第1节 上帝对祂教会的爱
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第一节 上帝对祂教会的爱
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Section One - God’s Love for His Church
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祂最关怀的对象
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The Object of His Supreme Regard
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1892年12月23日于澳大利亚墨尔本
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Melbourne, Australia December 23, 1892.
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全球总会亲爱的弟兄们：
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Dear Brethren of the General Conference:
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我向弟兄姐妹们证明，基督的教会即便有软弱和缺点，也是祂在地上最关怀的唯一对象。祂一方面向全世界的人发出邀请，要他们到祂那里获得拯救，一方面也委派祂的天使向每一个本着痛悔之心来到祂面前的人提供神圣的帮助，并藉着祂的圣灵亲自临格在祂的教会之中。“主耶和华啊，祢若究察罪孽，谁能站得住呢？但在祢有赦免之恩，要叫人敬畏祢。我等候耶和华，我的心等候，我也在祂的话里盼望。我的心等候主，胜于守夜的等候天亮。以色列啊，你当在耶和华里盼望：因祂有慈爱，有丰盛的救恩。祂必救赎以色列脱离一切的罪孽”（诗130:3-8）。{GRC 5.1}
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I testify to my brethren and sisters that the church of Christ, enfeebled and defective as it may be, is the only object on earth on which He bestows His supreme regard. While He extends to all the world His invitation to come to Him and be saved, He commissions His angels to render divine help to every soul that cometh to Him in repentance and contrition, and He comes personally by His Holy Spirit into the midst of His church. “If Thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, 0 Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with Thee, that Thou mayest be feared. I wait for the Lord, my soul doth wait, and in His word do I hope. My soul waiteth for the Lord more than they that watch for the morning.” “Let Israel hope in the Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is plenteous redemption. And He shall redeem Israel from all his iniquities.” {GRC 5.1}
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传道人和全会众啊，让我们用这话，衷心感激上帝对教会全体和我们个人的伟大慈爱吧。“以色列啊，你当在耶和华里盼望；从今时直到永远。”“站在耶和华殿中，站在我们上帝殿院中的，你们要赞美耶和华，因耶和华本为善；要歌颂祂的名，因为这是美好的。耶和华拣选雅各归自己，拣选以色列特作自己的子民。原来我知道耶和华为大，也知道我的主超乎万神之上”（诗131:3;135:1-5）。我的弟兄姐妹们，试想主有一班人，一班选民，就是祂的教会要归祂自己，作祂在这个被罪恶所摧残的悖逆世界上所设立的堡垒。祂定意让祂的教会不承认其他的权威和律法，只承认祂的权威和律法。撒但有一个庞大的同盟，就是他的教会。基督称他们为撒但一会的人，因为其成员都是罪恶之子。撒但一会的人一贯抛弃上帝的律法，混淆善恶之间的界限。撒但正在悖逆之子中大肆活动，藉着他们将叛逆和背道夸奖为真理和忠诚。他现在正用他邪恶的精神煽动人继续进行他在天上所发动的反抗上帝的大叛乱。{GRC 5.2}
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Ministers and all the church, let this be our language, from hearts that respond to the great goodness and love of God to us as a people and to us individually, “Let Israel hope in the Lord from henceforth and forever.” “Ye that stand in the house of the Lord, in the courts of the house of our God, praise the Lord; for the Lord is good: sing praises unto His name; for it is pleasant. For the Lord hath chosen Jacob unto Himself, and Israel for His peculiar treasure. For I know that the Lord is great, and that our Lord is above all gods.” Consider, my brethren and sisters, that the Lord has a people, a chosen people, His church, to be His own, His own fortress, which He holds in a sin-stricken, revolted world; and He intended that no authority should be known in it, no laws be acknowledged by it, but His own. Satan has a large confederacy, his church. Christ calls them the synagogue of Satan because the members are the children of sin. The members of Satan’s church have been constantly working to cast off the divine law, and confuse the distinction between good and evil. Satan is working with great power in and through the children of disobedience, to exalt treason and apostasy as truth and loyalty. And at this time the power of his satanic inspiration is moving the living agencies carry out the great rebellion against God that commenced in heaven. {GRC 5.2}
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清楚明确的特征
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Clear, Decided Distinctions
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现今教会应穿上她华美的衣服，就是“基督我们的义。”藉着高举上帝诫命和耶稣真道，在世人面前恢复和彰显其清楚明显的特征。教会要在其本有的光泽上显示出圣洁的美，而与背弃上帝律法之人的丑陋及黑暗形成对照。我们就这样承认上帝和作为祂天上地下政权基础的律法。教会要在世界明确地维护祂的权威，不承认任何与耶和华的律法相冲突的法律。如果不顾上帝的安排而听任世人影响我们的决心和行动，上帝的旨意就遭到了破坏。不论借口多么动听，如果教会在这一点上动摇了，天上的案卷中，就要记下她背弃最神圣的付托，背叛基督的国度。教会若在天上全宇宙及地上各国之前坚持她的原则，坚贞地维护上帝律法的尊严与神圣，则连世人必会被吸引并表示钦佩。许多人也会因看见我们的好行为，而将荣耀归与我们在天上的父。忠心诚实的人都带有天国的凭证，而不是地上统治者的凭证。众人也必认出谁是蒙拣选有忠心的基督门徒，而且要在凡尊敬上帝并为祂所看重之人得冠冕与尊荣，领受极重无比永远之荣耀的时候，认出他们来。……{GRC 6.1}
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At this time the church is to put on her beautiful garments—“Christ our righteousness.” There are clear, decided distinctions to be restored and exemplified to the world in holding aloft the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. The beauty of holiness is to appear in its native luster in contrast with the deformity and darkness of the disloyal, those who have revolted from the law of God. Thus we acknowledge God, and recognize His law, the foundation of His government in heaven and throughout His earthly dominions. His authority should be kept distinct and plain before the world; and no laws are to be acknowledged that come in collision with the laws of Jehovah. If in defiance of God’s arrangements the world be allowed to influence our decisions or our actions, the purpose of God is defeated. However specious the pretext, if the church waver here, there is written against her in the books of heaven a betrayal of the most sacred trusts, and treachery to the kingdom of Christ. The church is firmly and decidedly to hold her principles before the whole heavenly universe and the kingdoms of the world; steadfast fidelity in maintaining the honor and sacredness of the law of God will attract the notice and admiration of even the world, and many will, by the good works which they shall behold, be led to glorify our Father in heaven. The loyal and true bear the credentials of heaven, not of earthly potentates. All men shall know who are the disciples of Christ, chosen and faithful, and shall know them when crowned and glorified as those who honored God and whom He has honored, bringing them into possession of an eternal weight of glory…. {GRC 6.1}
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主已为祂的教会准备了各种的能力与福分，使教会可在世人面前显示祂自己丰满的形像，并使教会在祂里面得以完全。教会要不断彰显那永存的世界，以及那超越世上一切法律的律法。祂的教会要成为按照上帝的样式建造的圣殿。天上的建筑师从天上带来测量的金杖，使每一块石头都按照神圣的标准雕琢打磨，成为天国的标志，向四面八方反射公义日头的清明光线。教会要受天上吗哪的供养，单单受上帝恩典的保护。她要穿上光明公义的全副军装，投入她最后的战斗。渣滓和无价值的材料终必消灭，而真理的感化力却要向世人证明它使人成圣和高尚的品质。……{GRC 6.2}
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The Lord has provided His church with capabilities and blessings, that they may present to the world an image of His own sufficiency, and that His church may be complete in Him, a continual representation of another, even the eternal world, of laws that are higher than earthly laws. His church is to be a temple built after the divine similitude, and the angelic architect has brought His golden measuring rod from heaven, that every stone may be hewed and squared by the divine measurement, and polished to shine as an emblem of heaven, radiating in all directions the bright, clear beams of the Sun of Righteousness. The church is to be fed with manna from heaven, and to be kept under the sole guardianship of His grace. Clad in complete armor of light and righteousness, she enters upon her final conflict. The dross, the worthless material, will be consumed, and the influence of the truth testifies to the world of its sanctifying, ennobling character. . . . {GRC 6.2}
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上帝的实验Divine Experiments
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主耶稣藉着显示祂的怜悯与丰盛的恩典，正在人心中进行实验。祂所造成的变化是非常惊人的，以致那气冲志骄，伙同他的邪恶同盟敌挡上帝和祂政权律法的撒但，也视他们为他的诡辩与欺骗所无法攻克的堡垒。对于撒但而言，他们真是不可思议的奥秘。上帝的使者撒拉弗和基路伯，就是奉命与人合作的天上生灵，怀着惊喜的心情，看着那班曾为可怒之子的堕落人类，通过基督的训练，按照上帝的形像造就品格，而成为上帝的儿女，可以充分享受天国的快乐。{GRC 7.1}
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The Lord Jesus is making experiments on human hearts through the exhibition of His mercy and abundant grace. He is affecting transformations so amazing that Satan, with all his triumphant boasting, with all his confederacy of evil united against God and the laws of His government, stands viewing them as a fortress impregnable to his sophistries and delusions. They are to him an incomprehensible mystery. The angels of God, seraphim and cherubim, the powers commissioned to cooperate with human agencies, look on with astonishment and joy, that fallen men, once children of wrath, are through the training of Christ developing characters after the divine similitude, to be sons and daughters of God, to act an important part in the occupations and pleasures of heaven. {GRC 7.1}
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基督为祂的教会提供了充分的便利，好使祂从自己的赎买的产业中，获得大宗的荣耀的收入。教会既蒙赐予基督的义，就成为祂的库房。祂的慈怜、仁爱、与恩典的财富，要在此作最后的丰盛展示。基督在祂代求的祈祷中，宣称天父对我们的爱和对祂这位天父独生子的爱同样伟大，并说祂在哪里，我们也必同祂在那里，永远与基督和天父合而为一。这一宣言既使天军感到惊异，也使他们感到极大的快乐。祂丰富充满的圣灵恩赐，要成为教会的避火墙。阴间的权势无法胜过她。基督必因祂子民无玷污的纯洁和无瑕疵的完全，而视他们为自己一切苦难，屈辱和慈爱的报酬，也是祂荣耀的增进。基督是放射出一切荣耀的伟大中心。“凡被请赴羔羊之婚筵的有福了”（启19:9）。——总会公报，1893年，第408，409页。再版于《给传道者的证言》第15-19页。{GRC 7.2}
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To His church, Christ has given ample facilities, that He may receive a large revenue of glory from His redeemed, purchased possession. The church, being endowed with the righteousness of Christ, is His depositary, in which the wealth of His mercy, His love, His grace, is to appear in full and final display. The declaration in His intercessory prayer, that the Father’s love is as great toward us as toward Himself, the only-begotten Son, and that we shall be with Him where He is, forever one with Christ and the Father, is a marvel to the heavenly host, and it is their great joy. The gift of His Holy Spirit, rich, full, and abundant, is to be to His church as an encompassing wall of fire, which the powers of hell shall not prevail against. In their untainted purity and spotless perfection, Christ looks upon His people au the reward of all His suffering, His humiliation, and His love and the supplement of His glory—Christ, the great center from which radiates all glory. “Blessed are they which are called unto the marriage supper of the Lamb.”—General Conference Bulletin, 1893, pages 40H, 409. Reprinted in Testimonies to Ministers, pages 15-19. {GRC 7.2}
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教会是上帝的产业
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The Church the Property of God
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教会是上帝的产业。上帝一直惦记着在地上遭受撒但试探的教会。基督从未忘记祂屈辱的日子。耶稣虽已经过祂的屈辱，却没有放弃祂的人性。祂仍然怀有同样温慈怜悯的爱，并为人类的祸患而难过。祂始终记住自己曾是一个多受痛苦，常经忧患的人。祂没有忘记那代表祂奋力高举祂被践踏之律法的子民。祂知道那恨祂的世界也恨恶他们。耶稣基督虽已升上高天，然而仍有一条活的链子，将相信祂的人紧系在祂自己无穷慈爱的心坎。连最卑微最软弱的人也都以同情的链子紧系在祂的心上。祂从不忘记祂是我们的代表，具有我们的本性。{GRC 9.1}
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The church is the property of God, and God constantly remembers her as she stands in the world, subject to the temptations of Satan. Christ has never forgotten the days of His humiliation. In passing from the scenes of His humiliation, Jesus has lost none of His humanity. He has the same tender, pitying love, and is ever touched with human woe. He ever bears in mind that He was a Man of Sorrows and acquainted with grief. He forgets not His representative people who are striving to uphold His downtrodden law. He knows that the world that hated Him, hates them. Although Jesus Christ has passed into the heavens, there is still a living chain binding His believing ones to His own heart of infinite love. The most lowly and weak are bound by a chain of sympathy closely to His heart. He never forgets that He is our representative, that He bears our nature. {GRC 9.1}
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耶稣关注着祂在地上的真教会。这教会最大的志向就是与祂合作从事伟大的救灵工作。祂垂听他们痛悔的心所发的强烈祈祷。全能者无法拒绝他们为拯救基督身体任何受试炼被试探的肢体而献的恳求。“我们既然有一位已经升入高天尊荣的大祭司，就是上帝的儿子耶稣，便当持定所承认的道。因我们的大祭司并非不能体恤我们的软弱。祂也曾凡事受过试探，与我们一样，只是祂没有犯罪。所以，我们只管坦然无惧的来到施恩的宝座前，为要得怜恤，蒙恩惠，作随时的帮助”（来4:14-18）。耶稣长远活着替我们祈求。靠赖我们的救赎主，有什么福惠是真正的信徒所不能领受的呢？教会不久将投入她最严酷的战斗。她必是上帝在地上所最疼爱的对象。罪恶的联盟要被阴间的权势所煽动。撒但要将一切责难都加在那班蒙选不受他诡计和谎言迷惑和欺骗的人身上。但我们的代表和元首既被高举“作君王，作救主，将悔改的心和赦罪的恩赐给以色列人”（徒5:31）。难道会关闭祂的心，撤回祂的手，不履行祂的应许吗？绝对不会。{GRC 9.2}
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Jesus sees His true church on the earth, whose greatest ambition is to co-operate with Him in the grand work of saving souls. He hears their prayers, presented in contrition and power, and Omnipotence cannot resist their plea for the salvation of any tried, tempted member of Christ’s body. “Seeing then that we have a great high priest, that is passed into the heavens, Jesus the Son of God, let us hold fast our profession. For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need.” Jesus ever liveth to make intercession for us. Through our Redeemer what blessings may not the true believer receive? The church, soon to enter upon her most severe conflict, will be the object most dear to God upon earth. The confederacy of evil will be stirred with power from beneath, and Satan will cast all the reproach possible upon the chosen ones whom he cannot deceive and delude with his satanic inventions and falsehoods. But exalted “to be a Prince and a Saviour, to give repentance to Israel, and remission of sins,” will Christ, our representative and head, close His heart, or withdraw His hand, or falsify His promise? No; never, never. {GRC 9.2}
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认同祂的教会
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Identified With His Church
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上帝有一个教会，一班选民；要是所有人都像我那样，看到基督将自己多么密切地与祂的子民视同一体，就不会听到指责本会是巴比伦的这种信息了。上帝有一班子民是祂同工。他们以祂的荣耀为念，勇往直前。请听我们的代表在天上的祈祷：“父啊，我在哪里，愿祢所赐给我的人也同我在那里，叫他们看见祢所赐给我的荣耀”（约17:24）。天上的元首多么渴望祂的教会与祂同在啊！他们曾与祂共患难，同屈辱。祂最大的喜乐就是有他们与祂同在，分享祂的荣耀。基督要求有权与祂的教会在一起。“父啊，我在哪里，愿祢所赐给我的人也同我在那里。”让他们与祂在一起，是根据祂与天父立约的承诺和协议。祂将所完成的救赎祂子民之功，恭敬地呈献在施恩的宝座前。有应许的彩虹环绕着我们的替身和中保。祂倾吐爱的恳求说：“父啊，我在哪里，愿祢所赐给我的人也同我在那里，叫他们看见祢所赐给我的荣耀”。我们将看到王的荣美。教会也必得到荣耀。{GRC 10.1}
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God has a church. a chosen people; and could all see as I have seen how closely Christ identifies Himself with His people, no such message would be h1.·ard as the one that denounces the church as Babylon. God has a people who are laborers together with Him, and they have gone straight forward, having His glory in view. Listen to the prayer of out Representative in heaven: “Father, I will that they also. whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory.” Oh, how the divine Head longed to have His church with Him! They had fellowship with Him in His suffering and humiliation, and it is His highest joy to have them with Him to be partakers of His glory. Christ claims the privilege of having His church with Him. “I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am.” To have them with Him is according to covenant promise and agreement with His Father. He reverently presents at the mercy seat His finished redemption for His people. The bow of promise encircles our Substitute and Surety as He pours out His petition of love, “Father, I will that they also, whom Thou hast given Me, be with Me where I am; that they may behold My glory.” We shall behold the King in His beauty, and the church will be glorified. {GRC 10.1}
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我们现在可以像大卫一样祈祷说：“这是耶和华降罚的时候，因人废了祢的律法。”世人违犯上帝的律法，将达到无比傲慢的地步。他们变本加厉地悖逆，快要越过上帝容忍与慈爱的限度。上帝必要出面干预。祂一定会维护自己的尊严，平息流行的罪孽。难道上帝守诫的子民会被流行的罪孽卷走吗？难道他们会因人们普遍蔑视上帝的律法而受到诱惑，以致轻看那作为上帝天上地下政权基础的律法吗？不。当世人嘲笑和蔑视祂的律法时，祂的律法在祂教会眼中将更加宝贵、圣洁、可敬。他们会像大卫一样说：“因人废了祢的律法。所以，我爱祢的命令胜于金子，更胜于精金。祢一切的训词，在万事上我都以为正直；我却恨恶一切假道”(诗119:126-128)。{GRC 10.2}
§35
Like David, we may now pray, “It is time for Thee, Lord, to work: for they have made void Thy law.” Men have gone on in disobedience to God’s law until they have reached a point of insolence that is unparalleled. Men are training in disobedience, and are fast approaching the limit of God’s forbearance and love, and God will surely interfere. He will surely vindicate His honor, and repress the prevailing iniquity. Will God’s commandment-keeping people be carried away with the prevailing iniquity? Will they be tempted, because universal scorn is placed upon the law of God, to think less of that law which is the foundation of His government both in heaven and in earth? No. To His church His law becomes more precious, holy, honorable, as men cast upon it scorn and contempt. Like David, they can say, “They have made void Thy law. Therefore I love Thy commandments above gold; yea, above fine gold. Therefore I esteem all Thy precepts concerning all things to be right; and I hate every false way.” {GRC 10.2}
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战斗中的教会现在还不是胜利的教会。但是上帝爱祂的教会，藉着先知描述了祂是如何对付和抵制撒但的。撒但正在给上帝的儿女穿上最肮脏最污秽的衣服，并说自己有权毁灭他们。上帝的天使保护他们免受仇敌的攻击。先知说：{GRC 11.1}
§37
The church militant is not now the church triumphant; but God loves His church, and describes through the prophet how He opposes and resists Satan, who is clothing the children of God in the blackest and most defiled garments, and pleading for the privilege of destroying them. The angels of God were protecting them from the assaults of the enemy. The prophet says: {GRC 11.1}
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“天使又指给我看：大祭司约书亚站在耶和华的使者面前；撒但也站在约书亚的右边，与他作对。耶和华向撒但说：撒但哪，耶和华责备你！就是拣选耶路撒冷的耶和华责备你！这不是从火中抽出来的一根柴吗？约书亚穿着污秽的衣服站在使者面前。使者吩咐站在面前的说：你们要脱去他污秽的衣服；又对约书亚说：我使你脱离罪孽，要给你穿上华美的衣服。我说：要将洁净的冠冕戴在他头上。他们就把洁净的冠冕戴在他头上，给他穿上华美的衣服，耶和华的使者在旁边站立。耶和华的使者告诫约书亚说：万军之耶和华如此说：你若遵行我的道，谨守我的命令，你就可以管理我的家，看守我的院宇；我也要使你在这些站立的人中间来往”（亚3:1-7）。{GRC 11.2}
§39
“And he showed me Joshua the high priest standing before the Angel of the Lord, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan; even the Lord that hath chosen Jerusalem rebuke thee: is not this a brand plucked out of the fire? Now Joshua was clothed with filthy garments, and stood before the Angel. And He answered and spake unto those that stood before Him, saying, Take away the filthy garments from him. And unto him He said, Behold, I have caused thine iniquity to pass from thee, and I will clothe thee with change of raiment. And I said, Let them set a fair miter upon his head. So they set a fair miter upon his head, and clothed him with garments. And the Angel of the Lord stood by. And the Angel of the Lord protested unto Joshua, saying, Thus saith the Lord of hosts; If thou wilt walk in My ways, and if thou wilt keep My charge, then thou shalt also judge My house, and shalt also keep My courts, and I will give thee places to walk among these that stand by.” {GRC 11.2}
§40
要躲开假师傅
§41
Teachers to Be Shunned
§42
当有人起来，声称拥有一道来自上帝的信息，却不与执政的、掌权的、和管辖这幽暗世界的作战，他们就组成了一个方阵，用兵器对付战斗中的教会。要提防他们。他们没有神圣的凭证。上帝并没有交托他们这样的任务。他们要拆毁上帝想藉着老底嘉的信息所要恢复的。祂若不能医治，就不击伤，祂不使人灭亡。主没有传给人一道使教会气馁灰心的信息。祂责备，祂申斥，祂惩戒；但只是为了祂最终可以恢复和悦纳。我从总会的报告中得知，有许多人的心被软化征服，许多人谦卑认罪，将阻挡救主的垃圾从心门清除，心里是多么高兴！我很高兴得知许多人已经把耶稣接来作为长住的贵宾。正当教会在领受上帝之灵的倾降时，怎么可以到处散发这些指责基督复临安息日会是巴比伦的小册子呢？人们怎么可以受骗到以为大声呼喊就是要呼吁上帝的子民离开一个正在享受安舒日子的教会团契呢？但愿这些受了欺骗的人回归主流，领受祝福，获得上头来的能力。——《评论与通讯》1893年10月17日。再版于《给传道者的证言》19-23页。{GRC 11.3}
§43
When men arise, claiming to have a message from God, but instead of warring against principalities and powers, and the rulers of the darkness of this world, they form a hollow square, and turn the weapons of warfare against the church militant, be afraid of them. They do not bear the divine credentials. God has not given them any such burden of labor. They would tear down that which God would restore by the Laodicean message. He wounds only that He may heal, not cause to perish. The Lord lays upon no man a message that will discourage and dishearten the church. He reproves, He rebukes, He chastens; but it is only that He may restore and approve at last. How glad my heart was made by the report from the General Conference that many hearts were softened and subdued, that many made humble confessions, and cleared away from the door of the heart the rubbish that was keeping the Saviour out. How glad I was to know that many welcomed Jesus in as an abiding guest. How is it that these pamphlets denouncing the Seventh-day Adventist Church as Babylon were scattered abroad everywhere, at the very time when that church was receiving the outpouring of the Spirit of God? How is it that men can he so deceived as to imagine that the loud cry consists in calling the people of God out from the fellowship of a church that is enjoying a season of refreshing? Oh, may these deceived souls come into the current, and receive the blessing, and be endued with power from on high. Review and Herald, Oct. 17, 1893. Reprinted in Testimonies to Ministers, pages 19-23. {GRC 11.3}
§44
组织与发展
§45
Organization and Development
§46
自从我们这一班人组织成教会，已将近四十年了。[写于1901年。]我是最初参加组建教会的人之一。我熟知那时所必须应付的困难，以及教会所要纠正的弊病；我也关注了教会对圣工发展的影响。上帝在圣工的初期就在这一点上给了我们特别的亮光。这个亮光连同经验所带给我们的教训，是应予以认真考虑的。{GRC 13.1}
§47
It is nearly forty years since organization was introduced among us as a people. I was one of the number who had an experience in establishing it from the first. I know the difficulties that had to be met, the evils which it was designed to correct, and I have watched its influence in connection with the growth of the cause. At an early stage in the work, God gave us special light upon this point, and this light, together with the lessons that experience has taught us, should be carefully considered. {GRC 13.1}
§48
我们的工作一开始就是积极进取的。我们的人数不多，而且大半都是贫寒的。我们的见解几乎不为人知。我们没有礼拜的场所，没有什么书刊，推展圣工的设施也有限。羊群分散在大街小巷，城市村镇和森林之中。我们的信息是上帝的诫命和耶稣的真道。{GRC 13.2}
§49
From the first our work was aggressive. Our numbers were few, and mostly from the poorer class. Our views were almost unknown to the world. We had no houses of worship, but few publications, and very limited facilities for carrying forward our work. The sheep were scattered in the highways and byways, in cities, in towns, in forests. The commandments of God and the faith of Jesus was our message. {GRC 13.2}
§50
在信仰与道理上合一
§51
Unity in Faith and Doctrine
§52
我丈夫同约瑟·贝茨、司提反·皮尔斯、海勒姆·爱德森等几位长老及其他精明、高尚，真诚的人，在一八四四年的时间过去之后，继续探索真理如同寻找埋藏的珍宝一般。{GRC 13.3}
§53
My husband, with Elders Joseph Bates, Stephen Pierce, Hiram Edson, and others who were keen, noble, and true, was among those who, after the passing of the time in 1844, searched for the truth as for hidden treasure. {GRC 13.3}
§54
那时我们时常心情沉重地聚集在一起，祈求在信仰和道理上达到统一；因为我们知道基督不是分开的。我们逐一查考要道，以敬畏的心翻开圣经，时常禁食，以便更好地理解真理。经过恳切的祈祷，如果有哪一点不明白，我们就进行讨论，让各人自由发表意见；然后我们再跪下祷告，向上帝献上诚恳的祈愿，求祂帮助我们有一致的看法，使我们可以合而为一，正如基督和天父合而为一那样。我们流了许多眼泪。{GRC 13.4}
§55
We would come together burdened in soul, praying that we might be one in faith and doctrine; for we knew that Christ is not divided. One point at a time was made the subject of investigation. The Scriptures were opened with a sense of awe. Often we fasted, that we might be better fitted to understand the truth. After earnest prayer, if any point was not understood it was discussed, and each one expressed his opinion freely; then we would again bow in prayer, and earnest supplications went up to heaven that God would help us to see eye to eye, that we might be one as Christ and the Father are one. Many tears were shed. {GRC 13.4}
§56
我们这样用了很多时间。有时用一整夜的工夫严肃地查考圣经，使我们可以明白那有关现代的真理。有时上帝的灵会降在我身上，难解的经文就藉着上帝所指定的方法阐明了，于是就有了完全的和谐。我们都是一心一意的。{GRC 13.5}
§57
We spent many hours in this way. Sometimes the entire night was spent in solemn investigation of the Scriptures, that we might understand the truth for our time. On some occasions the Spirit of God would come upon me, and difficult portions were made clear through God’s appointed way, and then there was perfect harmony. We were all of one mind and one spirit. {GRC 13.5}
§58
我们竭力避免强解圣经以迎合任何人的见解。我们尽量避免纠缠于一些意见分歧的枝叶问题，尽量减少差距。每一个人心中所想的，就是要在弟兄中形成合一的状态，实现基督使祂的门徒合而为一，正如祂和天父合而为一的祈祷。{GRC 14.1}
§59
We sought most earnestly that the Scriptures should not be wrested to suit any man’s opinions. We tried to make our differences as slight as possible by not dwelling on points that were of minor importance, upon which there were varying opinions. But the burden of every soul was to bring about a condition among the brethren which would answer the prayer of Christ that His disciples might be one as He and the Father are one. {GRC 14.1}
§60
有时会有一两位弟兄固执地反对某种提出来的看法，并暴露出心中本性的血气。遇到这种情况，我们就暂时停止查考，宣布休会，使大家有机会个别向上帝祷告，不与其他的人交谈，而单独去研究争执之点，从上天求得亮光。我们在友好的气氛中散会，尽快再开会作进一步的研究。有时上帝的能力以显著的方式降在我们身上。每当清晰的亮光向我们显明真理的要点时，我们便一同流泪欢喜。我们热爱耶稣；并且彼此相爱。{GRC 14.2}
§61
Sometimes one or two of the brethren would stubbornly set themselves against the view presented, and would act out the natural feelings of the heart; but when this disposition appeared, we suspended our investigations and adjourned our meeting, that each one might have an opportunity to go to God in prayer, and, without conversation with others, study the point of difference, asking light from heaven. With expressions of friendliness we parted, to meet again as soon as possible for further investigation. At times the power of God came upon us in a marked manner, and when clear light revealed the points of truth, we would weep and rejoice together. We loved Jesus; we loved one another. {GRC 14.2}
§62
建立教会的秩序
§63
The Introduction of Church Order
§64
我们的人数逐渐增多了。所撒的种子有上帝浇灌并使之成长。起先我们在私人住宅，在宽敞的厨房，在仓库，在树林和校舍里聚集礼拜，并将真理传给愿意来听的人；然而不久我们就有力量可以建造简陋的礼拜场所了。{GRC 14.3}
§65
Our numbers gradually increased. The seed that was sown was watered of God, and He gave the increase. At first we assembled for worship, and presented the truth to those who would come to hear, in private houses, in large kitchens, in barns, in groves, and in schoolhouses; but it was not long before we were able to build humble houses of worship. {GRC 14.3}
§66
随着我们人数的增多，显而易见，如果没有某种组织的形式，就会出现很大的混乱，圣工也无法成功地推进。所以为供养传道人员，在新的地区开展工作，防止不相配的人进入教会或传道的队伍，保管教会财产，出版真理书刊，以及其他许多目的，组织是必不可少的。{GRC 14.4}
§67
As our numbers increased, it was evident that without some form of organization there would be great confusion, and the work would not be carried forward successfully. To provide for the support of the ministry, for carrying the work in new fields, for protecting both the churches and the ministry from unworthy members, for holding church property, for the publication of the truth through the press, and for many other objects, organization was indispensable. {GRC 14.4}
§68
但在我们的同道中间，对此却抱有强烈的抵触情绪。守第一日的复临信徒反对成立组织，守第七日的复临信徒多数也抱这样的看法。我们诚恳地祈求主使我们明白祂的旨意，结果祂藉着圣灵赐下了亮光，说明教会必须有秩序和严格的纪律，所以组织是必要的。上帝在全宇宙中的作为都表显出规律和秩序。秩序乃是天国的律法，也应作为祂地上子民的律法。{GRC 15.1}
§69
Yet there was strong feeling against it among our people. The First-day Adventists were opposed to organization, and most of the Seventh-day Adventists entertained the same ideas. We sought the Lord with earnest prayer that we might understand His will, and light was given by His Spirit that there must be order and thorough discipline in the church-that organization was essential. System and order are manifest in all the works of God throughout the universe. Order is the law of heaven, and it should be the law of God’s people on the earth. {GRC 15.1}
§70
创办新事业
§71
Entering Upon New Enterprises
§72
在成立组织的过程中，我们经历了一场艰苦的斗争。虽然主针对这个问题曾赐下多次证言，但反对的势力还是很强大，所以必须一再应付。但我们知道耶和华以色列的上帝在引领我们，本着祂的美意指导我们。我们进行组织教会的工作，这个进步的举措取得了显著的成功。{GRC 15.2}
§73
We had a hard struggle in establishing organization. Notwithstanding that the Lord gave testimony after testimony upon this point, the opposition was strong, and it had to be met again and again. But we knew that the Lord God of Israel was leading us, and guiding by His providence. We engaged in the work of organization, and marked prosperity attended this advance movement. {GRC 15.2}
§74
当圣工的发展需要我们创办新的事业时，我们也有了相当的准备。主已指示我们关于教育工作的重要性。我们看出需要开办学校，使我们的儿女可以受到不掺杂虚伪哲理谬误的教育，使他们所受的训练符合上帝圣言的原则。我们还看到建立卫生机构的迫切需要，一方面帮助教育我们的同道，一方面造福和启发他人。结果这项事业也展开了。这一切都是最高级的布道工作。{GRC 15.3}
§75
As the development of the work called upon us to engage in new enterprises, we were prepared to enter upon them. The Lord directed our minds to the importance of the educational work. We saw the need of schools, that our children might receive instruction free from the errors of false philosophy, that their training might be in harmony with the principles of the word of God. The need of a health institution had been urged upon us, both for the help and instruction of our own people and as a means of blessing and enlightenment to others. This enterprise also was carried forward. All this was missionary work of the highest order. {GRC 15.3}
§76
通力合作的结果
§77
Results of United Effort
§78
我们的工作不是靠巨额的捐献或遗产来维持的；因为我们当中没有几个富人。我们兴旺的秘诀是什么呢？我们的行动向来听从那救我们的“元帅”的命令。上帝已经赐福与我们联合一致的努力。真理发展兴旺了。各种机构也相继建立起来了。那粒芥菜种已经长成一棵大树。组织体系证明是完全成功的。根据圣经的计划，实施了长期慈善捐献。全身都“联络得合式，百节各按各职”（弗4:16）。随着我们的进步，我们的组织体系依然证明是有效的。{GRC 15.4}
§79
Our work was not sustained by large gifts or legacies; for we have few wealthy men among us. What is the secret of our prosperity? We have moved under the orders of the Captain of our salvation. God has blessed our united efforts. The truth has spread and flourished. Institutions have multiplied. The mustard seed has grown to a great tree. The system of organization has proved a grand success. Systematic benevolence was entered into according to the Bible plan. The body has been “compacted by that which every joint supplieth.” As we have advanced, our system of organization has still proved effectual. {GRC 15.4}
§80
避免混乱的危险
§81
Avoiding the Perils of Disorder
§82
任何人都不应以为我们可以取消组织。我们经过大量的研究和许多次祈求智慧，知道上帝已经回答，才将这个组织建立起来。这个组织是在上帝指导之下，经过重大牺牲与奋斗才建立起来的。但愿我们的弟兄中没有人受骗试图将它拆毁。因为你若这样作，就必造成一种你所想象不到的局面。我奉主的名向你声明，这个组织是一定要成立、加强、坚定、巩固的。我们遵照上帝的吩咐“往前走，”在困难重重似乎无法前进的时候勇往直前。我们知道在过去执行上帝的计划时曾付出了多大的代价。这些计划使我们达到了现在的地步。所以人人务要非常谨慎，以免使人对于上帝为我们的兴旺和成功推进祂的事业所命定的制度产生动摇。{GRC 16.1}
§83
Let none entertain the thought that we can dispense with organization. It has cost us much study and many prayers for wisdom, that we know God has answered, to erect this structure. It has been built up by His direction, through much sacrifice and conflict. Let none of our brethren be so deceived as to attempt to tear it down, for you will thus bring in a condition of things that you do not dream of. In the name of the Lord I declare to you that it is to stand, strengthened, established, and settled. At God’s command, “Go forward,” we advanced when the difficulties to be surmounted made the advance seem impossible. We know how much it has cost to work out God’s plans in the past, which have made us as a people what we are. Then let everyone be exceedingly careful not to unsettle minds in regard to those things that God has ordained for our prosperity and success in advancing His cause. {GRC 16.1}
§84
天使都在和谐地工作。他们的一切行动都表现出完美秩序的特征。我们越严格地效法天军的和谐与秩序，这些天上使者为我们所作的努力就必越有成效。如果我们看不出自己有一致行动的必要，在行动上无秩序，无纪律，无组织；那么，这些组织严明，秩序井然的天使就不能成功地为我们作工了。他们必要悲伤地离开，因为他们没有受命祝福混乱、散漫和破坏组织的行为。凡渴望与天上的使者合作的人，必须与他们一致行动。凡受过上帝恩膏的人，就必竭力倡导秩序、纪律、和一致的行动，然后上帝的天使才能与他们合作。但是这些天上的使者永不会赞同无规则、无组织、无秩序。这一切的弊病乃是撒但力图削弱我们的力量，摧毁我们的勇气，并阻止我们成功行动的结果。{GRC 16.2}
§85
Angels work harmoniously. Perfect order characterizes all their movements. The more closely we imitate the harmony and order of the angelic host, the more successful will be the efforts of these heavenly agents in our behalf. If we see no necessity for harmonious action, and are disorderly, undisciplined, and disorganized in our course of action, angels, who are thoroughly organized and move in perfect order, cannot work for us successfully. They turn away in grief, for they are not authorized to bless confusion, distraction, and disorganization. All who desire the co-operation of the heavenly messengers must work in unison with them. Those who have the unction from on high will in all their efforts encourage order, discipline, and union of action, and then the angels of God can co-operate with them. But never, never will these heavenly messengers place their endorsement upon irregularity, disorganization, and disorder. All these evils are the result of Satan’s efforts to weaken our forces, to destroy our courage, and prevent successful action. {GRC 16.2}
§86
撒但熟知惟有秩序与和谐的行动方能奏效。他熟知凡与天国有关的事都是秩序井然的。天军的一切行动都以服从和完善的纪律为特征。他处心积虑地引诱一切自命为基督徒的人尽可能偏离上天的安排；因此他要迷惑那些自称为上帝子民的人，使他们相信秩序和纪律乃是属灵的敌人；{GRC 16.3}
§87
Satan well knows that success can only attend order and harmonious action. He well knows that everything connected with heaven is in perfect order, that subjection and perfect discipline mark the movements of the angelic host. It is his studied effort to lead professed Christians just as far from heaven’s arrangement as he can; therefore he deceives even the professed people of God and makes them believe that order and discipline are enemies to spirituality, that the only safety for {GRC 16.3}
§88
并且以为他们唯一的安全之策乃是各行其道，特别与那些团结一致，努力建立秩序与和谐的基督徒团体保持差异。一切为建立秩序而作的努力，都被他们认为是有危害的，是限制合法自由的，因此畏避之犹如畏避教皇制度一样。这些热心的人还以为他们夸耀自己独立思想和行动的自由是一种美德呢！他们决不肯接受任何人的话，也不肯顺服任何人。我蒙指示，得悉撒但特殊的工作是要诱使人们觉得上帝的旨意乃是要他们单干，并且选择自己的道路，与弟兄们保持独立。{GRC 17.1}
§89
them is to let each pursue his own course, and to remain especially distinct from bodies of Christians who are united and are laboring to establish discipline and harmony of action. All the efforts made to establish order are considered dangerous, a restriction of rightful liberty, and hence are feared as popery. These devoted souls consider it a virtue to boast of their freedom to think and act independently. They will not take any man’s say-so. They are amenable to no man. I was shown that it is Satan’s special work to lead men to feel that it is God’s order for them to strike out for themselves and choose their own course independent of their brethren. {GRC 17.1}
§90
上帝正在引领一班人从世界中出来，使他们站在永恒真理，就是上帝诫命和耶稣真道的崇高立场上。祂必训炼并装备祂自己的子民。他们决不至意见不合，一个人相信一件事，而另一个人却持有完全相反的信仰和观点；各人采取独立于团体的行动。藉着祂所赐给教会的百般恩赐和职分，他们要在信仰上团结一致。如果一个人坚持自己对圣经真理的看法而不顾弟兄们的意见，自以为是，主张自己有权固守自己的特殊见解，并强迫别人接受，他怎么能实现基督的祈祷呢？如果再有多人一个一个起来坚持自己有权相信并宣讲自己所喜悦的，而不顾及整个团体的信仰，试问哪里会有存在于基督与天父之间，又是基督所祈求能存在于祂的弟兄们之间的和谐呢？{GRC 17.2}
§91
God is leading a people out from the world upon the exalted platform of eternal truth, the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. He will discipline and fit up His people. They will not be at variance, one believing one thing and another having faith and views entirely opposite, each moving independently of the body. Through the diversity of the gifts and governments that He has placed in the church, they will all come to the unity of the faith. If one man takes his views of Bible truth without regard to the opinion of his brethren, and justifies his course, alleging that he has a right to his own peculiar views, and then presses them upon others, how can he be fulfilling the prayer of Christ? And if another and still another arises, each asserting his right to believe and talk what he pleases without reference to the faith of the body, where will be that harmony which existed between Christ and His Father, and which Christ prayed might exist among His brethren? {GRC 17.2}
§92
个人的责任和基督徒的团结
§93
Individual Responsibility and Christian Unity
§94
虽然我们各人在上帝面前都有自己的工作和责任，但我们不可单随自己的独立判断，而不顾弟兄们的意见与感情；因为这样行，势必在教会中引起混乱。传道人有责任尊重弟兄们的意见；但他们所教导的道理，以及他们彼此间的关系，却应受训诲和法度的试验。这样，只要大家都有受教的心，我们当中就不会有分裂了。有一些人是倾向无秩序的，并且正在偏离信仰的伟大路标；但上帝却在感动祂的传道人在道理与精神上合而为一。{GRC 17.3}
§95
Though we have an individual work and an individual responsibility before God, we are not to follow our own independent judgment, regardless of the opinions and feelings of our brethren; for this course would lead to disorder in the church. It is the duty of ministers to respect the judgment of their brethren; but their relations to one another, as well as the doctrines they teach, should be brought to the test of the law and the testimony; then, if hearts are teachable, there will be no divisions among us. Some are inclined to be disorderly, and are drifting away from the great landmarks of the faith; but God is moving upon His ministers to be one in doctrine and in spirit. {GRC 17.3}
§96
我们今日的团结必须经得起考验。……我们有许多教训需要学习，也有许多错误需要放弃。惟有上帝和天国是一贯正确的。那些以为自己决不需要放弃某一种喜欢的观点，决不需要改变自己主张的人一定会失望。我们如果顽固地坚持自己的观念和意见，就不能实现基督所祈求的合而为一。{GRC 18.1}
§97
It is necessary that our unity today be of a character that will bear the test of trial . . . . We have many lessons to learn, and many, many to unlearn. God and heaven alone are infallible. Those who think that they will never have to give up a cherished view, never have occasion to change an opinion, will be disappointed. As long as we hold to our own ideas and opinions with determined persistency, we cannot have the unity for which Christ prayed. {GRC 18.1}
§98
当一个弟兄领受了有关圣经的新亮光时，他就应该坦率地说明自己的立场，其他的传道人也当本乎公正的精神查考圣经，好确定所提出的观点有没有圣经的根据。“主的仆人不可争竞；只要温温和和地待众人，善于教导，存心忍耐，用温柔劝戒那抵挡的人，或者上帝给他们悔改的心，可以明白真道”（提后2:24,25）。{GRC 18.2}
§99
When a brother receives new light upon the Scriptures, he should frankly explain his position, and every minister should search the Scriptures with the spirit of candor to see if the points presented can be substantiated by the inspired word. “The servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men, apt to teach, patient, in meekness instructing those that oppose themselves; if God peradventure will give them repentance to the acknowledging of the truth.” 2 Timothy 2:24, 25. {GRC 18.2}
§100
上帝行了何等大的事！
§101
What Hath God Wrought!
§102
回顾过去的历史，想到我们走到今天的每一步路程，我只能说：赞美上帝！我看到上帝的作为，感到无比的惊讶。我完全信任基督的引导。对于将来，我们没有什么可恐惧的，除非我们忘记了主带领我们所走过的路和祂在我们以往历史中的教训。{GRC 18.3}
§103
In reviewing our past history, having traveled over every step of advance to our present standing, I can say, Praise God! As I see what God has wrought, I am filled with astonishment, and with confidence in Christ as leader. We have nothing to fear for the future except as we shall forget the way the Lord has led us. {GRC 18.3}
§104
如果我们愿意依靠主，我们现在是一班强大的子民，因为我们所传扬的，乃是上帝圣言的伟大真理。我们应当凡事存心感恩。我们既行在上帝活泼圣言所照耀的光中，就负有重大的责任，要与上帝赐给我们的大光相称。我们有许多当尽的本分，因为上帝的真理已经委托给我们，要我们将这真理的一切荣美传给世人。我们都欠了上帝的债，须善用祂所赐给我们的每一个机会，藉圣洁的品格来美化真理，将这警告、安慰、希望和慈爱的信息，传给那些处在谬误与罪恶黑暗中的人。{GRC 18.4}
§105
We are now a strong people, if we will put our trust in the Lord; for we are handling the mighty truths of the word of God. We have everything to be thankful for. If we walk in the light as it shines upon us from the living oracles of God, we shall have large responsibilities, corresponding to the great light given us of God. We have many duties to perform because we have been made the depositaries of sacred truth to be given to the world in all its beauty and glory. We are debtors to God to use every advantage He has entrusted to us to beautify the truth by holiness of character, and to send the messages of warning, and of comfort, of hope and love, to those who are in the darkness of error and sin. {GRC 18.4}
§106
感谢上帝为我们青年备妥了宗教与智力教育的设施。许多人已经受了教育，参加了美国和国外各部门的圣工。出版社发行了书刊，将真理的知识广传远方。我们理应为这一切有如仁泽满溢之溪流的恩赐而感谢上帝。{GRC 18.5}
§107
Thank God for what has already been done in providing for our youth facilities for religious and intellectual training. Many have been educated to act a part in the various branches of the work, not only in America, but in foreign fields. The press has furnished literature that has spread far and wide the knowledge of truth. Let all the gifts that like rivulets have swelled the stream of benevolence be recognized as a cause of thanksgiving to God. {GRC 18.5}
§108
我们今日有一支青年的队伍，如果得到适当的指导和勉励，就能大有作为。我们希望我们的儿女能相信真理，蒙上帝赐福，参加帮助其他青年的周密计划。大家都必须如此接受训练，以便能正确地表达真理，向人说明自己盼望的缘由，并在他们所胜任的工作部门中荣耀上帝。……{GRC 19.1}
§109
We have an army of youth today who can do much if they are properly directed and encouraged. We want our children to believe the truth. We want them to be blessed of God. We want them to act a part in well-organized plans for helping other youth. Let all be so trained that they may rightly represent the truth, giving the reason of the hope that is within them, and honoring God in any branch of the work where they are qualified to labor. . . . {GRC 19.1}
§110
我们既为基督的门徒，就有责任将我们所明知而世人却没有的亮光散布出去。但愿上帝的子民“在好事上富足，甘心施舍，乐意供给人，为自己积成美好的根基，预备将来，叫他们持定那永远的生命”（提前6:18,19）。——《给传道者的证言》24-32页。 {GRC 19.2}
§111
As the disciples of Christ it is our duty to diffuse light which we know the world has not. Let the people of God “be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” 1 Timothy 6: 18, 19.-Testimonies to Ministers, pages 24-32. {GRC 19.2}