is to lighten the whole earth with its glory. It is to reach all classes of men, rich and poor, high and low. “Go out into the highways and hedges,” Christ says, “and compel them to come in, that My house may be filled.”?{COL 228.3}[25]
§55
世界因缺乏福音而濒临灭亡。各地所需要的，是上帝的圣言。很少有人传讲圣经而不搀杂人的遗传。人们手里虽然有圣经，却没有接受上帝在圣经中为他们所预备的福惠。上帝呼召祂的仆人将祂的信息传给众人。必须将永生之道传给那些将要在自己的罪中灭亡的人。{COL 228.4}[26]
§56
The world is perishing for want of the gospel. There is a famine for the word of God. There are few who preach the word unmixed with human tradition. Though men have the Bible in their hands, they do not receive the blessing that God has placed in it for them. The Lord calls upon His servants to carry His message to the people.?The word of everlasting life must be given to those who are perishing in their sins.?{COL 228.4}[26]
§57
基督吩咐人“出去到路上和篱笆那里”，这就指明了一切奉祂的名为祂服务之人的工作。基督传道人的园地就是全世界。他们的听众包括全人类。主希望祂恩惠的道能进入每一个人的心中。{COL 229.1}[27]
§58
In the command to go into the highways and hedges, Christ sets forth the work of all whom He calls to minister in His name. The whole world is the field for Christ’s ministers. The whole human family is comprised in their congregation. The Lord desires that His word of grace shall be brought home to every soul.?{COL 229.1}[27]
§59
这项工作，大部分要依靠个人之工来完成。这是基督所用的方法。祂的工作大部分是与个人交谈。即使只有一个人听道，祂也十分重视。祂的信息往往通过那个人传给成千上万的人。{COL 229.2}[28]
§60
To a great degree this must be accomplished by personal labor. This was Christ’s method. His work was largely made up of personal interviews. He had a faithful regard for the one-soul audience. Through that one soul the message was often extended to thousands.?{COL 229.2}[28]
§61
我们不要等别人来找我们。我们应该到他们那里去寻找他们。在讲台上讲道只是工作的开始。有许多人若不把福音带给他们，他们就永远听不到福音。{COL 229.3}[29]
§62
We are not to wait for souls to come to us; we must seek them out where they are. When the word has been preached in the pulpit, the work has but just begun. There are multitudes who will never be reached by the gospel unless it is carried to them.?{COL 229.3}[29]
§63
筵席的邀请首先是给犹太人的。他们曾蒙召作人间的教师和领袖。他们手中有预言基督降临的先知书。上帝把象征祂使命的礼仪交托他们。祭司和民众如果听从了主的邀请，就会与基督的使者联合起来，将福音的邀请传给世界。真理传给他们，是要他们传播出去。他们拒绝了这个呼召，于是真理就传给了那些贫穷、残废、瘸腿和瞎眼的人。税吏和罪人接受了邀请。当福音的呼召传到外邦时，工作步骤也是一样的。信息首先要在“大街”上传开，传给那些积极从事世界事务的人，以及民众的教师和领袖。{COL 229.4}[30]
§64
The invitation to the feast was first given to the Jewish people, the people who had been called to stand as teachers and leaders among men, the people in whose hands were the prophetic scrolls foretelling Christ’s advent, and to whom was committed the symbolic service foreshadowing His mission. Had priests and people heeded the call, they would have united with Christ’s messengers in giving the gospel invitation to the world. The truth was sent to them that they might impart it. When they refused the call, it was sent to the poor, the maimed, the halt, and the blind. Publicans and sinners received the invitation. When the gospel call is sent to the Gentiles, there is the same plan of working. The message is first to be given “in the highways”—to men who have an active part in the world’s work, to the teachers and leaders of the people.?{COL 229.4}[30]
§65
主的使者务要记住这一点。羊群的牧者和上帝所任命的教师也应当注意这个教训。要带着温情和弟兄之爱去接触社会的上层人士。那些从业工商，身居要职，具有发明才干和科学远见的人，那些赋有天才，还没有认识现代特殊真理的福音教师，都应首先听到这呼召。邀请必须先发给他们。{COL 230.1}[31]
§66
Let the Lord’s messengers bear this in mind. To the shepherds of the flock, the teachers divinely appointed, it should come as a word to be heeded. Those who belong to the higher ranks of society are to be sought out with tender affection and brotherly regard. Men in business life, in high positions of trust, men with large inventive faculties and scientific insight, men of genius, teachers of the gospel whose minds have not been called to the special truths for this time—these should be the first to hear the call. To them the invitation must be given.?{COL 230.1}[31]
§67
为富人也有一番工作要做。要帮助他们认识到自己对于上天所托之恩赐的责任。要提醒他们必须向审判活人死人的主交账。你要本着敬爱上帝之心去为富人作工。他们往往倚仗自己的财富而感觉不到危险。他们的心灵的眼睛需要被具有永恒价值的事物所吸引。他们需要认识到真正善良的力量。主说：“凡劳苦担重担的人，可以到我这里来，我就使你们得安息。我心里柔和谦卑，你们当负我的轭，学我的样式，这样，你们心里就必得享安息。因为我的轭是容易的，我的担子是轻省的”（太11:28-30）。{COL 230.2}[32]
§68
There is a work to be done for the wealthy. They need to be awakened to their responsibility as those entrusted with the gifts of heaven. They need to be reminded that they must give an account to Him who shall judge the living and the dead. The wealthy man needs your labor in the love and fear of God. Too often he trusts in his riches, and feels not his danger. The eyes of his mind need to be attracted to things of enduring value. He needs to recognize the authority of true goodness, which says, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you, and learn of Me; for I am meek and lowly in heart, and ye shall find rest unto your souls; for My yoke is easy, and My burden is light.”?Matthew 11:28-30.?{COL 230.2}[32]
§69
很少有人对那些因自己的学识、财富或职务而在世上身居高位的人谈论有关属灵利益的事。许多基督的工人与这等人接触时优柔寡断。这是不对的。如果一个人将要淹死，我们总不会因为他是个律师、商人或法官而袖手旁观，见死不救。我们若看见有人要从悬崖上跳下去，不论他们的地位和身份如何，我们都会毫不犹豫地劝阻他们。我们在警告世人属灵危险的事上也不可犹豫不决。{COL 230.3}[33]
§70
Those who stand high in the world for their education, wealth, or calling, are seldom addressed personally in regard to the interests of the soul. Many Christian workers hesitate to approach these classes. But this should not be. If a man were drowning, we would not stand by and see him perish because he was a lawyer, a merchant, or a judge. If we saw persons rushing over a precipice, we would not hesitate to urge them back, whatever might be their position or calling. Neither should we hesitate to warn men of the peril of the soul.?{COL 230.3}[33]
§71
我们不要因为人在表面上专心从事世务而忽略他们。许多社会地位很高的人，心灵却十分苦闷和空虚。他们渴望得到自己所缺乏的平安。在社会的最高阶层中，也有人如饥似渴地寻求救恩。如果基督的工人以和蔼的态度，怀着一颗因基督的爱而融化了的心去接近他们，许多人是愿意接受帮助的。{COL 231.1}[34]
§72
None should be neglected because of their apparent devotion to worldly things. Many in high social positions are heartsore, and sick of vanity. They are longing for a peace which they have not. In the very highest ranks of society are those who are hungering and thirsting for salvation. Many would receive help if the Lord’s workers would approach them personally, with a kind manner, a heart made tender by the love of Christ.?{COL 231.1}[34]
§73
福音信息的成效不在于博学的言谈、过人的口才或深奥的辩论，而在于信息本身的朴素性，以及它对于渴求生命之粮者的适应性。人心所需要解决的是：“我当怎样行才可以得救？”{COL 231.2}[35]
§74
The success of the gospel message does not depend upon learned speeches, eloquent testimonies, or deep arguments. It depends upon the simplicity of the message and its adaptation to the souls that are hungering for the bread of life. “What shall I do to be saved?”—this is the want of the soul.?{COL 231.2}[35]
§75
千万人都可以用最简单最普通的方法去接近。最有学问的人，就是被公认为世界上智力巨子的人，往往会因一位爱上帝的人所说简单的几句话而受到鼓舞，因为他能自然地谈论这爱，正如世人谈论他所最关心的事物一样。{COL 232.1}[36]
§76
Thousands can be reached in the most simple and humble way. The most intellectual, those who are looked upon as the world’s most gifted men and women, are often refreshed by the simple words of one who loves God, and who can speak of that love as naturally as the worldling speaks of the things that interest him most deeply.?{COL 232.1}[36]
§77
事先经过研究和准备的话，往往没有什么效果。然而一个上帝的儿女本着自然的朴素所说的真心话，却能打开多年来向基督和祂的爱关闭了的心门。{COL 232.2}[37]
§78
Often the words well prepared and studied have but little influence. But the true, honest expression of a son or daughter of God, spoken in natural simplicity, has power to unbolt the door to hearts that have long been closed against Christ and His love.?{COL 232.2}[37]
§79
基督的工人务要记住：他们不可依赖自己的力量作工。要信靠基督拯救的大能，并以这种信心握住上帝的宝座。要在祈祷中与上帝角力，然后再运用上帝所赐的一切才能去工作。圣灵会赐给他，使他的工作产生效果。服役的天使也必在他身边感动人心。{COL 232.3}[38]
§80
Let the worker for Christ remember that he is not to labor in his own strength. Let him lay hold of the throne of God with faith in His power to save. Let him wrestle with God in prayer, and then work with all the facilities God has given him. The Holy Spirit is provided as his efficiency. Ministering angels will be by his side to impress hearts.?{COL 232.3}[38]
§81
如果耶路撒冷的领袖和教师们接受了基督所传的真理，他们的城市就会变成多么美好的传道中心啊！背道的以色列就会悔改了。广大的群众也就会被招聚归向主了。他们会何等迅速地将福音传遍天涯地角。现在也是这样。如果能争取有影响有才华的人归向基督，那么藉着他们，就会成就多么伟大的工作，来帮助拯救堕落的人，召集流浪的人，并广泛传播救恩的信息啊！邀请就会迅速发出，主的宴会上也必宾朋满座了。{COL 232.4}[39]
§82
If the leaders and teachers at Jerusalem had received the truth Christ brought, what a missionary center their city would have been! Backslidden Israel would have been converted. A vast army would have been gathered for the Lord. And how rapidly they could have carried the gospel to all parts of the world. So now, if men of influence and large capacity for usefulness could be won for Christ, then through them what a work could be accomplished in lifting up the fallen, gathering in the outcasts, and spreading far and wide the tidings of salvation. Rapidly the invitation might be given, and the guests be gathered for the Lord’s table.?{COL 232.4}[39]
§83
但我们不要只注意有地位有才能的人，而忽略那些较为贫困的阶层。基督吩咐他的使者也要到小路上和篱笆旁，就是到世上贫苦卑微的人那里去。在大城市的院落和小巷里，在乡间偏僻的小路上，都家庭和个人，或身在异乡的客旅。他们与教会尚无联系，在孤寂之中以为自己被上帝遗忘了。他们不知道应当怎样行才可以得救。许多人陷在罪中饱经磨难，被疾病、贫困、疑惑和沮丧所压迫。他们在肉体和心灵上患有种种病疾，渴望自己的忧苦得到安慰。撒但却引诱他们从导致毁灭和死亡的情欲和宴乐中去寻求快乐。他向他们提供所多玛的苹果。这果子一到口里就化为尘灰。他们正在花钱买那不足为食物的，用劳碌得来的买那不使人饱足的。{COL 232.5}[40]
§84
But we are not to think only of great and gifted men, to the neglect of the poorer classes. Christ instructs His messengers to go also to those in the byways and hedges, to the poor and lowly of the earth. In the courts and lanes of the great cities, in the lonely byways of the country,?are families and individuals—perhaps strangers in a strange land—who are without church relations, and who, in their loneliness, come to feel that God has forgotten them. They do not understand what they must do to be saved. Many are sunken in sin. Many are in distress. They are pressed with suffering, want, unbelief, despondency. Disease of every type afflicts them, both in body and in soul. They long to find a solace for their troubles, and Satan tempts them to seek it in lusts and pleasures that lead to ruin and death. He is offering them the apples of Sodom, that will turn to ashes upon their lips. They are spending their money for that which is not bread and their labor for that which satisfieth not.?{COL 232.5}[40]
§85
我们应当看到，这些受苦的人正是基督拯救的对象。祂邀请他们说：“你们一切干渴的都当就近水来；没有银钱的也可以来。你们都来，买了吃；不用银钱，不用价值，也来买酒和奶。……你们要留意听我的话就能吃那美物，得享肥甘，心中喜乐。你们当就近我来；侧耳而听，就必得活”（赛55:1-3）。{COL 233.1}[41]
§86
In these suffering ones we are to see those whom Christ came to save. His invitation to them is “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters, and he that hath no money; come ye, buy and eat; yea, come, buy wine and milk without money and without price.... Hearken diligently unto Me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness. Incline your ear, and come unto Me: hear, and your soul shall live.”?Isaiah 55:1-3.?{COL 233.1}[41]
§87
上帝特地吩咐我们顾念作客旅的、流亡的和道德力薄弱的可怜人。许多人在外表上看，似乎对宗教问题漠不关心，他们的内心却渴望安息与平安。他们也许沉溺在罪海深处，但仍然有得救的可能。{COL 233.2}[42]
§88
God has given a special command that we should regard the stranger, the outcast, and the poor souls who are weak in moral power. Many who appear wholly indifferent to religious things are in heart longing for rest and peace. Although they may have sunken to the very depths of sin, there is a possibility of saving them.?{COL 233.2}[42]
§89
基督的仆人应当追随祂的榜样。祂周流四方的时候，曾安慰受苦的人，医治患病的人。然后祂将有关祂国度的伟大真理告诉他们。这也是祂门徒的工作。当你解除人身体的痛苦时，你必找到服务人心灵需要的途径。你能够指出那被举起来的救主，述说那位大医师的慈爱。惟独祂赋有恢复的能力。{COL 233.3}[43]
§90
Christ’s servants are to follow His example. As He went from place to place, He comforted the suffering and healed the sick. Then He placed before them the great truths in regard to His kingdom. This is the work of His followers. As you relieve the sufferings of the body, you will find ways for ministering to the wants of the soul. You can point to the uplifted Saviour, and tell of the love?of the great Physician, who alone has power to restore.?{COL 233.3}[43]
§91
要告诉灰心迷路的可怜人不必绝望。他们虽然犯了错误，没有造就正直的品格，上帝仍乐意恢复他们，将救恩的喜乐赐给他们。祂喜欢接纳看起来没有希望的材料，就是撒但所藉以作工的人，使他们承受祂的恩典。祂乐意拯救他们脱离那行将临到背道之人的忿怒。要告诉他们：每个人都可以得到医治和洁净。在主的筵席上有为他们预备的席位。祂正等着要欢迎他们。{COL 234.1}[44]
§92
Tell the poor desponding ones who have gone astray that they need not despair. Though they have erred, and have not been building a right character, God has joy to restore them, even the joy of His salvation. He delights to take apparently hopeless material, those through whom Satan has worked, and make them the subjects of His grace. He rejoices to deliver them from the wrath which is to fall upon the disobedient. Tell them there is healing, cleansing for every soul. There is a place for them at the Lord’s table. He is waiting to bid them welcome.?{COL 234.1}[44]
§93
那些往小路上和篱笆那里去的人，将发现另一等与上面完全不同的人需要他们的服务。这些人实行他们所已经拥有的亮光，并尽他们的认识来侍奉上帝。但是他们感觉到有一番大工要为他们自己和周围的人去作。他们渴望进一步地认识上帝。但是他们只看到更大亮光的一线光芒。他们流泪祈求上帝赐下他们凭着信心所遥望的福惠。在大城市的邪恶之中，可以找出许多这样的人。他们中有不少人处境卑微，因而不为世人所注意。还有许多人是传道人和教会所不认识的。但是他们在卑微困苦的境遇中仍然为上帝作见证。他们所得的亮光可能很少，接受基督化训练的机会也不多，但是他们在饥寒交迫之中仍然设法为别人服务。凡领受上帝丰富恩典的人必须找到这些人，访问他们的家庭，并藉圣灵的能力满足他们的需要。要与他们一起研究圣经，用圣灵所感动的纯朴语言与他们一起祈祷。基督就会赐给祂的仆人一个信息，作为上天降于人的粮食。宝贵的福惠要从一个人传到另一个人，从一个家庭传到另一个家庭。{COL 234.2}[45]
§94
Those who go into the byways and hedges will find others of a widely different character, who need their ministry. There are those who are living up to all the light they have, and are serving God the best they know how. But they realize that there is a great work to be done for themselves and for those about them. They are longing for an increased knowledge of God, but they have only begun to see the glimmering of greater light. They are praying with tears that God will send them the blessing which by faith they discern afar off. In the midst of the wickedness of the great cities many of these souls are to be found. Many of them are in very humble circumstances, and because of this they are unnoticed by the world. There are many of whom ministers and churches know nothing. But in lowly, miserable places they are the Lord’s witnesses. They may have had little light and few opportunities for Christian training, but in the midst of nakedness, hunger, and cold they are seeking to minister to others. Let the stewards of the manifold grace of God seek out these souls, visit their homes, and through the power of the Holy Spirit minister to their needs. Study the Bible with them and pray with them with that simplicity which the Holy Spirit inspires. Christ will give His servants a message that will be?as the bread of heaven to the soul. The precious blessing will be carried from heart to heart, from family to family.?{COL 234.2}[45]
§95
比喻中“勉强人进来”的吩咐往往被人曲解了。有人以为这是叫我们强迫人接受福音。其实它只是说明邀请的迫切性，以及劝导人时所用方法的有效性。福音从来不强迫人归向基督。它的信息是：“你们一切干渴的都当就近水来”（赛55:1）。“圣灵和新妇都说：“来！……愿意的，都可以白白取生命的水喝”（启22:17）。上帝之爱和恩典的能力激励我们前来。{COL 235.1}[46]
§96
The command given in the parable, to “compel them to come in,” has often been misinterpreted. It has been regarded as teaching that we should force men to receive the gospel. But it denotes rather the urgency of the invitation, and the effectiveness of the inducements presented. The gospel never employs force in bringing men to Christ. Its message is “Ho, every one that thirsteth, come ye to the waters.”?Isaiah 55:1. “The Spirit and the bride say, Come.... And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”?Revelation 22:17. The power of God’s love and grace constrains us to come.?{COL 235.1}[46]
§97
救主说：“看哪，我站在门外叩门，若有听见我声音就开门的，我要进到他那里去，我与他，他与我，一同坐席”（启3:20）。祂不因人的藐视而躲避，也不因人的威胁而退缩，依然孜孜不倦地寻找失丧的人，说：“我怎能舍弃你”（何11:8）？祂的爱虽然被顽梗的心所拒绝，但祂仍以更大的力量发出恳劝说：“看哪，我站在门外叩门。”祂慈爱感动人心的力量“勉强”人来归向祂。于是他们对基督说：“祢的温和使我为大”（诗18:35）。{COL 235.2}[47]
§98
The Saviour says, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock; if any man hear My voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with Me.”?Revelation 3:20. He is not repulsed by scorn or turned aside by threatening, but continually seeks the lost ones, saying, “How shall I give thee up?”?Hosea 11:8. Although His love is driven back by the stubborn heart, He returns to plead with greater force, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock.” The winning power of His love compels souls to come in. And to Christ they say, “Thy gentleness hath made me great.”?Psalm 18:35.?{COL 235.2}[47]
§99
基督要将自己寻找失丧者的爱心分给祂的使者。我们不能单单说“来”。有些人虽然已经听见了呼召，他们的耳朵却太迟钝了，不能领会它的意义。他们的眼睛太模糊了，看不出为他们所预备的好处。许多人认识到自己的十分堕落。他们说：我不配得帮助；随我去好了！然而主的工人不可停止工作。他们要凭着亲切慈怜的爱心帮助灰心无助的人。要把你的勇气、希望和力量分给他们。要仁慈地催促他们前来。“有些人存疑心，你们要怜悯他们；有些人你们要从火中抢出来，搭救他们；有些人你们要存惧怕的心怜悯他们”（犹22,23）。{COL 235.3}[48]
§100
Christ will impart to His messengers the same yearning love that He Himself has in seeking for the lost. We are not merely to say, “Come.” There are those who hear the call, but their ears are too dull to take in its meaning. Their eyes are too blind to see anything good in store for them. Many realize their great degradation. They say, I am not fit to be helped; leave me alone. But the workers must not desist. In tender, pitying love, lay hold of the discouraged and helpless ones. Give them your courage, your hope, your strength. By kindness compel them to?come. “Of some have compassion, making a difference; and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire.”?Jude 22, 23.?{COL 235.3}[48]
§101
如果上帝的仆人愿意凭着信心与祂同行，祂就必使他们所传的信息大有能力。他们必能述说上帝的爱，以及拒绝上帝恩典的危险，感动人接受福音。只要人肯实行上帝所分派的工作，基督就会施行奇妙的神迹。在今日人心中所成就的巨大变化，将不亚于以往的世代。约翰·班扬是从亵渎淫荡之中、约翰·牛顿是从贩卖奴隶的罪行中被拯救出来的。结果他们都大力宣扬那举起来的救主。上帝也能从现代的人群中拯救出班扬和牛顿来。只要上帝的使者与祂通力合作，就能找回许多可怜的流亡者。并且他们也要转而尽自己的力量去在别人身上恢复上帝的形像。有些人没有很多的机会。他们因不知道正路而误入歧途。对于这等人，必有光照耀他们。基督对撒该所说的话：“今天我必住在你家里”（路19:5），也必照样对他们讲。那些在外表上似乎很硬心的罪人，因为基督肯垂顾他们，他们的心就会表现出小孩子般的柔顺。许多人要从最可怕的错谬和罪恶中出来，代替那些曾享有种种机会和特权，却未予以重视的人。他们要被称为上帝的选民，就是特选的宝贵子民。当基督进入祂的国度时，他们必站在祂宝座旁边。{COL 236.1}[49]
§102
If the servants of God will walk with Him in faith, He will give power to their message. They will be enabled so to present His love and the danger of rejecting the grace of God that men will be constrained to accept the gospel. Christ will perform wonderful miracles if men will but do their God-given part. In human hearts today as great a transformation may be wrought as has ever been wrought in generations past. John Bunyan was redeemed from profanity and reveling, John Newton from slave dealing, to proclaim an uplifted Saviour. A Bunyan and a Newton may be redeemed from among men today. Through human agents who co-operate with the divine, many a poor outcast will be reclaimed, and in his turn will seek to restore the image of God in man. There are those who have had very meager opportunities, who have walked in ways of error because they knew no better way, to whom beams of light will come. As the word of Christ came to Zacchaeus, “Today I must abide at thy house” (Luke 19:5), so the word will come to them; and those who were supposed to be hardened sinners will be found to have hearts as tender as a child’s because Christ has deigned to notice them. Many will come from the grossest error and sin, and will take the place of others who have had opportunities and privileges but have not prized them. They will be accounted the chosen of God, elect, precious; and when Christ shall come into His kingdom, they will stand next His throne.?{COL 236.1}[49]
§103
但是“你们总要谨慎，不可弃绝那向你们说话的”（来12:25）。耶稣说：“先前所请的人，没有一个得尝我的筵席。”他们拒绝了祂的邀请，就没有一个再受到邀请了。犹太人在拒绝基督的事上，硬着心肠，自愿投入撒但的权势之下，以致不可能再接受祂的恩典了。现在也是这样。如果我们不欣赏上帝的慈爱，不把这爱作为一种恒久的原则来软化制服我们的心，我们就一定会灭亡。主不可能显示一种比祂所已经显示的更大的爱了。如果耶稣的爱不能降服我们的心，就没有什么办法能帮助我们了。{COL 236.2}[50]
§104
But “see that ye refuse not Him that speaketh.”?Hebrews 12:25. Jesus said, “None of those men which were bidden shall taste of My supper.” They had rejected the invitation, and none of them were to be invited again. In rejecting Christ, the Jews were hardening their hearts, and giving themselves into the power of Satan so that it?would be impossible for them to accept His grace. So it is now. If the love of God is not appreciated and does not become an abiding principle to soften and subdue the soul, we are utterly lost. The Lord can give no greater manifestation of His love than He has given. If the love of Jesus does not subdue the heart, there are no means by which we can be reached.?{COL 236.2}[50]
§105
你每次拒绝顺从恩典的信息，都会加深自己的不信。你每次向基督关闭心门，都会越来越不愿意听祂说话的声音。你减少了自己接受恩典最后邀请的机会。但愿写给古时的以色列人的话不是写给你的：“以法莲亲近偶像，任凭他吧”（何4:17）！切莫让基督为你哀哭，就像祂为耶路撒冷哀哭一样：“我多次愿意聚集你的儿女，好像母鸡把小鸡聚集在翅膀底下，只是你们不愿意。看哪，你们的家成为荒场留给你们”（路13:34,35）。{COL 237.1}[51]
§106
Every time you refuse to listen to the message of mercy, you strengthen yourself in unbelief. Every time you fail to open the door of your heart to Christ, you become more and more unwilling to listen to the voice of Him that speaketh. You diminish your chance of responding to the last appeal of mercy. Let it not be written of you, as of ancient Israel, “Ephraim is joined to idols; let him alone.”?Hosea 4:17. Let not Christ weep over you as He wept over Jerusalem, saying, “How often would I have gathered thy children together, as a hen doth gather her brood under her wings, and ye would not! Behold, your house is left unto you desolate.”?Luke 13:34, 35.?{COL 237.1}[51]
§107
我们生活在上帝向人类发出祂恩典最后信息和邀请的时代。“你出去到路上和篱笆那里”的命令，将要最后完成了。基督的邀请要发给每一个人。祂的使者正在说：“请来吧！样样都齐备了。”天使仍然在与人间的工人合作。圣灵正千方百计劝导你前来。基督正在仔细观察你把门闩拉开，把心门打开，让祂进来的迹象。天使正等候着要把又有一个迷路罪人被找到的好消息带到天庭。众天军也在等着要弹奏金琴，欢唱快乐的诗歌，庆祝又有一个人接受福音筵席的邀请。{COL 237.2}[52]
§108
We are living in a time when the last message of mercy, the last invitation, is sounding to the children of men. The command, “Go out into the highways and hedges,” is reaching its final fulfillment. To every soul Christ’s invitation will be given. The messengers are saying, “Come; for all things are now ready.” Heavenly angels are still working in co-operation with human agencies. The Holy Spirit is presenting every inducement to constrain you to come. Christ is watching for some sign that will betoken the removing of the bolts and the opening of the door of your heart for His entrance. Angels are waiting to bear the tidings to heaven that another lost sinner has been found. The hosts of heaven are waiting, ready to strike their harps and to sing a song of rejoicing that another soul has accepted the invitation to the gospel feast.?{COL 237.2}[52]