第25章 教会是世上的光
§1
第25章 教会是世上的光
§2
The Church the Light of the World
§3
主呼召祂的子民以色列人，又使他们从世人中分别出来，以便付以神圣的委托。祂使他们作祂律法的保管人，祂旨在藉着他们而在人间保留对祂自己的认识。天庭之光要藉着他们照亮世上各黑暗之处，并使万民听到呼唤的声音，要他们转离拜偶像的事，而事奉永活的真上帝。如果希伯来人忠于所托，他们早就变成世上的一大强国了。上帝会作他们的保障，并高举他们在其他列国之上。祂的光及真理要因他们而显扬，他们也要在祂神圣贤明的管治之下坚立，作为榜样，证明祂的至高统治权是超过各种拜偶像的制度。{2TT 155.1}[1]
§4
The Lord called out His people Israel and separated them from the world that He might commit to them a sacred trust. He made them the depositaries of His law, and He designed, through them, to preserve among men the knowledge of Himself. Through them the light of heaven was to shine out to the dark places of the earth, and a voice was to be heard appealing to all peoples to turn from their idolatry to serve the living and true God. Had the Hebrews been true to their trust, they would have been a power in the world. God would have been their defense, and He would have exalted them above all other nations. His light and truth would have been revealed through them, and they would have stood forth under His wise and holy rule as an example of the superiority of His government over every form of idolatry.?{2TT 155.1}[1]
§5
可是他们没有遵守自己与上帝所立的约。他们随从其他各国的拜偶像风习，不但没有在地上颂扬创造主的大名，反而因他们的行径，引起异教人的耻笑。但上帝的旨意仍是必须成就的。明白祂旨意的知识必须遍及全地。上帝使压迫者的手加在祂子民身上，使他们被掳分散到各国。在苦难之中，他们许多人认罪悔改寻求主了。在散居于外邦各国之中，他们广传真神的知识。上帝律法的原理与各国的风俗习惯起了冲突。拜偶像的人尽力设法要扑灭真实的信仰。但是主却本其美意，使祂的仆人但以理，尼希米，以斯拉等去谒见君王及统治者，以便这些拜偶像之人有接受真光的机会。这样，上帝当初交给祂子民于发达顺利时在其本国内所要作的，而后来因他们不忠心而忽略了的工作，便在他们被掳而大遭磨炼及困苦难堪的情形之下作成了。?{2TT 155.2}[2]
§6
But they did not keep their covenant with God. They followed after the idolatrous practices of other nations, and instead of making their Creator’s name a praise in the earth their course held it up to the contempt of the heathen. Yet the purpose of God must be accomplished. The knowledge of His will must be spread abroad in the earth. God brought the hand of the oppressor upon His people and scattered them as captives among the nations. In affliction many of them repented of their transgressions and sought the Lord. Scattered throughout the countries of the heathen, they spread abroad the knowledge of the true God. The principles of the divine law came in conflict with the customs and practices of the nations. Idolaters endeavored to crush out the true faith. The Lord in His providence brought His servants, Daniel, Nehemiah, Ezra, face to face with kings and rulers, that these?idolaters might have an opportunity to receive the light. Thus the work which God had given His people to do in prosperity, in their own borders, but which had been neglected through their unfaithfulness, was done by them in captivity, under great trial and embarrassment.?{2TT 155.2}[2]
§7
上帝已呼召今日的教会，犹如呼召古代的以色列人一样，站在世上作光。藉着真理的大力的剑，就是第一，第二，及第三位天使的信息，祂使他们从别的教会及世人中剖开，引他们与自己作神圣的亲近。祂已使他们作祂律法的保管者，并将现代预言的伟大真理交给他们。好像交托给古代以色列人的圣言一样，这些也是神圣的委托，要传达给世界。启示录第十四章上的三位天使，是代表一班人接受上帝信息之光，前去作祂的代言人，向天涯地极宣扬警告。基督向祂的门徒宣告说：“你们是世上的光”（太5:14）。髑髅地的十字架对每个接受耶稣的人开声说：“看哪，生灵的价值是何等的大！‘你们往普天下去，传福音给凡受造的听’”（可16:15）。任何事物都不能阻拦此项工作。这是当代第一重要的工作；这是一项远及永恒的大工。耶稣在为救赎人灵性所作的牺牲上表现的爱，必激动一切跟从祂的人。{2TT 156.1}[3]
§8
God has called His church in this day, as He called ancient Israel, to stand as a light in the earth. By the mighty cleaver of truth, the messages of the first, second, and third angels, He has separated them from the churches and from the world to bring them into a sacred nearness to Himself. He has made them the depositaries of His law and has committed to them the great truths of prophecy for this time. Like the holy oracles committed to ancient Israel, these are a sacred trust to be communicated to the world. The three angels of (Revelation 14) represent the people who accept the light of God’s messages and go forth as His agents to sound the warning throughout the length and breadth of the earth. Christ declares to His followers: “Ye are the light of the world.”?Matthew 5:14. To every soul that accepts Jesus the cross of Calvary speaks: “Behold the worth of the soul. ‘Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.’”?Mark 16:15. Nothing is to be permitted to hinder this work. It is the all-important work for time; it is to be far-reaching as eternity. The love that Jesus manifested for the souls of men in the sacrifice which He made for their redemption, will actuate all His followers.?{2TT 156.1}[3]
§9
【我们岂能重蹈以色列人的覆辙?】
§10
但在接受亮光的人中，很少有人在作主所托付他们的工作。很少有人具有不移的坚贞，不顾安逸，便利，及自己的生命，而到处寻找机会传扬真理之光，证明上帝的神圣律法。可是许多控制世界的罪恶却已进入各教会之内，也进入了那些自称是特作上帝子民之人的心中。许多已接受真光者发挥出一种影响，使那些世俗之人及形式上自称为信徒之人止息了惧怕的心。{2TT 156.2}[4]
§11
【Shall We Repeat Israel’s Experience?】
§12
But very few of those who have received the light are doing the work entrusted to their hands. There are a few men of unswerving fidelity who do not study ease, convenience, or life itself, who push their way wherever they can find an opening to press the light of truth and vindicate the holy law of God. But the sins that control the world have come into the churches, and into the hearts of those who claim to be God’s?peculiar people. Many who have received the light exert an influence to quiet the fears of worldlings and formal professors.?{2TT 156.2}[4]
§13
在自称是等候主的人中，甚至也有是爱慕世界的。怀藏图谋富贵的野心。当基督论到在上帝的大日来临之时，祂形容这等情形好像网罗临到一切住在地上的人。这个世界就是他们的家乡。他们扩张业务来赚取属世的财宝。他们建筑豪华的住宅，配以各种美好的设备；他们追求衣饰上的享乐，并放纵食欲。世上的事物乃是他们的偶像。这些东西横阻在基督与人之间，以致那些纷纷迫临我们的严肃可怕的事实，反而显得模糊而分辨不出了。那在犹太教会中所见到的悖逆与失败的情形，亦见于这在末世警告信息上有天庭大光之子民中尤有过之。难道我们也要象他们一样，荒废我们的机会及特权，直到上帝容许压制及逼迫临到我们么？难道这在太平之时可能比较顺利完成的工作，要留着不作，直到必须在黑暗时日，在苦难及逼迫的压力之下才作成么？{2TT 157.1}[5]
§14
There are lovers of the world even among those who profess to be waiting for the Lord. There is ambition for riches and honor. Christ describes this class when He declares that the day of God is to come as a snare upon all that dwell upon the earth. This world is their home. They make it their business to secure earthly treasures. They erect costly dwellings and furnish them with every good thing; they find pleasure in dress and the indulgence of appetite. The things of the world are their idols. These interpose between the soul and Christ, and the solemn and awful realities that are crowding upon us are but dimly seen and faintly realized. The same disobedience and failure which were seen in the Jewish church have characterized in a greater degree the people who have had this great light from heaven in the last messages of warning. Shall we, like them, squander our opportunities and privileges until God shall permit oppression and persecution to come upon us? Will the work which might be performed in peace and comparative prosperity be left undone until it must be performed in days of darkness, under the pressure of trial and persecution??{2TT 157.1}[5]
§15
人所犯的罪，有极大部分是应由教会负责的。那些已有真光的人，为何不迫切尽力将真光传给别人呢？他们看出世界的结局已近。他们见到成千成万的人每日干犯上帝的律法；他们也明白这些人在罪中不能得救。可是他们对于自己的职业，自己的田地，房屋，货财，衣饰，及饮食，却更有兴趣，甚于注意他们在审判之日必须对面相见的男男女女的灵魂。自称遵守真理的人是睡着了。如果他们是醒着就必不得安逸。他们心中对真理的爱已逐渐消失。他们的榜样不能使世人信服他们所有的真理比一切世人的更丰富。当他们应在上帝内刚强，每日具有活泼经验之时，也是他们应当尽心尽性，用口用笔，费时费钱来服务别人之时，他们却是软弱，犹疑，而靠赖传道人来支持他们。?{2TT 157.2}[6]
§16
There is a terrible amount of guilt for which the church is responsible. Why are not those who have the light putting forth earnest efforts to give that light to others? They see that the end is near. They see multitudes daily transgressing God’s law; and they know that these souls cannot be saved in transgression. Yet they have more interest in their trades, their farms, their houses, their merchandise, their dress, their tables, than in the souls of men and women whom they must meet face to face in the judgment. The people who claim to obey the truth are asleep. They could not be at ease as they are if they were awake. The love of the truth is dying out of their hearts. Their example is not such as to convince the world?that they have truth in advance of every other people upon the earth. At the very time when they should be strong in God, having a daily, living experience, they are feeble, hesitating, relying upon the preachers for support, when they should be ministering to others with mind and soul and voice and pen and time and money.?{2TT 157.2}[6]
§17
【自取软弱】
§18
弟兄姐妹们哪，你们许多人借口自己没有能力为别人作工，而求苟免。但这是上帝使你们这样软弱无能么？这岂不是因你们自己的不活动，你们既自己蓄意如是，岂不是自愿择取的么？上帝岂没有给你们至少一份的才干去予以善用，非求自己的便利与满足，乃是为祂而用么？你们有没有察觉自己的义务，认自己是祂雇用的仆人，应当聪明灵巧地运用这受托的资本而把利息交还祂吗？你们岂非忽视机会，未曾发展你们的能力去达成这一切吗？那已实在觉悟自己对上帝所负责任的人，真是太少了。爱心，见解，记忆，远见，机智，精力，以及各项的功能，都被献为自己之用。你们在邪恶的服务上已经表现了更大的聪明，过于在上帝圣工上所表现的。由于你们热切活跃于世俗的企图，而忽视了上帝的圣工，你们已经歪曲了，残废了，甚至于败坏了自己的能力。{2TT 158.1}[7]
§19
【Feeble by Choice】
§20
Brethren and sisters, many of you excuse yourselves from labor on the plea of inability to work for others. But did God make you so incapable? Was not this inability produced by your own inactivity and perpetuated by your own deliberate choice? Did not God give you at least one talent to improve, not for your own convenience and gratification, but for Him? Have you realized your obligation, as His hired servant, to bring a revenue to Him by the wise and skillful use of this entrusted capital? Have you not neglected opportunities to improve your powers to this end? It is too true that few have felt any real sense of their responsibility to God. Love, judgment, memory, foresight, tact, energy, and every other faculty have been devoted to self. You have displayed greater wisdom in the service of evil than in the cause of God. You have perverted, disabled, nay, even besotted your powers, by your intense activity in worldly pursuits to the neglect of God’s work.?{2TT 158.1}[7]
§21
你们仍然安慰自己的良心，说你们不能挽回过去的事，而获得生机，力量，及技巧；其实你们先前若照上帝所命定的运用你们的能力，这些都是你们可以有的。须记得，祂要你们为你们的不忠心而未作成，或是作得很马虎的工作负责。你们越为主更多发挥力量，就越能成为更机警技巧的人。你们越密切地与光及能力之源联络，就愈得更大的光照耀，并获得更大的能力为上帝而用。你们本来可以获得的一切，只因你们埋头于世事以致未能得到，你们也必须为此负责。当你们作基督门徒之时，你们曾自己立约要事奉祂，单单事奉祂，祂也应许要与你们同在，赐福与你们，用祂的光奋兴你们，将祂的平安赐给你们，并使你们在祂的工作中快乐。你们曾否损失了这些福乐的经验呢？要知道这是你们自己行为的后果啊。{2TT 159.2}[8]
§22
Still you soothe your conscience by saying that you cannot undo the past, and gain the vigor, the strength, and the skill which you might have had if you had employed your powers as God required. But remember that He holds you responsible for the work negligently done or left undone through your unfaithfulness. The more you exercise your powers for the Master, the more apt and skillful you will become. The more closely you connect yourself with the Source of light and power, the greater light will be shed upon you, and the greater power will be yours to use for God. And for all that you might have had, but failed to obtain through your devotion to the world, you are responsible. When you became a follower of Christ you pledged yourself to serve Him and Him alone, and He promised to be with you and bless you, to refresh you with His light, to grant you His peace, and to make you joyful in His work. Have you failed to experience these blessings? be sure it is the result of your own course.?{2TT 159.2}[8]
§23
在战争时期，为要免役的缘故，有些人故意染病，也有些人使自己残废，以便不配应征。这种例子足以说明有许多人对于上帝圣工的关系，也曾采取同样的行动。他们摧残自己体质上及精神上的能力，以便不能参加那正有极大需要的工作。.{2TT 159.1}[9]
§24
In order to escape the draft during the war, there were men who induced disease, others maimed themselves that they might be rendered unfit for service. Here is an illustration of the course which many have been pursuing in relation to the cause of God. They have crippled their powers, both physical and mental, so that they are unable to do the work which is so greatly needed.?{2TT 159.1}[9]
§25
【“我岂是看守我兄弟的吗”？】
§26
假设有一笔金钱放在你们手中，叫你们为某项目标而投资；难道你们会把钱丢在一边不管，并宣称说自己现在不必为那笔钱的用途负责么？难道这样作你们会觉得自己已经免除一桩重大的挂虑么？可是，你们对于上帝的恩赐，就是这样处置的。你们借口软弱无能而原谅自己不为别人作工，同时却专心致志于世俗的事业，这实在是轻慢上帝。成千成万的大众，正日趋于灭亡；那已经接受真理及亮光，要对付邪恶全军的人却寥寥可数；可是即使这小群的人，也竟倾其精力于其他各事，而不去学习如何能救人脱离死亡。教会的软弱无能，上帝对于那号称作祂子民的人无能为力，又何足奇呢？他们自置于上帝不能与他们同工及为他们作工的地位上。你们岂敢长此忽视祂的要求呢？难道你们还要轻看上天最神圣的委托么？你们岂要同该隐一齐说：“我岂是看守我兄弟的吗”（创4:9）？{2TT 159.2}[10]
§27
【Am I My Brother’s Keeper?】
§28
Suppose that a sum of money were placed in your hands to invest for a certain purpose; would you throw it away and declare that you were not now responsible for its use? would you feel that you had saved yourself a great care? Yet this is what you have been doing with the gifts of God. To excuse yourself from working for others on the plea of inability, while you are all absorbed in worldly pursuits, is mockery of God. Multitudes are going down to ruin; the people who have received light and truth are but as a handful to withstand all the host of evil; and yet this little company are devoting their energies to anything and everything but to learning how they may rescue souls from death. Is it any marvel that the church is weak and inefficient, that God can do but little for His professed people? They place themselves where it is impossible for Him to work with them and for them. Dare you continue thus to disregard His claims? Will you still trifle with heaven’s most sacred trusts? Will you say with Cain: “Am I my brother’s keeper?”?Genesis 4:9.?{2TT 159.2}[10]
§29
须记得，你们的责任不是照着你们现时的资力及才干来衡量，乃是照着那原先赐与的能力及其发展的可能性来衡量。每个人所应当自问的，并非他现在是否缺少经验而不配在上帝的圣工中服务，乃是他如何及为何陷于此种情形中，并如何方能补救之。上帝决不以超自然的方法赐我们所缺的资格才能；但是在我们运用自己已有的才干时，祂就要与我们同工，增添及加强我们的每一才能；我们潜藏的精力要被激发，那久已麻木的能力必获得新生命。{2TT 159.3}[11]
§30
Remember that your responsibility is measured, not by your?present resources and capacities, but by the powers originally bestowed and the possibilities for improvement. The question which each one should ask himself is not whether he is now inexperienced and unfit to labor in God’s cause, but how and why he is in this condition, and how it can be remedied. God will not supernaturally endow us with the qualifications which we lack; but while we exert the ability we have, He will work with us to increase and strengthen every faculty; our dormant energies will be aroused, and powers which have long been palsied will receive new life.?{2TT 159.3}[11]
§31
只要我们生存在世上，我们与世间的事物必发生关系。我们必须时刻处理今生属世的事务；但这却始终不应成为全神贯注的事。使徒保罗曾留下一则安全的条例：“殷勤不可懒惰。要心里火热，常常服事主”（罗12:11）。生活上低微而平凡的本分，都当忠实执行；正如使徒所说：“都要从心里作，象是给主作的”（西3:23）。不管我们的工作是哪一部门，或家务或农事或劳心的工作，只要我们能常凡事以基督为始，为终，为至美，我们就可以顺利执行，归荣耀与上帝。但除了这些世俗的工作之外，上帝也给每位基督徒一份特别的工作，建设上帝的国度──这是一种需要个人之力从事救人的工作。这项工作不是在礼拜的场所每周执行一次就行了，乃是随时随地要行的。{2TT 160.1}[12]
§32
So long as we are in the world, we must have to do with the things of the world. There will ever be a necessity for the transaction of temporal, secular business; but this should never become all-absorbing. The apostle Paul has given a safe rule: “Not slothful in business; fervent in spirit; serving the Lord.”?Romans 12:11. The humble, common duties of life are all to be performed with fidelity; “heartily,” says the apostle, “as to the Lord.” Whatever our department of labor, be it housework or field work or intellectual pursuits, we may perform it to the glory of God so long as we make Christ first and last and best in everything. But aside from these worldly employments there is given to every follower of Christ a special work for the upbuilding of His kingdom—a work which requires personal effort for the salvation of men. It is not a work to be performed once a week merely, at the place of worship, but at all times and in all places.?{2TT 160.1}[12]
§33
【保证为主服务】
§34
每位参加教会的人就许下了庄严的愿，要为教会的福利而工作，并坚持这种福利超过一切俗虑之上。他的工作就是要保持自己与上帝之间的活泼联络，全心全意地参加这伟大的救赎计划，并在生活及品格上显扬上帝诫命的优点，适与世俗的风习及教训相反。每一个承认基督的人，就是许身尽一切可能去作属灵之工作的人，积极，热心，而且有效地为主人服务。基督期望人人尽其本分；但愿全体跟从祂的，都以此为座右铭。?{2TT 160.2}[13]
§35
【The Pledge to the Master’s Service】
§36
Everyone who connects himself with the church makes in that act a solemn vow to work for the interest of the church and to hold that interest above every worldly consideration. It is his work to preserve a living connection with God, to engage with heart and soul in the great scheme of redemption, and to show, in his life and character, the excellency of God’s commandments in contrast with the customs and precepts of?the world. Every soul that has made a profession of Christ has pledged himself to be all that it is possible for him to be as a spiritual worker, to be active, zealous, and efficient in his Master’s service. Christ expects every man to do his duty; let this be the watchword throughout the ranks of His followers.?{2TT 160.2}[13]
§37
我们不要等待别人来求我们去发光，或是由人一再地恳请，才进以忠告及指教。每个从公义日头接受光线的人，都要向其周围的人返照光辉。他的宗教信仰应当有积极及确定的感化力。他的祷告及请求应当充满着圣灵，以致能融化并折服人心。耶稣说过：“你们的光也当这样照在人前，叫他们看见你们的好行为，便将荣耀归给你们在天上的父”（太5:16）。一个世俗的人，与其接近一个忽视敬虔能力的人而受其影响，倒不如始终没见过一个口头承认主的人要好得多。若以基督为我们的模范，以祂的生命为我们的准则，就要表现何等的热忱，发出何等的努力，实行何等的慷慨，及何等的克己自制啊！我们要怎样不倦地服务，及作何等热切祈求能力与聪明的祷告上达于上帝啊！如果一切号称为上帝子民的人觉得一生最大的工作，就是奉行上帝吩咐他们的工作，如果他们肯在圣工上作无私服务，那么，在人的心上和家庭中，在教会内，甚至在世界上，都要起何等的改变啊！{2TT 161.1}[14]
§38
We are not to wait to be solicited to give light, to be importuned for counsel or instruction. Everyone who receives the rays of the Sun of Righteousness is to reflect its brightness to all about him. His religion should have a positive and decided influence. His prayers and entreaties should be so imbued with the Holy Spirit that they will melt and subdue the soul. Said Jesus: “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.”?Matthew 5:16. It would be better for a worldling never to have seen a professor of religion than to come under the influence of one who is ignorant of the power of godliness. If Christ were our pattern, His life our rule, what zeal would be manifested, what efforts put forth, what liberality exercised, what self-denial practiced! How untiringly should we labor, what fervent petitions for power and wisdom would ascend to God! If all the professed children of God would feel that it is the chief business of life to do the work which He has bidden them to do, if they would labor unselfishly in His cause, what a change would be seen in hearts and homes, in churches, yea, in the world itself!?{2TT 161.1}[14]
§39
历代基督徒都奉命必须警醒及忠贞；而今我们是站在永恒世界的边缘，持有真理，拥有大光，负有重大的工作，就当倍加殷勤。每个人要竭尽所能地去作。我的弟兄啊，你现在若退后，就有损失自己救恩的危险了。你若不作上帝所派定的工，祂是要你负责的。你有了真理知识么？应当传给别人。{2TT 161.2}[15]
§40
Vigilance and fidelity have been required of Christ’s followers in every age; but now that we are standing upon the very verge of the eternal world, holding the truths we do, having so great light, so important a work, we must double our diligence. Everyone is to do to the very utmost of his ability. My brother, you endanger your own salvation if you hold back now. God will call you to account if you fail in the work He has assigned you. Have you a knowledge of the truth? give it to others.?{2TT 161.2}[15]
§41
我能说什么来唤醒我们各地的教会呢？对那些在传扬末世信息中居于重要地位的人们，我能说什么呢？“主快来了，”我们不但要在口头上作见证，也当在生活及品格上作见证；可是许多已蒙上帝赐以亮光及知识，委以钱财势力的人，却是不爱真理也不实行真理的人。他们在自私及世俗的杯中酩酊大醉，以致被今生的思虑所沉迷。?{2TT 161.3}[16]
§42
What can I say to arouse our churches? what can I say to?those who have acted a prominent part in the proclamation of the last message? “The Lord is coming,” should be the testimony borne, not only by the lips, but by the life and character; but many to whom God has given light and knowledge, talents of influence and means, are men who do not love the truth and do not practice it. They have drunk so deeply from the intoxicating cup of selfishness and worldliness that they have become drunken with the cares of this life.?{2TT 161.3}[16]
§43
弟兄们哪，你们若仍旧那样懒惰，那样属世，那样自私，上帝一定要撇下你们，而选用那些不那么自私，不那么追慕世俗虚荣的人，他们要象主所行的一样，毫不犹豫地到营外去，忍受凌辱。这工作要交给凡肯接受它，肯宝贵它，及肯将它的原理交织在日常生活经验中的人。上帝要选用那设法荣耀祂名，并推进祂圣工过于尊重自己及高升自己的谦卑人。祂要提拔那没有多大属世智慧，但却与祂联络及追求上面来的能力与教导的人。{2TT 162.1}[17]
§44
Brethren, if you continue to be as idle, as worldly, as selfish as you have been, God will surely pass you by, and take those who are less self-caring, less ambitious for worldly honor, and who will not hesitate to go, as did their Master, without the camp, bearing the reproach. The work will be given to those who will take it, those who prize it, who weave its principles into their everyday experience. God will choose humble men who are seeking to glorify His name and advance His cause rather than to honor and advance themselves. He will raise up men who have not so much worldly wisdom, but who are connected with Him, and who will seek strength and counsel from above.?{2TT 162.1}[17]
§45
【真敬虔的能力】
§46
我们的领袖中，有些人喜欢纵容昔日使徒约翰所表现的精神，那时他说：“夫子，我们看见一个人，奉祢的名赶鬼，我们就禁止他，因为他不跟从我们”（可9:38）。组织与纪律固然是必需的，但现今却有一种很大的危险，就是离开了基督福音的简纯性。我们所需要的，就是少倚靠那仅有的形式及仪文，而多仰赖真敬虔的能力。如果他们的生活及品格是可资范式的话，那么大家凡是愿意的，都当不拘任何地位而作工。虽然他们也许不完全合于你的方法，也切不可说一句责难或使其灰心的话。当法利赛人要耶稣遏止小孩子们，不要唱歌赞美祂之时，救主却说道：“若是他们闭口不说，这些石头必要呼叫起来”（路19:40）。预言的话必须要应验的。{2TT 162.2}[18]
§47
【In The Power of True Godliness】
§48
Some of our leading men are inclined to indulge the spirit manifested by the apostle John when he said: “Master, we saw one casting out devils in Thy name; and we forbade him, because he followeth not with us.” Organization and discipline are essential, but there is now very great danger of a departure from the simplicity of the gospel of Christ. What we need is less dependence upon mere form and ceremony, and far more of the power of true godliness. If their life and character are exemplary, let all work who will, in any capacity. Although they may not conform exactly to your methods, not a word should be spoken to condemn or discourage them. When the Pharisees desired Jesus to silence the children who sang His praise, the Saviour said: “If these should hold their peace, the?stones would immediately cry out.”?Luke 19:40. Prophecy must be fulfilled.?{2TT 162.2}[18]
§49
照样，当今之日，圣工也是必须完成的。工作的部门很多；但愿每人各竭所能，各尽其职。有一千银子的人，不可把它埋在地下。上帝已经照各人的才干分派工作。凡奉派以更重寄托及更大才干的人，不该出力制止其他少有才能及经验浅薄的人。那领一千银子的人所能接触的一等人，也许是那些领有二千或五千银子的人所不能接触到的。大的器皿和小的器皿都是一样被选用来装生命的水给饥渴的生灵喝。但愿那些传道的人不要向那最卑微的工人干涉说：“你必须在这个渠道服务，否则完全不要作。”弟兄们哪，赶快收手吧！我们应让每个人在他自己的范围内，披上他自己的盔甲，用他自己简朴的方法，作他所能作的工。当使他的手刚强作工。现今没有光阴可容法利赛的主义控制了。让上帝藉着祂所愿用的人去作工吧。这信息是必须传开的。{2TT 163.1}[19]
§50
So in these days, the work must be done. There are many departments of labor; let everyone act a part as best he can. The man with one talent is not to bury that in the earth. God has given to every man his work according to his ability. Those to whom larger trusts and capabilities have been committed should not endeavor to silence others who are less able or experienced. Men with one talent may reach a class that those with two or five talents cannot approach. Great and small alike are chosen vessels to bear the water of life to thirsting souls. Let not those who preach the word lay their hands upon the humblest worker and say: “You must labor in this channel or not work at all.” Hands off, brethren. Let everyone work in his own sphere, with his own armor on, doing whatever he can do in his humble way. Strengthen his hands in the work. This is no time for pharisaism to control. Let God work through whom He will. The message must go.?{2TT 163.1}[19]
§51
【对平信徒呼吁】
§52
大家都要聪明地运用上帝所赐的天赋，以表示对祂的忠诚；不单只在钱财方面，也在任何能建设祂国度的禀赋之上。撒但千方百计地阻碍真理传给那些被谬论所误导的人；但是警告和恳求的声音必须传给他们。在此只有少数人参加这项工之时，应当有数以千计的人同样地热心。.{2TT 163.2}[20]
§53
【An Appeal to Laymen】
§54
All are to show their fidelity to God by the wise use of His entrusted capital, not in means alone, but in any endowment that will tend to the upbuilding of His kingdom. Satan will employ every possible device to prevent the truth from reaching those who are buried in error; but the voice of warning and entreaty must come to them. And while only a few are engaged in this work, thousands ought to be as much interested as they.?{2TT 163.2}[20]
§55
上帝从来无意让教会的平信徒可以推辞，免在祂的圣工上服务。主给每个门徒的命令是：“去，到我的葡萄园中作工。”何时只要世上仍有未悔改的人，我们便当发出最活跃，恳切，热诚，坚决的努力去拯救他们。已经接受亮光的人，应当设法光照那些没有得着的人。如果信徒们不个别地亲自参加这种工作，那就显明自己与上帝没有活泼的联络。他们的名字要被列为懒惰的仆人。难道你不能看透现今我们的教会何以没有更属灵化的理由么？原来那就是因为你没有与基督同工啊。?{2TT 163.3}[21]
§56
God never designed that the lay members of the church should be excused from labor in His cause. “Go, labor in My vineyard,” is the Master’s command to each of His followers. As long as there are unconverted souls in the world, there should be the most active, earnest, zealous, determined effort for their salvation. Those who have received the light should seek to enlighten those who have it not. If the church?members do not individually take hold of this work, then they show that they have no living connection with God. Their names are registered as slothful servants. Can you not discern the reason why there is no more spirituality in our churches? It is because you are not colaborers with Christ.?{2TT 163.3}[21]
§57
上帝已给每个人派有工作。但愿我们各人等候上帝，祂必指教我们怎样作以及什么是最切合我们去作的工作。然而却不可有人抱着独立自负的精神来提倡什么新的理论。工人们应当与真理并与弟兄们和谐。应当商量及合作。但他们却不要以为每一步骤都必须等候向上级职员请求，是否可行这事或那事。不可仰望人的指导，乃当仰望以色列的上帝。{2TT 164.1}[22]
§58
God has given to every man his work. Let us each wait on God, and He will teach us how to work and what work we are best adapted to perform. Yet none are to start out in an independent spirit to promulgate new theories. The workers should be in harmony with the truth and with their brethren. There should be counsel and co-operation. But they are not to feel that at every step they must wait to ask some higher officer if they may do this or that. Look not to man for guidance, but to the God of Israel.?{2TT 164.1}[22]
§59
教会在太平顺利之时未能作成的工，将要在最沮丧而险恶的环境下，在可怕的危急关头中作成。由于随从世俗之风而停息不传的警告，必须在信仰之敌最猛烈的攻击下传开。到了那时，一班肤浅保守的人，其影响曾经顽固地阻滞了圣工的前进，就要弃绝信仰，与其公认之敌，也就是他们久已情投意合了的，采取同样的立场。这些叛道者从此要表现最恶毒的敌意，尽其一切所能地来压迫及诋毁自己以前的弟兄们，并激动公怒来反对他们。这种日子现要临到我们了。{2TT 164.2}[23]
§60
The work which the church has failed to do in a time of peace and prosperity she will have to do in a terrible crisis under most discouraging, forbidding circumstances. The warnings that worldly conformity has silenced or withheld must be given under the fiercest opposition from enemies of the faith. And at that time the superficial, conservative class, whose influence has steadily retarded the progress of the work, will renounce the faith and take their stand with its avowed enemies, toward whom their sympathies have long been tending. These apostates will then manifest the most bitter enmity, doing all in their power to oppress and malign their former brethren and to excite indignation against them. This day is just before us.?{2TT 164.2}[23]
§61
教会的信徒将要个别地受考验及证实。他们要被置于某些环境之中，而被迫要为真理作见证。许多人要被召到会议及法庭之前说话，或者是被隔开单独审问。有些经验本可在此紧急之际对他们有助益的，却因他们素来忽略而未曾得到，所以他们的心忧悔交集，痛惜那些荒废的机会和忽略了的特权。{2TT 164.3}[24]
§62
The members of the church will individually be tested and proved. They will be placed in circumstances where they will be forced to bear witness for the truth. Many will be called to speak before councils and in courts of justice, perhaps separately and alone. The experience which would have helped them in this emergency they have neglected to obtain, and their souls are burdened with remorse for wasted opportunities and neglected privileges.?{2TT 164.3}[24]
§63
【不再耽搁】
§64
我的弟兄，我的姐妹，我恳求你们考虑这些事。你们每人都有一种工作要作。你们的不忠及疏忽，都在天庭总簿中留下了不利于你们的记录。你们已削弱自己的能力及减少自己的才智。你们缺乏那本来可有的经验及效能。现今为时尚非太晚，在悔悟不及之前，我恳求你们觉醒起来。不可再迟延了。白昼将尽，夕阳即将沉落，永不复见了。当此基督之血仍在代求之时，你们尚可求得赦免。当发动你每一分的精力，利用仅余的少数时辰，为上帝和同胞热诚服务！{2TT 165.1}[25]
§65
【Delay No Longer】
§66
My brother, my sister, ponder these things, I beseech you. You have each a work to do. Your unfaithfulness and neglect are registered against you in the Ledger of Heaven. You have diminished your powers and lessened your capabilities. You lack the experience and efficiency which you might have had. But before it is forever too late, I urge you to arouse. Delay no longer. The day is almost spent. The westering sun is about sinking forever from your sight. Yet while the blood of Christ is pleading, you may find pardon. Summon every energy of the soul, employ the few remaining hours in earnest labor for God and for your fellow men.?{2TT 165.1}[25]
§67
我心坎的深处都在激动着。在我为将亡之人代求时，我的感情诚非言词所能形容。我的代求一定要落空么？我愿以基督使者的身份激励你们空前地迫切作工。你们的职责不能卸与他人。你们的工作除你们以外，无人能作，若掩蔽自己的光，就必有人因你们的疏忽而被撇在黑暗之中。{2TT 165.2}[26]
§68
My heart is stirred to the very depths. Words are inadequate to express my feelings as I plead for perishing souls. Must I plead in vain? As Christ’s ambassador I would arouse you to labor as you never labored before. Your duty cannot be shifted upon another. No one but yourself can do your work. If you withhold your light, someone must be left in darkness through your neglect.?{2TT 165.2}[26]
§69
永恒延展在我们之前。帘幕快要揭开了。我们这处于严肃及负责地位的人，现今在作什么，在想什么，难道当四围有人濒于灭亡之际，我们竟自私贪图安逸么？难道我们的心已全都麻木了么？难道我们不能感觉或明了自己为别人的得救有一份工作要作么？弟兄们哪，你们是属于那一等视而不见，听而不闻的人么？上帝赐你们明白祂的旨意，岂是徒然的呢？祂一再警告你们，岂是枉费的呢？你们相信永恒真理所宣布那行将临到世界的事吗？你们相信上帝审判已临到万民了吗？你们岂能仍然静坐安逸，闲懒疏忽，贪爱宴乐呢？{2TT 165.3}[27]
§70
Eternity stretches before us. The curtain is about to be lifted. We who occupy this solemn, responsible position, what are we doing, what are we thinking about, that we cling to our selfish love of ease, while souls are perishing around us? Have our hearts become utterly callous? Cannot we feel or understand that we have a work to do for the salvation of others? Brethren, are you of the class who having eyes see not, and having ears hear not? Is it in vain that God has given you a knowledge of His will? Is it in vain that He has sent you warning after warning? Do you believe the declarations of eternal truth concerning what is about to come upon the earth, do you believe that God’s judgments are hanging over the people, and can you still sit at ease, indolent, careless, pleasure loving??{2TT 165.3}[27]
§71
【积财于天】
§72
现在没有时候可容上帝的子民来思念世事并积蓄财宝在地上了。时日已不远了，我们要象早期的门徒一样，被迫在荒凉偏僻之处寻找避难所。从前耶路撒冷城被罗马军队围困，对于犹太地基督徒乃是逃命的信号。照样，我们国家的越权强迫人守罗马教的安息日，便是对我们的警告。这时我们就应离开各大城市，准备逃离较小的城镇，而去在山间僻静之处寻找隐居的住所。因此现今我们不但不要在此世营谋豪华的居室，乃当预备迁移到那更美的家乡，就是天国。我们不应花钱来求自己的满足，乃当学习如何节约。上帝所贷与的每份才干，都应用在向世人传扬警告的事上荣耀上帝。上帝有一种工作交给祂的同工们在各城市中去作。我们的布道区必须予以维持，新的布道区应当设法开辟。若要顺利推进这种工作，必需很大的费用。也需要礼拜堂，以便请人到那里去听聆现代真理。为了这缘故，上帝已将资财交托给祂的管家。你们的财产不可投资在世俗的企业上，以致圣工受阻害。凡你们所能动用的钱财，应为上帝圣工之益而用。要在你们进入天国之前，先把财宝送往天庭。{2TT 166.1}[28]
§73
【Treasure in Heaven】
§74
It is no time now for God’s people to be fixing their affections or laying up their treasure in the world. The time is not far distant, when, like the early disciples, we shall be forced to seek a refuge in desolate and solitary places. As the siege of Jerusalem by the Roman armies was the signal for flight to the Judean Christians, so the assumption of power on the part of our nation in the decree enforcing the papal sabbath will be a warning to us. It will then be time to leave the large cities, preparatory to leaving the smaller ones for retired homes in secluded places among the mountains. And now, instead of seeking expensive dwellings here, we should be preparing to move to a better country, even a heavenly. Instead of spending our means in self-gratification, we should be studying to economize. Every talent lent of God should be used to His glory in giving the warning to the world. God has a work for His colaborers to do in the cities. Our missions must be sustained; new missions must be opened. To carry forward this work successfully will require no small outlay. Houses of worship are needed, where the people may be invited to hear the truths for this time. For this very purpose, God has entrusted a capital to His stewards. Let not your property be tied up in worldly enterprises, so that this work shall be hindered. Get your means where you can handle it for the benefit of the cause of God. Send your treasures before you into heaven.?{2TT 166.1}[28]
§75
每一个信徒应当个别地把自己及自己所有的一切都奉献在上帝的祭坛上。救主的忠告现今是空前地适用：“你们要变卖所有的周济人，为自己预备永不坏的钱囊，用不尽的财宝在天上，就是贼不能近，虫不能蛀的地方。因为你们的财宝在哪里，你们的心也在那里”（路12:33,34）。那些正在把钱财冻结于高楼大厦，田园地产，及世俗企业上的人，他们的行动无异乎是说：“上帝不能要；我要自己用。”他们已把自己的一千银子用布包好，埋藏在地下。这样的人实有予以警醒的必要。弟兄们哪，上帝并未把钱财交托你们置而不用，也不应贪婪地扣留或埋藏起来，乃当用以推进祂的圣工，救人免于沉沦。现今的时候，不应该把主的钱财固结在你们华贵的居室及大企业上，库房半空而听任祂的圣工象乞丐一样蹒跚而进，这决非主推行工作的方式。须记得，那日子快到，就要宣布说：“把你所经营的交代明白”（路16:2）。难道你们不能分辨时代的兆头么？”{2TT 166.2}[29]
§76
The members of the church should individually hold themselves and all their possessions upon the altar of God. Now, as never before, the Saviour’s admonition is applicable: “Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”?Luke 12:33, 34. Those who are fastening their means in large houses, in?lands, in worldly enterprises, are saying by their actions: “God cannot have it; I want it for myself.” They have bound up their one talent in a napkin and hid it in the earth. There is cause for such to be alarmed. Brethren, God has not entrusted means to you to lie idle nor to be covetously retained or hid away, but to be used to advance His cause, to save the souls of the perishing. It is not the time now to bind up the Lord’s money in your expensive buildings and your large enterprises, while His cause is crippled and left to beg its way, the treasury half-supplied. The Lord is not in this way of working. Remember, the day is fast approaching when it will be said: “Give an account of thy stewardship.” Can you not discern the signs of the times??{2TT 166.2}[29]
§77
每日光阴的消逝，使我们更接近那最后的重大日子。比起一八八四年年头，我们现在距离审判及永恒更接近一年了。我们是否更加与上帝亲近呢？我们是否警醒祈祷呢？我们作工的另一个年头又永远消逝了。每天我们所交游的男男女女都是要受审判的。每一天对于某些人都可说是一条分界线；有些人也许已断定了来生的命运。我们在这些同行旅客的身上有何影响呢？我们已尽了多少力量引领他们归向基督呢？{2TT 167.1}[30]
§78
Every day that passes brings us nearer the last great important day. We are one year nearer the judgment, nearer eternity, than we were at the beginning of 1884. Are we also drawing nearer to God? Are we watching unto prayer? Another year of our time to labor has rolled into eternity. Every day we have been associating with men and women who are judgment bound. Each day may have been the dividing line to some soul; someone may have made the decision which shall determine his future destiny. What has been our influence over these fellow travelers? What efforts have we put forth to bring them to Christ??{2TT 167.1}[30]
§79
【生活的严肃性】
§80
死是一桩严肃的事情，可是远较死亡更严肃的乃是生存。我们毕生的思想，言语，和所行的一切事将再度面对我们。在宽容时期所造成了的我们，直到永恒的岁月依然故我。死亡使身体毁灭；但对于品格却毫无改变。基督的复临并不是改变我们的品格；只是永无更改地确定了品格。{2TT 167.2}[31]
§81
【It Is Solemn to Live】
§82
It is a solemn thing to die, but a far more solemn thing to live. Every thought and word and deed of our lives will meet us again. What we make of ourselves in probationary time, that we must remain to all eternity. Death brings dissolution to the body, but makes no change in the character. The coming of Christ does not change our characters; it only fixes them forever beyond all change.?{2TT 167.2}[31]
§83
我再请求教会信徒们要作基督徒，就要象基督。耶稣是一位为人不为己的工人。祂为造福及拯救沉沦的人而劳苦。你们若是基督徒，就当效法祂的榜样。祂已立好了根基，我们是与祂一同建造的工人。但我们在这根基上安放什么材料呢？“各人的工程必然显露，因为那日子要将它表明出来，有火发现，这火要试验各人的工程怎样”（林前3:13）。如果你们将自己一切的精力才能专用于今世的事物上，你们的生平工作就是那所形容的草木禾秸，必被末日的火所焚烧。至于为基督及未来生命所作之无私服务，就要象金，银，宝石，是永存不朽的。{2TT 167.3}[32]
§84
Again I appeal to the members of the church to be Christians, to be Christlike. Jesus was a worker, not for?Himself, but for others. He labored to bless and save the lost. If you are Christians you will imitate His example. He has laid the foundation, and we are builders together with Him. But what material are we bringing to lay on this foundation? “Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.”?1 Corinthians 3:13. If you are devoting all your strength and talent to the things of this world, your lifework is represented by wood, hay, and stubble, to be consumed by the fires of the last day. But unselfish labor for Christ and the future life will be as gold, silver, and precious stones; it is imperishable.?{2TT 167.3}[32]
§85
我的弟兄姐妹们啊，我恳求你们从死亡沉睡中醒起吧，现今时候太晚了，不可把脑力，骨力，及肌力留为己用。但愿在末日不会发现你们毫无财宝积蓄在天上。设法要推促十字架的胜利，设法光照众生，为你们同胞的得救服务，你们的工作就可经历火炼的试验而永存。{2TT 168.1}[33]
§86
My brethren and sisters, awake, I beseech you, from the sleep of death. It is too late to devote the strength of brain, bone, and muscle to self-serving. Let not the last day find you destitute of heavenly treasure. Seek to push the triumphs of the cross, seek to enlighten souls, labor for the salvation of your fellow beings, and your work will abide the trying test of fire.?{2TT 168.1}[33]
§87
“人……的工程，若存得住，他就要得赏赐”（林前3:14）。当忠心的工人们被聚集在上帝与羔羊的宝座四周之时，他们要得光荣的奖赏。当约翰在必死的肉身情形下见到上帝的荣耀时，他便仆地如死；他受不住这种情景。但到了必死的肉身将来变成不朽之躯后，得救的群众就要象耶稣一样，因为他们必得见祂的真体。他们站在宝座之前，表明他们是蒙接纳的。他们一切的罪恶已被涂抹，一切的过犯已被除掉了。此时他们能亲见上帝宝座所发出的明亮荣光。他们已与基督同受苦楚，已在救赎的计划上与祂同工，而今也必因眼见自己工作所救回的生灵千古永恒赞美上帝而与祂同感快乐。（5T454-467.1885年）{2TT 168.2}[34]
§88
“If any man’s work abide, ... he shall receive a reward.” Glorious will be the reward bestowed when the faithful workers are gathered about the throne of God and the Lamb. When John in his mortal state beheld the glory of God, he fell as one dead; he was not able to endure the sight. But when mortal shall have put on immortality, the ransomed ones are like Jesus, for they see Him as He is. They stand before the throne, signifying that they are accepted. All their sins are blotted out, all their transgressions borne away. Now they can look upon the undimmed glory from the throne of God. They have been partakers with Christ of His sufferings, they have been workers together with Him in the plan of redemption, and they are partakers with Him in the joy of beholding souls saved through their instrumentality to praise God through all eternity.?{2TT 168.2}[34]
§89
第三位天使飞在空中，宣扬上帝的诫命及为耶稣作见证，这乃是代表我们的工作。天使的向前飞进，并不使信息失其力量，因为约翰见到它的力量一直增加，直到全地因它的荣耀发光。上帝守诫子民的行程是前进，永远前进的。我们所传的真理信息，必须传至各国各方各民。这信息不久必用大声传出，全地要因它的荣耀发光。我们是否在预备接受上帝之灵的沛然大降呢？（5T383.1885年）?{2TT 169.1}[35]
§90
The third angel, flying in the midst of heaven and heralding the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus, represents our work. The message loses none of its force in the angel’s onward flight, for John sees it increasing in strength and power until the whole earth is lightened with its glory. The course of God’s commandment-keeping people is onward, ever onward. The message of truth that we bear must go to nations, tongues, and peoples. Soon it will go with a loud voice, and the earth will be lightened with its glory. Are we preparing for this great outpouring of the Spirit of God?—1885,?Testimonies for the Church 5:383.?{2TT 169.1}[35]
§91
我见过一幅图画，上面画着一只牛，站在祭坛和耕犁中间，旁边题着几个字道：“愿供两用，”──愿含辛茹苦劳动服务，或溅血牺牲之坛。这就是上帝儿女所当常抱的立场──愿意去责任所在之处，克苦自己，及为真理圣工而牺牲。基督教会原是奠基于牺牲原理之上。基督说：“若有人要跟从我，就当舍己，天天背起他的十字架来跟从我”（路9:23）。祂所要的是人的整个的心和全部的爱。许多虔诚门徒所向世人表现的热心，恳切，及无私的服务，应当激发我们的热心，引起我们去效法他们的榜样。真实的宗教信仰，会给人一种恳切而坚定的心志，照上帝的形像模铸人的品格，并使我们能将万事当作有损的，而以基督为至宝。这种专一的心志，必证明是一种强大能力的要素。（5T307.1885年）{2TT 169.2}[36]
§92
I have seen a device representing a bullock standing between a plow and an altar, with the inscription, “Ready for either”—willing to swelter in the weary furrow or to bleed on the altar of sacrifice. This is the position the child of God should ever be in—willing to go where duty calls, to deny self, and to sacrifice for the cause of truth. The Christian church was founded upon the principle of sacrifice. “If any man will come after Me” (Luke 9:23) says Christ, “let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.” He requires the whole heart, the entire affections. The exhibitions of zeal, earnestness, and unselfish labor which His devoted followers have given to the world should kindle our ardor and lead us to emulate their example. Genuine religion gives an earnestness and fixedness of purpose which molds the character to the divine image and enables us to count all things but loss for the excellency of Christ. This singleness of purpose will prove an element of tremendous power.—1885,?Testimonies for the Church 5:307.?{2TT 169.2}[36]