第373号 预备受洗
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第373号 预备受洗
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MR No. 373 - Preparation for Baptism
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预备受洗是一件需要慎重考虑的事。要将明确的“耶和华如此说”忠实地教导新接受真理的人，向他们一点一点宣读和讲解上帝的道。{6MR155.1}[1]
§4
The preparation for baptism is a matter that needs to be carefully considered. The new converts to the truth should be faithfully instructed in the plain, Thus saith the Lord. The word of the Lord is to be read and explained to them point by point. {6MR 155.1}[1]
§5
凡开始新生的人在受洗之前应当明白，主所要求于他们的，是专一的情感。大教师在登山宝训中给出了最宝贵的教训。祂说：“一个人不能事奉两个主；不是恶这个，爱那个，就是重这个，轻那个。你们不能又事奉上帝，又事奉玛门（玛门是财利的意思）”（太6:24）。祂又说：“你们要进窄门。因为引到灭亡，那门是宽的，路是大的，进去的人也多；引到永生，那门是窄的，路是小的，找着的人也少。……凡称呼我‘主啊，主啊’的人不能都进天国；惟独遵行我天父旨意的人才能进去”（太7:13,14,21）。实行真理是必不可少的。所结的果子证明树的性质。好树不会结坏果子。爱上帝而守祂诫命的人与那些不爱祂而漠视祂戒律的人之间的分界线将是清楚明确的。需要彻底地归顺真理。我们不要只是说，我信，而要实践真理。仔细研究过的圣经的亮光、良心的声音、圣灵的斗争，在心中产生对基督真正的爱，祂舍了自己作完整的祭物要救赎整个的人——灵与魂与身子。{6MR155.2}[2]
§6
All who enter upon the new life should understand, prior to their baptism, that the Lord requires the undivided affections. In the sermon on the mount are given most precious lessons from the lips of the great Teacher. He says, no man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Again he says, Enter ye in at the strait gate: for wide is the gate, and broad is the way, that leadeth to destruction, and many there be which go in thereat: because strait is the gate, and narrow is the way, which leadeth unto life, and few there be that find it. . . . Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. The practicing of the truth is essential. The bearing of fruit testifies to the character of the tree. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit. The line of demarkation will be plain and distinct between those who love God and keep his commandments and those who love him not and disregard his precepts. There is need of a thorough conversion to the truth. We are not only to say, I believe, but to practice the truth. The light of the Word carefully studied, the voice of conscience, the strivings of the Spirit, produce in the heart genuine love for Christ, who gave himself a whole sacrifice to redeem the whole person, soul, body, and spirit. {6MR 155.2}[2]
§7
一位律法师向基督提出的问题是：“我该做什么才可以承受永生”（路10:25）？当时有狡猾的祭司和官长在场，他们想从基督口中听到会使他们有机会给他定罪的回答。主读懂每一个人的心如同敞开的书，祂了解他们的意图。基督转过身来，对那个律法师说：“律法上写的是什么？你念的是怎样呢？”祂给他一个机会回答自己的问题。那位律法师就回答说：“你要尽心、尽性、尽力、尽意爱主你的上帝；又要爱邻舍如同自己。”耶稣说：“你回答的是；你这样行，就必得永生”（路10:26-28）。基督不会接受不专诚的心。接受真理之人的生活应该见证品格的转变所造成的改变。“耶和华说：你们是我的见证”（赛43:10）。为什么呢？因为他们有一位住在心里的救主，祂在他们的心思意念运行，要显明那种对基督的爱导致他们遵行祂的旨意而不是他们自己的意愿。他们有那种生发仁爱并且洁净心灵的信心。{6MR156.1}[3]
§8
The question put to Christ by a lawyer was, What shall I do to inherit eternal life? There stood the wily priests and rulers expecting to hear from the lips of Christ an answer that would give them opportunity to condemn him. He who reads every heart as an open book understood their purpose. Turning to the lawyer, Christ said unto him, What is written in the Law? how readest thou? He gives him an opportunity to answer his own question. And the lawyer answering said, Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy strength, and with all thy mind; and thy neighbor as thyself. And he said unto him, Thou hast answered right: This do, and thou shalt live. Christ will not accept a divided heart. The life of the receiver of truth should witness to the change wrought by the transformation of character. Ye are my witnesses, saith the Lord. Why? Because they have an indwelling Saviour, who works the mind and heart to reveal that love for Christ which leads them to do his will, not their own. They have that faith which works by love and purifies the soul. {6MR 156.1}[3]
§9
要受洗的人需要比他们已经得着的多得多的彻底的预备。撒但并不希望任何人看到必须完全降服于上帝。当人未能做出这种降服时，罪就没有离弃；食欲和情欲力争掌权；试探混乱了理性，以致真正的归顺不会发生。每当一个人弃绝罪时，就会使他的生活与律法一致，进入完全顺从的状态，罪就是违背律法。这种与基督的心意和旨意一致乃是圣灵的工作。{6MR156.2}[4]
§10
There is need of a much more thorough preparation of the candidates for baptism than has been given them. Satan does not want any one to see the necessity of an entire surrender to God. When the soul fails to make this surrender, sin is not forsaken; appetites and passions are striving for the mastery; temptations confuse the senses, so that true conversion may not take place. Whenever one renounces sin, which is the transgression of the law, his life will be brought into conformity to the law, into perfect obedience. This conformity to the mind and will of Christ is the work of the Holy Spirit. {6MR 156.2}[4]
§11
在施洗前应该彻底询问要受洗之人的经历。不要以冷淡疏远的方式，而要以亲切温和的方式询问，把新归正的人指向上帝的羔羊，除去世人罪孽的。要向预备受洗的人提出福音的要求。基督承担当我们因犯罪而带来的忧伤和痛苦，而祂这么做不仅是作同情我们的朋友，也是作我们的替身，所以我们要坚决而坚定地除去自私、不友好的脾气、懒惰以及坏习惯和坏行为的罪。我们断绝与撒但的关系，就是不给试探留下地步。凡来到基督面前的人，应当认识祂是担当罪孽的主，“为我们的过犯受害，为我们的罪孽压伤。因祂受的刑罚，我们得平安；因祂受的鞭伤，我们得医治。”“祂诚然担当我们的忧患，背负我们的痛苦”（赛53:5,4）。这一切都是为罪人做的，而当罪人无助、痛悔、谦卑地来到基督面前时；当他看到为他做出的昂贵赎罪时，悔改的人要凭信心把握住为拯救他所预备的恩典，不是留在罪中，而是脱离罪恶。基督作为担当罪孽的主，必定除去罪孽，拯救罪人脱离病态的属灵景况。当人祈求内心的改变时，答复就来了：“我儿，要将你的心归我。”“我也要赐给你们一个新心”（箴23:26；结36:26）。我要把你恢复到一种纯净圣洁的气氛，使你既向罪死，就可以向义活。{6MR157.1}[5]
§12
Before baptism there should be a thorough inquiry as to the experience of the candidate. Let this inquiry be made, not in a cold and distant way, but kindly, tenderly, pointing the new converts to the Lamb of God, who taketh away the sin of the world. Bring the requirement of the gospel to bear upon the candidates for baptism. Christ is represented as bearing the griefs and sorrows caused by sin, and he does this, not only as our sympathizing friend, but as our substitute. Therefore our sins of selfishness, of unamiable temper, of indolence, of wrong habits and practices, are to be positively and firmly put away. The one who breaks with Satan is to give no place to his temptations. Let the souls who come to Christ consider that He is the Sin-bearer, wounded for our transgressions, bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Himself took our infirmities, and bare our sicknesses. All this is done for the sinner, and as the sinner comes to Christ, helpless, penitent, and humble; as he views the expensive expiation made in his behalf, let the repenting soul lay hold by faith of the provision made to save him, not in his sin, but from his sin. Christ as the sin-bearer must take away the sin and rescue the sinner from his morbid spiritual condition. As he asks for a change of heart, the answer comes, My son, give me thine heart. A new heart will I give thee. I will restore you to a pure, holy atmosphere, that you, being dead to sin, may live unto righteousness. {6MR 157.1}[5]
§13
“你的罪赦了”（太9:2）。这话是对悔改相信的人说的。何等奇妙的救主！人人都需要明白归正的过程。果子是在改变了的生活中看到的。真悔改会藉着在好行为上产生果子来显明是真诚的。谁也不能依靠自己的信仰表白来证明自己与基督有得救的关系。我们藉着在自己的言语、举止、品格上符合上帝的旨意，才证明我们与祂的关系。我们不能依赖任何别人去为我们做我们的工作。我们必须亲自履行我们的职责。我们必须行上帝的旨意，喜悦遵行祂的诫命。于是我们才不会依赖任何人，而是依赖耶稣基督得支持和效能。{6MR157.2}[6]
§14
Thy sins be forgiven thee. These words are spoken to the repentant, believing soul. Wonderful Saviour! All need to understand the process of conversion. The fruit is seen in the changed life. True repentance will be shown to be sincere by producing fruit in good works. None can depend upon their profession of faith as proof that they have a saving connection with Christ. It is by conformity to the will of God in our words, our deportment, our character that we prove our connection with him. We cannot depend on any other one to do our work for us. We must perform our duties for ourselves. We must work the will of God, and delight to do his commandments. Then we shall not lean upon any one but Jesus Christ for support and efficiency. {6MR 157.2}[6]
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在需要忠实教导新近相信者的各项道理上，有一点论到服装的问题。在审查预备受洗的人时，不应该忽略这个问题。要忠实地对待新归正的人。他们在服装上有虚荣吗？他们怀有骄傲的心吗？崇拜服装之风是一种道德上的疾病。切不可容其留在新生命上。在大部分情况下，人若顺从福音的要求，就需要在服装上有一番显著的改变。内心真归正的人会在外观上作出奇妙的改变。{6MR158.1}[7]
§16
One of the points upon which those newly come to the faith will need faithful instruction is the subject of dress. In the examination of candidates for baptism this subject should not be lost sight of. Let the new converts be faithfully dealt with. Are they vain in dress? do they cherish pride of heart? The idolatry of dress is a moral disease. It must not be taken over into the new life. In most cases submission to the gospel requirements will demand a decided change in the dress. True conversion of the heart will work wonderful changes in the outward appearance. {6MR 158.1}[7]
§17
在服装上不该粗心大意。要教导初归主的人知道，着装是一种才能。我们是基督的财产，为了祂的缘故，我们应当寻求使我们的外表成为最好的。在圣所的崇祀礼节上，上帝曾特别详细地提到凡在祂面前供职之人的衣冠问题。我们从此可以领教，知道上帝对于事奉祂之人的服装是有所要求的。尤其是对于亚伦的衣袍，曾特予指导，因为他的服装是有象征意义的。基督门徒的服装，也当这样赋有象征意义。我们当在一切的事上作祂的代表。在选择适当的颜色上应当呈现良好的品味。我们的着装应当整洁合身。头发应当小心打理。我们在外观的各方面应当有整洁、端庄、及纯正的特征。然而上帝的道并不认可我们单单为时尚的缘故而改换衣服，以便我们可以在外表上看来似世人一样。当想要在服装上炫耀的欲望占据心思时，就显出虚荣。这一切都必须予以抛弃。{6MR158.2}[8]
§18
There should be no carelessness in dress. Teach the young converts that dress is a talent. For Christs sake, whose property we are, we should seek to make the best of our appearance. In the tabernacle service, God specified every detail concerning the garments of those who ministered before him. Thus we are taught that the Lord has a preference in regard to the dress of those who serve him. Very specific were the directions given in regard to Aarons robes, for his dress was symbolical. So the dress of Christs followers should be symbolical. In all things we are to be representatives of him. Good taste should be exercised in the selection of appropriate colors. Our dress should be tidy and well-fitting. The hair should be carefully arranged. Our appearance in every respect should be characterized by neatness, modesty, and purity. But the word of God gives us no sanction in making changes in our apparel merely for the sake of fashion, that we may appear like the world. When the desire for display in dress absorbs the mind, vanity is manifested. All this must be put away. {6MR 158.2}[8]
§19
应当认真思考圣经上有关服装的教训。圣灵藉着使徒保罗说：“又愿女人廉耻、自守，以正派衣裳为妆饰，不以编发、黄金、珍珠，和贵价的衣裳为妆饰；只要有善行，这才与自称是敬上帝的女人相宜”（提前2:9,10）。又藉着使徒彼得赐下了教训：“你们不要以外面的辫头发，戴金饰，穿美衣为妆饰，只要以里面存着长久温柔，安静的心为妆饰；这在上帝面前是极宝贵的”（彼前3:3,4）。{6MR159.1}[9]
§20
The words of Scripture in regard to dress should be carefully considered. The Holy Spirit through the apostle Paul says, In like manner also, let women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works. And through the apostle Peter the instruction is given, Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. {6MR 159.1}[9]
§21
基督徒不当用华贵的衣裳或昂贵的饰物来装饰自己。这一切炫耀不能给品格一点价值，主希望每一个归正的人都要抛弃“穿得象世俗的人会使我们更有影响力”这种想法。用珠宝和奢华的东西装饰人身乃是一种拜偶像的行为。这种不必要的炫耀显明一种对那些被人以为会使人身有价值的东西的喜爱。这向世人证明内心缺乏内在的装饰。昂贵的衣服和珠宝的装饰使人不正确地代表那应该总是显出最高价值的真理。一个过度装饰外表的人带有内在贫穷的标志，显出灵性的缺乏。{6MR159.2}[10]
§22
Christians are not to decorate the person with costly array of expensive ornaments. All this display imparts no value to the character. The Lord desires every converted person to put away the idea that dressing as worldlings dress will give value to our influence. The ornamentation of the person with jewels and luxurious things is a species of idolatry. This needless display reveals a love for those things which are supposed to place a value upon the person. It gives evidence to the world of a heart destitute of the inward adornment. Expensive dress and adornments of jewelry give an incorrect representation of the truth that should always be represented as of the highest value. An overdressed, outwardly adorned person bears the sign of inward poverty. A lack of spirituality is revealed. {6MR 159.2}[10]
§23
在服装上奢侈浪费要求花费需要用来推进圣工的钱。额外的丝带和蝴蝶结意味着不必要花费了的大钱小钱。女士们帽子上装饰的高耸的蝴蝶结是一种不必要的花费，对基督徒来说也不相宜。在上帝的家里，过度装饰的帽子绝对可厌。会众既想听到发言人的声音也想看到他的脸；可是女士们帽子上高高的丝带和蝴蝶结却挡住了他们的视线。可以看见会众中的许多人向这边凝视或那边凝视以便看见讲话的人；却往往徒然努力。他们礼拜的乐趣受到损害，传道人既看到这一切，也就受了打扰。{6MR160.1}[11]
§24
Extravagance in dress requires the expenditure of means that is needed to advance the work of the Lord. Extra ribbons and bows mean pennies and shillings spent needlessly. The trimming of ladies hats with high-standing bows is a needless expense, and it is unbecoming to a Christian. In the house of God the overtrimmed hats are a positive annoyance. The congregation desire to see the face of the speaker as well as to hear his voice; but the ladies hats with their high-standing ribbons and bows, obscure the view. Many in the congregation may be seen peering this way and that to get a glimpse of the speaker; but often their efforts are in vain. Their enjoyment of the service is marred, and the minister, who observes all this, is disturbed. {6MR 160.1}[11]
§25
撒但铺设了一个网罗要诱捕不警惕的人，方法是诱导他们更多注意外在的装饰而不是内在的优美，即基督徒树上所结喜爱真理与公义的果子。仇敌若能使信徒们的心思集中在自己的服装和外表上，就很高兴。他们损伤了自己的感化力和他们所自称喜爱的真理事业。{6MR160.2}[12]
§26
Satan has a snare laid to captivate unwary souls by leading them to give more attention to the outward adorning than to the inward graces which love of truth and righteousness display as the fruit borne upon the Christian tree. If the enemy can keep the minds of believers centered upon their dress and outward appearance, he is well pleased. They injure their influence, and the cause of truth which they profess to love. {6MR 160.2}[12]
§27
许多人放纵对衣装的强烈爱好。他们花钱买那不足为食物的，像以扫一样愚昧，为一碗红豆汤卖了自己的长子名分。许多人禁止自己的灵魂进入窄门，因为他们不能放纵自己爱炫耀的心而又相信基督并且跟随祂的脚踪行。{6MR160.3}[13]
§28
Many indulge a passion for dress. They spend their money for that which is not bread, and are as foolish as was Esau, who sold his birthright for a mess of pottage. Many bar their own souls from entering the strait gate because they cannot indulge their love for display and yet believe in Christ and walk in his footsteps. {6MR 160.3}[13]
§29
基督说过：“若有人要跟从我，就当舍己，背起他的十字架来跟从我”（太16:24）。舍己和自我牺牲必作基督徒人生的标志。品味已确实归正的证据必在凡行在圣洁窄路上之人的着装上显明出来，这窄路是为主的赎民行在其间而修筑的。{6MR160.4}[14]
§30
If any man will come after me, said Christ, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. Self denial and self-sacrifice will mark the Christians life. Evidence that the taste is really converted will be seen in the dress of all who walk the narrow path of holiness, the path cast up for the ransomed of the Lord to walk in. {6MR 160.4}[14]
§31
基督徒不应该忽视就这些要点查考圣经。他们需要明白天上的主在穿衣打扮方面欣赏什么。正在殷勤寻求基督恩典的人会留意上帝灵感指示的宝贵话语。甚至在服装的款式上也会表达福音的真理。他们的着装向自己的家人、向教会和世人作见证，证明他们正在得洁净，脱离虚荣和自私。他们证明自己不是拜偶像的人。{6MR161.1}[15]
§32
Christians should not neglect to search the Scriptures on these points. They need to understand that which the Lord of heaven appreciates in even the dressing of the body. Those who are earnest in seeking for the grace of Christ will heed the precious words of instruction inspired of God. Even the style of the apparel will express the truth of the gospel. Their dress bears its testimony to their own family, to the church and the world, that they are being purified from vanity and selfishness. They demonstrate that they are not idolaters. {6MR 161.1}[15]
§33
无论在哪里怀有谦卑的美德，一种温柔安静的精神，整个人就会表现出这种精神。在内心的基督的恩典表露在尊严高贵、端庄得体的举止上。真理在肉身体现出来。实践真理既证明实际的敬虔，就总是对真理具有一种有利的影响。所有这类经验都具有最高的价值。基督徒的有用性证明他归正的真实性。{6MR161.2}[16]
§34
Wherever the grace of humility, a meek and quiet spirit, is cherished, the whole person will express the same. The grace of Christ in the heart finds expression in a dignified, decorous deportment. The truth is manifest in the flesh. And truth lived always has an influence in favor of the truth, testifying of practical godliness. All such experiences are of the highest value. The usefulness of the Christian testifies to the genuineness of his conversion. {6MR 161.2}[16]
§35
那些自称相信真理的人在合适的服装和自己的言语行为上表达出真理的时候，他们就是上帝的活荐信，被凡看见的人所知道所念诵。他们贞洁的为人乃是其内在装饰的一个标志。他们有扩大了的影响；一个有用的园地总是在他们面前开放着。他们在世上有如兆头，使救人的神圣真理知识永存，像没有失味的盐。{6MR161.3}[17]
§36
As those who claim to believe the truth give expression to the truth in appropriate dress and in their words and conduct, they are living epistles for God, known and read by all who behold them. Their chaste conversation is a sign of the inward adorning. They have enlarged influence; a field of usefulness is ever open before them. They are as signs in the world, perpetuating a saving knowledge of divine truth, as salt that has not lost its savour. {6MR 161.3}[17]
§37
“道成了肉身，住在我们中间”（约1:14），就是那位太初与上帝同在的道，而且道就是上帝。藉着祂自己在人性里的生活，向我们显明了祂在救灵方面的有效方法。祂的品格要彰显在跟从祂之人的品格中。接受这些末后日子的伟大试验性真理决不会使接受的人在谈吐和精神上粗俗粗暴不礼貌，严厉苛刻。得到真诚相信的真理对接受者来说是一个现实。它决不贬低接受者，反而总是使之文雅、高尚、高贵。藉着使人成圣的灵，真理使人成为一个媒介，看不见的天使藉着他行出上帝神圣的原则。{6MR162.1}[18]
§38
And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us,--the same Word that was in the beginning with God, and was God. Through his own life in human nature, Christ has revealed to us his methods of usefulness in saving souls. His character is to be revealed in his followers. The reception of the great testing truths for these last days never makes the receiver coarse and rough and uncourteous, harsh in conversation and spirit. The truth genuinely believed is a reality to the receiver. It never degrades, but always refines, elevates, and ennobles the receiver. Through sanctification of the Spirit it makes him an agency through whom the unseen angels of God work out his holy principles. {6MR 162.1}[18]
§39
应当把基督徒生活的原则告诉新接受真理的人。忠实的基督徒应当非常关心那些悔改的人，帮助他们正确认识基督耶稣里的公义。若有人让寻欢作乐和喜爱服装的欲望占了上风，把他们心灵和身体的任何部分用于自私的放纵，忠实的信徒就当为这些灵魂警醒，好像那要交账的人一样。他们切不可忽略信实、温柔和仁爱的指导，这对于新归正的人是非常必要的，以避免不尽心的工作。最初的经验应该是正确的。那些久已在路上的人若是设法帮助一个刚开始走基督徒道路的人，就会常常有如主的活代表。凡愿意忠心诚实履行自己职责的人都是真牧人基督的代表。要是人人都认识到每一个人都必须与正在设法诱捕人、引诱人和欺骗人的邪恶代表们进行的斗争，就会为那些初信的人付出更多殷勤的努力。{6MR162.2}[19]
§40
The principles of the Christian life should be made plain to those who have newly come to the truth. Faithful, Christian men and women should have an intense interest to bring the convicted soul to a correct knowledge of righteousness in Christ Jesus. If any have allowed the desire of pleasure or the love of dress to become supreme, so that any portion of their mind, soul, and strength, is devoted to selfish indulgences, the faithful believers should watch for these souls as they that must give an account. They must not neglect the faithful, tender, loving instruction so essential to the young converts, that there may be no half-hearted work. The very first experiences should be right. If those who have been long in the way will try to help the one who is just beginning the Christian course, they will often be as the Lords living agencies. All who will be true and faithful in the performance of their duty are representatives of Christ, the true Shepherd. If all realized the conflict which each soul must wage with Satanic agencies that are seeking to ensnare and entice and deceive, there would be much more diligent labor done for those who are young in the faith. {6MR 162.2}[19]
§41
世上的空气充斥着属灵的毒气。凡接受耶稣基督为个人救主的人，必须在自己的生活中向基督不会赞同去行的一切事看自己是死的。这些新生的人很少得到充分的教导。他们太多被撇下独自一人，常常受试探，而且看不出试探的邪恶。要让这些初信的人感到自己有权求取劝勉。他们若是追求与那些能帮助他们的人作伴，就会很快具有高雅的品味，以致总是会选择与那些敬爱上帝之人为伴。我们与这些人的交谈应该具有属灵的、鼓舞人心的性质。上帝注意每一个软弱、疑惑、挣扎的人所作的斗争，且必帮助凡求告祂的人。他们要看见天开了，上帝的使者在他们正努力攀登的灿烂天梯上上去下来。{6MR163.1}[20]
§42
The atmosphere of the world is charged with spiritual malaria. All who accept of Jesus Christ as their personal Saviour must count themselves dead to all things in their life conduct that Christ would not approve. These newborn souls seldom have sufficient instruction. They are left too much to themselves, and are often tempted, and do not discern the evil of the temptation. Let these souls newly come to the faith feel that it is their privilege to solicit counsel. If they seek the society of those who can help them, they will soon possess the refined taste that will ever choose the company of those who love and fear God. Our conversation with these souls should be of a spiritual, encouraging character. The Lord marks the conflict of every weak, doubting, struggling soul, and he will help all who call upon him. They will see heaven open before them, and angels of God ascending and descending the ladder of shining brightness which they are trying to climb. {6MR 163.1}[20]
§43
相信的人领受了洗礼之后，就要谨记自己已奉献给上帝、基督和圣灵。这三位在天上的宇宙面前在藉着洗礼所立之约的伟大工作上通力合作。父、子、圣灵接纳相信的人进入与上帝立约的关系中。{6MR163.2}[21]
§44
After the believing soul has received the ordinance of baptism, he is to bear in mind that he is dedicated to God, to Christ, and to the Holy Spirit. These three all cooperate in the great work of the covenant made by baptism in the sight of the heavenly universe. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit receive the believing soul into covenant relation with God. {6MR 163.2}[21]
§45
凡研究基督生平并实践祂教训的人，都要变得像基督。他们的感化力也要像祂。他们会显示品格的纯正。他们的信心是坚固的，不会因虚荣和骄傲而被魔鬼战胜。他们寻求行走顺从的谦卑道路，遵行上帝的旨意。他们的品格发挥一种感化力，表明上帝圣工的进步，证明祂工作的健全纯正。{6MR163.3}[22]
§46
All who study the life of Christ and practice his teaching will become like Christ. Their influence will be like His. They will reveal soundness of character. They are established in the faith, and will not be overcome by the devil because of vanity and pride. They seek to walk the humble path of obedience, doing the will of God. Their character exerts an influence that tells for the advancement of the cause of God and the healthful purity of his work. {6MR 163.3}[22]
§47
藉着接受已启示的道理和履行上帝的道中要求的责任，自称跟从基督的人要向世人见证他们与基督的结合。他们要表明自己已被天父赐给基督了，并且藉着羔羊的血和自己所见证的道成了得胜者。他们爱那救赎了他们的主。他们藉着示范基督的品格而在认识基督的知识上增长。他们也怀有不会失望的期望：期待见到祂的面，并在祂圣颜的阳光中欢喜快乐。{6MR164.1}[23]
§48
By the reception of the doctrines revealed and the performance of the duties required in the word of God, the professed followers of Christ are to witness to the world of their unity with Christ. They are to show that they have been given to Christ by his Father, and are overcomers through the blood of the Lamb and the word of their testimony. They love him who hath redeemed them. They increase in knowledge of Christ through exemplifying his character. And they cherish expectations that will not be disappointed: they expect to see his face and to rejoice in the sunshine of his countenance. {6MR 164.1}[23]
§49
世人从这些彻底归正的人身上，看出真理使人品格成圣的能力。基督的品格和旨意通过他们向世人表明出来。在上帝子民的生活中，显明了侍奉主的福气。而在那些不遵守祂诫命的人身上所看到的却正相反。他们之间的分界限是非常明显的。凡遵守上帝诫命的人都是在违犯祂律法的败坏环境中蒙祂的大能保守的。他们在受托的岗位上，从地位最低的到最高的，都因信蒙上帝的能力保守以致得救。{6MR164.2}[24]
§50
In these thoroughly converted souls the world has a witness to the sanctifying power of truth upon the human character. Through them Christ makes known to the world his character and will. In the lives of Gods children is revealed the blessedness of serving the Lord, and the opposite is seen in those who do not keep his commandments. The line of demarkation is distinct. All who obey Gods commandments are kept by his mighty power amid the corrupting influence of the transgressors of his law. From the lowliest subject to the highest in positions of trust, they are kept by the power of God through faith unto salvation. {6MR 164.2}[24]
§51
基督在向祂的父祷告时，说到跟从祂的人：“祢所赐给我的荣耀，我已赐给他们，使他们合而为一，象我们合而为一。我在他们里面，祢在我里面，使他们完完全全的合而为一，叫世人知道祢差了我来，也知道祢爱他们如同爱我一样”（约17:22,23）。上帝的子民若是愿意降卑自己并且高举主耶稣，就有何等大的前景与机会啊。{6MR164.3}[25]
§52
In his prayer to the Father, Christ says of his followers, The glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them as thou hast loved me. O what possibilities and probabilities are for Gods people if they will humble themselves and exalt the Lord Jesus. {6MR 164.3}[25]
§53
救主在祷告中又说：“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；因为创立世界以前，祢已经爱我了。公义的父啊，世人未曾认识祢，我却认识祢；这些人也知道祢差了我来。我已将祢的名指示他们，还要指示他们，使祢所爱我的爱在他们里面，我也在他们里面”（约17:24-26）。{6MR165.1}[26]
§54
In his prayer the Saviour says further, Father, I will that they also, whom thou hast given me, be with me where I am; that they may behold my glory, which thou hast given me: for thou lovedst me before the foundation of the world. O righteous Father, the world hath not known thee: but I have known thee, and these have known that thou hast sent me. And I have declared unto them thy name, and will declare it: that the love wherewith thou hast loved me may be in them, and I in them. {6MR 165.1}[26]
§55
在品格中表达出来的认识上帝和耶稣基督的知识超越天上地上一切受人尊敬的事物。这就是最高的教育。这就是向我们打开天国大门的钥匙，使我们能获得永生、不朽的基业和永恒的资产。凡有这种知识的人都在不断地向天国前进。他们在自己的家中、在教会和世界上都有好名声。（《文稿》1900年56号，〈预备受洗〉，1900年8月12日打字）{6MR165.2}[27]
§56
The knowledge of God and of Jesus Christ expressed in character is an exaltation above everything that is esteemed in earth or in heaven. It is the very highest education. It is the very key that opens to us the portals of heaven, that we may obtain eternal life, an immortal inheritance, and eternal substance. All who have this knowledge are constantly advancing heavenward. They have a good report in their own family, in the church, and in the world.--Ms 56, 1900. (Preparation for Baptism, typed August 12, 1900.) {6MR 165.2}[27]
§57
一定要将公义的原则栽培在心灵中，用信心把握耶稣基督的权能，否则就不安全。放纵的行为正象洪水以前时代那样泛滥。人若不严格省察自己是否已停止犯罪，是否有固定的道德原则，是否知道何为罪，是否有上帝所憎恶的道德污秽，就没有一个人应该藉着洗礼与基督一同被埋葬。要通过严密的提问查明这些人是否真的在停止犯罪，是否能与大卫一起说：我切切的恨恶罪（诗139:22）。（《信函》1887年26d号第6页，致科弗特弟兄和那些在印第安纳州区会居于负责岗位的人，1887年9月27日）{6MR165.3}[28]
§58
The principles of righteousness must be implanted in the soul. The faith must grasp the power of Jesus Christ, else there is no safety. Licentious practices are getting to be as common as in the days before the flood. Not one should be buried with Christ by baptism unless they are critically examined whether they have ceased to sin, whether they have fixed moral principles, whether they know what sin is, whether they have moral defilement which God abhors. Find out by close questioning if these persons are really ceasing to sin, if with David they can say, I hate sin with a perfect hatred.--Letter 26d, 1887, p. 6. (To Brother Covert and those who hold responsible positions in the Indiana Conference, September 27, 1887.) {6MR 165.3}[28]
§59
我的负担是福音传道人要传讲关于什么是真归正的真理。他们不可把没有归正的人浸入水中。教会正在变得由从未认识到罪有多可憎的男男女女组成。（《信函》1899年134号第5页，致在美国的弟兄们，1899年9月8日）{6MR166.1}[29]
§60
My burden is that ministers of the gospel shall preach the truth as to what constitutes true conversion. They are not to lead down into the water souls who are not converted. The church is becoming composed of men and women who have never realized how sinful sin is.--Letter 134, 1899, p. 5. (To Dear Brethren in America, September 8, 1899). {6MR 166.1}[29]
§61
那些参加了洗礼的严肃仪式的人已保证自己要追求在天上的事，那里有基督坐在上帝右边。他们已保证自己要为拯救罪人而认真作工。上帝问那些在祂名下的人，你们在怎样使用已经用我儿子的死赎回来的能力呢？你们在尽力上升到更高的属灵悟性吗？你们在调整自己的兴趣和行为，使之符合永生的重大要求吗？（《文稿》1901年63号第8页，日记，1901年4月30日）{6MR166.2}[30]
§62
Those who have taken part in the solemn rite of baptism have pledged themselves to seek for those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. They have pledged themselves to labor earnestly for the saving of sinners. God asks those who name his name, How are you using the powers that have been redeemed by the death of my Son? Are you doing all in your power to rise to a greater height in spiritual understanding? Are you adjusting your interests and actions in accordance with the momentous claims of eternity?--Ms 63, 1901, p. 8. (Diary, April 30, 1901). {6MR 166.2}[30]
§63
谁也不可没有仔细虔诚地思想受洗问题就参加严肃的洗礼仪式。要受洗的人，特别是年轻人，应当就他们迈出这一步要承担的责任受到仔细的指教。他们保证要奉献自己的一生侍奉上帝；而天上的三大权能，父、子、圣灵，则保证自己要与他们合作，在他们里面作工并且藉着他们作工。（《文稿》1902年118号第1，2页，〈基督传授真理的方法〉，1902年10月6日）{6MR166.3}[31]
§64
No one is to take part in the solemn ordinance of baptism without giving the subject careful, prayerful thought. The candidates, and especially the youth, are to be carefully instructed in regard to the obligations they assume in taking this step. They pledge themselves to devote their lives to Gods service; and the three great powers of heaven, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, pledge themselves to cooperate with them, to work in and through them.--Ms 118, 1902, pp. 1, 2. (Christs Method of Imparting Truth, October 6, 1902). {6MR 166.3}[31]
§65
世人无权要求我们服务；因为我们在受洗时已藉着严肃的圣约接受了侍奉上帝的徽章。我们受洗时在天上的三大权能面前保证自己要从世界出来，与他们分别。（《文稿》1902年130号第4页，日记，1902年10月27日）{6MR167.1}[32]
§66
The world has no claim to our service; for by a solemn, holy covenant we accepted Gods badge of service at the time of our baptism. On that occasion we pledged ourselves, in the presence of the three great heavenly Powers, to come out from the world and be separate.--Ms 130, 1902, p. 4. (Diary, October 27, 1902). {6MR 167.1}[32]
§67
人既接受洗礼，就受新的宗旨激励，保证自己要向世界死并向顺从基督活着。父、子和圣灵供应能力，使人在与黑暗之君的每一次斗争中取得胜利。（《信函》1902年200号第7页，致克雷斯弟兄和姐妹，1902年12月15日）{6MR167.2}[33]
§68
In receiving baptism, the human agent, inspired with new purposes, pledges himself to die to the world and live in obedience to Christ. The Father, the Son, and the Holy Ghost supply the power that makes him victorious in every conflict with the prince of darkness.--Letter 200, 1902, p. 7. (To Brother and Sister Kress, December 15, 1902). {6MR 167.2}[33]
§69
我们的教会因将人的吩咐当作道理来接受而变得软弱，许多人还没有归正就被吸纳进了教会。男女老少还没完全受教关于洗礼的意义，就蒙许可参加这一礼节的严肃仪式。参加这个礼节意义重大，我们的传道人应当谨慎，要向每一个申请受洗者清楚讲明受洗的意义和它的严肃性。（《文稿》1905年10号第4页，〈要避免不重要的问题〉，1904年9月12日）1974年8月13日发布。{6MR167.3}[34]
§70
Our churches are becoming enfeebled by receiving for doctrines the commandments of men. Many are received into the church who are not converted. Men, women, and children are allowed to take part in the solemn rite of baptism without being fully instructed in regard to the meaning of this ordinance. Participation in this ordinance means much, and our ministers should be careful to give each candidate plain instruction in regard to its meaning and its solemnity.--Ms 10, 1905, p. 4. (Non-essential Subjects to Be Avoided, September 12, 1904.) Released August 13, 1974. {6MR 167.3}[34]