第25章 论才干
§1
第25章 论才干Chap. 25—Talents（根据太25:13-30）
§2
基督曾在橄榄山上向祂的门徒讲论祂第二次降临世界。祂列举了一些表明祂快来的预兆，嘱咐门徒要儆醒预备。祂再次警告他们说：“所以你们要儆醒；因为那日子，那时辰，你们不知道。”然后祂说明了儆醒等候祂来的含义。他们等候祂，不应在闲懒中消磨光阴，而要殷勤作工。祂在论才干的比喻中，说明了这个教训。{COL 325.1}[1]
§3
This chapter is based on?Matthew 25:13-30.
§4
Christ on the Mount of Olives had spoken to His disciples of His second advent to the world. He had specified certain signs that were to show when His coming was near, and had bidden His disciples watch and be ready. Again He repeated the warning, “Watch therefore; for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.” Then He showed what it means to watch for His coming. The time is to be spent, not in idle waiting, but in diligent working. This lesson He taught in the parable of the talents.?{COL 325.1}[1]
§5
祂说：“天国又好比一个人要往外国去，就叫了仆人来，把他的家业交给他们。按着各人的才干，给他们银子；一个给了五千、一个给了二千、一个给了一千，就往外国去了。”{COL 325.2}[2]
§6
“The kingdom of heaven,” He said, “is as a man traveling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey.”?{COL 325.2}[2]
§7
这个往外国去的人代表基督。因为祂讲了这个比喻以后不久，就要离开世界前往天国。比喻中的仆人代表跟从基督的人。我们不是自己的人。我们是用“重价买来的”（林前6:20），“不是凭着能坏的金银等物，乃是凭着基督的宝血”（彼前1:18,19），“是叫那些活着的人，不再为自己活，乃为替他们死而复活的主活”（林后5:15）。{COL 325.3}[3]
§8
The man traveling into a far country represents Christ,?who, when speaking this parable, was soon to depart from this earth to heaven. The “bondservants” (R.V.), or slaves, of the parable, represent the followers of Christ. We are not our own. We have been “bought with a price” (1 Corinthians 6:20), not “with corruptible things, as silver and gold, ... but with the precious blood of Christ” (1 Peter 1:18, 19); “that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto Him which died for them, and rose again” (2 Corinthians 5:15).?{COL 325.3}[3]
§9
全人类都是用无限的代价买来的。上帝已经将天庭的一切财富倾倒在这个世界，并且在基督里将整个天庭都赐给了我们，藉此赎回每一个人的意志、情感、心智和灵魂。所有的人，无论是信徒或非信徒，都是上帝的产业。他们都蒙召要为祂服务。他们不论以怎样的态度来对待这个呼召，都必须在审判的大日作出交代。{COL 326.1}[4]
§10
All men have been bought with this infinite price. By pouring the whole treasury of heaven into this world, by giving us in Christ all heaven, God has purchased the will, the affections, the mind, the soul, of every human being. Whether believers or unbelievers, all men are the Lord’s property. All are called to do service for Him, and for the manner in which they have met this claim, all will be required to render an account at the great judgment day.?{COL 326.1}[4]
§11
然而并不是所有的人都认识到上帝的要求。比喻中祂的仆人代表那些自称接受为基督服务之职责的人。{COL 326.2}[5]
§12
But the claims of God are not recognized by all. It is those who profess to have accepted Christ’s service who in the parable are represented as His own servants.?{COL 326.2}[5]
§13
基督的门徒蒙救赎是为了服务。我们的主教训我们：人生的真正目的就是服务。基督自己就是一个工人。祂把服务的定律，就是为上帝为同胞服务的定律交给了祂的门徒。基督在这里为人提供了人世间最高的人生观。藉着为他人服务的生活，人类得以与基督联合在一起。服务的定律就成了我们与上帝、我们与同胞之间的链环。{COL 326.3}[6]
§14
Christ’s followers have been redeemed for service. Our Lord teaches that the true object of life is ministry. Christ Himself was a worker, and to all His followers He gives the law of service—service to God and to their fellow men. Here Christ has presented to the world a higher conception of life than they had ever known. By living to minister for others, man is brought into connection with Christ. The law of service becomes the connecting link which binds us to God and to our fellow men.?{COL 326.3}[6]
§15
基督把祂的“家业”，就是要为祂所用的财富委托给祂的仆人。“分派各人当做的工”（可13:34）。在天国的永恒计划中，人人都有自己的岗位。每一个人都应在救灵的工作上与基督合作。在地上所指定给我们为上帝作工的地方，乃是我们预备进入天上住宅最可靠的地方。{COL 326.4}[7]
§16
To His servants Christ commits “His goods”—something to be put to use for Him. He gives “to every man his work.” Each has his place in the eternal plan of heaven. Each is to work in co-operation with Christ for the salvation?of souls. Not more surely is the place prepared for us in the heavenly mansions than is the special place designated on earth where we are to work for God.?{COL 326.4}[7]
§17
【圣灵的恩赐】
§18
基督所交托教会的银子，主要代表圣灵所赐的种种恩赐与福惠。“这人蒙圣灵赐他智慧的言语；那人也蒙这位圣灵赐他知识的言语；又有一人蒙这位圣灵赐他信心；还有一人蒙这位圣灵赐他医病的恩赐；又叫一人能行异能；又叫一人能作先知；又叫一人能辨别诸灵；又叫一人能说方言；又叫一人能翻方言：这一切都是这位圣灵所运行，随己意分给各人的”（林前12:8-11）。所有的人不可能领受同样的恩赐，但主的每一个仆人都得到保证要领受圣灵的某些恩赐。{COL 327.1}[8]
§19
【Gifts of the Holy Spirit】
§20
The talents that Christ entrusts to His church represent especially the gifts and blessings imparted by the Holy Spirit. “To one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit; to another the gifts of healing by the same Spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues: but all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as He will.”?1 Corinthians 12:8-11. All men do not receive the same gifts, but to every servant of the Master some gift of the Spirit is promised.?{COL 327.1}[8]
§21
基督在离开门徒之前，“向他们吹一口气，说：你们受圣灵”（约20:22）。祂还说：“我要将我父所应许的降在你们身上”（路24:49）。然而直到主升天之后，他们才丰丰盛盛地获得了这种恩赐。在门徒藉着信心与祈祷完全顺服圣灵的运行之后，他们才领受了圣灵的沛降。从特殊的意义上说，天国的“家业”这时才托付给基督的门徒。“祂升上高天的时候，掳掠了仇敌，将各样的恩赐赏给人。”“我们各人蒙恩，都是照基督所量给各人的恩赐”（弗4:8,7），是圣灵“随己意分给各人的”（林前12:11）。这些恩赐在基督里已经属于我们了，但实际的获得却在于我们是否领受了上帝的圣灵。{COL 327.2}[9]
§22
Before He left His disciples, Christ “breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost.”?John 20:22. Again He said, “Behold, I send the promise of My Father upon you.”?Luke 24:49. But not until after the ascension was the gift received in its fullness. Not until through faith and prayer the disciples had surrendered themselves fully for His working was the outpouring of the Spirit received. Then in a special sense the goods of heaven were committed to the followers of Christ. “When He ascended up on high, He led captivity captive, and gave gifts unto men.”?Ephesians 4:8. “Unto every one of us is given grace, according to the measure of the gift of Christ,” the Spirit “dividing to every man severally as He will.”?Ephesians 4:7;?1 Corinthians 12:11. The gifts are already ours in Christ, but their actual possession depends upon our reception of the Spirit of God.?{COL 327.2}[9]
§23
赐圣灵的应许没有受到应有的重视，也没有充分地应验。福音工作软弱无力，就是因为缺乏圣灵。人可以赋有学识、口才和种种先天与后天的才华，但如果没有上帝圣灵的同在，就不可能感动人心，吸引罪人归依基督。反过来说，最软弱最无知的基督徒，只要与基督联合，领受圣灵的恩赐，就会有感动人心的能力。上帝必使他们成为宇宙间最高感化力的通道。{COL 328.1}[10]
§24
The promise of the Spirit is not appreciated as it should be. Its fulfillment is not realized as it might be. It is the absence of the Spirit that makes the gospel ministry so powerless. Learning, talents, eloquence, every natural or acquired endowment, may be possessed; but without the presence of the Spirit of God, no heart will be touched, no sinner be won to Christ. On the other hand, if they are connected with Christ, if the gifts of the Spirit are theirs, the poorest and most ignorant of His disciples will have a power that will tell upon hearts. God makes them the channel for the outworking of the highest influence in the universe.?{COL 328.1}[10]
§25
【其它才干】
§26
比喻中的银子不仅代表圣灵的特别恩赐，也包括一切先天或后天的、肉体或属灵方面的才能。这一切才能都要用来为基督服务。我们既成为祂的门徒，就应当把自己，以及我们的一切所有的都奉献给祂。这些才能经祂洁净与提炼之后，再归还我们，用来荣耀祂并造福同胞。{COL 328.2}[11]
§27
【Other Talents】
§28
The special gifts of the Spirit are not the only talents represented in the parable. It includes all gifts and endowments, whether original or acquired, natural or spiritual. All are to be employed in Christ’s service. In becoming His disciples, we surrender ourselves to Him with all that we are and have. These gifts He returns to us purified and ennobled, to be used for His glory in blessing our fellow men.?{COL 328.2}[11]
§29
上帝“按着各人的才干”赐给各人。银子不是随便发放的。有能力用五千的，就得五千；能用二千的，就得二千；只能善用一千的，就得一千。他们不必惋惜自己没有得到更多的银子；因为银子不论多少，只要各人加以善用，银子的主人就会给予同样的荣誉。分得五千的要赚回五千；仅有一千的要赚回一千。上帝希望“照他所有的，并不是照他所无的”（林后8:12）归还。{COL 328.3}[12]
§30
To every man God has given “according to his several ability.” The talents are not apportioned capriciously. He who has ability to use five talents receives five. He who can improve but two, receives two. He who can wisely use only one, receives one. None need lament that they have not received larger gifts; for He who has apportioned to every man is equally honored by the improvement of each trust, whether it be great or small. The one to whom five talents have been committed is to render the improvement of five; he who has but one, the improvement of one. God expects returns “according to that a man hath, and not according to that he hath not.”?2 Corinthians 8:12.?{COL 328.3}[12]
§31
在比喻中，“那领五千的，随即拿去做买卖，另外赚了五千；那领二千的，也照样另赚了二千。”{COL 329.1}[13]
§32
In the parable he that had “received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents; and likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.”?{COL 329.1}[13]
§33
银子不论多么少，也要予以利用。与我们最有关系的问题不是我得了多少，而是我如何利用我所拥有的。我们对上帝对同胞的首要责任，就是发挥我们的才能。一个人的能力和功效如果不与日俱进，就违背了人生的宗旨。我们承认相信基督，就是保证要尽一切力量作主的工人，并培养各样的才能，使之达到尽善尽美，以便能按照我们的能力尽量行善。{COL 329.2}[14]
§34
The talents, however few, are to be put to use. The question that most concerns us is not, How much have I received? but, What am I doing with that which I have? The development of all our powers is the first duty we owe to God and to our fellow men. No one who is not growing daily in capability and usefulness is fulfilling the purpose?of life. In making a profession of faith in Christ we pledge ourselves to become all that it is possible for us to be as workers for the Master, and we should cultivate every faculty to the highest degree of perfection, that we may do the greatest amount of good of which we are capable.?{COL 329.2}[14]
§35
上帝有一番大工要完成。祂要将来生最大的赏赐授与那些在今生献上最忠诚最乐意之服务的人。上帝拣选了祂的代表，每天在各种不同的环境下，按照祂的工作计划给他们一个考验。祂拣选诚心实行祂计划的人作祂的代表，不是因为他们是完全的，而是因为他们能藉着与祂的联络而达到完全的境地。{COL 330.1}[15]
§36
The Lord has a great work to be done, and He will bequeath the most in the future life to those who do the most faithful, willing service in the present life. The Lord chooses His own agents, and each day under different circumstances He gives them a trial in His plan of operation. In each true-hearted endeavor to work out His plan, He chooses His agents not because they are perfect but because, through a connection with Him, they may gain perfection.?{COL 330.1}[15]
§37
上帝只悦纳那些立志达到崇高目标的人。祂要每一个仆人忠心尽责。祂要求所有的人都得到完美的品德。我们绝不可降低公义的标准，来迎合我与生俱来或后天养成的犯罪倾向。我们必须明白：品格的不完美就是罪。上帝公义的品德是一个完美和谐的整体。每一接受基督为个人救主的人都有权获得这些品质。{COL 330.2}[16]
§38
God will accept only those who are determined to aim high. He places every human agent under obligation to do his best. Moral perfection is required of all. Never should we lower the standard of righteousness in order to accommodate inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong-doing. We need to understand that imperfection of character is sin. All righteous attributes of character dwell in God as a perfect, harmonious whole, and every one who receives Christ as a personal Saviour is privileged to possess these attributes.?{COL 330.2}[16]
§39
凡愿意与上帝同工的人，必须努力使身体的各器官以及自己的心智达到完美的地步。真教育乃是使人在德、智、体方面作好准备，以履行人生的各种职责，并在身体和心灵方面进行培养，为上帝服务。这是一种延续到永生的教育。{COL 330.3}[17]
§40
And those who would be workers together with God must strive for perfection of every organ of the body and quality of the mind. True education is the preparation of the physical, mental, and moral powers for the performance of every duty; it is the training of body, mind, and soul for divine service. This is the education that will endure unto eternal life.?{COL 330.3}[17]
§41
上帝要求每一个基督徒各方面的能力都得到增长。基督已经为我们付好了工价，就是祂的宝血和苦难，为要得到我们甘心乐意的服务。祂到世上来为我们树立了榜样，指教我们如何工作，用什么精神来工作。祂要我们研究如何有效地推进祂的工作，并在地上荣耀祂的圣名，以最大的爱心和诚意尊荣那位“爱世人，甚至将祂的独生子赐给他们，叫一切信祂的，不至灭亡，反得永生”的天父（约3:16）。{COL 330.4}[18]
§42
Of every Christian the Lord requires growth in efficiency and capability in every line. Christ has paid us our wages, even His own blood and suffering, to secure?our willing service. He came to our world to give us an example of how we should work, and what spirit we should bring into our labor. He desires us to study how we can best advance His work and glorify His name in the world, crowning with honor, with the greatest love and devotion, the Father who “so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”?John 3:16.?{COL 330.4}[18]
§43
但基督并没有向我们保证说，获得完美的品格是一件容易的事。高尚完美的品格不是与生俱来的。也不是偶然得到的。高尚的品格是靠着基督的功劳与恩典，通过个人的努力而获得的。上帝赐给我们才能和智力，让我们来塑造品格。这种品格必须通过与自己进行不懈而坚决的斗争才能形成。我们必须同遗传的倾向作一次又一次的搏斗，必须严于自我批评，不可让一个不良习惯留着而不予纠正。{COL 331.1}[19]
§44
But Christ has given us no assurance that to attain perfection of character is an easy matter. A noble, all-round character is not inherited. It does not come to us by accident. A noble character is earned by individual effort through the merits and grace of Christ. God gives the talents, the powers of the mind; we form the character. It is formed by hard, stern battles with self. Conflict after conflict must be waged against hereditary tendencies. We shall have to criticize ourselves closely, and allow not one unfavorable trait to remain uncorrected.?{COL 331.1}[19]
§45
任何人也不要说：我无法纠正品格上的缺点。你如果这样想，就一定得不到永生。不能纠正是因为你不愿意纠正。你既不愿意，就不能克服。真正的困难就在于不圣洁之心的败坏和不愿服从上帝的管束。{COL 331.2}[20]
§46
Let no one say, I cannot remedy my defects of character. If you come to this decision, you will certainly fail of obtaining everlasting life. The impossibility lies in your own will. If you will not, then you can not overcome. The real difficulty arises from the corruption of an unsanctified heart, and an unwillingness to submit to the control of God.?{COL 331.2}[20]
§47
许多蒙上帝赋予资格可以成就大事的人，由于尝试得少，成就的也就少。千万人虚度光阴，似乎并没有人生的目的，和需要达到的标准。这样的人必得到与他们的工作相称的报酬。{COL 331.3}[21]
§48
Many whom God has qualified to do excellent work accomplish very little, because they attempt little. Thousands pass through life as if they had no definite object for which to live, no standard to reach. Such will obtain a reward proportionate to their works.?{COL 331.3}[21]
§49
应当记得：你所能达到的，决不会超越你自己所立的标准。所以要提高你的标准，经过不懈的努力、克己与牺牲，一步一步攀完你进步的全部阶梯。不要让什么事物来阻碍你。命运并没有在人的周围编织坚固的网罗，使人处于无奈与动荡之中。逆境应当激发人战胜它的坚强决心。突破每一道障碍都会使人得到更大的力量与勇气继续前进。只要你朝着正确的方向奋勇前进，环境就会成为你的助手，而不是障碍了。{COL 331.4}[22]
§50
Remember that you will never reach a higher standard than you yourself set. Then set your mark high, and step by step, even though it be by painful effort, by self-denial and sacrifice, ascend the whole length of the ladder?of progress. Let nothing hinder you. Fate has not woven its meshes about any human being so firmly that he need remain helpless and in uncertainty. Opposing circumstances should create a firm determination to overcome them. The breaking down of one barrier will give greater ability and courage to go forward. Press with determination in the right direction, and circumstances will be your helpers, not your hindrances.?{COL 331.4}[22]
§51
应当胸怀大志，为了主的荣耀而培养品格上的各种美德。要在品格建造的各个方面讨主喜悦。你是能够做到这一点的。以诺虽然生活在一个堕落的世代，仍能蒙上帝悦纳。在我们的时代里也有许多以诺。{COL 332.1}[23]
§52
Be ambitious, for the Master’s glory, to cultivate every grace of character. In every phase of your character building you are to please God. This you may do; for Enoch pleased Him though living in a degenerate age. And there are Enochs in this our day.?{COL 332.1}[23]
§53
应当像忠心的政治家但以理那样坚定站立。没有什么试探能腐化他。不要使那位爱你并为除去你的罪而舍命的主灰心。祂说：“离了我，你们就不能做什么”（约15:5）。要记住这句话。如果你犯了错误，只要你认识到这些错误，并引以为戒，你就会取得胜利。你既转败为胜，仇敌就会失望，你的救赎主就得了尊荣。{COL 332.2}[24]
§54
Stand like Daniel, that faithful statesman, a man whom no temptation could corrupt. Do not disappoint Him who so loved you that He gave His own life to cancel your sins. He says, “Without Me ye can do nothing.”?John 15:5. Remember this. If you have made mistakes, you certainly gain a victory if you see these mistakes and regard them as beacons of warning. Thus you turn defeat into victory, disappointing the enemy and honoring your Redeemer.?{COL 332.2}[24]
§55
按照上帝的形像塑造品格，乃是我们能从今世带入来生的唯一财富。凡在今世遵循基督教诲的人，必将他们的每一项属灵成就带到他们的天家去。在天上我们要继续进步。所以在今生培养品格是多么重要！{COL 332.3}[25]
§56
A character formed according to the divine likeness is the only treasure that we can take from this world to the next. Those who are under the instruction of Christ in this world will take every divine attainment with them to the heavenly mansions. And in heaven we are continually to improve. How important, then, is the development of character in this life.?{COL 332.3}[25]
§57
那些以坚定的信心追求完美的品格，以致行为完全的人，天上的众生必与他们合作。基督对每一个这样的人说：我在你的右边帮助你。{COL 332.4}[26]
§58
The heavenly intelligences will work with the human agent who seeks with determined faith that perfection of character which will reach out to perfection in action. To everyone engaged in this work Christ says, I am at your right hand to help you.?{COL 332.4}[26]
§59
当人的意志与上帝的旨意合作时，就必拥有无比的力量。凡奉祂的命令而行的事，都能靠着祂的大能完成。凡祂所吩咐的都必实现。{COL 333.1}[27]
§60
As the will of man co-operates with the will of God, it becomes omnipotent. Whatever is to be done at His command may be accomplished in His strength. All His biddings are enablings.?{COL 333.1}[27]
§61
上帝要求人的智力受到培养。祂希望祂的仆人比世人有更多的知识和更清晰的判断力。祂不喜欢那些太懒惰和不太在意使自己成为有成效、有见识之工人的人。主吩咐我们要尽心、尽性、尽意、尽力地爱祂。这就使我们有责任尽量地发展自己的智力，以致能专心致志地认识并敬爱我们的创造主。{COL 333.2}[28]
§62
【Mental Faculties】
§63
God requires the training of the mental faculties. He designs that His servants shall possess more intelligence and clearer discernment than the worldling, and He is displeased with those who are too careless or too indolent to become efficient, well-informed workers. The Lord bids us love Him with all the heart, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and with all the mind. This lays upon us the obligation of developing the intellect to its fullest capacity, that with all the mind we may know and love our Creator.?{COL 333.2}[28]
§64
我们在圣灵的管理之下，越充分地培养自己的智力，就越能有效地为上帝服务。一个没有受过教育的人如果献身给上帝，希望造福他人，他是可以，而且事实上已经被主使用为祂服务的。但是怀有献身精神的人若受过充分的教育，就能为基督做更广泛的工作。他们处在优越的地位上。{COL 333.3}[29]
§65
If placed under the control of His Spirit, the more thoroughly the intellect is cultivated, the more effectively it can be used in the service of God. The uneducated man who is consecrated to God and who longs to bless others can be, and is, used by the Lord in His service. But those who, with the same spirit of consecration, have had the benefit of a thorough education, can do a much more extensive work for Christ. They stand on vantage ground.?{COL 333.3}[29]
§66
上帝希望我们得到一切能够得到的教育，以便能把自己的知识传授给别人。没有人知道自己会蒙召到什么地方，或怎样为上帝作工传道。惟有我们的天父知道祂能把人培养得如何。在我们前面，有我们软弱的信心所想不到的事。我们的心智应当受到培养，以便必要时能在世上最高的首长面前宣扬圣经的真理，荣耀主的名。我们绝不可坐失每一个培养智力为上帝作工的机会。{COL 333.4}[30]
§67
The Lord desires us to obtain all the education possible, with the object in view of imparting our knowledge to others. None can know where or how they may be called to labor or to speak for God. Our heavenly Father alone sees what He can make of men. There are before us possibilities which our feeble faith does not discern. Our minds should be so trained that if necessary we can present the truths of His word before the highest earthly authorities?in such a way as to glorify His name. We should not let slip even one opportunity of qualifying ourselves intellectually to work for God.?{COL 333.4}[30]
§68
凡需要受教育的青年应当下决心去获得教育。不要等待机会，要自己制造条件。要利用看上去很微小的途径。须实行节约。不要把钱花在满足食欲或追求宴乐上。要立志按照上帝的呼召，使自己成为有用而有效的人。不论你做什么事，都要彻底而忠诚。要尽可能地争取每一个增强智力的机会。书本的知识要与实用的体力劳动相结合，通过忠实的努力，儆醒祈祷，获得从上头来的智慧。这样做会使你得到全面的教育。你的品格就会提高，并获得感化别人的力量，把他们引到公义圣洁的道路上。{COL 334.1}[31]
§69
Let the youth who need an education set to work with a determination to obtain it. Do not wait for an opening; make one for yourselves. Take hold in any small way that presents itself. Practice economy. Do not spend your means for the gratification of appetite, or in pleasure seeking. Be determined to become as useful and efficient as God calls you to be. Be thorough and faithful in whatever you undertake. Procure every advantage within your reach for strengthening the intellect. Let the study of books be combined with useful manual labor, and by faithful endeavor, watchfulness, and prayer secure the wisdom that is from above. This will give you an all-round education. Thus you may rise in character, and gain an influence over other minds, enabling you to lead them in the path of uprightness and holiness.?{COL 334.1}[31]
§70
我们如果注意自己的机会和特权，就会在自我教育的工作中取得很大的成就。真教育不限于大学的课程。科学的研究固然不可忽视，但还有一门更高的课程要藉着与上帝的活泼联络而获得。但愿每一个学生拿起他的圣经，与那位大教师保持交通。他们的心智要受到培养，在追求上帝的真理时努力解决难题。{COL 334.2}[32]
§71
Far more might be accomplished in the work of self-education if we were awake to our own opportunities and privileges. True education means more than the colleges can give. While the study of the sciences is not to be neglected, there is a higher training to be obtained through a vital connection with God. Let every student take his Bible and place himself in communion with the great Teacher. Let the mind be trained and disciplined to wrestle with hard problems in the search for divine truth.?{COL 334.2}[32]
§72
凡渴求知识，以造福同胞的人，自己也必从上帝领受福气。通过研究圣经，他们的智力将得到振奋而活跃起来。他们的才能将会扩大和发展；获得心智方面的力量和效能。{COL 334.3}[33]
§73
Those who hunger for knowledge that they may bless their fellow men will themselves receive blessing from God. Through the study of His word their mental powers will be aroused to earnest activity. There will be an expansion and development of the faculties, and the mind will acquire power and efficiency.?{COL 334.3}[33]
§74
每一个希望成为上帝工人的人必须实行自律。这样做的成就要超过雄辩的口才或卓越的天赋。一个普通的人若善于自律，他的成就必远远超过那受过最高教育、最有天才，却不能自制的人。{COL 335.1}[34]
§75
Self-discipline must be practiced by everyone who would be a worker for God. This will accomplish more than eloquence or the most brilliant talents. An ordinary mind, well disciplined, will accomplish more and higher work than will the most highly educated mind and the greatest talents without self-control.?{COL 335.1}[34]
§76
口才是一种需要努力培养的能力。在我们从上帝所领受的恩赐中，没有一样能比口才成为更大的福惠。我们要用言语劝勉说服人，用言语祈祷赞美上帝，用言语向别人述说救赎主的爱。所以，培养语言能力，好在善事上发挥最大的效能，这是多么重要啊！{COL 335.2}[35]
§77
【Speech】
§78
The power of speech is a talent that should be diligently cultivated. Of all the gifts we have received from God, none is capable of being a greater blessing than this. With the voice we convince and persuade, with it we offer prayer and praise to God, and with it we tell others of the Redeemer’s love. How important, then, that it be so trained as to be most effective for good.?{COL 335.2}[35]
§79
我们大大疏忽了声音的训练和正确运用，即使是一些有才华和从事圣工的人也是如此。许多人诵读或讲话时声音太低太快，让人不易听懂。有的人发音含混不清；也有的人说话又高又尖，听上去刺耳。有人在公众集会上宣读经文、圣诗、报告和其它文稿时，往往读不清楚，破坏了其应有的效能和印象。{COL 335.3}[36]
§80
The culture and right use of the voice are greatly neglected, even by persons of intelligence and Christian activity. There are many who read or speak in so low or so rapid a manner that they cannot be readily understood. Some have a thick, indistinct utterance; others speak in a high key, in sharp, shrill tones, that are painful to the hearers. Texts, hymns, and the reports and other papers presented before public assemblies are sometimes read in such a way that they are not understood and often so that their force and impressiveness are destroyed.?{COL 335.3}[36]
§81
这种弊病原是能够而且应当纠正的。圣经已经提供了这方面的教训。论到以斯拉时代的利未人向百姓宣读经文的情况，圣经说：“他们清清楚楚地念上帝的律法书，讲明意思，使百姓明白所念的”（尼8:8）。{COL 335.4}[37]
§82
This is an evil that can and should be corrected. On this point the Bible gives instruction. Of the Levites who read the Scriptures to the people in the days of Ezra, it is said, “They read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense, and caused them to understand the reading.”?Nehemiah 8:8.?{COL 335.4}[37]
§83
通过不懈的努力，每一个人都可以获得清楚朗读的能力，用宏亮、清晰、圆润的声音，和明确感人的态度讲话。我们这样做，会大大增强我们作为基督工人的效能。{COL 335.5}[38]
§84
By diligent effort all may acquire the power to read intelligibly, and to speak in a full, clear, round tone, in a?distinct and impressive manner. By doing this we may greatly increase our efficiency as workers for Christ.?{COL 335.5}[38]
§85
每一个基督徒都蒙召要把基督那测不透的丰富传给别人。所以他必须在言语方面追求完美。他讲述圣经的方式，要让听众乐于领受。上帝并不希望祂在人间的代表是粗俗的人。祂不想让天国的川流在经过人输送到世界时减弱或变质。{COL 336.1}[39]
§86
Every Christian is called to make known to others the unsearchable riches of Christ; therefore he should seek for perfection in speech. He should present the word of God in a way that will commend it to the hearers. God does not design that His human channels shall be uncouth. It is not His will that man shall belittle or degrade the heavenly current that flows through him to the world.?{COL 336.1}[39]
§87
我们应当仰望那完全的榜样耶稣，祈求圣灵的帮助，靠着祂的能力设法培养每一个器官从事完美的工作。{COL 336.2}[40]
§88
We should look to Jesus, the perfect pattern; we should pray for the aid of the Holy Spirit, and in His strength we should seek to train every organ for perfect work.?{COL 336.2}[40]
§89
这些话特别适用于那些蒙召作公众服务的人。每一位传道人和教师都应当记住：他向众人所传的信息是与永恒的利益相关的。他们所讲述的真理将要在最后交账的大日评判他们。一些人对于信息的接受或拒绝，取决于传信息之人的态度。因此讲道必须采用启发悟性和感动心灵的方法。说话要缓慢、清楚、严肃，但又要十分诚恳，与讲题的重要性相称。{COL 336.3}[41]
§90
Especially is this true of those who are called to public service. Every minister and every teacher should bear in mind that he is giving to the people a message that involves eternal interests. The truth spoken will judge them in the great day of final reckoning. And with some souls the manner of the one delivering the message will determine its reception or rejection. Then let the word be so spoken that it will appeal to the understanding and impress the heart. Slowly, distinctly, and solemnly should it be spoken, yet with all the earnestness which its importance demands.?{COL 336.3}[41]
§91
正确地培养和应用说话的能力，关系到基督教的各方面工作，并影响家庭的生活，以及我们彼此之间的交往。我们应当养成习惯，用悦耳的声音，纯正的言语，彬彬有礼的措辞说话。优雅亲切的话语对于人心有如甘露时雨。圣经上论到基督说，在祂的嘴里满有恩惠。祂“知道怎样用言语扶助疲乏的人”（诗45:2；赛50:4）。主也吩咐我们：“你们的言语要常常带着和气”（西4:6），“叫听见的人得益处”（弗4:29）。{COL 336.4}[42]
§92
The right culture and use of the power of speech has to do with every line of Christian work; it enters into the home life, and into all our intercourse with one another. We should accustom ourselves to speak in pleasant tones, to use pure and correct language, and words that are kind and courteous. Sweet, kind words are as dew and gentle showers to the soul. The Scripture says of Christ that grace was poured into His lips that He might “know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary.”?Psalm 45:2;?Isaiah 50:4. And the Lord bids us, “Let your speech be alway with grace” (Colossians 4:6) “that it may minister grace unto the hearers” (Ephesians 4:29).?{COL 336.4}[42]
§93
我们在设法纠正别人时，说话必须谨慎。我们的话可以成为活的香气叫人活，或成为死的香气叫人死。许多人在劝告或责备别人时，出言不逊，态度生硬，不适于医治心灵的伤痛。这些不慎之言刺伤了人的心灵，往往会使犯错误的人更加反感。宣扬真理原则的人必须接受天上仁爱的膏油。在任何情况之下，责备的话都必须出于爱心。这样，我们的话才能起到纠正的作用，而又不激怒人。基督必藉着祂的圣灵提供力量和效能。这是祂的工作。{COL 337.1}[43]
§94
In seeking to correct or reform others we should be careful of our words. They will be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. In giving reproof or counsel, many indulge in sharp, severe speech, words not adapted to heal the wounded soul. By these ill-advised expressions the spirit is chafed, and often the erring ones are stirred to rebellion. All who would advocate the principles of truth need to receive the heavenly oil of love. Under all circumstances reproof should be spoken in love. Then our words will reform but not exasperate. Christ by His Holy Spirit will supply the force and the power. This is His work.?{COL 337.1}[43]
§95
轻率的话，一句也不可出口。跟从基督的人决不可说出恶毒轻浮的话、急躁的怨言和不正当的暗示。使徒保罗在圣灵的感动下写道：“污秽的言语，一句不可出口”（弗4:29）。污秽的言语不仅指那些下流的话，也包括任何违背神圣原则和清洁没有玷污之虔诚的话语。它包括邪念的暗示和恶意的讽刺。这些言语若不立即予以制止，就会导致大罪。{COL 337.2}[44]
§96
Not one word is to be spoken unadvisedly. No evil speaking, no frivolous talk, no fretful repining or impure suggestion, will escape the lips of him who is following Christ. The apostle Paul, writing by the Holy Spirit, says, “Let no corrupt communication proceed out of your mouth.”?Ephesians 4:29. A corrupt communication does not mean only words that are vile. It means any expression contrary to holy principles and pure and undefiled religion. It includes impure hints and covert insinuations of evil. Unless instantly resisted, these lead to great sin.?{COL 337.2}[44]
§97
每一个家庭和每一个基督徒都有责任抵制污秽的言语。当周围的人在胡言乱语的时候，我们有责任尽可能地改变话题。藉着上帝恩典的帮助，我们应当从容地说出几句话，或者提供一个题目，把谈话引到正确的方向。{COL 337.3}[45]
§98
Upon every family, upon every individual Christian, is laid the duty of barring the way against corrupt speech. When in the company of those who indulge in foolish talk, it is our duty to change the subject of conversation if possible. By the help of the grace of God we should quietly drop words or introduce a subject that will turn the conversation into a profitable channel.?{COL 337.3}[45]
§99
培养儿童有良好的言语习惯是父母的职责。进行这种训练的最好学校乃是家庭的生活。孩子从很小的时候起，就当受到教育，对他们的父母以及彼此之间说尊敬和仁爱的话。必须教导他们只说和气、诚实和纯洁的话。父母们自己每天要在基督的学校里学习。这样，他们就能言传身教，使儿女“言语纯全，无可指责”（多2:8）。这是他们最重大的责任。{COL 337.4}[46]
§100
It is the work of parents to train their children to proper habits of speech. The very best school for this culture is the home life. From the earliest years the children should be taught to speak respectfully and lovingly to their parents and to one another. They should be taught that only words?of gentleness, truth, and purity must pass their lips. Let the parents themselves be daily learners in the school of Christ. Then by precept and example they can teach their children the use of “sound speech, that cannot be condemned.”?Titus 2:8. This is one of the greatest and most responsible of their duties.?{COL 337.4}[46]
§101
我们跟从基督，应当使自己的言语在基督徒的生活中发挥互相帮助和互相鼓励的作用。我们应当更多的讲述自己经验中的宝贵篇章，谈论上帝的怜悯和仁慈，以及无比深厚的救主之爱。我们的话应当是赞美和感谢的话。如果我们的心中充满上帝的爱，就会在语言中流露出来。传授属灵生活的体会并非难事。伟大的理想，崇高的抱负，对真理的清晰领悟，无私的目的，对敬虔与圣洁的向往，都会在言语中流露出来，表明我们心中所珍重的品质。我们的言语如果这样显示基督，就能吸引人归向祂。{COL 338.1}[47]
§102
As followers of Christ we should make our words such as to be a help and an encouragement to one another in the Christian life. Far more than we do, we need to speak of the precious chapters in our experience. We should speak of the mercy and loving-kindness of God, of the matchless depths of the Saviour’s love. Our words should be words of praise and thanksgiving. If the mind and heart are full of the love of God, this will be revealed in the conversation. It will not be a difficult matter to impart that which enters into our spiritual life. Great thoughts, noble aspirations, clear perceptions of truth, unselfish purposes, yearnings for piety and holiness, will bear fruit in words that reveal the character of the heart treasure. When Christ is thus revealed in our speech, it will have power in winning souls to Him.?{COL 338.1}[47]
§103
我们应当向不认识主的人讲说基督。我们要效法基督。祂无论在会堂中，在路旁，在离岸不远的船上，在法利赛人的筵席上，或在税吏的餐桌旁，都向人讲述有关更高生活的事。祂把真理的话与自然界和日常生活中的事物联系在一起。听众的心被祂吸引了，因为祂医好了他们的病人，安慰了他们中伤心的人，并抱起孩子为他们祝福。祂一开口说话，他们的注意力就集中在祂身上。祂的每一句话对于某一些人来说，乃是活的香气叫人活。{COL 338.2}[48]
§104
We should speak of Christ to those who know Him not. We should do as Christ did. Wherever He was, in the synagogue, by the wayside, in the boat thrust out a little from the land, at the Pharisee’s feast or the table of the publican, He spoke to men of the things pertaining to the higher life. The things of nature, the events of daily life, were bound up by Him with the words of truth. The hearts of His hearers were drawn to Him; for He had healed their sick, had comforted their sorrowing ones, and had taken their children in His arms and blessed them. When He opened His lips to speak, their attention was riveted upon Him, and every word was to some soul a savor of life unto life.?{COL 338.2}[48]
§105
我们也应当如此。我们不论在什么地方，都要抓住机会向别人讲说救主。如果我们在行善的事上效法基督的榜样，人心就会向我们敞开，就如从前向祂敞开那样。我们不要随便说话，而当带着上帝的爱所产生的机警向他们讲述那位“超乎万人之上”“全然可爱”的主（歌5:10,16）。这是我们运用语言能力所能成就的最高工作。这种语言的能力赐给我们，是要我们讲述赦罪的救主。{COL 339.1}[49]
§106
So it should be with us. Wherever we are, we should watch for opportunities of speaking to others of the Saviour. If we follow Christ’s example in doing good, hearts will open to us as they did to Him. Not abruptly, but with tact born of divine love, we can tell them of Him who is the “Chiefest among ten thousand” and the One “altogether lovely.”?Song of Solomon 5:10, 16. This is the very highest work in which we can employ the talent of speech. It was given to us that we might present Christ as the sin-pardoning Saviour.?{COL 339.1}[49]
§107
【影响力】
§108
基督的生命具有无限广泛的影响力。这种影响力把祂自己与上帝和全人类联结起来。藉着基督，上帝已将影响力赐给人类，使他们不可能为自己而活。我们每一个人都与自己的同胞有联系，乃是上帝大家庭的一员。我们彼此负有责任，谁也离不开自己的同胞，因为各人的幸福是互相影响的。上帝的旨意是要每一个人都认识到自己需要关心别人的利益，增进他们的快乐。{COL 339.2}[50]
§109
【Influence】
§110
The life of Christ was an ever-widening, shoreless influence, an influence that bound Him to God and to the whole human family. Through Christ, God has invested man with an influence that makes it impossible for him to live to himself. Individually we are connected with our fellow men, a part of God’s great whole, and we stand under mutual obligations. No man can be independent of his fellow men; for the well-being of each affects others. It is God’s purpose that each shall feel himself necessary to others’ welfare, and seek to promote their happiness.?{COL 339.2}[50]
§111
每一个人都被自己所产生的气氛所环绕。这种气氛或者充满赐生命的能力，给人带来信心、勇气和希望，发出爱的芳香，或者黯淡而冷漠，带着自私不满的阴影，因怀存罪恶而散发出致命的毒素。由于环绕我们的气氛，凡与我们交往的人都有意无意地受到影响。{COL 339.3}[51]
§112
Every soul is surrounded by an atmosphere of its own—an atmosphere, it may be, charged with the life-giving power of faith, courage, and hope, and sweet with the fragrance of love. Or it may be heavy and chill with the gloom of discontent and selfishness, or poisonous with the deadly taint of cherished sin. By the atmosphere surrounding us, every person with whom we come in contact is consciously or unconsciously affected.?{COL 339.3}[51]
§113
这是我们所无法规避的责任。我们的言语、举动、服装、行为，甚至我们的表情，都具有影响力。这种印象所产生或善或恶的后果，是无人能衡量的。人所表达的每一个情绪，都撒下了一颗种子，以后必结出果实来。它是人类历史长链中的一环。这条链子究竟伸向何方，我们无从知晓。如果我们的榜样能帮助别人培养善良的原则，那么我们就给了他们行善的力量。他们又以这同样的影响力传给别人，别人再传给别人。这样，藉着我们不知不觉的影响，使千万人得到了福气。{COL 339.4}[52]
§114
This is a responsibility from which we cannot free ourselves. Our words, our acts, our dress, our deportment, even the expression of the countenance, has an influence.?Upon the impression thus made there hang results for good or evil which no man can measure. Every impulse thus imparted is seed sown which will produce its harvest. It is a link in the long chain of human events, extending we know not whither. If by our example we aid others in the development of good principles, we give them power to do good. In their turn they exert the same influence upon others, and they upon still others. Thus by our unconscious influence thousands may be blessed.?{COL 339.4}[52]
§115
把一颗小石子投进湖中，湖水就起了涟漪。这涟漪扩散开来，圆圈越来越大，一直达到岸边。我们的影响力也是这样。它在我们的不经意间把福气或祸患带给别人。{COL 340.1}[53]
§116
Throw a pebble into the lake, and a wave is formed, and another and another; and as they increase, the circle widens, until it reaches the very shore. So with our influence. Beyond our knowledge or control it tells upon others in blessing or in cursing.?{COL 340.1}[53]
§117
品格就是力量。一个真诚、无私、虔诚的人生所作默默的见证，具有几乎不可抗拒的影响力。我们在生活中表现基督的品格，就是在救灵的工作上与祂合作。我们只有在生活上表现祂的品格，才能与祂同工。我们影响的范围越大，所能成就的善事就越多。当那些自称事奉上帝的人效法基督的榜样，在日常生活上实行律法的原则时，当他们的一举一动都证明他们以爱上帝为至上，爱邻舍如同自己时，教会就有了感动世界的力量。{COL 340.2}[54]
§118
Character is power. The silent witness of a true, unselfish, godly life carries an almost irresistible influence. By revealing in our own life the character of Christ we co-operate with Him in the work of saving souls. It is only by revealing in our life His character that we can co-operate with Him. And the wider the sphere of our influence, the more good we may do. When those who profess to serve God follow Christ’s example, practicing the principles of the law in their daily life; when every act bears witness that they love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves, then will the church have power to move the world.?{COL 340.2}[54]
§119
但是我们决不可忘记：影响力在恶事上也是很强大的。一个人丧失了自己的灵魂，本是可怕的事了，但是使别人也丧失了灵魂，就更可怕了。我们的影响竟能成为死的香气叫人死。想到这一点，真觉得恐惧。但这是很可能发生的事。许多人自称与基督一同聚敛的，却使人远离了祂。所以教会如此软弱。许多人肆意批评指责别人，常常表现出猜疑、嫉妒与不满，而使自己成为撒但的工具。在他们认识到自己行为的真相之前，仇敌已经藉着他们达到了自己的目的。不良的印象已经造成；阴影已经投下；撒但的毒箭已经击中了目标。不信、怀疑和无法无天的观念已经控制了那些本来可能接受基督的人。为撒但工作的人看到那些受他们影响而成为怀疑派，硬着心不再听责备和恳劝时，便洋洋自得意。他们觉得自己与这些人相比，是善良公义的，所以就十分高兴。他们没有认识到，这些可怜沦丧的人，乃是他们那任性的舌和叛逆的心所造成的。这些受试探的人因他们的影响而堕落了。{COL 340.3}[55]
§120
But never should it be forgotten that influence is no less a power for evil. To lose one’s own soul is a terrible thing; but to cause the loss of other souls is still more terrible. That our influence should be a savor of death unto death is a fearful thought; yet this is possible. Many who profess to gather with Christ are scattering from Him. This is why the church is so weak. Many indulge freely?in criticism and accusing. By giving expression to suspicion, jealousy, and discontent, they yield themselves as instruments to Satan. Before they realize what they are doing, the adversary has through them accomplished his purpose. The impression of evil has been made, the shadow has been cast, the arrows of Satan have found their mark. Distrust, unbelief, and downright infidelity have fastened upon those who otherwise might have accepted Christ. Meanwhile the workers for Satan look complacently upon those whom they have driven to skepticism, and who are now hardened against reproof and entreaty. They flatter themselves that in comparison with these souls they are virtuous and righteous. They do not realize that these sad wrecks of character are the work of their own unbridled tongues and rebellious hearts. It is through their influence that these tempted ones have fallen.?{COL 340.3}[55]
§121
所以自命为基督徒者轻佻的行为、自私的放纵、疏忽与冷淡，正在促使许多人转离生命之道。将来在上帝的审判台前，许多人必因看到自己影响的后果而恐惧。{COL 341.1}[56]
§122
So frivolity, selfish indulgence, and careless indifference on the part of professed Christians are turning away many souls from the path of life. Many there are who will fear to meet at the bar of God the results of their influence.?{COL 341.1}[56]
§123
唯有藉着上帝的恩典，我们才能正确地运用自己的影响力。我们自己原没有什么力量能影响别人为善。我们若感到自己的无能而需要上帝的能力，就不会依赖自己了。我们不知道在一天、一时、一刻之后，会有什么事情发生，因此我们就不能不在每一天开始的时候，把自己的前途交给天父。祂的使者是奉命来照顾我们的。我们若接受天使的保护，每当危险的时候，他们就会来到我们右边。当我们在无意中将要发出错误的影响时，天使就必在我们的旁边提醒我们转变立场，为我们选择当说的话语，并影响我们的行动。这样，我们的影响力就在不知不觉中默默地成为吸引人归向基督和天国的强大力量。{COL 341.2}[57]
§124
It is only through the grace of God that we can make a right use of this endowment. There is nothing in us of ourselves by which we can influence others for good. If we realize our helplessness and our need of divine power, we shall not trust to ourselves. We know not what results a day, an hour, or a moment may determine, and never should we begin the day without committing our ways to our heavenly Father. His angels are appointed to watch over us, and if we put ourselves under their guardianship, then in every time of danger they will be at our right hand. When unconsciously we are in danger of exerting a wrong influence, the angels will be by our side, prompting us to a?better course, choosing our words for us, and influencing our actions. Thus our influence may be a silent, unconscious, but mighty power in drawing others to Christ and the heavenly world.?{COL 341.2}[57]
§125
我们的光阴是属于上帝的。我们的每一刻钟都是祂的。我们负有严重的责任，要善用光阴荣耀上帝。在祂所赐给我们的恩赐中，没有一样比光阴更需要我们向祂作出严格的交代了。{COL 342.1}[58]
§126
【Time】
§127
Our time belongs to God. Every moment is His, and we are under the most solemn obligation to improve it to His glory. Of no talent He has given will He require a more strict account than of our time.?{COL 342.1}[58]
§128
光阴的价值是难以估量的。基督认为每一分钟都是宝贵的。我们也应当这样看。人的一生十分短促，决不可以浪费。我们只有短短的宽限时日可以为永恒作准备。我们没有时间以浪费，没有时间可以用在自私的享乐上，也没有时间放纵罪恶。现在是我们为将来那不能朽坏的生命建造品格的时候。现在也是我们为查案审判作准备的时候。{COL 342.2}[59]
§129
The value of time is beyond computation. Christ regarded every moment as precious, and it is thus that we should regard it. Life is too short to be trifled away. We have but a few days of probation in which to prepare for eternity. We have no time to waste, no time to devote to selfish pleasure, no time for the indulgence of sin. It is now that we are to form characters for the future, immortal life. It is now that we are to prepare for the searching judgment.?{COL 342.2}[59]
§130
人从出生开始，也向死亡走去。如果我们没有得到有关永生的真知识，属世的不停劳碌，终必一无所得。如果人把光阴看作他工作的时间，他就必努力争取进入不朽家乡和得享永生的资格。这样，他活在世上才有价值。{COL 342.3}[60]
§131
The human family have scarcely begun to live when they begin to die, and the world’s incessant labor ends in nothingness unless a true knowledge in regard to eternal life is gained. The man who appreciates time as his working day will fit himself for a mansion and for a life that is immortal. It is well that he was born.?{COL 342.3}[60]
§132
主劝戒我们要爱惜光阴。机不可失，时不再来。即使是浪费了片刻的时间，我们也无法把它挽回。爱惜光阴的唯一方法，就是好好利用余下的光阴，在上帝伟大的救赎计划中与祂同工。{COL 342.4}[61]
§133
We are admonished to redeem the time. But time squandered can never be recovered. We cannot call back even one moment. The only way in which we can redeem our time is by making the most of that which remains, by being co-workers with God in His great plan of redemption.?{COL 342.4}[61]
§134
凡这样做的人，品格上就会发生变化。他成为上帝的儿子，王室的成员，天上大君的儿女，有资格与天使作伴了。{COL 342.5}[62]
§135
In him who does this, a transformation of character takes place. He becomes a son of God, a member of the royal family, a child of the heavenly King. He is fitted to be the companion of the angels.?{COL 342.5}[62]
§136
现在正是我们为拯救同胞而工作的时期。有些人以为他们如果为圣工捐款，就算尽了本分。他们却虚度了本来可以用来为主进行个人服务的宝贵时间。然而凡是健康有体力的人，也就有权利有责任积极为上帝服务。人人都应努力引人归向基督。捐款不能代替这项工作。{COL 343.1}[63]
§137
Now is our time to labor for the salvation of our fellow men. There are some who think that if they give money to the cause of Christ, this is all they are required to do; the precious time in which they might do personal service for Him passes unimproved. But it is the privilege and duty of all who have health and strength to render to God active service. All are to labor in winning souls to Christ. Donations of money cannot take the place of this.?{COL 343.1}[63]
§138
每一分钟都有永恒的影响。我们应当作为后备的兵员，随时准备应征入伍。我们现在有机会向需要的人讲说生命之道。这机会或许是一去不复返了。上帝可能要对一个人说：“今夜必要你的灵魂”（路12:20），而那个人也许由于我们的疏忽而没有作好准备。在那审判的大日，我们怎样向上帝交代呢？{COL 343.2}[64]
§139
Every moment is freighted with eternal consequences. We are to stand as minute men, ready for service at a moment’s notice. The opportunity that is now ours to speak to some needy soul the word of life may never offer again. God may say to that one, “This night thy soul shall be required of thee,” and through our neglect he may not be ready. (Luke 12:20.) In the great judgment day, how shall we render our account to God??{COL 343.2}[64]
§140
人生是非常严肃的，不可专注于世俗暂时的琐务，也不可为那与永恒利益相比犹如灰尘的事烦劳。然而上帝仍呼召我们在今生的事务上为祂服务。勤劳地从事这方面的工作，与献身传道同样都是真宗教的一部分。圣经并没有认可懒惰。懒惰是摧残世界的最大咒诅。每一个真正悔改的人都必是勤劳的工人。{COL 343.3}[65]
§141
Life is too solemn to be absorbed in temporal and earthly matters, in a treadmill of care and anxiety for the things that are but an atom in comparison with the things of eternal interest. Yet God has called us to serve Him in the temporal affairs of life. Diligence in this work is as much a part of true religion as is devotion. The Bible gives no indorsement to idleness. It is the greatest curse that afflicts our world. Every man and woman who is truly converted will be a diligent worker.?{COL 343.3}[65]
§142
我们追求知识，培养智力的成败，有赖于我们对光阴的利用。智力的培养不必因穷困、卑微或不利的环境而受到阻碍。要珍惜每一分光阴。这里几分钟，那里几分钟，都有可能耗费在闲谈上。早晨的光阴常常浪费在床上；那用在电车或火车上的旅行，或在车站等候的时间，等候用饭，等候约会迟到的人的时间，如果有一本书在手里，而将这些零碎时间用来研究、阅读或默想，则会取得多大的成就啊！坚定的志向，殷勤不息，细心地节约时间，能使人获得知识和智力的培养，以致有资格几乎能担负任何重要的工作。{COL 343.4}[66]
§143
Upon the right improvement of our time depends our success in acquiring knowledge and mental culture. The cultivation of the intellect need not be prevented by poverty, humble origin, or unfavorable surroundings. Only let the moments be treasured. A few moments here and a few there, that might be frittered away in aimless talk; the morning hours so often wasted in bed; the time spent in traveling on trams or railway cars, or waiting at the?station; the moments of waiting for meals, waiting for those who are tardy in keeping an appointment—if a book were kept at hand, and these fragments of time were improved in study, reading, or careful thought, what might not be accomplished. A resolute purpose, persistent industry, and careful economy of time, will enable men to acquire knowledge and mental discipline which will qualify them for almost any position of influence and usefulness.?{COL 343.4}[66]
§144
每一个基督徒都有责任养成井井有条，贯彻始终，动作敏捷的习惯。在任何工作上行动迟缓，都是不可原谅的。一个人若时时作工，而工作总不能完成，这是因为他的心思没有放在工作上。一个动作缓慢，工作力不从心的人，应该认识到这些都是必须纠正的弊病。他必须仔细思考如何利用光阴来获得最好的成果。有些人因为找窍门，想办法，就能在五小时之内完成别人需用十小时完成的工作。有些从事家务的人终日手忙脚乱，不是因为他们有太多的工作要作，而是他们没有计划好如何节省时间。他们办事拖拉的习惯，使简单的工作变得繁杂。但是凡有志者一定可以克服这种忙乱拖沓的习惯。他们的工作应该有一个明确的目标。先考虑一下需要用多少时间来完成任务，然后努力在所定的时间里完成。意志的运用能使手脚灵敏。{COL 344.1}[67]
§145
It is the duty of every Christian to acquire habits of order, thoroughness, and dispatch. There is no excuse for slow bungling at work of any character. When one is always at work and the work is never done, it is because mind and heart are not put into the labor. The one who is slow and who works at a disadvantage should realize that these are faults to be corrected. He needs to exercise his mind in planning how to use the time so as to secure the best results. By tact and method, some will accomplish as much in five hours as others do in ten. Some who are engaged in domestic labor are always at work not because they have so much to do but because they do not plan so as to save time. By their slow, dilatory ways they make much work out of very little. But all who will, may overcome these fussy, lingering habits. In their work let them have a definite aim. Decide how long a time is required for a given task, and then bend every effort toward accomplishing the work in the given time. The exercise of the will power will make the hands move deftly.?{COL 344.1}[67]
§146
人没有改变自己的决心，就会在错误中故步自封。他们如果培养自己的才能，就会获得能力从事最好的服务，成为到处都需要的人才。大家也就会重视他们能力。{COL 344.2}[68]
§147
Through lack of determination to take themselves in hand and reform, persons can become stereotyped in a wrong course of action; or by cultivating their powers they may acquire ability to do the very best of service. Then they will find themselves in demand anywhere and everywhere. They will be appreciated for all that they are worth.?{COL 344.2}[68]
§148
许多青少年把本来可以用来分担家务，藉以表示他们关心父母的时间浪费掉了。青年人可以用他们青春有力的肩膀，负起那必须有人担负的许多责任。{COL 345.1}[69]
§149
By many children and youth, time is wasted that might be spent in carrying home burdens, and thus showing a loving interest in father and mother. The youth might take upon their strong young shoulders many responsibilities which someone must bear.?{COL 345.1}[69]
§150
基督从最小的时候起就过一种勤劳的生活。祂没有为自己的享受而生活。祂虽是无穷上帝的儿子，仍与祂的父亲约瑟从事木匠的手艺。祂的这种手艺是富有寓意的。祂以品格建筑师的身份来到世上，因此祂的一切工作都是完美的。祂把用祂的神能改变人品格所要达到的完全标准，带到了一切属世的劳动之中。祂是我们的榜样。{COL 345.2}[70]
§151
The life of Christ from His earliest years was a life of earnest activity. He lived not to please Himself. He was the Son of the infinite God, yet He worked at the carpenter’s trade with His father Joseph. His trade was significant. He had come into the world as the character builder, and as such all His work was perfect. Into all His secular labor He brought the same perfection as into the characters He was transforming by His divine power. He is our pattern.?{COL 345.2}[70]
§152
父母应当教育儿女明白时间是宝贵的，应当正确地利用。当教导他们，凡能尊荣上帝、造福同胞的工作，都是值得努力去作的。他们即使在很小的时候，也能成为上帝的传道人。{COL 345.3}[71]
§153
Parents should teach their children the value and right use of time. Teach them that to do something which will honor God and bless humanity is worth striving for. Even in their early years they can be missionaries for God.?{COL 345.3}[71]
§154
父母若让儿女无所事事，他们所犯的罪就没有比这更大的了。孩子们很快就学会了贪懒，长大以后将碌碌无能。到了他们需要谋生就业的时候，他们就会消极怠工，还希望得到忠心工人的报酬。这种工人与那些意识到自己必须忠心尽责的人真有天壤之别。{COL 345.4}[72]
§155
Parents cannot commit a greater sin than to allow their children to have nothing to do. The children soon learn to love idleness, and they grow up shiftless, useless men and women. When they are old enough to earn their living, and find employment, they work in a lazy, droning way, yet expect to be paid as much as if they were faithful. There is a world-wide difference between this class of workers and those who realize that they must be faithful stewards.?{COL 345.4}[72]
§156
在世俗事务上所养成懒惰粗心的习惯，也必影响宗教生活，使人无法为上帝作有效的服务。许多人本来可以因勤劳而成为世界的福惠，却因懒惰而堕落了。没有正当职业和坚定的宗旨，为无数试探敞开了大门。坏伴与恶习败坏了人的心志和心灵，结果是今生与来生的沦丧。{COL 345.5}[73]
§157
Indolent, careless habits indulged in secular work will be brought into the religious life and will unfit one to do any efficient service for God. Many who through diligent labor might have been a blessing to the world, have been ruined through idleness. Lack of employment and of steadfast purpose opens the door to a thousand temptations. Evil companions and vicious habits deprave mind and soul, and the result is ruin for this life and for the life to come.?{COL 345.5}[73]
§158
我们不论从事什么工作，圣经教导我们都要“殷勤不可懒惰。要心里火热，常常服事主。”“凡你手所当做的事，要尽力去做，”“因你们知道从主那里必得着基业为赏赐，你们所事奉的乃是主基督”（罗12:11；传9:10；西3:24）。{COL 346.1}[74]
§159
Whatever the line of work in which we engage, the word of God teaches us to be “not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.” “Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might,” “knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance; for ye serve the Lord Christ.”?Romans 12:11;?Ecclesiastes 9:10;?Colossians 3:24.?{COL 346.1}[74]
§160
健康乃是一个福分。很少人欣赏它的价值。然而我们智力和体力方面的效能大都有赖于健康。我们的情感是以身体为基地的。为了使我们的才能得到充分的运用，应当把身体保持在最健康的状态中，使之处在最属灵的影响之下。{COL 346.2}[75]
§161
【Health】
§162
Health is a blessing of which few appreciate the value; yet upon it the efficiency of our mental and physical powers largely depends. Our impulses and passions have their seat in the body, and it must be kept in the best condition physically and under the most spiritual influences in order that our talents may be put to the highest use.?{COL 346.2}[75]
§163
任何降低体力的事物都会削弱人的智力，减弱他分辨善恶的能力。我们择善的能力因而降低。我们实行自己所认为正确之事的毅力也减弱了。{COL 346.3}[76]
§164
Anything that lessens physical strength enfeebles the mind and makes it less capable of discriminating between right and wrong. We become less capable of choosing the good and have less strength of will to do that which we know to be right.?{COL 346.3}[76]
§165
滥用体力会缩短我们的寿命，使我们无法以自己的生活来荣耀上帝，完成上帝所交托我们任务。我们若任凭自己养成不良的习惯，迟睡晚起，放纵食欲，损害健康，就埋下了身体衰弱的祸根。我们若忽略身体的锻炼，过度使用体力或脑力，就会使神经系统失衡。凡这样忽略自然规律而缩短了自己的寿命，使自己无法胜任工作的人，乃是犯了掠夺上帝之物的罪。他们同时也亏负了他们的同胞。他们造福他人的机会，就是上帝差他们来到世间去做的工作，因他们的行为而受到了阻碍。他们使自己无法做那本来能在短时期内完成的工作。当我们因有害的习惯而剥夺了世人的福惠时，上帝是算我们有罪的。{COL 346.4}[77]
§166
The misuse of our physical powers shortens the period of time in which our lives can be used for the glory of God. And it unfits us to accomplish the work God has given us to do. By allowing ourselves to form wrong habits, by keeping late hours, by gratifying appetite at the expense of health, we lay the foundation for feebleness. By neglecting physical exercise, by overworking mind or body, we unbalance the nervous system. Those who thus shorten their lives and unfit themselves for service by disregarding nature’s laws, are guilty of robbery toward God. And they are robbing their fellow men also. The opportunity of blessing others, the very work for which God sent them into the world, has by their own course of action been cut short. And they have unfitted themselves to do even that?which in a briefer period of time they might have accomplished. The Lord holds us guilty when by our injurious habits we thus deprive the world of good.?{COL 346.4}[77]
§167
违犯自然的定律，就是违犯道德的律法，因为上帝既是自然定律的制订者，也是道德律法的制订者。祂用祂的手指将祂的律法写在祂所托付给人的每一根神经、每一块肌肉和每一种天赋的才能上。所以我们如果滥用身体组织的任何一个部分，都是违犯了那律法。{COL 347.1}[78]
§168
Transgression of physical law is transgression of the moral law; for God is as truly the author of physical laws as He is the author of the moral law. His law is written?with His own finger upon every nerve, every muscle, every faculty, which has been entrusted to man. And every misuse of any part of our organism is a violation of that law.?{COL 347.1}[78]
§169
所有的人都应了解人体的组织，以保持身体的健康，好从事主的工作。肉身的生命需要小心保养和培育，使上帝的性情能藉着人充分地表显出来。身体组织与属灵生活的关系乃是真教育的最重要科目之一，必须在家庭和学校中引起充分的重视。人人都应熟悉自己身体的构造，以及支配自然生命的种种定律。凡对于自身的定律故意保持无知，并因无知而违犯这些定律的人，就是得罪了上帝。人人都应当使自己处在最利于生命与健康的状况中。我们的习惯应当受理智的支配，而理智则应受上帝所管理。{COL 348.1}[79]
§170
All should have an intelligent knowledge of the human frame that they may keep their bodies in the condition necessary to do the work of the Lord. The physical life is to be carefully preserved and developed that through humanity the divine nature may be revealed in its fullness. The relation of the physical organism to the spiritual life is one of the most important branches of education. It should receive careful attention in the home and in the school. All need to become acquainted with their physical structure and the laws that control natural life. He who remains in willing ignorance of the laws of his physical being and who violates them through ignorance is sinning against God. All should place themselves in the best possible relation to life and health. Our habits should be brought under the control of a mind that is itself under the control of God.?{COL 348.1}[79]
§171
使徒保罗说：“岂不知你们的身子就是圣灵的殿吗？这圣灵是从上帝而来，住在你们里头的；并且你们不是自己的人，因为你们是重价买来的，所以要在你们的身子上荣耀上帝”（林前6:19,20）。{COL 348.2}[80]
§172
“Know ye not,” says the apostle Paul, “that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own? For ye are bought with a price; therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.”?1 Corinthians 6:19, 20.?{COL 348.2}[80]
§173
我们爱上帝，不仅是要尽心，尽性，尽意，也要尽力，就是聪明地善用体力。{COL 348.3}[81]
§174
【Strength】
§175
We are to love God, not only with all the heart, mind, and soul, but with all the strength. This covers the full, intelligent use of the physical powers.?{COL 348.3}[81]
§176
基督在属世和属灵的事上都是真正的工人。祂在所做的一切工作中，都表现了遵行天父旨意的决心。天上的事与地上的事有着密切的联系，直接受基督所监管，这一点是许多人想象不到的。是基督设计规划了地上的第一个圣幕。对于所罗门圣殿的建筑，祂也作了详细的说明。那一位降世时曾在拿撒勒村庄作木匠的主，乃是天上的设计师。祂设计那使祂名得荣耀的神圣建筑物。{COL 348.4}[82]
§177
Christ was a true worker in temporal as well as in spiritual things, and into all His work He brought a determination to do His Father’s will. The things of heaven and earth are more closely connected and are more directly under the supervision of Christ than many realize.?It was Christ who planned the arrangement for the first earthly tabernacle. He gave every specification in regard to the building of Solomon’s temple. The One who in His earthly life worked as a carpenter in the village of Nazareth was the heavenly architect who marked out the plan for the sacred building where His name was to be honored.?{COL 348.4}[82]
§178
基督赐智慧给建造会幕的人，使他们能运用最高明最精湛的技巧。祂说：“看哪，犹大支派中户珥的孙子，乌利的儿子比撒列，我已经提他的名召他。我也以我的灵充满了他，使他有智慧，有聪明，有知识，能作各样的工。……我分派但支派中亚希撒抹的儿子亚何利亚伯，与他同工。凡心里有智慧的，我更使他们有智慧，能做我一切所吩咐的”（出31:2-6）。{COL 349.1}[83]
§179
It was Christ who gave to the builders of the tabernacle wisdom to execute the most skillful and beautiful workmanship. He said, “See, I have called by name Bezaleel the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah; and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, in wisdom, and in understanding, and in knowledge, and in all manner of workmanship.... And I, behold, I have given with him Aholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan; and in the hearts of all that are wise hearted I have put wisdom, that they may make all that I have commanded thee.”?Exodus 31:2-6.?{COL 349.1}[83]
§180
上帝希望祂各方面的工人都仰望祂为他们一切所有的施给者。凡是正当的发明与改革，都可以从那一位谋略奇妙、作为卓越的主身上找到根源。医生的手熟练的动作，他处置神经与肌肉的能力，他对于人体奇妙结构的认识，都出于上帝大能的智慧，以便为劳苦的人服务。木匠使用锤子的技术，铁匠使铁砧叮当作响的力量，都是上帝所赐的。上帝既然将才干赐给人，祂就希望他们仰赖祂的指导。我们不论做什么，不论被安排在什么部门，祂都希望管理我们的思想，使我们能做出完美的工作。{COL 349.2}[84]
§181
God desires that His workers in every line shall look to Him as the Giver of all they possess. All right inventions and improvements have their source in Him who is wonderful in counsel and excellent in working. The skillful touch of the physician’s hand, his power over nerve and muscle, his knowledge of the delicate organism of the body, is the wisdom of divine power, to be used in behalf of the suffering. The skill with which the carpenter uses the hammer, the strength with which the blacksmith makes the anvil ring, comes from God. He has entrusted men with talents, and He expects them to look to Him for counsel. Whatever we do, in whatever department of the work we are placed, He desires to control our minds that we may do perfect work.?{COL 349.2}[84]
§182
宗教与世界的事务并不是分开的。它们原为一体。圣经的宗教应当贯彻在我们的一切言行中。神能与人力应在属世的事上结合在一起，正像在属灵的事上一样。它们应当在人间所有的行业中，在工业和农业劳动中，在商业和科学事业上结合起来。在基督徒的一切活动中都必须表现出合作的精神。{COL 349.3}[85]
§183
Religion and business are not two separate things; they are one. Bible religion is to be interwoven with all we do or say. Divine and human agencies are to combine in?temporal as well as in spiritual achievements. They are to be united in all human pursuits, in mechanical and agricultural labors, in mercantile and scientific enterprises. There must be co-operation in everything embraced in Christian activity.?{COL 349.3}[85]
§184
上帝已经宣布了一些原则，作为这种结合的唯一基础。所有与祂同工的人都必须以增进祂的荣耀为动机。我们所做的一切，都应出于爱上帝的心，并符合祂的旨意。{COL 350.1}[86]
§185
God has proclaimed the principles on which alone this co-operation is possible. His glory must be the motive of all who are laborers together with Him. All our work is to be done from love to God and in accordance with His will.?{COL 350.1}[86]
§186
建造一座大楼和参加一次礼拜一样，都必须遵行上帝的旨意。如果工人在自己品格的建造上实行了正确的原则，那么在每一次的建筑工程上，他们都必在恩典和知识上有所长进了。{COL 350.2}[87]
§187
It is just as essential to do the will of God when erecting a building as when taking part in a religious service. And if the workers have brought the right principles into their own character making, then in the erection of every building they will grow in grace and knowledge.?{COL 350.2}[87]
§188
但是人若不把自己献在坛上作为活祭，即使是最大的才能或最优秀的服务，上帝也不会悦纳的。根子必须圣洁，否则就不能结出蒙上帝悦纳的果实来。{COL 350.3}[88]
§189
But God will not accept the greatest talents or the most splendid service unless self is laid upon the altar, a living, consuming sacrifice. The root must be holy, else there can be no fruit acceptable to God.?{COL 350.3}[88]
§190
上帝曾使但以理和约瑟成为办事精明的人。祂之所以使用他们，是因为他们活着不是为讨自己的喜悦，而是为了讨上帝的喜悦。{COL 350.4}[89]
§191
The Lord made Daniel and Joseph shrewd managers. He could work through them because they did not live to please their own inclination but to please God.?{COL 350.4}[89]
§192
但以理的历史给我们一个教训，说明办理实务的人不一定要刻薄和玩弄权谋。他可以步步受到上帝的指导。但以理在担任巴比伦宰相的时候，也是上帝的先知，通过灵感接受上天的亮光。圣经把世上野心勃勃的政客们形容为生长的草和草地上必将凋谢的花。然而上帝希望能胜任各方面的工作的有识之士参加祂的圣工。祂需要务实的人能把真理的伟大原则融合到在一切事务之中。他们的才干通过充分的学习和研究而日臻完善。人若在任何工作上都善用机会使自己成为聪明而有效的人，他就能在地上运用自己的才干建设上帝的国。我们从但以理身上可以看到，他所办的一切事务即使受到严密的检查，也找不出任何过错。他是每一个办理实务的人学习的榜样。他的历史表明凡献上身心一切才能和自己的生命为上帝服务的人所能取得的成就。{COL 350.5}[90]
§193
The case of Daniel has a lesson for us. It reveals the fact that a businessman is not necessarily a sharp, policy man. He can be instructed by God at every step. Daniel, while prime minister of the kingdom of Babylon, was a prophet of God, receiving the light of heavenly inspiration. Worldly, ambitious statesmen are represented in the word of God as the grass that groweth up and as the flower of the grass that fadeth. Yet the Lord desires to have in His service intelligent men, men qualified for various lines of work. There is need of businessmen who will weave the grand principles of truth into all their transactions. And their talents should be perfected by most thorough study and training. If men in any line of work need to?improve their opportunities to become wise and efficient, it is those who are using their ability in building up the kingdom of God in our world. Of Daniel we learn that in all his business transactions, when subjected to the closest scrutiny, not one fault or error could be found. He was a sample of what every businessman may be. His history shows what may be accomplished by one who consecrates the strength of brain and bone and muscle, of heart and life, to the service of God.?{COL 350.5}[90]
§194
上帝还把钱财托付给人。祂赐给人获得财富的能力。祂用天上的甘露和阵阵雨水滋润地土。祂赐下阳光给大地带来温暖，使自然界万物生机蓬勃，繁荣结实。但祂也要求有所回报。{COL 351.1}[91]
§195
【Money】
§196
God also entrusts men with means. He gives them power to get wealth. He waters the earth with the dews of heaven and with the showers of refreshing rain. He gives the sunlight, which warms the earth, awakening to life the things of nature and causing them to flourish and bear fruit. And He asks for a return of His own.?{COL 351.1}[91]
§197
上帝把钱财赐给我们，不是要我们为尊荣自己而使用。我们作为忠心的管家，应当用钱财来荣耀上帝。有人以为自己的财物只有一部分是属乎上帝的。当他们将一部分捐给宗教和慈善事业之后，其余的就看作是自己的了，可以按照自己的意思而使用。但这种看法是错误的。我们的一切都是属于上帝的，必须为如何使用而向祂交账。我们花每一分钱，都要考虑到我们是否爱上帝为至上，并且爱邻舍如同自己。{COL 351.2}[92]
§198
Our money has not been given us that we might honor and glorify ourselves. As faithful stewards we are to use it for the honor and glory of God. Some think that only a portion of their means is the Lord’s. When they have set apart a portion for religious and charitable purposes, they regard the remainder as their own, to be used as they see fit. But in this they mistake. All we possess is the Lord’s, and we are accountable to Him for the use we make of it. In the use of every penny, it will be seen whether we love God supremely and our neighbor as ourselves.?{COL 351.2}[92]
§199
金钱是有很大价值的，因为它能成就很多善事。在上帝的儿女手里，金钱可以给饥饿的有饭吃，口渴的有水喝，赤身的有衣穿，受压迫者得到保护，患病的得医治。金钱只有用来供应生活的需要、造福他人和推进基督的事业才有价值，否则它就与沙土无异。{COL 351.3}[93]
§200
Money has great value, because it can do great good. In the hands of God’s children it is food for the hungry, drink for the thirsty, and clothing for the naked. It is a defense for the oppressed, and a means of help to the sick. But money is of no more value than sand, only as it is put to use in providing for the necessities of life, in blessing others, and advancing the cause of Christ.?{COL 351.3}[93]
§201
囤积的钱财不仅没有用处，而且是一种咒诅。它在今生是心灵的网罗，使人的注意力转离天国的财富。在上帝审判的大日，它将见证人没有利用的钱财和忽略了的机会，而定他的罪。圣经说：“嗐！你们这些富足人哪，应当哭泣、号啕，因为将有苦难临到你们身上。你们的财物坏了，衣服也被虫子咬了。你们的金银都长了锈；那锈要证明你们的不是，又要吃你们的肉，如同火烧。你们在这末世只知积攒钱财。工人给你们收割庄稼，你们亏欠他们的工钱，这工钱有声音呼叫，并且那收割之人的冤声已经入了万军之主的耳了”（雅5:1-4）。{COL 352.1}[94]
§202
Hoarded wealth is not merely useless, it is a curse. In this life it is a snare to the soul, drawing the affections away from the heavenly treasure. In the great day of God its witness to unused talents and neglected opportunities will condemn its possessor. The Scripture says, “Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall bear witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. Behold, the hire of the labourers who have reaped down your fields, which is of you kept back by fraud, crieth; and the cries of them which have reaped are entered into the ears of the Lord of sabaoth.”?James 5:1-4.?{COL 352.1}[94]
§203
然而基督并不允许浪费或胡乱花钱。祂论到节约的教训：“把剩下的零碎收拾起来，免得有糟蹋的”（约6:12），乃是给每一个基督徒的。凡认识到钱财乃是上帝恩赐的人，必节俭使用，并且觉得有责任要节约钱财以供施舍之用。{COL 352.2}[95]
§204
But Christ sanctions no lavish or careless use of means. His lesson in economy, “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost,” is for all His followers. (John 6:12.) He who realizes that his money is a talent from God will use it economically, and will feel it a duty to save that he may give.?{COL 352.2}[95]
§205
我们花在打扮和纵欲上的钱越多，用来帮助饥寒交迫之人的钱就越少。每一分不必要的花费，都从消费者手中夺走了一次宝贵的行善机会，这也就是抢夺了上帝的荣耀。这荣耀他们本来应当通过利用上帝的托付而归给祂的。{COL 352.3}[96]
§206
The more means we expend in display and self-indulgence, the less we can have to feed the hungry and clothe the naked. Every penny used unnecessarily deprives the spender of a precious opportunity of doing good. It is robbing God of the honor and glory which should flow back to Him through the improvement of His entrusted talents.?{COL 352.3}[96]
§207
【仁慈的心怀和情感】
§208
仁慈的心怀，慷慨的精神，对于属灵事物的敏感，这些都是宝贵的恩赐。凡拥有这些恩赐的人都负有重大的责任。这一切都要用来为上帝服务。但是许多人在这方面犯了错误。他们为拥有这些性情而自满，却没有用来积极为他人服务。他们自我自慰说：如果他们得到机会，或环境顺利，就能成就一番伟大的善工。但是他们只是在等待着机会。他们藐视那吝啬而不愿帮助穷人的守财奴。他们看出这些人是为自己而活，并要为他们所误用的钱财负责。同时他们又以十分自满的态度将自己与这种心地狭窄的人比较，觉得自己的情形要比吝啬的邻舍好多了。然而他们是在自欺。他们有才能而不用，只能加重他们的责任。凡拥有充沛感情的人都对上帝负有责任。他们不仅要将这种情感用在自己的朋友身上，也要用在一切需要帮助的人身上。社交的才能是一种恩赐，应当为一切与我们接触的人谋利益。只对少数人好并不是爱，而是自私。它不会在造福人类和荣耀上帝方面发挥任何作用。凡是这样不善用主所赐才能的人，甚至比他们所轻看的那些人罪更重。将来主必对他们说：你们知道主人的心意，却不去行。{COL 352.4}[97]
§209
【Kindly Impulses and Affections】
§210
Kindly affections, generous impulses, and a quick apprehension of spiritual things are precious talents, and lay their possessor under a weighty responsibility. All are to be used in God’s service. But here many err. Satisfied with the possession of these qualities, they fail to bring?them into active service for others. They flatter themselves that if they had opportunity, if circumstances were favorable, they would do a great and good work. But they are awaiting the opportunity. They despise the narrowness of the poor niggard who grudges even a pittance to the needy. They see that he is living for self, and that he is responsible for his misused talents. With much complacency they draw the contrast between themselves and such narrow-minded ones, feeling that their own condition is much more favorable than that of their mean-souled neighbors. But they are deceiving themselves. The mere possession of unused qualities only increases their responsibility. Those who possess large affections are under obligation to God to bestow them, not merely on their friends, but on all who need their help. Social advantages are talents, and are to be used for the benefit of all within reach of our influence. The love that gives kindness to only a few is not love, but selfishness. It will not in any way work for the good of souls or the glory of God. Those who thus leave their Master’s talents unimproved are even more guilty than are the ones for whom they feel such contempt. To them it will be said, Ye knew your Master’s will, but did it not.?{COL 352.4}[97]
§211
【才能因运用而增长】
§212
才能是通过运用而增长的。成功不是机会或命运的结果，而是上帝旨意的成就，是信心与谨慎、德行与不懈努力的报赏。上帝希望我们运用自己的每一样恩赐。如果这样，我们就必获得更大的恩赐可供使用。祂并不用超自然的方式赋予我们所需要的资格。但当我们运用已有的才干时，祂就必与我们合作，增进和加强我们的每一种才能。我们为圣工所作每一次诚恳而全心全意的牺牲，都会增加我们的能力。我们若奉献自己作为圣灵运行的工具，上帝的恩典就必在我们心中工作，抑制旧的倾向，克服顽强的癖性，并养成新的习惯。我们重视和顺从圣灵的感动，心胸就会扩大，以便能领受祂越来越多的能力，从事更多更好的工作。潜力挖掘出来了，瘫痪的机能获得了新生。{COL 353.1}[98]
§213
【Talents Multiplied by Use】
§214
Talents used are talents multiplied. Success is not the result of chance or of destiny; it is the outworking of God’s own providence, the reward of faith and discretion, of virtue and persevering effort. The Lord desires us to use every gift we have; and if we do this, we shall have greater gifts to use. He does not supernaturally endow us with the qualifications we lack; but while we use that which we have, He will work with us to increase and strengthen?every faculty. By every wholehearted, earnest sacrifice for the Master’s service our powers will increase. While we yield ourselves as instruments for the Holy Spirit’s working, the grace of God works in us to deny old inclinations, to overcome powerful propensities, and to form new habits. As we cherish and obey the promptings of the Spirit, our hearts are enlarged to receive more and more of His power, and to do more and better work. Dormant energies are aroused, and palsied faculties receive new life.?{COL 353.1}[98]
§215
凡谦卑顺服地响应上帝呼召的工人，一定会得到上帝的帮助。接受如此重大神圣的职责，本身就能提高人的品格，唤醒和启动人最高的智力和灵力，加强和洁净人的心灵。信靠上帝的能力，会使软弱的人变为刚强，使他的努力变得坚定不移，使他的成就非常优异。这是多么奇妙啊！一个人虽然开始时知识不多，但是如果他虚心地传讲自己所知道的，同时殷勤地追求更多的知识，他就会发现整个天上的宝库都等待着他取用。他越努力地传递亮光，就必得到更多的亮光。一个人本着爱心越努力地向别人解释上帝的道，他就会越明白这道。我们越多地利用自己的知识和能力，就会获得更多的知识与能力。{COL 354.1}[99]
§216
The humble worker who obediently responds to the call of God may be sure of receiving divine assistance. To accept so great and holy a responsibility is itself elevating to the character. It calls into action the highest mental and spiritual powers, and strengthens and purifies the mind and heart. Through faith in the power of God, it is wonderful how strong a weak man may become, how decided his efforts, how prolific of great results. He who begins with a little knowledge, in a humble way, and tells what he knows, while seeking diligently for further knowledge, will find the whole heavenly treasure awaiting his demand. The more he seeks to impart light, the more light he will receive. The more one tries to explain the word of God to others, with a love for souls, the plainer it becomes to himself. The more we use our knowledge and exercise our powers, the more knowledge and power we shall have.?{COL 354.1}[99]
§217
我们为基督所作的每一次努力，都必反过来使我们蒙福。我们如果用自己的钱财来荣耀祂，祂就必更多地加给我们。当我们设法引人归向基督，并为他们祈祷时，我们自己也必因上帝恩典的感化力而兴奋不已。我们心中必充满神圣的热忱。我们的整个基督徒生活就必更加真实，更加热诚，更加虔诚。{COL 354.2}[100]
§218
Every effort made for Christ will react in blessing upon ourselves. If we use our means for His glory, He will give us more. As we seek to win others to Christ, bearing the burden of souls in our prayers, our own hearts will throb with the quickening influence of God’s grace; our own affections will glow with more divine fervor; our whole Christian life will be more of a reality, more earnest, more prayerful.?{COL 354.2}[100]
§219
上天对人的评价，是根据人心对上帝的认识。这种认识乃是涌出一切能力的泉源。上帝创造人，是要使他的各种才能都具有祂的特征。祂不断设法使人的心与祂的心联合。祂赐给我们特权与基督合作，向世人显示祂的恩典，使我们更多地认识天上的事物。{COL 354.3}[101]
§220
The value of man is estimated in heaven according to?the capacity of the heart to know God. This knowledge is the spring from which flows all power. God created man that every faculty might be the faculty of the divine mind; and He is ever seeking to bring the human mind into association with the divine. He offers us the privilege of co-operation with Christ in revealing His grace to the world, that we may receive increased knowledge of heavenly things.?{COL 354.3}[101]
§221
我们仰望耶稣，就必对上帝有更清楚的认识。藉着仰望，我们身上会发生变化。我们就会出自本能地表现出仁慈和对同胞的爱来。于是我们就培养了一个与上帝的品德相似的品格。我们既长成祂的样式，就扩大了认识祂的能力。我们与天上的世界交流越多，就会得到更大的能力来领受那永恒智慧与知识的财富。{COL 355.1}[102]
§222
Looking unto Jesus we obtain brighter and more distinct views of God, and by beholding we become changed. Goodness, love for our fellow men, becomes our natural instinct. We develop a character which is the counterpart of the divine character. Growing into His likeness, we enlarge our capacity for knowing God. More and more we enter into fellowship with the heavenly world, and we have continually increasing power to receive the riches of the knowledge and wisdom of eternity.?{COL 355.1}[102]
§223
【一千银子】
§224
那领一千的“去掘开地，把主人的银子埋藏了。”{COL 355.2}[103]
§225
【The One Talent】
§226
The man who received the one talent “went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money.”?{COL 355.2}[103]
§227
那个领受最少的人，没有运利用自己的银子。这件事对于那些觉得自己的才干小而推辞不为基督服务的人乃是一个警告。他们觉得如果能从事某项大事，就必欣然前往。但由于他们现在只能做一些小事，他们就觉得自己虽然无所事事，也是对的。他们这样想是错的。上帝分配祂的恩赐，乃是对人品格的考验。那个忽略不利用他一千银子的人，证明自己不是一个忠心的仆人。即使他领了五千银子，也会将它埋藏起来，如同埋藏一千银子一样。他没有利用一千银子，表明他藐视上帝的恩赐。{COL 355.3}[104]
§228
It was the one with the smallest gift who left his talent unimproved. In this is given a warning to all who feel that the smallness of their endowments excuses them from service for Christ. If they could do some great thing, how gladly would they undertake it; but because they can serve only in little things, they think themselves justified in doing nothing. In this they err. The Lord in His distribution of gifts is testing character. The man who neglected to improve his talent proved himself an unfaithful servant. Had he received five talents, he would have buried them as he buried the one. His misuse of the one talent showed that he despised the gifts of heaven.?{COL 355.3}[104]
§229
“人在最小的事上忠心，在大事上也忠心”（路16:10）。小事的重要性常常因为其小而被人低估。然而这些事能为人生提供大量实际的锻炼。事实上在基督徒的生活中，没有什么事是不重要的。我们若低估了小事的重要性，我们品格的建造就必充满危险。{COL 356.1}[105]
§230
“He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much.”?Luke 16:10. The importance of the little things is often underrated because they are small; but they supply much of the actual discipline of life. There are really no nonessentials in the Christian’s life. Our character building will be full of peril while we underrate the importance of the little things.?{COL 356.1}[105]
§231
“在最小的事上不义，在大事上也不义。”人在最小的本份上不忠心，就是夺取了创造主所应受的侍奉。这种不忠心的行为要对他自己产生影响。他无法获得那藉着毫无保留地献身上帝而来的恩惠、能力和品格上的力量。他既然离开基督而生活，就必屈从撒但的试探，并在为主所做的工作上犯错误。他在小事上没有正确原则的指导，所以在他认为是特殊工作的大事上，也就不顺从上帝了。在处理生活细节时所存在的缺点，必要带进更重要的事务之中。他必按照自己一贯的原则行事。这种行为的一再重复就成了习惯。习惯再形成品格。而我们今生和来生的命运是按照品格来决定的。{COL 356.2}[106]
§232
“He that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much.” By unfaithfulness in even the smallest duties, man robs his Maker of the service which is His due. This unfaithfulness reacts upon himself. He fails of gaining the grace, the power, the force of character, which may be received through an unreserved surrender to God. Living apart from Christ he is subject to Satan’s temptations, and he makes mistakes in his work for the Master. Because he is not guided by right principles in little things, he fails to obey God in the great matters which he regards as his special work. The defects cherished in dealing with life’s minor details pass into more important affairs. He acts on the principles to which he has accustomed himself. Thus actions repeated form habits, habits form character, and by the character our destiny for time and for eternity is decided.?{COL 356.2}[106]
§233
人惟有藉着在小事上忠心，才能得到锻炼而在更大的责任之下忠心尽职。上帝曾使但以理和他的同伴与巴比伦的大人物来往，为要使那些外邦人得以认识真宗教的原则。但以理要在那拜偶像的国家中表现上帝的品德。他是怎么获得如此重大和尊荣的职务呢？是因为他在小事上忠心。这就决定了他整个生活的特征。他在最小的责任上荣耀了上帝，因此主就与他合作。但以理与他的同伴得蒙上帝“在各样文字学问上赐给他们聪明知识；但以理又明白各样的异象和梦兆”（但1:17）。{COL 356.3}[107]
§234
Only by faithfulness in the little things can the soul be trained to act with fidelity under larger responsibilities. God brought Daniel and his fellows into connection with the great men of Babylon, that these heathen men might become acquainted with the principles of true religion. In the midst of a nation of idolaters, Daniel was to represent the character of God. How did he become fitted for a position of so great trust and honor? It was his faithfulness in the little things that gave complexion to his whole life. He honored God in the smallest duties, and the Lord co-operated with him. To Daniel and his companions God?gave “knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom; and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams.”?Daniel 1:17.?{COL 356.3}[107]
§235
上帝怎样选召但以理在巴比伦为祂作见证，祂也照样选召我们在今日的世界上为祂作见证。祂希望我们在人生最小的事务和最大的事务上都向世人显示祂国度的原则。{COL 357.1}[108]
§236
As God called Daniel to witness for Him in Babylon, so He calls us to be His witnesses in the world today. In the smallest as well as the largest affairs of life He desires us to reveal to men the principles of His kingdom.?{COL 357.1}[108]
§237
基督用祂在地上的生活，教导我们有关注意小事的教训。救赎大工的重任不断地压在祂的心灵上。祂在教训人医治人的时候，是聚精会神，全力以赴的。然而祂还是注意到人生和自然界最简单的事物。祂最有意义的教训，乃是用自然界的简单事物来说明天国的伟大真理。祂没有忽略祂最卑微仆人的需要。祂的耳朵听到每一个需求的呼唤。祂在拥挤的人群觉察到那痛苦妇人的触摸。这出于信心的最轻微触摸就得到了回答。当祂使睚鲁的女儿复活的时候，祂还提醒她的父母要给她吃东西。当祂凭着自己的大能大力从坟墓里出来的时候，祂并未疏忽缠裹祂的细麻布，而是细心地叠好放在一定的地方。{COL 357.2}[109]
§238
Christ in His life on earth taught the lesson of careful attention to the little things. The great work of redemption weighed continually upon His soul. As He was teaching and healing, all the energies of mind and body were taxed to the utmost; yet He noticed the most simple things in life and in nature. His most instructive lessons were those in which by the simple things of nature He?illustrated the great truths of the kingdom of God. He did not overlook the necessities of the humblest of His servants. His ear heard every cry of need. He was awake to the touch of the afflicted woman in the crowd; the very slightest touch of faith brought a response. When He raised from the dead the daughter of Jairus, He reminded her parents that she must have something to eat. When by His own mighty power He rose from the tomb, He did not disdain to fold and put carefully in the proper place the graveclothes in which He had been laid away.?{COL 357.2}[109]
§239
我们基督徒蒙召，就是要在救灵工作上与基督同工。我们已经与祂立约从事这项工作。疏忽这项工作就是对基督的不忠诚。但是为了完成这项工作，我们必须效法祂的榜样，在小事上忠心谨慎。这是基督徒各方面努力和感动人取得成功的秘诀。{COL 358.1}[110]
§240
The work to which as Christians we are called is to co-operate with Christ for the salvation of souls. This work we have entered into covenant with Him to do. To neglect the work is to prove disloyal to Christ. But in order to accomplish this work we must follow His example of faithful, conscientious attention to the little things. This is the secret of success in every line of Christian effort and influence.?{COL 358.1}[110]
§241
上帝希望祂的子民达到阶梯的最高级。这样，他们就能因拥有祂所乐意赐予的才能而荣耀祂。上帝藉着祂的恩典，已经为我们作好了一切安排，从而表明我们的行动计划比世人的优越。我们应当显示出超人的智慧、聪明、技巧和知识，因为我们相信上帝，并相信祂感化人心的能力。{COL 358.2}[111]
§242
The Lord desires His people to reach the highest round of the ladder that they may glorify Him by possessing the ability He is willing to bestow. Through the grace of God every provision has been made for us to reveal that we act upon better plans than those upon which the world acts. We are to show a superiority in intellect, in understanding, in skill and knowledge, because we believe in God and in His power to work upon human hearts.?{COL 358.2}[111]
§243
但那些没有获得较大恩赐的人们也不必灰心。他们应当利用自己所已有的，忠心地提防自己品格中的每一弱点，设法靠着上帝的恩典变弱为强。我们必须将忠诚和信实带入生活的一举一动中，并培养使我们完成工作的特性。{COL 358.3}[112]
§244
But those who have not a large endowment of gifts need not become discouraged. Let them use what they have, faithfully guarding every weak point in their characters, seeking by divine grace to make it strong. Into every action of life we are to weave faithfulness and loyalty, cultivating the attributes that will enable us to accomplish the work.?{COL 358.3}[112]
§245
粗心大意的习惯必须坚决予以克服。许多人认为这可以作为原谅严重错误的充分理由。但是他们难道不是和别人一样具有智力吗？他们应当培养自己的思维具有长久的记忆力。健忘是罪，疏忽也是罪。你如果养成了粗心的习惯，也可能疏忽自己灵魂的得救；最后你必要发现自己还没有为上帝的国作好准备。{COL 358.4}[113]
§246
Habits of negligence should be resolutely overcome.?Many think it a sufficient excuse for the grossest errors to plead forgetfulness. But do they not, as well as others, possess intellectual faculties? Then they should discipline their minds to be retentive. It is a sin to forget, a sin to be negligent. If you form a habit of negligence, you may neglect your own soul’s salvation and at last find that you are unready for the kingdom of God.?{COL 358.4}[113]
§247
伟大的真理必须在小事上实行出来。实际的宗教应当贯彻在日常生活的微小本分上。任何人最大的资格都是绝对顺从主的话语。{COL 359.1}[114]
§248
Great truths must be brought into little things. Practical religion is to be carried into the lowly duties of daily life. The greatest qualification for any man is to obey implicitly the word of the Lord.?{COL 359.1}[114]
§249
许多人因为没有直接参加宗教工作，就觉得自己的生活没有什么作为，对推进上帝的国度没有什么贡献。但这样想是不对的。如果他们的工作是必须有人做的，他们就不该埋怨自己在上帝的大家庭中是无用的。最低微的职务也不可掉以轻心。任何正当的工作都是一种福惠，而且在这项工作上的忠心，可以作为担负更高职责的训练。{COL 359.2}[115]
§250
Because they are not connected with some directly religious work, many feel that their lives are useless; that they are doing nothing for the advancement of God’s kingdom. But this is a mistake. If their work is that which someone must do, they should not accuse themselves of uselessness in the great household of God. The humblest duties are not to be ignored. Any honest work is a blessing, and faithfulness in it may prove a training for higher trusts.?{COL 359.2}[115]
§251
凡为上帝所做的工作，不论多么卑微，只要怀着忘我的精神去做，都必与最高的工作一样蒙祂所悦纳。凡出于甘心乐意的奉献，都不能算为微小的。{COL 359.3}[116]
§252
However lowly, any work done for God with a full surrender of self is as acceptable to Him as the highest service. No offering is small that is given with true-heartedness and gladness of soul.?{COL 359.3}[116]
§253
基督吩咐我们无论在什么地方，都要负起眼前的责任。如果你的责任在家里，那就要乐意而认真地使家庭成为一个快乐的地方。如果你是做母亲的，就要为基督而教养你的儿女。这和传道人在讲坛上一样，都是为上帝作工。如果你的责任是在厨房里，就要设法做一个优秀的厨师。要预备卫生、营养、可口的食物。当你用最好的原料预备食物的时候，要记住你也当用最好的思想充实你的心灵。如果你的工作是耕地，或是从事其它手艺或职业，你都要使当前的工作取得成功。要专心致志地做你的工作。要在你的一切工作中表现基督。要按照祂在你的地位上会做的去做。{COL 359.4}[117]
§254
Wherever we may be, Christ bids us take up the duty that presents itself. If this is in the home, take hold willingly and earnestly to make home a pleasant place. If you are a mother, train your children for Christ. This is as verily a work for God as is that of the minister in the pulpit. If your duty is in the kitchen, seek to be a perfect cook. Prepare food that will be healthful, nourishing, and appetizing. And as you employ the best ingredients in preparing food remember that you are to give your mind the best thoughts. If it is your work to till the soil or to engage in any other trade or occupation, make a success of the present duty. Put your mind on what you are doing. In all your work represent Christ. Do as He would do in your place.?{COL 360.4}[117]
§255
你的才能不论多么小，上帝都有祂的用处。你的才能只要善予运用，就会完成所指定的工作。藉着在小事上忠心，我们的才干就会不断地增加。上帝也必帮助我们增加才干。这些小事将在祂的工作中发挥极宝贵的影响。{COL 360.1}[118]
§256
However small your talent, God has a place for it. That one talent, wisely used, will accomplish its appointed work. By faithfulness in little duties, we are to work on the plan of addition, and God will work for us on the plan of multiplication. These littles will become the most precious influences in His work.?{COL 360.1}[118]
§257
活泼的信心应像金丝一般交织在最小职责的履行中。这样，一切日常的工作都必促进基督徒的成长了。他们必不断地仰望耶稣。爱主的心必使我们所做的每一件事充满生命的力量。由于正确地运用自己的才能，我们就能用一条金链将自己与天国联系在一起。这是真正的成圣；因为成圣乃在于完全顺从上帝的旨意，愉快地履行每日的职责。{COL 360.2}[119]
§258
Let a living faith run like threads of gold through the performance of even the smallest duties. Then all the daily work will promote Christian growth. There will be a continual looking unto Jesus. Love for Him will give vital force to everything that is undertaken. Thus through the right use of our talents, we may link ourselves by a golden chain to the higher world. This is true sanctification; for sanctification consists in the cheerful performance of daily duties in perfect obedience to the will of God.?{COL 360.2}[119]
§259
但是有许多基督徒正在等待着某项大工临到他们。由于他们没有找到一个能满足他们野心的大职位，他们就不肯忠心地履行生活中的普通职责。他们认为这些职责没有意思。他们一天一天错过了向上帝效忠的机会。正当他们等待某项大工的时候，一生结束了，而人生的目的却没有达到，人生的工作还没有完成。{COL 360.3}[120]
§260
But many Christians are waiting for some great work to be brought to them. Because they cannot find a place large enough to satisfy their ambition, they fail to perform faithfully the common duties of life. These seem to them uninteresting. Day by day they let slip opportunities for showing their faithfulness to God. While they are waiting for some great work, life passes away, its purposes unfulfilled, its work unaccomplished.?{COL 360.3}[120]
§261
【归还银子】
§262
“过了许久，那些仆人的主人来了，和他们算账。”在主清算他仆人账目的时候，每一份归还的银子都要受到详细的审查。所成就的工作将表明工人的品格。{COL 360.4}[121]
§263
【The Talents Returned】
§264
“After a long time the Lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.” When the Lord takes account of His servants, the return from every talent will be scrutinized. The work done reveals the character of the worker.?{COL 360.4}[121]
§265
五千和二千银子的人将所托付的银子连本带利交还主人。他们这样行，并没有归功于自己。他们的银子是主人托付的。他们固然另外又赚了银子，但如果没有本钱，就必一无所得。他们看到自己无非是尽到了责任。本钱是主的；利润也是祂的。如果救主没有将祂的慈爱和恩典赐给他们，他们必永远破产。{COL 360.5}[122]
§266
Those who have received the five and the two talents return to the Lord the entrusted gifts with their increase.?In doing this they claim no merit for themselves. Their talents are those that have been delivered to them; they have gained other talents, but there could have been no gain without the deposit. They see that they have done only their duty. The capital was the Lord’s; the improvement is His. Had not the Saviour bestowed upon them His love and grace, they would have been bankrupt for eternity.?{COL 360.5}[122]
§267
但是当主人收回银子的时候，却称赞并赏赐那些工人，好像功劳全是他们的。祂的脸上显露出快乐和满意的表情。祂因为能赐福给他们，就非常高兴。祂报赏他们的每一份服务和牺牲，不是因为祂欠他们，而是因为祂心中充满慈爱和温柔。{COL 361.1}[123]
§268
But when the Master receives the talents, He approves and rewards the workers as though the merit were all their own. His countenance is full of joy and satisfaction. He is filled with delight that He can bestow blessings upon them. For every service and every sacrifice He requites them, not because it is a debt He owes, but because His heart is overflowing with love and tenderness.?{COL 361.1}[123]
§269
祂说：“好，你这又良善又忠心的仆人；你在不多的事上有忠心，我要把许多事派你管理；可以进来享受你主人的快乐。”{COL 361.2}[124]
§270
“Well done, thou good and faithful servant,” He says; “thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things; enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.”?{COL 361.2}[124]
§271
博得上帝嘉纳的，乃是对上帝信实、忠诚和爱心的服务。凡出于圣灵引人向往善良和上帝的每一个愿望，都记录在天上的册子中。在上帝的日子，凡为祂所用的工人都会受到称赞。{COL 361.3}[125]
§272
It is the faithfulness, the loyalty to God, the loving service, that wins the divine approval. Every impulse of the Holy Spirit leading men to goodness and to God, is noted in the books of heaven, and in the day of God the workers through whom He has wrought will be commended.?{COL 361.3}[125]
§273
当他们在主的国度里看到了那些因他们的服务而得蒙救赎的人，他们就要享受主人的快乐了。他们有权利在那里参加祂的圣工，因为他们藉着在今世参加祂的工作而获得了这种资格。我们在天上的情形如何，要看我们现在的品格，以及在圣工中服务的精神。基督论到祂自己说：“人子来，不是要受人的服事，乃是要服事人”（太20:28）。这是祂在地上的工作。这也是祂在天上的工作。我们在今生与基督同工的赏赐，就是在来生与祂同工的更大能力和特权。{COL 361.4}[126]
§274
They will enter into the joy of the Lord as they see in His kingdom those who have been redeemed through their instrumentality. And they are privileged to participate in His work there, because they have gained a fitness for it by participation in His work here. What we shall be in heaven is the reflection of what we are now in character and holy service. Christ said of Himself, “The Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.”?Matthew 20:28. This, His work on earth, is His work in heaven. And our reward for working with Christ in this world is the greater power and wider privilege of working with Him in the world to come.?{COL 361.4}[126]
§275
“那领一千的也来说：主啊，我知道你是忍心的人，没有种的地方要收割，没有散的地方要聚敛；我就害怕，去把你的一千银子埋藏在地里，请看你的原银子在这里。”{COL 362.1}[127]
§276
“Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strewed; and I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth; lo, there thou hast that is thine.”?{COL 362.1}[127]
§277
人就是这样推托自己对上帝恩赐的疏忽。他们把上帝看作是苛刻而严厉的，时常在窥伺着他们的过错，以便降罚与他们。他们埋怨祂，说祂没有给的要索取，没有种的要收割。{COL 362.2}[128]
§278
Thus men excuse their neglect of God’s gifts. They look upon God as severe and tyrannical, as watching to spy out their mistakes and visit them with judgments. They charge Him with demanding what He has never given, with reaping where He has not sown.?{COL 362.2}[128]
§279
在许多人的心目中，上帝是一位忍心的主人，因为祂强行索取他们的财产和服务。然而我们所能献给上帝的，没有一样不是属于祂的。大卫王说：“万物都从祢而来；我们把从祢而得的献给祢”（代上29:14）。万物都是属于上帝的，不仅是由于创造，也是由于救赎。上帝所赐给我们今生来世的一切福分，都盖有髑髅地十字架的印记。所以，说上帝是苛刻的主人，没有种的地方要收割，这是不符合事实的。{COL 362.3}[129]
§280
There are many who in their hearts charge God with being a hard master because He claims their possessions and their service. But we can bring to God nothing that is not already His. “All things come of Thee,” said King David; “and of Thine own have we given Thee.”?1 Chronicles 29:14. All things are God’s, not only by creation, but by redemption. All the blessings of this life and of the life to come are delivered to us stamped with the cross of Calvary. Therefore the charge that God is a hard master, reaping where He has not sown, is false.?{COL 362.3}[129]
§281
仆人的指摘虽然是不真实的，但主人并没有予以否定。祂只是根据仆人自己的立场来证明他的行为是无可推脱的。用银子为主人赚钱的各种方法早已具备。主人说：“你……就当把我的银子放给兑换银钱的人，到我来的时候，可以连本带利收回。”{COL 362.4}[130]
§282
The master does not deny the charge of the wicked servant, unjust as it is; but taking him on his own ground he shows that his conduct is without excuse. Ways and means had been provided whereby the talent might have been improved to the owner’s profit. “Thou oughtest,” he said, “to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury.”?{COL 362.4}[130]
§283
我们的天父向我们所要的，恰好与祂所赐给我们的能力相称。祂放在祂仆人身上的担子，没有一样是他们所不能担负的。“因为祂知道我们的本体，思念我们不过是尘土”（诗103:14）。祂向我们所要求的一切，都是我们靠着祂的恩典所能够付出的。{COL 362.5}[131]
§284
Our heavenly Father requires no more nor less than He has given us ability to do. He lays upon His servants no burdens that they are not able to bear. “He knoweth our frame; He remembereth that we are dust.”?Psalm 103:14. All that He claims from us we through divine grace can render.?{COL 362.5}[131]
§285
“因为多给谁，就向谁多取”（路12:48）。我们所做的，如果低于我们力所能及的，就得自己负责。上帝准确地衡量每个人服务的能力。人的才能不论已用未用，主都把它算在里面。上帝要我们为藉着善用才干而能取得的成就负责。我们将按照我们所应做却因没有运用自己的才能荣耀上帝，以致没有做的事而受审判。即使我们没有失去自己的生命，我们也必永远感受才能未经使用的后果。我们所能获得却没有获得的知识和才能，将会永远失去。{COL 362.6}[132]
§286
“Unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much?required.”?Luke 12:48. We shall individually be held responsible for doing one jot less than we have ability to do. The Lord measures with exactness every possibility for service. The unused capabilities are as much brought into account as are those that are improved. For all that we might become through the right use of our talents God holds us responsible. We shall be judged according to what we ought to have done, but did not accomplish because we did not use our powers to glorify God. Even if we do not lose our souls, we shall realize in eternity the result of our unused talents. For all the knowledge and ability that we might have gained and did not, there will be an eternal loss.?{COL 362.6}[132]
§287
但是当我们全然献身给上帝，并在工作中随从祂的指引时，祂必亲自来帮助我们完成任务。祂不要我们自己去推测自己努力的成效如何？不要有失败的思想。我们是与那永不失败的主合作。{COL 363.1}[133]
§288
But when we give ourselves wholly to God and in our work follow His directions, He makes Himself responsible for its accomplishment. He would not have us conjecture as to the success of our honest endeavors. Not once should we even think of failure. We are to co-operate with One who knows no failure.?{COL 363.1}[133]
§289
我们不应谈论自己的软弱和无能，因为这是对上帝不信任和否认祂话语的表现，当我们因自己的担子而发怨言，或拒绝祂所托付我们要肩负的责任时，我们事实上就是说祂是一位忍心的主人，要我们做祂所没有赐予我们力量去做的工。{COL 363.2}[134]
§290
We should not talk of our own weakness and inability. This is a manifest distrust of God, a denial of His word. When we murmur because of our burdens, or refuse the responsibilities He calls upon us to bear, we are virtually saying that He is a hard master, that He requires what He has not given us power to do.?{COL 363.2}[134]
§291
我们往往喜欢称这种懒仆人的作风为谦虚。其实真正的谦虚与此是大相径庭的。谦虚并不是要我们智力退化，热情减弱，在生活上意志薄弱，推卸责任，惟恐不能成功。真正的谦虚乃是倚靠上帝的能力，实行祂的旨意。{COL 363.3}[135]
§292
The spirit of the slothful servant we are often fain to call humility. But true humility is widely different. To be clothed with humility does not mean that we are to be dwarfs in intellect, deficient in aspiration, and cowardly in our lives, shunning burdens lest we fail to carry them successfully. Real humility fulfills God’s purposes by depending upon His strength.?{COL 363.3}[135]
§293
上帝随自己的意思用人作工。祂有时拣选最卑微的工具来从事最伟大的工作，因为祂的能力要在人的软弱上显明出来。我们有自己的标准，并用这个标准来断定哪件事是大的，哪件事是小的。但是上帝并不按照我们的标准来衡量。我们不要以为自己所看为大的事情，上帝也看为大；我们所认为小的事情，祂也看为小。判断我们的才能或选择我们的工作，这不是我们的事。我们只须接过上帝所指定的担子，为祂的缘故承当起来，并且常到祂那里去求得安息。我们不论做什么工作，只要尽心乐意去做，上帝都会得着尊荣。当我们因配作祂的同工而欢乐，并以感恩的心情负起责任时，上帝是很高兴的。{COL 363.4}[136]
§294
God works by whom He will. He sometimes selects the humblest instrument to do the greatest work, for His?power is revealed through the weakness of men. We have our standard, and by it we pronounce one thing great and another small; but God does not estimate according to our rule. We are not to suppose that what is great to us must be great to God, or that what is small to us must be small to Him. It does not rest with us to pass judgment on our talents or to choose our work. We are to take up the burdens that God appoints, bearing them for His sake, and ever going to Him for rest. Whatever our work, God is honored by wholehearted, cheerful service. He is pleased when we take up our duties with gratitude, rejoicing that we are accounted worthy to be co-laborers with Him.?{COL 363.4}[136]
§295
【银子被夺去】
§296
对懒仆人的判决是：“夺过他这一千来，给那有一万的。”就像对忠心仆人的回报一样，这里不仅说明了最后审判之时的赏罚，也说明了在今生逐渐回报的过程。在自然界怎样，在灵界也是怎样。能力若不使用，就必衰退。运动就是生命的定律；懒惰必致死亡。“圣灵显在各人身上，是叫人得益处”（林前12:7）。人若运用恩赐为他人造福，他的恩赐就必增加；若将恩赐偏留为自己所用，就必减少，最后将被收回。那些不肯将自己所得的分给别人的人，至终必发现自己没有什么东西可以给别人的了。他是在削弱乃至于摧毁自己的才能。{COL 364.1}[137]
§297
【The Talent Removed】
§298
Upon the slothful servant the sentence was, “Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents.” Here, as in the reward of the faithful worker, is indicated not merely the reward at the final judgment but the gradual process of retribution in this life. As in the natural, so in the spiritual world: every power unused will weaken and decay. Activity is the law of life; idleness is death. “The manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.”?1 Corinthians 12:7. Employed to bless others, his gifts increase. Shut up to self-serving they diminish, and are finally withdrawn. He who refuses to impart that which he has received will at last find that he has nothing to give. He is consenting to a process that surely dwarfs and finally destroys the faculties of the soul.?{COL 364.1}[137]
§299
人切莫以为自己在度自私的生活，满足自己的利益之后，依然可以进去享受主人的快乐。他们决不可能分享无私之爱的快乐，也不能适应天国的环境。他们无法欣赏那弥漫天国的仁爱纯洁的气氛。天使的歌声和琴声不能使他们满足。天国的科学在他们心中乃是不解之谜。{COL 364.2}[138]
§300
Let none suppose that they can live a life of selfishness, and then, having served their own interests, enter into the joy of their Lord. In the joy of unselfish love they could not participate. They would not be fitted for the heavenly?courts. They could not appreciate the pure atmosphere of love that pervades heaven. The voices of the angels and the music of their harps would not satisfy them. To their minds the science of heaven would be as an enigma.?{COL 364.2}[138]
§301
在审判的大日，凡没有为基督作工，游手好闲，不负责任，专顾自己，只知享受的人，都要被审判全地的主列在作恶的人一边。他们要与恶人一同被定罪。{COL 365.1}[139]
§302
In the great judgment day those who have not worked for Christ, those who have drifted along, carrying no responsibility, thinking of themselves, pleasing themselves, will be placed by the Judge of all the earth with those who did evil. They receive the same condemnation.?{COL 365.1}[139]
§303
许多人自称是基督徒，却忽略上帝的要求，然而他们还觉察不到自己有什么过失。他们知道那些亵渎的、杀人的、奸淫的人该受惩罚。他们自己则是乐意参加宗教礼拜的。他们欢喜听人传讲福音，因此他们就自以为是基督徒。虽然他们一生专为自己而活，仍必像比喻中不忠心的仆人那样，非常惊奇地听到主的判决：“夺过他这一千来。”他们像犹太人一样，把运用福惠误解为享受福惠。{COL 365.2}[140]
§304
Many who profess to be Christians neglect the claims of God, and yet they do not feel that in this there is any wrong. They know that the blasphemer, the murderer, the adulterer, deserves punishment; but as for them, they enjoy the services of religion. They love to hear the gospel preached, and therefore they think themselves Christians. Though they have spent their lives in caring for themselves, they will be as much surprised as was the unfaithful servant in the parable to hear the sentence, “Take the talent from him.” Like the Jews, they mistake the enjoyment of their blessings for the use they should make of them.?{COL 365.2}[140]
§305
许多人以自己没有能力为托辞，不肯做基督徒的工作。难道是上帝使他们这样无能吗？绝对不是。他们这样的无能是他们自己的懒惰所造成的，又因他们的主动选择而一直保留下来。他们已经在自己的品格上体验到“夺过他这一千来”这个判决的后果。他们不断地错用才能，终于扑灭了唯一的亮光——圣灵。“把这无用的仆人丢在外面黑暗里”的判决，不过是在他们自己为永恒所作的选择上盖上天庭的印鉴罢了。{COL 365.3}[141]
§306
Many who excuse themselves from Christian effort plead their inability for the work. But did God make them so incapable? No, never. This inability has been produced by their own inactivity and perpetuated by their deliberate choice. Already, in their own characters, they are realizing the result of the sentence, “Take the talent from him.” The continual misuse of their talents will effectually quench for them the Holy Spirit, which is the only light. The sentence, “Cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness,” sets Heaven’s seal to the choice which they themselves have made for eternity.?{COL 365.3}[141]