第06章 责备懒惰的人
§1
第06章 责备懒惰的人
§2
Chap. 6—Slackness Reproved
§3
在亲人丧亡和非常痛苦的时候，主再一次慈怜地眷顾了我。1860年12月23日，我被带到了异象中，蒙指示见到了影响圣工之人的错误。我不敢为了不伤害个人的感情而向教会扣留这个见证。{4bSG45.1}[1]
§4
The Lord has again visited me in mercy, in a time of bereavement and great affliction. December 23, 1860, I was taken off in vision, and was shown the wrongs of individuals which have affected the cause, and I dare not withhold the testimony from the church to spare the feelings of individuals.?{4bSG 45.1}[1]
§5
我蒙指示见到上帝子民的堕落状况；上帝并没有离开他们，但他们离开了上帝，变得不冷不热了。他们拥有真理的理论，但缺乏真理救人的能力。在我们接近末日时，撒但既知道自己时候不多，就带着大能力下来了。他的能力特别要运用在余民身上。他要与他们作战，企图分裂并分散他们，使他们变得软弱并被击败。上帝的子民应该聪明地行事，并且应该团结一致地努力。他们应该有一样的心思，一样的判断；然后他们的努力就不会被分散，而会在建立现代真理的圣工中有力地作证。必须遵守秩序，也必须在维持秩序中联合一致，否则撒但就会占便宜。{4bSG45.2}[2]
§6
I was shown the low state of God’s people; that God had not departed from them; but that they had departed from God, and become lukewarm. They possess the theory of the truth, but lack its saving power. As we near the close of time, Satan comes down with great power knowing his time is short. Especially upon the remnant will his power be exercised. He will war against them, he will seek to divide and scatter them, that they may grow weak and be overthrown. The people of God should move understandingly; their efforts should be united. They should be of the same mind, of the same judgment; then their efforts will not be scattered, but will be of force, and tell in the upbuilding of the cause of present truth. Order must be observed, and there must be union in regard to order, or Satan will take advantage of them.?{4bSG 45.2}[2]
§7
我看到仇敌会以各种可能的方式前来使上帝的子民灰心，困扰并扰乱他们，他们应当聪明地行事，并为撒但的攻击预备自己。属于教会的事不应被丢下处于悬而未决的状况。应当采取步骤为上帝的圣工保护教会财产，使这工作的进展不受阻碍，也使愿意向上帝的圣工奉献之人的钱财不至流入仇敌的队伍中。我看到上帝的子民应当聪明地行动，在自己这方面竭尽所能地使教会的事物处于安全状态。他们在做了自己所能做的一切之后，就该信赖主为他们管制这些事，好使撒但占不到上帝余民的便宜。这是撒但作工的时候。一个暴风雨的将来就在我们面前；应当唤醒教会前进一步，好使他们可以安然站立反对撒但的计划。现在是有所作为的时候。上帝不喜悦祂的子民让教会的事处于杂乱状态，而让仇敌占尽便宜，照他最喜悦的控制事务。{4bSG45.3}[3]
§8
I was shown that the enemy would come in every way possible to dishearten the people of God, and perplex and trouble them, and that they should move understandingly and prepare themselves for the attacks of Satan. The matters of the church should not be left in an unsettled condition. Steps should be taken to secure church property for the cause of God, that the work may not be retarded in its progress, and that the means which persons wish to dedicate to God’s cause, may not slip into the enemy’s ranks. I saw that God’s people should act wisely, and leave nothing undone on their part to place matters of the church in?a secure state. Then after all is done that they can do, they should trust the Lord to overrule these things for them, that Satan take no advantage of God’s remnant people. It is Satan’s time to work, and a stormy future is before us, and the church should be awake to make an advance move that they may stand securely against Satan’s plans. It is time that something was done. God is not pleased to have his people leave the matters of the church at loose ends, and suffer the enemy to have the whole advantage, and control affairs as best pleases him.?{4bSG 45.3}[3]
§9
虽然上帝的子民可以用合法的手段保护教会的财产，但他们也该谨慎地保持他们的独特性和神圣性。我看到未献身的人会利用教会最近所采取的立场，越过界线，把问题引向极端，损害上帝的圣工。有些人行事会缺乏智慧或明断，陷于本可避免的诉讼中，与世人混杂，沾染世俗的精神，并影响别人随从他们的榜样。一个行动轻率的自称基督徒的人对现代真理圣工的损害很大。恶比善扎根要快的多，若不予以小心照管，良善与正义就会凋萎，邪恶却会生长茂盛。{4bSG46.1}[4]
§10
And while God’s people are justified in a lawful manner to secure church property, they should be careful to maintain their peculiar and holy character. I saw that unconsecrated persons would take advantage of the position the church have recently taken, and will overstep the bounds, carry matters to extremes, and wound the cause of God. Some will move without wisdom or judgment, and engage in lawsuits that might be avoided, mingle with the world, partake of their spirit, and influence others to follow their example. One professed Christian who moves unadvisedly, does much harm to the cause of present truth. Evil takes root much more readily than good, and flourishes when good and right languish, unless they are carefully nourished.?{4bSG 46.1}[4]
§11
我蒙指示回顾过去，看到在上帝的子民所采取的每一个重要行动，做出的每一个决定或走出的每一步中，都有人起来把事情引向极端，以一种过分的方式行事，使不信的人厌烦，使上帝的子民忧伤，并使上帝的圣工声誉扫地。上帝在如今末日所引导的子民也必遭遇这样的困扰。但基督的传道人如果同心同德，在行动计划中联合起来，团结一致地努力，就会避免许多恶事。若是他们愿意站在一起，彼此支持，忠心地督责并责备错误，他们很快就会使错误消亡。但撒但已大大控制了这些事。平信徒甚至是传道人都已向因错行受了责备的人表同情，结果就有了分裂的情绪。冒险站出来尽自己不讨人喜欢的责任，忠心对付错误和错行的人，却感到忧伤，受了伤害，因为他没有得到传道弟兄的充分同情。他在履行这些痛苦的职责上灰心泄气了，就放下了十字架，扣留了中肯的见证。他的心灵关闭在黑暗之中，教会也失去了上帝计划在祂子民中作出的见证。当忠心的见证受到压制时，撒但的目的就达到了。那些同情错行的人认为这是一种美德；但他们却没有认识到自己正在发挥分散的影响，而他们自己也在帮助实现撒但的计划。{4bSG46.2}[5]
§12
I was pointed back and saw that in every important move, every decision made, or point gained, by God’s people, there have been those who have arisen to carry matters to extremes, and to move in an extravagant manner, which has disgusted unbelievers and distressed God’s people, and brought the cause of God into disrepute. The people whom God is leading out in these last days, will be troubled with just such things. But much evil will be avoided if the ministers of Christ will be of one mind, unite in effort, unite in their plans of action, sustain each other, stand together, and be faithful to reprove and rebuke wrong, which will soon cause it to wither. But Satan has controlled these matters very much. Private?members, and even preachers, have sympathized with disaffected ones who have been reproved for their wrongs, and division of feeling has been the result. The one who has ventured out and faithfully met error and wrong, and discharged his disagreeable duty, is grieved and wounded that he receives not the fullest sympathy of his preaching brethren. He becomes discouraged in discharging such painful duties, lays down the cross and withholds the pointed testimony. His soul is shut up in darkness, and the church suffer for the lack of the very testimony God designed should live in the church. Satan’s object is gained when the faithful testimony is suppressed. Those who so readily sympathize with the wrong, consider it a virtue, but they realize not that they are exerting a scattering influence, and that they themselves help to carry out Satan’s plans.?{4bSG 46.2}[5]
§13
我看到许多人的灵魂因他们弟兄不智的同情而毁灭了。他们唯一的希望就是看到并充分认识到自己的错误。但他们若急于接受弟兄不明智的同情，就会觉得自己受了亏待。即便他们想要回头，也是半心半意。他们按自己本性的情感分析问题，反而指摘责备他们的人，来平息事务。他们没有从根本上解决问题，没有得到医治，又陷入同样的错误中，因为他们没有认识到自己错误的程度，在上帝面前自卑，让祂来建立他们。错误的同情者与基督和服役的天使背道而行。{4bSG47.1}[6]
§14
I saw that many souls have been destroyed by their brethren unwisely sympathizing with them, when their only hope was to be left to see and realize the full extent of their wrongs. But as they eagerly receive the sympathy of unwise brethren, they receive the idea that they are abused; and if they attempt to retrace their steps, they make half-hearted work. They divide the matter to suit their natural feelings, lay blame upon the reprover, and so patch up the matter. It is not healed, it is not probed to the bottom, and they fall into the same wrong again, because they were not left to feel the extent of their wrong and humble themselves before God, and let him build them up. False sympathizers have worked in direct opposition to the mind of Christ and ministering angels.?{4bSG 47.1}[6]
§15
基督的传道人应该兴起，全力从事上帝的工作。上帝的仆人若是回避率直的证言，就是无可推诿的。他们应当督责并责备错误，不容忍弟兄身上的罪。{4bSG47.2}[7]
§16
Ministers of Christ should arise and engage in the work of God with all their energies. God’s servants are not excused if they shun pointed testimony. They should reprove and rebuke wrong, and not suffer sin upon a brother.?{4bSG 47.2}[7]
§17
【对于儿童的责任】
§18
我蒙指示，一般作父母的人，对于儿女没有取正当的行动。他们没有照所当行的约束他们，反而让他们放纵骄傲，随从自己的癖性。古时的人重视父母的威权，作儿女的人必须顺服父母，敬畏他们；但时至今日末世，这种伦常颠倒了。有些父母还要顺服自己的儿女，怕有背儿女的心意，所以事事依从他们。但只要儿女在父母的家庭中，靠父母过活，他们就应当顺服父母的管教。父母应当坚决，凡他们认为正当的见解，是必须遵行的。{4bSG48.1}[8]
§19
【Duty to Children】
§20
I have been shown that parents generally have not taken a proper course with their children. They are not restrained as they should be. They are left to indulge in pride, and follow their own inclinations. Anciently parental authority was regarded, and children were in subjection to their parents. They feared and reverenced them; but the order in these last days is reversed. Some parents are in subjection to their children. They fear their children, and yield to them. They fear to cross the will of their children; but just as long as children are under the roof of their parents, dependent upon them, they should be subject to them. Parents should move with decision, requiring the following out of their views of right.?{4bSG 48.1}[8]
§21
以利本可以约束自己作恶的儿子的，但他却怕他们不开心，而让他们背逆，结果他们成了以色列全家的祸害。父母们是奉命应当管教自己儿女的。儿女的得救，多半有赖于父母所取的行动。许多父母误爱溺爱自己的儿女，怕他们伤心，纵容他们，娇生惯养，助长他们的骄傲，给他们装扮彩饰，使他们养成虚荣的心，以为要穿戴得好，就可成为绅士或闺秀了。其实凡与他们略为交游相识的人都知道，外表的华丽对于那心中充满自我怜爱，傲慢不逊，不受控制的情欲，及无基督徒德行的缺点丑陋，是遮掩不住的。凡喜爱温柔，谦卑，及德行的人，都应当远避他们，不与他们交游，即使他们是守安息日信徒的儿女，也是如此。因为他们的交游是有毒害的，他们的影响是会引人死亡的。父母们还不晓得自己所撒的种子，有灭亡的力量，将来要发芽长大结实，使儿女们轻视父母的威权。{4bSG48.2}[9]
§22
Eli might have restrained his wicked sons, but he feared their displeasure. He suffered them to go on in their rebellion, until they were a curse to Israel. Parents are required to restrain their children. The salvation of children depends very much upon the course pursued by their parents. In their mistaken love and fondness for their children, they indulge them to their hurt, nourish their pride, and put upon them trimmings and fixings which make them vain, and lead them to think that dress makes the lady or gentleman. But a short acquaintance convinces those with whom they associate that an outside appearance is not sufficient to hide the deformity of a heart void of the Christian graces, but filled with self-love, haughtiness, and uncontrolled passion. Those who love meekness, humility, and virtue, should shun such society, even if it be Sabbath-keepers’ children. Their company is poisonous, their influence leads to death. Parents realize not the destructive influence of the seed which they are sowing. It will spring up and bear fruit which will make their children despise parental authority.?{4bSG 48.2}[9]
§23
儿女们虽已成年，仍应尊敬自己的父母，使他们得安慰。他们应当听从敬虔父母的教导，不要觉得自己已多了几岁，长大成人了，就没有孝顺的本分了。有一条带应许的诫命，就是对那些孝敬父母的人说的。{4bSG48.3}[10]
§24
Children, even after they are of age, are required to respect, and look after the comforts of their parents.?They should listen to the counsel of godly parents, and not feel because a few years are added to their life, that they have grown out of their duty to them. There is a commandment with promise to those who honor their father and their mother.?{4bSG 48.3}[10]
§25
当今末世之时，儿女对于父母的那样不孝顺和不尊敬，甚至使上帝都特别注意到，并且这也成为末日已近的一个时兆。这种情形也是表明撒但差不多完全控制了青年人的心思。许多人不再敬重老年人，把敬老当作古老的旧礼教，认为是倒退到了亚伯拉罕的时代。上帝说：“我眷顾他，为要叫他吩咐他的众子和他的眷属”（创18:19）。古时，儿女未得父母的同意是不许结婚的。父母要为儿女选婚。儿女若果自行嫁娶，就算是犯法的。他们应当先把此项大事呈在父母之前，由他们考虑这场亲事是否值得，及可否成家。他们所认为最重要的一点，就是敬拜真神的人不应与拜偶像的人通婚，以免他们的家庭被引诱离开上帝。{4bSG49.1}[11]
§26
Children in these last days are so noted for their disobedience and disrespect, that God has especially noticed it, and it constitutes a sign that the end is near. It shows the power of Satan upon minds, and the almost complete control he has of the minds of the young. By many, age is no more respected. It is considered too old-fashioned to respect the aged, for it dates back as far as the days of Abraham. Says God, “I know him, that he will command his children and household after him.” Anciently, children were not permitted to marry without the consent of their parents. Parents chose for their children. It was considered a crime for children to contract marriage upon their own responsibility. The matter was first laid before the parents, and they were to consider whether the person to be brought into a close relation to them was worthy, and whether the parties could provide for a family. It was considered by them of the greatest importance that they, the worshipers of the true God, should not intermarry with an idolatrous people, lest they lead their families away from God.?{4bSG 49.1}[11]
§27
儿女即使在成婚立室之后，还是有服从父母的最庄严的义务。他们的见解若没有父母的指教，就不能算为圆满。父母的心愿，若不是与上帝的要求相冲突，儿女就应当尊重服从。{4bSG49.2}[12]
§28
Even after their children were married, the most solemn obligation rested upon them. Their judgment then was not considered sufficient without the counsel of their parents, and they were required to respect and obey their wishes, unless they should conflict with their duty to God.?{4bSG 49.2}[12]
§29
我又蒙指示见到末世青年人的情形。儿女们不受管束。作父母的人哪，你们的儿女在襁褓的时期，就应当开始初步的管教，教他们顺服你们的心意。只要方法公平，态度坚决，这事就可办到。父母应当完全约束自己的情绪，温和而坚定地折服儿童的心意，直到它别无指望，只好服从父母的心愿。{4bSG49.3}[13]
§30
Again I was directed to the condition of children in these last days. Children are not controlled. Parents should commence their first lesson of discipline when their children are babes in their arms. Teach them to yield their will to yours. This can be done by bearing an even hand, and manifesting firmness. Parents should have perfect control over their own spirits, and with mildness, and yet firmness, bend the?will of the child until it shall expect nothing else but to yield to their wishes.?{4bSG 49.3}[13]
§31
父母们对于儿女没有及时管教。在他们初次发脾气之时不加以制服，他们就要长成顽固的性情，与年龄俱长，随气力增强。有些儿童长大了，竟认为他们必须顺着自己的心意行事，父母应当顺服他们的心愿，这乃是理所当然的。他们等着父母去伺候他们。他们不耐于受约束，到了长大可为父母帮忙家事之时，他们也不肯负其所当尽的责任。他们不负责任，长大之后，不论是在家或在外都是一无用处。他们毫无忍耐之力。父母们自己操劳负责，让孩童们闲懒过日，没有养成整齐，勤奋，及节约等美德；也没有教他们克己自治的习惯，只是娇生惯养，满足他们的口腹情欲，以致他们长大之时，身体也是很软弱。他们的态度和品行也不是可嘉的。他们不但自己不快乐，也使周围的人不快乐。这乃是因为当儿女们还是幼小及需要管教之时，父母们竟让他们去混杂在孩子们的队里，以致彼此受到了腐败的影响。{4bSG50.1}[14]
§32
Parents do not commence in season. The first manifestation of temper is not subdued, and the children grow stubborn, which increases with their growth, and strengthens with their strength. Some children, as they grow older, think it a matter of course that they must have their own way, and that their parents must submit to their wishes. They expect their parents to wait upon them. They are impatient of restraint, and when old enough to be a help to their parents, they do not bear the burdens they should. They have been released from responsibilities, and grow up worthless at home, and worthless abroad. They have no power of endurance; the parents have borne the burden, and have suffered them to grow up in idleness, without habits of order, industry, and economy. They have not been taught habits of self-denial, but have been petted and indulged, their appetites gratified, and they come up with enfeebled health. Their manners and deportment are not agreeable. They are unhappy themselves, and make those around them unhappy. And when the children are but children still, and while they need to be disciplined, they are allowed to go out in company, mingle with the society of the young, and one has a corrupting influence over the other.?{4bSG 50.1}[14]
§33
上帝的咒诅必要落在那些不忠心的父母身上。他们不但是现今种了荆棘，自己要受伤害，到了审判之时，他们还得为自己的不忠心而受报应。许多儿女将在审判之时站起，指责父母容纵他们，及害他们灭亡的罪状。父母的错误同情和盲目溺爱使他们宽恕儿女的过错，马虎不矫正他们，结果，儿女们沉沦灭亡了，他们灵性的血债，是要落在那不忠心的父母们身上的。{4bSG50.2}[15]
§34
The curse of God will surely rest upon unfaithful parents. Not only are they planting thorns which shall wound them here, but they must meet their own unfaithfulness when the judgment shall sit. Many children will rise up in judgment and condemn their parents for not restraining them, and charge upon them their destruction. The false sympathy and blind love of parents, causes them to excuse the faults of their children, and to pass them by without correction, and their children are lost in consequence, and the blood of their souls will rest upon unfaithful parents.?{4bSG 50.2}[15]
§35
这些未受管教而长大的儿女，在他们要当基督徒的时候，样样的事都得学习。他们整个的宗教经验，都受了幼时生活的影响，常常会显出同样的任性，同样的缺少克己自治，同样的不能忍受指责，同样的专爱自己，不愿向别人领教，不接受别人的见解，同样的懒惰，畏避工作，缺少负责的精神；这一切都要在他们对教会的关系上表露出来。这些缺憾是可以克服的，然而这场争战是何等地艰苦！这场奋斗是何等地惨重啊！这场要达到基督徒品格高境所必经的彻底训练，真是多么难通过啊！及至他们终于胜过了之后，在他们变化升天之前，上帝要让他们回顾到自己因为在青年时未受正当训练，及在幼年时未学顺服，而使自己何等地临近了那永远灭亡的悬崖绝壁上！{4bSG50.3}[16]
§36
Children, who are thus brought up undisciplined, when they profess to be Christ’s followers, have?everything to learn. Their whole religious experience is effected by their bringing up in childhood. The same self-will often appears; the same lack of self-denial; the same impatience manifest under reproof; the same love of self, and unwillingness to seek counsel of others, or to be influenced by others’ judgment; the same indolence, shunning of burdens, lack of bearing responsibilities, is seen in their relation to the church. It is possible for such to overcome, but how hard the battle! how severe the conflict! How hard to pass through a course of thorough discipline, which is necessary for them to reach the elevation of Christian character. Yet if they overcome at last, they will be permitted to see before they are translated how near the precipice of eternal destruction they came, caused by the lack of right training in youth, and by not learning submission in childhood.?{4bSG 50.3}[16]
§37
【定期捐款计划】
§38
我蒙指示回顾古以色列人。上帝要求他们无论贫富都按照自己的进项作出牺牲。穷人也不得因为没有富足弟兄的财富而为自己开脱。他们也要实行节约和舍己，以便不至于空手来到主面前。若有人非常贫穷以致完全不可能带供物给主，如果疾病或不幸使他们无力奉献，富足的人就要帮助他们一点儿，使他们不至空手来到主面前。这种安排使穷人富人都得益处。{4bSG51.1}[17]
§39
【Systematic Benevolence】
§40
I was pointed back to the children of Israel anciently. God required of them all a sacrifice, both poor and rich, according as he had prospered them. The poor were not excused because they had not the wealth of their rich brethren. They were required to exercise economy and self-denial, that they come not before the Lord empty-handed. And those who were so poor that it was utterly impossible for them to bring an offering to the Lord, if sickness or misfortune had deprived them of the ability to bestow, those who were wealthy were required to help them to a humble mite, that they come not before the Lord empty-handed. This arrangement preserved a mutual interest.?{4bSG 51.1}[17]
§41
一些人还没有前来参加定期捐款计划，藉口说自己有债务缠身。他们辩称自己必须先“凡事都不可亏欠人”（罗13:8）。我看到他们应该把凯撒的物归给凯撒，把上帝的物归给上帝。有些人本着良心觉得“凡事都不可亏欠人”，以为在他们把所有债务都还清之前，上帝不会要求他们什么。他们这是在自欺。他们没能把上帝的物归给上帝。每一个人必须带给主一份相配的供物。那些欠债的人，也应自他们的财物中取出所欠的款项，再把剩余的捐献一部分。{4bSG51.2}[18]
§42
In the arrangement of Systematic Benevolence, some have not come up and united in this work, and have excused themselves because they were not free from debt. They plead that they must first “owe no man anything.” But being in debt does not excuse them. I saw that they should render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.?Some feel conscientious to “owe no man anything,” and think that God can require nothing of them until their debts are all paid. Here they deceive themselves. They fail to render to God the things that are God’s. Every one must bring to the Lord a suitable offering. Those who are in debt should take the amount of their debts from what they possess, and give a proportion of the remainder.?{4bSG 51.2}[18]
§43
一些人感悟到对他们儿女的神圣责任。他们必须把一部分给予每个儿女，而又觉得无力提供钱财以支助上帝的圣工。他们藉口说对儿女有责任，这也许有道理，但他们首要的责任，乃是对上帝。把凯撒的物归给凯撒，把上帝的物归给上帝。不要藉着扣交十分之一和供物来抢夺上帝。第一个神圣的责任就是要把相配的一部分献给上帝。不要让人向你提出要求，而使你抢夺上帝。不要让你的儿女们为了他们自己的利益，而使你从上帝的坛上盗取你的供物。{4bSG52.1}[19]
§44
Some have felt under sacred obligations to their children. They must give them each a portion, but feel themselves unable to raise means to aid the cause of God. They make the excuse that they have a duty to do their children. This may be right, but their first duty belongs to God. Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s. Rob not God by withholding from him your tithes and offerings. It is the first, sacred duty, to render to God a suitable proportion. Let no one throw in their claims and lead you to rob God. Let not your children steal your offering from God’s altar for their own benefit.?{4bSG 52.1}[19]
§45
我看到古时有些人的贪心使他们扣留了应缴的部分；他们吝惜奉献。这都被记在了天上，他们也在收成和畜群上受了咒诅，正如他们所扣留的。有些人的家中遭了困苦。{4bSG52.2}[20]
§46
I saw that anciently the covetousness of some led them to withhold a suitable proportion. They made their offering stinted, which was recorded in Heaven, and they were cursed in their harvest and their flocks just as they withheld. Some were visited with affliction in their families.?{4bSG 52.2}[20]
§47
上帝不会悦纳瘸腿的祭物。所献的必须是没有瑕疵的，是羊群中最好的，土产中最优的。他们若是愿意主常常赐福他们的家庭和财产，就必须甘心乐意地奉献。{4bSG52.3}[21]
§48
God would not accept a lame offering. It must be without blemish, the best of their flocks, and the best fruits of their fields. And it must be a free-will offering, if they would have the blessing of the Lord rest upon their families and their possessions.?{4bSG 52.3}[21]
§49
亚拿尼亚和撒非拉的案例被呈现在我面前，说明那些贬低自己财产价值之人的做法。他们假装甘心乐意把自己的财产献给主。彼得说：“你告诉我，你们卖田地的价银就是这些吗？”回答是：“就是这些”（徒5:8）。在这个邪恶时代里，有人认为那不是谎言。但主看它是一个谎言。他们卖田地的价值比这些多。他们曾自称要全部献给上帝。他们既欺瞒上帝，所受的报应就必不迟延。{4bSG52.4}[22]
§50
The case of Ananias and Sapphira was presented before me to illustrate the course of those who put down their property below its value. They pretended to make a free-will offering of their possessions to the Lord. Said Peter, “Sold ye the land for so much?” The answer was, “Yea, for so much.” Some in this evil age would not consider that a lie, but the Lord regarded it thus. They had sold it for so much, and?much more. Their consecration was professedly made to God. To him they had dissembled, and their retribution lingered not.?{4bSG 52.4}[22]
§51
我看到在定期捐款的安排中，人心将受到检验和证明。这是一个常存的、活泼的试验，使人明白自己心内如何，要看是真理还是爱世界的心在其中掌权。这是对本性的自私与贪婪的试验。他们会把自己财产的价值说成很低的数额。这就是他们的欺瞒。天使说：“欺诈地为耶和华行事的，必受咒诅。”众天使在注意人品格的发展。这种人的行为被天上的使者带到天庭。有人会因这些事受上帝的报应。他们的收益会被减低到他们所说的数额。“有施散的，却更增添；有吝惜过度的，反致穷乏。好施舍的，必得丰裕；滋润人的，必得滋润”（箴11:24,25）。{4bSG53.1}[23]
§52
I saw that in the arrangement of Systematic Benevolence hearts will tested and proved. It is a constant, living test. It brings one to understand his own heart, whether the truth or the love of the world predominates. Here is a test for the naturally selfish and covetous. They will put down their possessions at very low figures. Here they dissemble. Said the angel, “Cursed be he that doeth the work of the Lord deceitfully.” Angels are watching the development of character, and the doings of such are carried to heaven by the heavenly messengers. Some will be visited of God for these things, and their increase will be brought down to their figures. “There is that scattereth and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty. The liberal soul shall be made fat; and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.”?Proverbs 11:24, 25.?{4bSG 53.1}[23]
§53
所有的人都要关心这项工作。那些吸烟，喝茶和咖啡的人，应该抛弃这些偶像，把化在这些东西上的钱投在主的库中。有些人为上帝的圣工，从未作过任何牺牲，对于上帝的要求也保持沉默。一些非常贫苦的人需要付出最大的努力来抵制这些刺激品。这种个人的牺牲本是不必要的，因为上帝的圣工正遭受经济的困难。然而每一个人的心都要经过试验。每一个人的品格都需要发展。这是上帝子民所必须实行的原则。生活的原则必须在生活中实行出来。{4bSG53.2}[24]
§54
All are required to have an interest in this work. Those who use tobacco, tea and coffee should lay these idols aside, and put their cost into the treasury of the Lord. Some have never made any sacrifice for the cause of God, and are asleep as to what God requires of them. Some of the very poorest will have the greatest struggle to deny themselves of these stimulants. This individual sacrifice is not required because the cause of God is suffering for means. But every heart will be tested and its character developed. It is principle that God’s people must act upon. The living principle must be carried out in the life.?{4bSG 53.2}[24]
§55
“人岂可夺取上帝之物呢？你们竟夺取我的供物。你们却说：‘我们在何事上夺取祢的供物呢？’就是你们在当纳的十分之一和当献的供物上。因你们通国的人都夺取我的供物，咒诅就临到你们身上。万军之耶和华说：你们要将当纳的十分之一全然送入仓库，使我家有粮，以此试试我，是否为你们敞开天上的窗户，倾福与你们，甚至无处可容。万军之耶和华说：我必为你们斥责吞噬者，不容他毁坏你们的土产。你们田间的葡萄树在未熟之先也不掉果子”（玛3:8-11）。我看到这段经文被误用在聚会的讲道和祈祷上。这段预言特别适用于末后的日子，教导上帝的子民知道他们的本分，要把自己财产的一部分作为乐意捐献给主。{4bSG53.3}[25]
§56
“Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings; ye are cursed with a curse, for ye have robbed me, even this whole nation. Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the Lord of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of Heaven and pour you out a blessing that there shall?not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground, neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the Lord of hosts.” I saw that this scripture has been misapplied to speaking and praying in meeting. The prophecy has a special application to the last days, and teaches God’s people their duty to bring a proportion of their substance as a freewill offering to the Lord.?{4bSG 53.3}[25]
§57
【安息日复临信徒】
§58
我蒙指示看到关于上帝的余民取名的事。在我面前出现了两等的人。有一等人包括着许多自命为基督徒的大团体在内。他们践踏上帝的律法，而向教皇所立的制度屈身低头。他们守第七日的第一日，当作主的安息日。{4bSG54.1}[26]
§59
【Seventh-day Adventists】
§60
I was shown in regard to the remnant people of God taking a name. Two classes were presented before me. One class embraced the great bodies of professed Christians. They were trampling upon God’s law and bowing to a Papal institution. They were keeping the first day of the week as the Sabbath of the Lord.?{4bSG 54.1}[26]
§61
还有一等人，人数很少，但却敬拜那伟大的立法之主。他们遵守第四条诫命。他们信仰的特点和显著之处，就是遵守第七日，和等候我们的主从天显现。{4bSG54.2}[27]
§62
The other class were but few in number, and were bowing to the great Law-giver. They were keeping the fourth commandment. The peculiar and prominent features of their faith were the observance of the seventh day, and waiting for the appearing of our Lord from Heaven.?{4bSG 54.2}[27]
§63
在上帝的要求与兽的要求之间是有冲突的。七日的第一日是教皇所立的制度，与第四诫是直接相反的，但那两角如羊羔的兽却使它成了一个试验。那时上帝可怕的警告发出，要降罚在那些拜兽和兽像的人身上。他们必喝上帝大怒的酒，此酒斟在上帝义怒的杯中，纯一不杂。{4bSG54.3}[28]
§64
The conflict is between the requirements of God and the requirements of the beast. The first day, a Papal institution which directly contradicts the fourth commandment, is yet to be made a test by the two-horned beast. And then the fearful warning from God declares the penalty of bowing to the beast and his image. They shall drink the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation.?{4bSG 54.3}[28]
§65
我们所能取的名称，必须是适合于我们的立场，能表明我们的信仰，及显出我们是一种特别的子民。“安息日复临信徒”的名称，对于改正教的人，乃是一种浩然长存的斥责。从此把敬拜上帝的人，与拜兽和兽印记的人，划出了一条界线。重大的冲突即在于上帝的诫命与兽的要求之间。因为圣徒遵守全部十诫，所以龙就与他们争战。他们若肯降低标准，放弃自己信仰的特色，那龙就要息怒了；然而他们竟大胆高举标准，展开旌旗，反对改正教，就是那敬拜教皇制度的人，因此就激起龙的忿怒了。{4bSG54.4}[29]
§66
No name which we can take will be appropriate but that which accords with our profession, and expresses our faith, and marks us as a peculiar people. The name, Seventh-day Adventist, is a standing rebuke to the Protestant world. Here is the line of distinction between the worshipers of God, and those who worship the beast, and receive his mark. The great?conflict is between the commandments of God and the requirements of the beast. It is because the saints are keeping all ten of the commandments that the dragon makes war upon them; and if they will lower the standard and yield the peculiarities of their faith, the dragon will be at peace. But God’s people excite the ire of the dragon because they have dared to raise the standard, and unfurl their banner in opposition to the Protestant world, who are worshiping the institution of Papacy.?{4bSG 54.4}[29]
§67
“安息日复临信徒”的名称，把我们信仰的真情本色表现在人前，使那些求问真道的人凛然感悟。这名称也象主箭筒中的一枝利箭，要扎伤那干犯上帝律法之人的心，引他们悔改归向上帝，并信仰我们的主耶稣基督。{4bSG55.1}[30]
§68
The name, Seventh-day Adventist, carries the true features of our faith in front, and will convict the inquiring mind. Like an arrow from the Lord’s quiver, it will wound the transgressors of God’s law, and will lead to repentance toward God, and faith in our Lord Jesus Christ.?{4bSG 55.1}[30]
§69
我蒙指示看到，几乎是每个宗教热狂的人，为要遮掩自己的感情冲动及引诱别人起见，便宣称自己是属于“上帝的教会”。象这样的名称是会立刻引起人的怀疑；因为它是用来隐蔽许多最荒谬之异端的。这名称对于上帝的余民也是太笼统，可能引人疑惑本会也许有一种什么信仰是我们想要掩藏的。{4bSG55.2}[31]
§70
I was shown that almost every fanatic who has arisen, who wishes to hide his sentiments that he may lead away others, claims to belong to the church of God. Such a name would excite suspicion at once, for the most absurd errors are concealed under this name. This name is too indefinite for the remnant people of God. The influence of such a name would lead to the supposition that we had a faith we wished to cover up.?{4bSG 55.2}[31]
§71
有些在今世的财物上贫穷的人，易于把那率直的证言全部加在有财产的人身上。然而他们没有认识到，他们也有一项工作要做。上帝要他们做出一项牺牲。祂号召他们牺牲自己的偶像。他们应该放弃诸如烟草、茶、咖啡之类有害的刺激品。若是他们竭尽了自己所能的仍陷于经济拮据的状况，他们富有的弟兄们就要乐于帮助他们脱离困境。{4bSG55.3}[32]
§72
【The Poor】
§73
Some, who are poor in this world’s goods, are apt to place all the straight testimony upon the shoulders of the men of property. But they do not realize that they also have a work to do. God requires them to make a sacrifice. He requires of them to sacrifice their idols. They should lay aside such hurtful stimulants as tobacco, tea, and coffee. If they are brought into straightened circumstances while exerting themselves to do the best they can, it will be a pleasure for their wealthy brethren to help them out of trouble.?{4bSG 55.3}[32]
§74
许多人缺乏明智的管理和节约。他们不会三思而后行。这种人不应信赖自己拙劣的判断力，而应请教有经验的弟兄。然而那些缺乏节约和良好判断的人往往不愿请教人。他们通常认为自己懂得如何处理现世的事物，不愿听从忠告。他们行动失策，自食其果。弟兄们见到他们受苦便感忧伤，就帮助他们脱离困境。他们不明智的管理影响了教会，从上帝的库中取走了本应用于推进现代真理圣工的钱。这些贫穷的弟兄若是采取谦卑的做法，乐于听从弟兄们的建议和忠告，后来陷入了困境，弟兄们就该觉得有责任去高高兴兴地帮助他们脱离困境。但他们若是选择偏行己路，依赖自己的判断，就应该丢下他们去感受自己不智行为的全部结果，并藉昂贵的经验学得“谋士众多，人便得胜”（箴24:6）。上帝的子民应该彼此顺服。他们应该彼此商议，以便一个人的缺乏可以由另一个人的充足来帮补。我看到主的管家没有责任去帮助那些坚持消费烟草、茶和咖啡的人。{4bSG55.4}[33]
§75
Many lack wise management and economy. They do not weigh matters well, and move cautiously. Such should not trust to their own poor judgment, but counsel?with their brethren who have experience. Those who lack good judgment and economy are often unwilling to seek counsel. They generally think that they understand how to conduct their temporal business, and are unwilling to follow advice. They make bad moves, and suffer in consequence. Their brethren are grieved to see them suffer, and they help them out of difficulty. Their unwise management affects the church. It takes means from the treasury of God which should have been used to advance the cause of present truth. If these poor brethren would take an humble course, and be willing to be advised and counseled by their brethren, and then are brought into straightened places, their brethren should feel it their duty to cheerfully help them out of difficulty. But if they choose their own course, and rely upon their judgment, they should be left to feel the full consequences of their unwise course, and learn by dear experience that “in a multitude of counselors there is safety.” God’s people should be subject one to another. They should counsel with each other, that the lack of one be supplied by the sufficiency of the other. I saw that the stewards of the Lord have no duty to help those persons who persist in using tobacco, tea, and coffee.?{4bSG 55.4}[33]
§76
【投机活动】
§77
我看到一些人以负债为藉口，不帮助上帝的圣工。他们若严格地省察己心，原会发现没有把乐意捐献给上帝的真正原因，乃是自私。一些人会经常欠债。因为他们贪心，所以上帝那使人昌盛的手，没有赐福于他们的事业。他们爱这世界过于爱真理。他们没有受装备，也没有为上帝的国作准备。{4bSG56.1}[34]
§78
【Speculations】
§79
I saw that some have excused themselves from aiding the cause of God, because they were in debt. Had they closely examined their own hearts, they would have discovered that selfishness, was the true reason why they brought no freewill offering to God. And some will remain in debt. Because of their covetousness the prospering hand of God will not be with them to bless their undertakings. They love this world better than they love the truth. They are not being fitted up and made ready for the kingdom of God.?{4bSG 56.1}[34]
§80
一项新的专利若在国内出现，那些声称信奉真理的人，便设法在这项事业上投资。上帝熟悉每一个人的心，知道每一个自私的动机；祂容忍各样的境遇发生，以试验那些自称为祂子民之人的心，查验及培养他们的品格。有时主会任凭人继续向前，并遭遇彻底的失败。祂的手敌对他们，使他们的希望落空，又把他们所有的东西分散掉。那些真正关心上帝的圣工，并愿为它的进展而有所冒险的人，将会发现所做的乃是一项确实而安全的投资。一些人会在今生得着百倍，且在来生承受永生。但并非所有的人都在今生得着百倍，因他们承受不了。所托付的东西若稍为多一些，便会使他们成为不智的管家。主是为他们的好处而把财物扣留；但是他们在天上的财宝却是安全的。这样的投资反而更好啊！我们一些弟兄，因求财心切而参与新兴的事业，并作投资，但他们所期望赚取的金钱，却往往不能实现。他们把原可用于上帝圣工上的钱财，作为大量的投资。这些新兴事业确实具有诱惑力，使许多人虽目睹不少人投资失败，有前车之鉴，但仍迟于得着教训。撒但继续引诱他们，使之醉心于所期望的财利。他们的希望既成泡影，就因不智冒险的失败而灰心丧志。倘若金钱亏损了，那人便视之为自己的不幸──是自己的损失；但必须牢记，他所处理的钱财，并不是自己的，他只不过是一名管家而已。上帝是不会喜悦人把原可用来推广现代真理事业的金钱，作不明智的管理。在结算的大日，那不忠心的管家，必定要为他的职责交账。{4bSG56.2}[35]
§81
If a new patent passes through the country, men who profess to believe the truth have found a way to?raise means and join the enterprise. God is acquainted with every heart. Every selfish motive is known to him, and he suffers things to arise to try the hearts of his professed people, to prove them and develop character. In some instances the Lord will suffer men to go on, and meet with an entire failure. His hand is against them to disappoint their hopes and scatter what they possess. Individuals who have really felt an interest in the cause of God, and have been willing to venture something for its advancement, will find it a sure and safe investment. Some will have a hundred-fold in this life, and in the world to come life everlasting. But all will not receive their hundred-fold in this life, because they cannot bear it. They would, if entrusted with much, become unwise stewards. The Lord withholds it for their good; but their treasure in Heaven will be secure. How much better is such an investment as this! The desire that some of our brethren possess, to earn means fast, leads them to engage in a new enterprise and invest means, and their expectations of making money are not realized. They sink that which they could have spent in God’s cause. There is an infatuation in these new enterprises. And notwithstanding these things have been acted over so many times, and the example of others is before them, who have made investments and have met with an utter failure, yet they are slow to learn. Satan allures them on, and makes them drunk with anticipated hopes. When these hopes are blasted, they suffer many discouragements in consequence of their unwise adventures. If means are lost, the person looks upon it as a misfortune to himself—as his loss. But he must remember that it is the means of another that he is handling, that he is only a steward, and God is displeased with the unwise management of that means which could have been used to advance the cause of present truth. The unfaithful steward must give an account of his stewardship at the reckoning day.?{4bSG 56.2}[35]