教会证言1(1855-1868)E

第70章 传道人的危险和责任
§1 第70章 传道人的危险和责任
§2 Chap.70 - Dangers and Duty of Ministers
§3 我蒙指示,看到在一些已经开发的地区做工,会比全新的园地更有成效,除非那里有良好的开端。一些在不同城镇的真心相信真理的人,会发挥一种影响力,引人询问他们的信仰。若是他们的生活可资效法,他们的光就会照出来,产生收聚的影响。可是我蒙指示看到还未曾传过真理的地区,不久应该予以访问。但现在要完成的大工乃是教育上帝的子民去参加圣工,并发挥圣洁的感化力。他们应该起到工人的作用,用智慧、谨慎和爱心为邻舍和亲朋的得救劳苦作工。所表现的感情太疏远冷漠了。人们没有正确地持住十字架,也有照着所应该的背起它。人人都应感到自己是弟兄的看守者,对自己周围的人有极大的责任。弟兄们若把这项工作全部留给传道人,就是犯了错误。庄稼很多,而作工的人很少。凡有好名声的人,生活与自己的信仰一致的人,都可作工人。他们可以与别人交谈,向他们力陈真理的重要性。他们务必不可等着传道人而疏忽上帝已留给他们去尽的清楚明白的本分。{1T 368.2}[1]
§4 I have been shown that more can now be accomplished by laboring in places where a few have been raised up, than in entirely new fields, unless the opening is very good. A few in different towns who really believe the truth will exert an influence and excite inquiry in regard to their faith; and if their lives are exemplary, their light will shine, and they will have a gathering influence. And yet I was shown places where the truth has not been proclaimed, which should be visited soon. But the great work now to be accomplished is to bring up the people of God to engage in the work and exert a holy influence. They should act the part of laborers. With wisdom, caution, and love, they should labor for the salvation of neighbors and friends. There is too distant a feeling manifested. The cross is not laid right hold of and borne as it should be. All should feel that they are their brothers keeper, that they are in a great degree responsible for the souls of those around them. The brethren err when they leave this work all to the ministers. The harvest is great, and the laborers are few. Those who are of good repute, whose lives are in accordance with their faith, can be workmen. They can converse with others, and urge upon them the importance of the truth. They must not wait for the ministers and neglect a plain duty which God has left for them to perform.{1T 368.2}[1]
§5 我们的一些传道人不怎么想负起上帝圣工的担子,并以无私的仁爱心劳苦作工。我们神圣的主一生都以这种无私的仁爱为特征。一般来说,教会远比一些传道人先进。他们对上帝喜悦赐下的证言有信心,并且遵之而行,而有些传道人实在太落伍了。他们口称相信所作的见证,其中某些人却做了伤损证言的事,妄以证言为铁律以对付那些在这方面毫无经验的人,自己却不实行。他们完全不顾屡次所给他们的证言。这等人的行径是矛盾的。{1T 369.1}[2]
§6 Some of our ministers feel but little disposition to take upon them the burden of the work of God and labor with that disinterested benevolence which characterized the life of our divine Lord. The churches, as a general rule, are farther advanced than some of the ministers. They have had faith in the testimonies which God has been pleased to give, and have acted upon them, while some of the preachers are far behind. They profess to believe the testimony borne, and some do harm by making them an iron rule for those who have had no experience in reference to them, but they fail to carry them out themselves. They have had repeated testimonies which they have utterly disregarded. The course of such is not consistent.{1T 369.1}[2]
§7 上帝的子民一般觉得在传播真理上有一致的兴趣。他们欣然捐助慷慨支持那些劳苦传道教导人的人。我看到那些有责任分配钱财的人,其职责是注意不使教会的慷慨捐助被浪费掉。在这些慷慨的弟兄中,有些人已操劳多年,因过去为获得此世的财产而操劳过度,以致神衰体弱,现在他们既从自己已为之付出那么多代价的财产中取出一部分慷慨奉献,那些劳苦传道教导人的人就有责任表现出至少与这些弟兄们相等的热心和自我牺牲。{1T 369.2}[3]
§8 The people of God generally feel a united interest in the spread of the truth. They cheerfully contribute toward a liberal support for those who labor in word and doctrine. And I saw that it is the duty of those who have the responsibility of distributing means, to see that the liberalities of the church are not squandered. Some of these liberal brethren have been laboring for years with shattered nerves and broken-down constitutions, caused by excessive labor in the past to obtain possessions here, and now as they freely give a portion of the substance which has cost them so much, it is the duty of those who labor in word and doctrine to manifest a zeal and self-sacrifice at least equal to that shown by these brethren.{1T 369.2}[3]
§9 上帝的仆人们必须自由地出去作工。他们必须知道自己所信赖的是谁。在基督和祂的救恩里有能力,使他们成为自由的人;除非他们在祂里面是自由的,他们就不能造就祂的教会并收聚生灵。上帝会派遣一个人去救人脱离撒但的网罗,而他自己的脚被网罗缠着吗?上帝的仆人务必不可动摇。他们的脚步若滑跌,又怎能对那些心中害怕的人说:“要刚强”呢?上帝希望祂的仆人扶持软弱的手,坚固摇摆的人。凡没有准备好去做这事的人,最好先为自己作工并祈求,直到获得从上面来的能力。{1T 369.3}[4]
§10 Gods servants must go out free. They must know in whom they trust. There is power in Christ and His salvation to make them free men; and unless they are free in Him, they cannot build up His church and gather in souls. Will God send out a man to rescue souls from the snare of Satan when his own feet are entangled in the net? Gods servants must not be wavering. If their feet are sliding, how can they say to those of a fearful heart: Be strong? God would have His servants hold up the feeble hands, and strengthen the wavering. Those who are not prepared to do this would better first labor for themselves and pray until they are endowed with power from on high.{1T 369.3}[4]
§11 有些作上帝仆人的人缺乏舍己的精神,上帝对此不悦。他们身上没有圣工的负担。他们似乎处在死一般的昏迷中。上帝的天使对于这种缺乏舍己和毅力感到惊奇和羞耻。当我们救恩的创始者为我们操劳和受苦时,祂舍了自己。祂整个的一生乃是持续的辛劳与缺乏。祂本可在地上安逸富足地度过一生,使自己适合于今生的快乐;但祂不考虑自己的便利。祂活着是向别人行善。祂受苦为要救别人脱离苦难。祂忍耐到底并且完成了所交给祂去完成的工作。这一切都是要救我们脱离灭亡。而今,我们既如此不配地享有这么大的爱,岂可在今生寻求比曾赐给我们主的地位更好的地位吗?我们生活的每一刻都在享受祂大爱的祝福,正是因此,我们无法充分认识到我们已蒙救脱离的无知与悲惨的深度。我们岂可仰望被我们的罪所刺透的主而不愿与祂一起喝羞辱与悲伤的苦杯吗?我们岂可仰望被钉的基督而不愿经过许多艰难进入祂的国吗?{1T 370.1}[5]
§12 God is displeased with the lack of self-denial in some of His servants. They have not the burden of the work upon them. They seem to be in a deathlike stupor. Angels of God stand amazed and ashamed of this lack of self-denial and perseverance. While the Author of our salvation was laboring and suffering for us, He denied Himself, and His whole life was one continued scene of toil and privation. He could have passed His days on earth in ease and plenty, and appropriated to Himself the pleasures of this life; but He considered not His own convenience. He lived to do others good. He suffered to save others from suffering. He endured to the end and finished the work which was given Him to do. All this was to save us from ruin. And now, can it be that we, the unworthy objects of so great love, will seek a better position in this life than was given to our Lord? Every moment of our lives we have been partakers of the blessings of His great love, and for this very reason we cannot fully realize the depths of ignorance and misery from which we have been saved. Can we look upon Him whom our sins have pierced and not be willing to drink with Him the bitter cup of humiliation and sorrow? Can we look upon Christ crucified and wish to enter His kingdom in any other way than through much tribulation?{1T 370.1}[5]
§13 传道人并没有照着上帝所要求他们的全部献给上帝的工作。有些人感到传道人的命分是艰苦的,因为他们不得不与家人分离。他们忘了这工作曾比现在更难做。从前圣工只有很少的赞助者。他们忘了上帝曾在过去使之肩负重担的那些人。那时做大量工作却只有很少的人接受真理。上帝所拣选的仆人们为清楚地理解真理而哭泣祈求,忍受穷困缺乏并且多多舍己,为要将真理传给别人。他们一步一步地跟随了上帝敞开的天意所带领的道路。他们并没有考虑自己的便利或在艰难困苦面前退缩。上帝藉着这些人预备了道路,使每一个诚实的人可以清楚地明白真理。万事俱备,交在了后来信奉真理的传道人手里,可是他们中的有些人却没能负起圣工的担子。他们追求安逸的命分,不怎么舍己的职位。这世界并非基督徒的安息之所,更不要说是上帝所拣选之传道人的安息之所了。他们忘了基督曾离开祂富有而荣耀的天国,来到地上受死,也忘了祂吩咐我们要彼此相爱象祂爱了我们一样。他们忘了世界不配有的那些人曾披着绵羊和山羊的皮各处奔跑,受患难和苦害。{1T 370.2}[6]
§14 The preachers are not all given up to the work of God, as He requires them to be. Some have felt that the lot of a preacher was hard because they had to be separated from their families. They forget that once it was harder laboring than it is now. Once there were but few friends of the cause. They forget those upon whom God laid the burden of the work in the past. There were but a few then who received the truth as the result of much labor. Gods chosen servants wept and prayed for a clear understanding of truth, and suffered privation and much self-denial in order to carry it to others. Step by step they followed as Gods opening providence led the way. They did not study their own convenience or shrink at hardships. Through these men God prepared the way and made the truth plain to the understanding of every honest mind. Everything has been made ready to the hands of ministers who have since embraced the truth, yet some of them have failed to take upon them the burden of the work. They seek for an easier lot, a less self-denying position. This earth is not the resting place of Christians, much less for the chosen ministers of God. They forget that Christ left His riches and glory in heaven, and came to earth to die, and that He has commanded us to love one another even as He has loved us. They forget those of whom the world was not worthy, who wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins, and were afflicted and tormented.{1T 370.2}[6]
§15 我蒙指示看到瓦典西人,以及他们为信仰所受的苦害。他们本着良心研究上帝的道,并且实践照在他们身上的亮光。他们受逼迫,被赶离自己的家园;他们靠艰苦的劳动获得的财产被夺走,房屋被烧毁。他们逃到山中,在那里忍受了难以置信的艰难困苦。他们经受了饥饿,疲劳,寒冷和赤身。他们中的许多人所能得到的唯一的衣裳就是动物的皮。可是这些被分散而无家可归的人却愿意聚在一起同声歌唱,赞美上帝,因为他们被算为配为基督的名受苦。他们彼此鼓励互相振奋,甚至为他们可怜的退隐之处感恩。他们的儿女多因寒冷和饥饿而患病去世,可是父母们连一刻也没有想要放弃自己的信仰。他们重视上帝的恩爱远过于地上的安逸和世间的财富。他们从上帝得了安慰并且愉快地期待将得的奖赏。{1T 371.1}[7]
§16 I was shown the Waldenses, and what they suffered for their religion. They conscientiously studied the word of God, and lived up to the light which shone upon them. They were persecuted, and driven from their homes; their possessions, gained by hard labor, were taken from them, and their houses burned. They fled to the mountains and there suffered incredible hardships. They endured hunger, fatigue, cold, and nakedness. The only clothing which many of them could obtain was the skins of animals. And yet the scattered and homeless ones would assemble to unite their voices in singing, and praising God that they were accounted worthy to suffer for Christs name. They encouraged and cheered one another, and were grateful for even their miserable retreat. Many of their children sickened and died from cold and hunger, yet the parents did not for a moment think of yielding their religion. They prized the love and favor of God far above earthly ease or worldly riches. They received consolation from God and with pleasing anticipations looked forward to the recompense of reward.{1T 371.1}[7]
§17 我又蒙指示看见了马丁路德,上帝曾兴起他去做一项特别的工作。在上帝的道中所启示的真理的知识对他来说是多么宝贵啊!他的心渴求某种确实的东西,好使他的盼望有根基,他盼望上帝愿意作他的父,天国是他的家。从上帝的圣言照在他身上的又新又宝贵的亮光具有无限的价值,他以为自己若带着这些亮光出去,就能使世界信服。他起来面对一个堕落教会的忿怒,并且坚固那些与他在一起的人,享受上帝圣言中的丰富真理。路德乃是上帝所拣选的器皿,要扯掉罗马教伪善的外衣,揭露她的腐败。他热切地扬声,并且以圣灵的能力大声反对并斥责民中领袖们现存的罪恶。有公告发出,无论在哪里发现他,都格杀勿论;他似乎被弃了,听任顺从罗马教首脑的迷信民众随意摆布。但他却不以自己的性命为宝贵。路德知道自己在哪里都是不安全的,但他并不战兢。他所看见并享用的亮光对他来说就是生命,远比世上的一切财宝有价值。他知道地上的财宝会朽坏;但已向他的悟性敞开的丰富真理却会长存,而且,若予顺从,就会把他带入不朽的永生。{1T 372.1}[8]
§18 Again, I was shown Martin Luther, whom God raised up to do a special work. How precious to him was the knowledge of truth revealed in the word of God! His mind was starving for something sure upon which to build his hope that God would be his Father, and heaven his home. The new and precious light which dawned upon him from the word of God was of priceless value, and he thought that if he went forth with it, he could convince the world. He stood up against the ire of a fallen church and strengthened those who with him were feasting upon the rich truths contained in the word of God. Luther was Gods chosen instrument to tear off the garb of hypocrisy from the papal church and expose her corruption. He raised his voice zealously and in the power of the Holy Spirit cried out against and rebuked the existing sins of the leaders of the people. Proclamations went forth to kill him wherever he might be found; he seemed left to the mercies of a superstitious people who were obedient to the head of the Roman Church. Yet he counted not his life dear unto himself. Luther knew that he was not safe anywhere, yet he trembled not. The light which he saw and feasted upon was life to him, and was of more value than all the treasures of earth. Earthly treasures he knew would fail; but the rich truths opened to his understanding, operating upon his heart, would live, and, if obeyed, would lead him to immortality.{1T 372.1}[8]
§19 当路德被传唤到奥格斯堡去为自己的信仰答辩时,他接受了。那位曾单枪匹马激怒了神甫和民众的人遭到了传讯,站在那些曾使世界战栗的人面前——就象一只温柔的羔羊被怒狮包围了;然而为了基督和真理的缘故,他大无畏地站了起来,并用唯有真理才能启示的神圣雄辩说出了自己信仰的缘由。他的敌人千方百计想要止息他大胆提倡真理的声音。他们先是奉承他,并且许诺说他应该受高举被尊荣。但若以牺牲真理为代价,生命和尊荣对他来说都是不足道的。上帝的道在他的悟性上照耀得更加清楚明亮,使他更生动地意识到了教皇权的错误、败坏和伪善。于是他的敌人谋求胁迫他,使他放弃自己的信仰,但他大胆的为真理辩护。若是上帝需要,他预备为信仰而死;但绝不放弃信仰。上帝保存了他的性命。祂吩咐天使照顾他,并且阻止了他敌人的狂怒和企图,使他经历了激烈的冲突而毫发无损。{1T 372.2}[9]
§20 When summoned to Augsburg to answer for his faith, he obeyed the summons. That one lone man who had stirred the rage of priests and people was arraigned before those who had caused the world to tremble--a meek lamb surrounded by angry lions; yet for the sake of Christ and the truth he stood up undaunted, and with holy eloquence, which the truth alone can inspire, he gave the reasons of his faith. His enemies tried by various means to silence the bold advocate for truth. At first they flattered him, and held out the promise that he should be exalted and honored. But life and honors were valueless to him if purchased at the sacrifice of the truth. Brighter and clearer shone the word of God upon his understanding, giving him a more vivid sense of the errors, corruptions, and hypocrisy of the papacy. His enemies then sought to intimidate him and cause him to renounce his faith, but he boldly stood in defense of the truth. He was ready to die for his faith, if God required; but to yield it--never. God preserved his life. He bade angels attend him and baffle the rage and purposes of his enemies, and bring him unharmed through the stormy conflict.{1T 372.2}[9]
§21 路德镇静有威严的能力贬抑了他的敌人,给了教皇权极可怕的打击。当权的大人物和骄傲的人想要流他的血,补偿他给他们的事业造成的伤害。他们制定了计划,但比他们更强大的一位掌管着路德。他的工作还没有完成。路德的朋友们催他赶紧离开奥格斯堡。他连夜离开了那城,骑上了一匹没有缰绳的马,自己毫无武装,也没有穿靴子或马刺。他极其疲乏地赶路,直到来到朋友们中间。{1T 373.1}[10]
§22 The calm, dignified power of Luther humbled his enemies, and dealt a most dreadful blow to the papacy. The great and proud men in power meant that his blood should atone for the mischief he had done their cause. Their plans were laid, but a mightier than they had charge of Luther. His work was not finished. The friends of Luther hastened his departure from Augsburg. He left the city by night, mounted upon a horse without bridle, himself unarmed and without boots or spurs. In great weariness he pursued his journey until he was among his friends.{1T 373.1}[10]
§23 罗马教的愤怒又被激起了。他们下定决心要使这位无畏提倡真理者住口。他们传唤他去俄姆斯,十分坚决地要他为自己的愚行负责。他那时健康很差,但他没有为自己找藉口。他很清楚前面的种种危险。他知道自己的强敌会不择手段地压制他。他们吵着要流他的血,就象犹太人叫嚣着要流基督的血一样着急。但他信赖那曾在燃烧着烈焰的火炉里保守了那三个杰出青年的上帝。他的忧愁和挂虑都不是为自己。他不求自己的安逸;但他为真理大大焦急,对他来说如此宝贵的真理不应受不敬虔之人的侮辱。他宁愿死也不愿让真理的敌人夸胜。当他进入俄姆斯时,成千上万的人挤在周围跟随他。皇帝和其他当权的人也没有受到过更多的人陪伴。当时的情绪极为高涨,群众中有人用尖锐而悲哀地声音唱出一曲送葬的挽歌,警告路德等候着他的命运。但那位改革家已计算了代价,若是上帝如此命定,就准备用自己的血印证自己的见证。{1T 373.2}[11]
§24 Again the indignation of the papacy was aroused, and they resolved to stop the mouth of that fearless advocate of truth. They summoned him to Worms, fully determined to make him answer for his folly. He was in feeble health, yet he did not excuse himself. He well knew the dangers that were before him. He knew that his powerful enemies would take any measures to silence him. They were crying for his blood as eagerly as the Jews clamored for the blood of Christ. Yet he trusted in that God who preserved the three worthies in the burning fiery furnace. His anxiety and care were not for himself. He sought not his own ease; but his great anxiety was that the truth, to him so precious, should not be exposed to the insults of the ungodly. He was ready to die rather than allow its enemies to triumph. As he entered Worms, thousands of persons pressed around and followed him. Emperors and others in high authority were attended with no greater company. The excitement was intense; and one in that throng, with a shrill and plaintive voice, chanted a funeral dirge to warn Luther of what awaited him. But the Reformer had counted the cost and was ready to seal his testimony with his blood if God so ordained.{1T 373.2}[11]
§25 路德即将出现在一个极其庄严的会议面前,他凭着信心指望从上帝得力量。他的勇敢和信心一度受了试验。各种各样的危险呈现在他面前。他变得忧愁起来了。重重乌云笼罩在他周围,使他见不到上帝的面。他渴望有上帝与他同在的确信保证与他同去。他不能感到满意,除非被包围在上帝的同在里。他用伤心的呼求使自己痛苦的祈祷升达天庭。他的灵有时似乎要发昏了,因为在他的想象中,他的敌人在他面前增多了。他因自己的危险而战兢了。我看到上帝本其智慧的天意安排以这种方式预备他,使他不至忘了自己所信赖的是谁,也使他不至冒昧地冲进危险中。作为上帝特有的器皿,上帝正在使他适于做那摆在他面前的大工。{1T 374.1}[12]
§26 Luther was about to appear to answer for his faith before a most imposing assembly, and he looked to God in faith for strength. For a little time his courage and faith were tested. Perils in every form were presented before him. He became sad. Clouds gathered around him and hid from him the face of God. He longed to go forth with a confident assurance that God was with him. He could not be satisfied unless he was shut in with God. With broken cries he sent up his agonizing prayer to Heaven. His spirit at times seemed to faint, as his enemies, in his imagination, multiplied before him. He trembled at his danger. I saw that God in His wise providence prepared him in this way that he might not forget in whom to trust, and that he should not rush on presumptuously into danger. As His own instrument, God was fitting him for the great work before him.{1T 374.1}[12]
§27 路德的祈祷蒙了垂听。当他面对自己的敌人时,他的勇气和信心又回来了。他站在那里,温柔如羔羊,在他周围是世上的大人物们,他们象愤怒的狼一样,紧盯着他,希望他对他们的权势和伟大心生敬畏。但他已持住了上帝的力量,并不惧怕。他所说的话带有的威严和能力使他的敌人不能做什么反对他的事。上帝在藉着路德说话,祂把皇帝和自称聪明的人带到一起,以便公然使他们的智慧无效,使他们看到当一个软弱的人依靠自己永远的磐石上帝时,会有的力量和坚定。{1T 374.2}[13]
§28 Luthers prayer was heard. His courage and faith returned as he met his enemies. Meek as a lamb he stood, surrounded by the great men of the earth, who, like angry wolves, fastened their eyes upon him, hoping to awe him with their power and greatness. But he had taken hold of the strength of God and feared not. His words were spoken with such majesty and power that his enemies could do nothing against him. God was speaking through Luther, and He had brought together emperors and professed wise men that He might publicly bring to nought their wisdom, and that they all might see the strength and firmness of feeble man when leaning upon God, his eternal Rock. {1T 374.2}[13]
§29 路德沉稳镇静的风度与那些所谓伟人表现的激动和恼怒形成了鲜明的对比。他们不能威吓他放弃真理。在高贵的简朴和沉着的坚定中,他稳如磐石地站立着。他敌人们的反对,他们的暴怒和威胁,象强大的波浪一样冲击着他,并在他脚下破碎,对他毫发无损。他始终毫不动摇。他们感到懊恼,因为他们的权势曾使君王与贵族颤抖不已,而现在竟被一个卑微的人如此藐视,他们巴不得能用苦刑把他折磨至死,使他尝受他们的忿怒。但比地上的当权者更强大的一位在掌管着这位无畏的见证者。上帝有一项工作要他去做。他必须仍为真理受苦。他必须见到真理费力地通过血腥的逼迫。他必须见到真理披着麻布并且被狂热者的责骂所覆盖。地上的强权谋求诋毁真理时,他必须活着证明真理是正当的,并做它的捍卫者。他必须活着看到真理得胜,扯掉教皇权的种种错误与迷信。路德在俄姆斯获得了胜利,削弱了教皇权,这消息传到了其它各国。这是有效的一击,有利于宗教改革。{1T 375.1}[14]
§30 The calm bearing of Luther was in striking contrast to the passion and rage exhibited by those so-called great men. They could not frighten him into a recantation of the truth. In noble simplicity and calm firmness he stood like a rock. The opposition of his enemies, their rage and threats, like a mighty wave, surged against him and broke harmless at his feet. He remained unmoved. They were chagrined that their power, which had caused kings and nobles to tremble, should be thus despised by a humble man, and they longed to make him feel their wrath by torturing his life away. But One who is mightier than the potentates of earth had charge of this fearless witness. God had a work for him to do. He must yet suffer for the truth. He must see it wade through bloody persecutions. He must see it clothed in sackcloth and covered with reproach by fanatics. He must live to justify it and to be its defender when the mighty powers of earth should seek to tear it down. He must live to see it triumph and tear away the errors and superstitions of the papacy. Luther gained a victory at Worms which weakened the papacy, the news of which spread to other kingdoms and nations. It was an effectual blow in favor of the Reformation.{1T 375.1}[14]
§31 我蒙指示看到正在传讲现代真理的传道人与宗教改革的领袖们形成的对比;尤其是路德献身热心的生活被放在我们有些传道人的生活旁边。他藉着自己的勇敢,自己的沉着稳定和舍己,证明了自己对真理不死的爱。他遭遇了考验和牺牲,有时心灵经受了最深的痛苦,但他仍然屹立捍卫真理;不发怨言。他虽象一只野兽一样被人追捕,却为基督的缘故欢欢喜喜地忍受了这一切。{1T 375.2}[15]
§32 Ministers who are preaching present truth were held up to me in contrast with the leading men of the Reformation; especially was Luthers devoted, zealous life placed beside the lives of some of our preachers. He proved his undying love for the truth by his courage, his calm firmness, his self-denial. He encountered trials and sacrifices, and at times suffered the deepest anguish of soul, while standing in defense of the truth; yet he murmured not. He was hunted like a wild beast of prey, yet for Christs sake he endured all cheerfully.{1T 375.2}[15]
§33 最后怜悯的信息被委托给了上帝现时代谦卑忠心的仆人们。上帝一路带领着那些不愿回避责任的人,并把担子放在他们肩上,藉着他们把定期捐款计划呈现在祂的子民面前,人人都可参加这个计划并且和谐同工。这个方法已经付诸实施而且成效极妙。它慷慨地支持了传道人和圣工。传道人一停止反对并且让出道路,人们就衷心地响应了号召,并且重视了这个方法。它使每件事都变得方便容易,传道人可以自由作工不受窘迫。我们的人所持有的甘心和关心是任何别的阶层所没有的。上帝不喜悦现今发怨言且没能将自己的全部精力都投入到这一头等重要之工作中的传道人。他们是无可推诿的;但他们中有些人受了欺骗,以为自己在多多牺牲,经历艰难,其实他们不不知道什么叫受苦,舍己或缺乏。他们可能常感疲倦;他们若依赖体力劳动维生就必如此。{1T 375.3}[16]
§34 The last merciful message is entrusted to Gods humble, faithful servants of this time. God has led along those who would not shun responsibility, and has laid burdens upon them, and has through them presented to His people a plan of systematic benevolence in which all can engage and work in harmony. This system has been carried out and has worked like magic. It liberally sustains the preachers and the cause. As soon as the preachers ceased their opposition and stood out of the way, the people heartily responded to the call and prized the system. Everything is made convenient and easy for the preachers that they may work, free from embarrassment. Our people have taken hold with a will and an interest which is not to be found among any other class. And God is displeased with preachers who now complain and fail to throw their whole energies into this all-important work. They are without excuse; yet some are deceived and think that they are sacrificing much, and are having a hard time, when they really know nothing about suffering, self-denial, or want. They may often be weary; so would they be if they were dependent on manual labor for a support.{1T 375.3}[16]
§35 有些人以为用自己的双手劳动会更宽裕些,并且常常表示愿意这么做。这样的人不知道自己在说什么。他们是在自欺。有些人有很重的家庭要供养,而他们缺乏管理。他们没有认识到自己因家庭和自己所拥有的一切是欠着上帝圣工的债的。他们还没有认识到生活的代价如何。要是他们从事体力劳动,他们就不会脱离忧虑与疲倦。他们不能在劳苦作工供养自己家庭的同时在自己的炉边坐下来。有一个家庭依赖他供养的劳苦作工的人,只有疲倦的几个小时可以在家与家人一起度过。一些传道人不喜爱勤奋工作,他们已怀有了很不合理的不满情绪。上帝记下了每一抱怨的思想言语和感情。天国因这种软弱而缺乏献身上帝圣工的表现而受了侮辱。{1T 376.1}[17]
§36 Some have thought it would be easier to labor with their hands and have often expressed their choice to do so. Such do not know what they are talking about. They are deceiving themselves. Some have very expensive families to provide for, and they lack management. They do not realize that they are indebted to the cause of God for their homes and all that they have. They have not realized how much it costs to live. Should they engage in manual labor, they would not be free from anxiety and weariness. They could not, while laboring to support their families, be sitting down at their own firesides. It is only a few weary hours that a laboring man with a family dependent upon him for support can spend with his family at home. Some ministers do not love industrious labor, and they have cherished a feeling of dissatisfaction which is very unreasonable. God has marked every murmuring thought and word and feeling. Heaven is insulted by such an exhibition of weakness and lack of devotion to the cause of God.{1T 376.1}[17]
§37 有些人愿意倾听那试探者的声音,谈论他们的不信,伤害了圣工。撒但对他们拥有权利,因为他们没有摆脱他的网罗。他们行事就象全然不知那试探者的诡计的孩子一样。他们已有足够的经验,本应明白他的作为。他向他们的心暗示怀疑,他们不仅不立即予以抵制,反而与那大骗子理论谈判,听从他的推理,好像被那古蛇迷住了一样。少数几处没有得到充分解释以满足他们心意的经文,就足以动摇真理的整个体系,蒙蔽圣经最清楚的事实。他们犯了错误,没有获得全部圣经的完美智慧和知识。有些经文是人暂时所无法理解的,直到上帝所选择的时间,才本着祂自己的智慧向人解开。撒但一直在带领一些人走上最终背信不忠的道路。他们容让自己的不信蒙蔽真理和谐荣耀的链条,行事好像他们的本职就是要解决每一难解的圣经经文,并认为我们的信仰若是不能使他们做到这一点,就是有缺点的。{1T 377.1}[18]
§38 Some have given a willing ear to the tempter and have talked out their unbelief and wounded the cause. Satan has claims upon them, for they have not recovered themselves from his snare. They have conducted themselves like children who were wholly unacquainted with the wiles of the tempter. They have had sufficient experience and should have understood his workings. He has suggested doubts to their minds, and, instead of repelling them at once, they have reasoned and parleyed with the archdeceiver, and listened to his reasonings, as though charmed by the old serpent. A few texts which were not perfectly explainable to the satisfaction of their own minds have been sufficient to shake the whole structure of truth and to obscure the plainest facts of the word of God. These men are erring mortals. They have not perfect wisdom and knowledge in all the Scriptures. Some passages are placed beyond the reach of human minds until such a time as God chooses, in His own wisdom, to open them. Satan has been leading some on a trail which ends in certain infidelity. They have suffered their unbelief to becloud the harmonious, glorious chain of truth, and have acted as though it was their business to solve every difficult passage of Scripture, and if our faith did not enable them to do this, it was faulty.{1T 377.1}[18]
§39 我看到那些怀有不信恶心的人会怀疑,并认为怀疑圣经是了不起的,是一种美德。那些以诡辩为美德的人有充分的借口不相信圣经的真理和灵感的启示。上帝并不勉强任何人相信。他们可以选择信赖祂所乐于赐下的证据,也可选择怀疑,挑剔和灭亡。{1T 377.2}[19]
§40 I saw that those who have an evil heart of unbelief will doubt and will think it noble and a virtue to doubt the word of God. Those who think it a virtue to quibble can have plenty of room to disbelieve the inspiration and truth of Gods word. God does not compel any to believe. They can choose to rely upon the evidences He has been pleased to give, or doubt, and cavil, and perish.{1T 377.2}[19]
§41 我蒙指示,那些怀疑不信的人不该出去为别人作工。因为心里所充满的,口里必说出来,他们意识不到表达出来的暗示和最小的疑惑所起的作用。撒但会使之成为一支利箭。它就象慢性毒药一样,在受害者意识到危险之前,就侵袭了他的全身,破坏了良好的体质,最终造成死亡。怀疑不信圣经事实的毒害也是如此。一个有影响力的人向别人讲述撒但向他所暗示的,说一处圣经与另一处有抵触。他就这样以非常巧妙的方式,暗示自己已发现了向信徒和历代圣徒所隐藏的某个奇妙奥秘,从而在别人心里投下了午夜的黑暗。他们丧失了对真理曾有的兴趣,变成不信的人。这一切都是几句话所起的作用。这些话带有力量,因为似乎涉及奥秘。{1T 377.3}[20]
§42 I was shown that those who are troubled with doubts and infidelity should not go out to labor for others. That which is in the mind must flow out, and they realize not the effect of a hint or the smallest doubt expressed. Satan makes it a barbed arrow. It acts like a slow poison, which, before the victim is made sensible of his danger, affects the whole system, undermines a good constitution, and finally causes death. It is just so with the poison of doubt and unbelief of Scripture facts. One who has influence suggests to others that which Satan has suggested to him, that one scripture contradicts another; and thus, in a very wise manner, as though he had found out some wonderful mystery which had been hid from believers and the holy in every age of the world, he casts midnight darkness into other minds. They lose the relish they once had for the truth and become infidels. All this is the work of a few words spoken, which had a hidden power because they seemed involved in mystery.{1T 377.3}[20]
§43 这是狡猾魔鬼的工作。那些心怀疑惑和不能解决之难题的人,不应该使其他软弱的心智陷于同样的困惑中。有些人暗示或谈论自己的不信并且将之传递出去,很少想到所产生的影响。在有些情况下,所撒下不信的种子立即有了效果。而在有些情况下,这些种子却埋藏了很长的时间,直到那人采取了错误的做法,给仇敌留了地步,上帝的亮光从他收回,他就落在了撒但强大的试探之下。于是久已撒下的不信种子就发芽生长了。撒但使它们茁壮成长,它们就结出了果子。那些应该站在光中的传道人所做的任何事情都有一种强大的影响。他们若没有站在上帝的明光中,撒但就利用他们作为媒介,向人心发射火箭。这些人还没有预备好抵抗来自他们传道人的火箭。{1T 378.1}[21]
§44 This is the work of a cunning devil. Those who are troubled with doubts, and have difficulties which they cannot solve, should not throw other weak minds into the same perplexity. Some have hinted or talked their unbelief and have passed on, little dreaming of the effect produced. In some instances the seeds of unbelief have taken immediate effect, while in others they have lain buried quite a length of time, until the individual has taken a wrong course and given place to the enemy, and the light of God has been withdrawn from him, and he has fallen under the powerful temptations of Satan. Then the seeds of infidelity which were sown so long ago spring up. Satan nourishes them, and they bear fruit. Anything coming from ministers who should stand in the light has a powerful influence. And when they have not stood in the clear light of God, Satan has used them as agents and has through them transmitted his fiery darts to minds not prepared to resist what has come from their ministers.{1T 378.1}[21]
§45 我看到传道人和平信徒面前有一场战争,就是要抵抗撒但。自称为基督传道人的人,藉着听从那试探者的耳语,让他迷惑他们的心,引导他们的思想,为他的目的服务,就处在可怕的境地。在上帝看来,传道人最严重的罪就是谈论自己的不信,并把别人的心引入同样黑暗的渠道,让撒但实现其试探他的双重目的。他先使以行动鼓励他试探的人心中不安,再引导那人使许多人心中不安。{1T 378.2}[22]
§46 I saw that ministers, as well as people, have a warfare before them to resist Satan. The professed minister of Christ is in a fearful position when serving the purposes of the tempter, by listening to his whisperings, and letting him captivate the mind and guide the thoughts. The ministers most grievous sin in the sight of God is talking out his unbelief and drawing other minds into the same dark channel, thus suffering Satan to carry out a twofold purpose in tempting him. He unsettles the mind of the one whose course has encouraged his temptations and then leads that one to unsettle the minds of many.{1T 378.2}[22]
§47 现在锡安城墙上的守望者要明白自己的责任和使命的神圣性。他们应该感到,自己若不做上帝交给他们的工作,就会有祸患临身。他们若变得不忠心,就在危及上帝羊群的安全,危及真理的圣工,使之易受我们仇敌的嘲笑。这是何等重要的工作啊!它必会得到奖赏。有些传道人和平信徒都需要悔改。他们需要被打碎重造。他们在各教会间的工作还不如不做。在他们目前软弱动摇的状况中,他们若停止帮助别人的努力,而是亲手作工直到悔改,倒会更蒙上帝喜悦。然后他们就能坚固自己的弟兄了。{1T 379.1}[23]
§48 It is time that the watchmen upon the walls of Zion understood the responsibility and sacredness of their mission. They should feel that a woe is upon them if they do not perform the work which God has committed to them. If they become unfaithful, they are endangering the safety of the flock of God, endangering the cause of truth, and exposing it to the ridicule of our enemies. Oh, what a work is this! It will surely meet its reward. Some ministers, as well as people, need converting. They need to be torn to pieces and made over new. Their work among the churches is worse than lost, and in their present weak, tottering condition, it would be more pleasing to God for them to cease their efforts to help others, and labor with their hands until they are converted. Then they could strengthen their brethren.{1T 379.1}[23]
§49 传道人必须醒起。他们自称是大君军队中的将领,同时却同情那反叛的魁首和他的军对。有些人已使上帝的圣工和圣经的神圣真理受到叛军的羞辱。他们解除了自己的部分武装,撒但就射出了他的毒箭。他们加强了叛军领袖们的手,削弱了自己的手,使撒但和他邪恶的党羽扬头夸胜,并因他们让他得到的胜利而欢喜雀跃。唉,这是何等的缺乏智慧啊!何等的盲目啊!多么愚蠢的将军啊,竟将他们最软弱的地方暴露给他们最致命的仇敌!路德所采取的做法多么不同啊!若有必要,他乐于牺牲自己的性命,也决不牺牲真理。他的话乃是:“我们只要小心不让福音遭受不敬虔之人的侮辱,但愿我们流血捍卫它,而不是让他们夸胜。谁能说究竟是我的生还是我的死会最有助于我的弟兄们得救呢?” {1T 379.2}[24]
§50 Ministers must arouse. They profess to be generals in the army of the great King, and at the same time are sympathizers with the great rebel leader and his host. Some have exposed the cause of God, and the sacred truths of His word, to the reproaches of the rebel host. They have removed a portion of their armor, and Satan has hurled in his poisoned arrows. They have strengthened the hands of the rebel leaders, and weakened themselves, and caused Satan and his hellish clan to rear their heads in triumph, and exult on account of the victory they have let him gain. Oh, what a lack of wisdom! What blindness! What foolish generalship, to open their weakest points to their deadliest foes! How unlike the course pursued by Luther! He was willing to sacrifice his life, if need be, but the truth, never. His words are: Let us only take care that the gospel be not exposed to the insults of the ungodly, and let us shed our blood in its defense, rather than allow them to triumph. Who will say whether my life or my death would contribute most to the salvation of my brethren?{1T 379.2}[24]
§51 上帝并不依赖任何一个人推进祂的圣工。祂正在兴起人并赋予人资格把信息传给世人。祂能使自己的能力在软弱的人身上显得完全。能力是出于上帝的。口才,辩才和其他天才,都不会使一个人悔改。讲台上的工作可能会激动人心,清楚明白的论据可能会令人信服,但只有上帝才能使之生长。敬虔,忠心,圣洁的人,在自己每日的生活中实行自己所传讲的,他们会发挥救人的感化力。讲台上所做有力的讲道可能会影响人心;但传道人在讲台外的一点不谨慎,在言谈和真敬虔上有失庄严,就会抵消他的影响,消除他所留下的好印象。悔改的人就会成为他的人;在许多情况下,他们不会升到比他们的传道人更高的标准。他们心中不会有彻底的工作。他们没有悔改归向上帝。所做的工作是表面的。他们的影响会给那些真心寻求主的人造成伤害。{1T 380.1}[25]
§52 God is not dependent upon any man for the advancement of His cause. He is raising up and qualifying men to bear the message to the world. He can make His strength perfect in the weakness of men. The power is of God. Ready speech, eloquence, great talents, will not convert a single soul. The efforts in the pulpit may stir up minds, the plain arguments may be convincing, but God giveth the increase. Godly men, faithful, holy men, who carry out in their everyday life that which they preach, will exert a saving influence. A powerful discourse delivered from the desk may affect minds; but a little imprudence upon the part of the minister out of the pulpit, a lack of gravity of speech and true godliness, will counteract his influence, and do away the good impressions made by him. The converts will be his; in many instances they will seek to rise no higher than their preacher. There will be in them no thorough heart work. They are not converted to God. The work is superficial, and their influence will be an injury to those who are really seeking the Lord.{1T 380.1}[25]
§53 传道人的成功在很大的程度上有赖于他讲台以外的行为。当他停止讲道离开讲台时,他的工作并没有结束,而只是开始。他必须实行自己所讲的。他不该行事不慎,而要自守,免得自己做出说出什么使仇敌占便宜的事,给基督的圣工带来羞辱。传道人怎样谨慎都不为过,尤其是在年轻人面前。他们不可有轻浮的言谈,插科打诨,戏谑玩笑,而应记得自己是代表基督的,必须示范基督的生活。“因为我们是与上帝同工的。”“我们与上帝同工的,也劝你们不可徒受祂的恩典”(林前3:9;林后6:1)。{1T 380.2}[26]
§54 The success of a minister depends much upon his deportment out of the desk. When he ceases preaching and leaves the desk, his work is not finished; it is only commenced. He must then carry out what he has preached. He should not move heedlessly, but set a watch over himself, lest something that he may do and say be taken advantage of by the enemy, and a reproach be brought upon the cause of Christ. Ministers cannot be too guarded, especially before the young. They should use no lightness of speech, jesting or joking, but should remember that they are in Christs stead, that they must illustrate by example the life of Christ. For we are laborers together with God. We then, as workers together with Him, beseech you also that ye receive not the grace of God in vain.{1T 380.2}[26]
§55 我蒙指示看到青年传道人,无论是已婚的还是未婚的,其效用往往被年轻女子对他们所表示的亲热所破坏。这等女子没有意识到别人的眼睛正在看着她们。她们的做法会大大损害她们如此关注之传道人的影响。她们若严守得体的准则,对她们来说就会好得多,对她们的传道人来说也会好得多。她们的亲热使传道人处于尴尬的位置,令别人以错误的眼光看他们。然而我看到这事传道人自己也有责任。他们应该对此表示嫌恶。他们若是采取上帝原要他们采取的做法,就不会久受烦扰。他们应该躲避一切不良的表现。当青年的女子表示亲热时,他们的责任就是让她们知道,那是不恰当的。他们必须严拒这种倾心,即使会被认为粗鲁无礼。应该责备这样的事,免得圣工受羞辱。已经悔改归向真理和上帝的青年女子会听从责备,也会改过自新。{1T 381.1}[27]
§56 I was shown that the usefulness of young ministers, married or unmarried, is often destroyed by the attachment shown to them by young women. Such do not realize that other eyes are upon them, and that the course pursued by them may have a tendency to very much injure the influence of the minister to whom they give so much attention. If they would strictly regard the rules of propriety, it would be much better for them and much better for their minister. It places him in a disagreeable position and causes others to look upon him in a wrong light. Yet I saw that the burden of the matter rests upon the ministers themselves. They should show a distaste for these things, and if they take the course which God would have them, they will not be troubled long. They should shun every appearance of evil, and when young women are very sociable, it is their duty to let them know that it is not pleasing. They must repulse this forwardness even if they are thought to be rude. Such things should be rebuked in order to save the cause from reproach. Young women who have been converted to the truth and to God will listen to reproof and will be reformed.{1T 381.1}[27]
§57 传道人应该以私下的努力接续他们公开的服务,只要有机会就为救灵作个人之工,在炉边谈话,劝人追求那些使他们得平安的事。我们在地上的工作快要结束了。每一个人都要按照自己的工作受报。我蒙指示看见了圣徒的赏赐,就是那不朽的产业,也看见了那些为真理的缘故受苦最多的人,不会认为自己受了太多的苦,反而会认为天国是够便宜的。{1T 381.2}[28]
§58 Ministers should follow up their public labors by private efforts, laboring personally for souls whenever there is an opportunity, conversing around the fireside, and entreating souls to seek for those things which make for their peace. Our work here is soon to close, and every man will receive his reward according to his own labor. I was shown the saints reward, the immortal inheritance, and saw that those who had endured the most for the truths sake will not think they have had a hard time, but will count heaven cheap enough.{1T 381.2}[28]
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