第05章 纽约的圣工
§1
第05章 纽约的圣工
§2
Chap. 5 - The Cause in New York
§3
1871年12月10日，我在佛蒙特州蒙指示看到纽约州的一些事。那个州的圣工似乎处于凄惨的状况之中。工人很少，而且不是很能干，与他们所宣称信奉的神圣的现代真理对他们的要求不相称。虽有传道教导人的人，却不是全面的工人。虽然他们相信真理的理论，且已传道多年，但他们若不改变作工方案，就决不会成为称职的工人。他们在教会内部花费的时间太多了，而他们又不具备造福信徒的资格。他们自己都没有献给上帝。他们需要恒久忍耐的精神，以便为基督的缘故受苦，“喝这杯，”“受这洗”，这样才准备好去帮助别人。需要有无私的、献身的工人将纽约的圣工提高到圣经的标准。这些人在各教会之间往来，并没有履行自己的职责。上帝若呼召他们来从事祂的圣工，就是要他们去拯救罪人。他们应当出去开新工，藉以证明自己，也好亲自知道上帝是否把救灵的工作委托给他们了。{3T 48.1}[1]
§4
While in Vermont, December 10, 1871, I was shown some things in regard to New York. The cause in that state seemed to be in a deplorable condition. There were but few laborers, and these were not as efficient as their profession of faith in the sacred truths for this time demanded them to be. There are those in the state who minister in word and doctrine, who are not thorough workmen. Although they believe the theory of the truth, and have been preaching for years, they will never be competent laborers until they work upon a different plan. They have spent much time among the churches, when they are not qualified to benefit them. They themselves are not consecrated to God. They need the spirit of endurance to suffer for Christs sake, to drink of the cup, and be baptized with the baptism, before they are prepared to help others. Unselfish, devoted workmen are needed, to bring things up in New York to the Bible standard. These men have not been in the line of their duty in traveling among the churches. If God has called them to His work, it is to save sinners. They should prove themselves by going out into new fields, that they may know for themselves whether God has committed to them the work of saving souls. {3T 48.1}[1]
§5
要是泰勒，桑德斯，克特雷尔，惠特尼弟兄，以及林赛弟兄和姐妹开过新工，他们现在就会远为进步。既面对反对者，他们便不得不查考圣经，以便找到论据支持自己的立场，这样他们的圣经知识就会增加，也会意识到自己在上帝里有能力应付一切反对。那些满足于在教会中间同样的工作园地往来之人将会缺乏他们本应该具备的经验。他们会变得软弱——没有力量立志行事，为真理的缘故忍受苦难。他们会成为无能的工人。{3T 48.2}[2]
§6
Had Brethren Taylor, Saunders, Cottrell, Whitney, and Brother and Sister Lindsay labored in new fields, they would now be far in advance of what they are. Meeting the opposition of opponents would drive them to their Bibles for arguments to sustain their position, and this would increase their knowledge of the Scriptures and would give them a consciousness of their ability in God to meet opposition in any form. Those who are content to go over and over the same ground among the churches will be deficient in the experience they should have. They will be weak--not strong to will and do and suffer for the truths sake. They will be inefficient workmen. {3T 48.2}[2]
§7
那些心系上帝的圣工，并感到爱基督替死之宝贵生灵的人，不会寻求自己的安逸或享乐。他们会行基督所行的事。他们会出去“寻找拯救失丧的人。”耶稣说:“我来本不是召义人悔改，乃是召罪人悔改”（路5:32）。{3T 49.1}[3]
§8
Those who have the cause of God at heart and feel love for precious souls for whom Christ died, will not seek their own ease or pleasure. They will do as Christ has done. They will go forth to seek and to save that which was lost. He said: I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance. {3T 49.1}[3]
§9
纽约教会的牧者若愿意帮助教会，最好的办法就是去开辟新的园地，带人归向真理。当教会看到他们的牧者都焕发着做工的精神，深感真理的力量，力图将真理传给他人时，就会获得新的生命和活力。他们的心会受到激励，力所能及地协助圣工。世界上没有任何一班人比安息日复临信徒更加愿意牺牲自己的钱财以推进圣工了。牧者们若没有因着自己的懒惰、无能、以及灵性的缺乏而使信徒彻底灰心失望，他们通常会响应符合自己的判断和良知的任何呼吁。但他们也希望看到果效。纽约的弟兄们有权要求他们的牧者结出果子。他们都做了什么？他们正在做什么？ {3T 49.2}[4]
§10
If ministers in New York wish to help the church, they can do so in no better way than to go out into new fields and labor to bring souls into the truth. When the church see that the ministers are all aglow with the spirit of the work, that they feel deeply the force of the truth, and are seeking to bring others to the knowledge of it, it will put new life and vigor into them. Their hearts will be stirred to do what they can to aid in the work. There is not a class of people in the world who are more willing to sacrifice of their means to advance the cause than are Seventh-day Adventists. If the ministers do not utterly discourage them by their indolence and inefficiency, and by their lack of spirituality, they will generally respond to any appeal that may be made that commends itself to their judgment and consciences. But they want to see fruit. And it is right that the brethren in New York should demand fruit of their ministers. What have they done? What are they doing? {3T 49.2}[4]
§11
纽约教会的牧者应当远远超过现在的境况。然而，他们却没有从事那种需要付出热切的努力并且引起强烈反对的工作。要是他们这样做了，原会迫使他们查考圣经恳切祈祷，以便答复反对他们的人，且因着运用才干而使他们的才干加倍。纽约教会的一些牧者已经传道多年，然而，却不能靠赖他们讲课。他们是侏儒。他们没有训练自己的心思学习上帝的话和应付反对的势力，以便在上帝里面刚强。倘若他们能像基督十字架的忠心士兵一样去到“营外”，靠赖上帝和自己的活力，而不是大大靠赖他们的弟兄，便会获得经验，有资格在任何最需要他们帮助的地方从事圣工。如果纽约教会的牧者通常任由各教会自己作工，不挡在他们前进的道路上，如今各教会和牧者双方在灵性以及真理的知识上就会大有进步。{3T 49.3}[5]
§12
Ministers in New York should have been far in advance of what they are. But they have not engaged in that kind of labor which called forth earnest effort and strong opposition. Had they done so they would have been driven to their Bibles and to prayer in order to be able to answer their opponents, and in the exercise of their talents would have doubled them. There are ministers in New York who have been preaching for years, but who cannot be depended upon to give a course of lectures. They are dwarfed. They have not exercised their minds in the study of the word and in meeting opposition, so that they might become strong in God. Had they, like faithful soldiers of the cross of Christ, gone forth without the camp, depending upon God and their own energies, rather than leaning so heavily upon their brethren, they would have obtained an experience, and would now be qualified to engage in the work wherever their help is most needed. If the ministers generally in New York had left the churches to labor for themselves, and had not stood in their way, both churches and ministers would now be further advanced in spirituality and in the knowledge of the truth. {3T 49.3}[5]
§13
纽约教会的很多弟兄姐妹在健康改革的工作中不断退步。这个州只有少数几个人是真正的健康改革者。亮光和属灵的知识已赐给了纽约的弟兄们。然而，虽然他们明白了这真理，亮光也照进了人心，但他们却不领会也不珍惜，在上帝的审判大日，这一切要证明他们的罪。真理已经赐下，要拯救那些愿意相信并顺从的人。他们被定罪并非因为没有亮光，而是因为有了光却不行在其中。{3T 50.1}[6]
§14
Many of our brethren and sisters in New York have been backsliding upon health reform. There is but a small number of genuine health reformers in the state. Light and spiritual understanding have been given to the brethren in New York. But the truth that has reached the understanding, the light that has shone upon the soul, which has not been appreciated and cherished, will witness against them in the day of God. Truth has been given to save those who would believe and obey. Their condemnation is not because they did not have the light, but because they had the light and did not walk in it. {3T 50.1}[6]
§15
上帝曾经供应人类丰足的生活所需，以满足天然的食欲。祂已在地的出产中，将各式各样的食物摆列在人面前，全是美味可口而且对身体富有营养的。我们仁慈的天父论到这些食物说：“你可以随意吃。”我们大可享用果实，菜蔬，和谷类，而不致违犯生存的定律。这些食物经过最简单自然的方式烹调制作，就必营养身体，并保全天然活力，而不必采用肉食了。（{3T 50.2}[7]
§16
God has furnished man with abundant means for the gratification of natural appetite. He has spread before him, in the products of the earth, a bountiful variety of food that is palatable to the taste and nutritious to the system. Of these our benevolent heavenly Father says that we may freely eat. We may enjoy the fruits, the vegetables, the grains, without doing violence to the laws of our being. These articles, prepared in the most simple and natural manner, will nourish the body, and preserve its natural vigor without the use of flesh meats. {3T 50.2}[7]
§17
上帝造人比天使微小一点，并赋予人各种属性，倘若应用得当，便会使他造福世界，并且把荣耀反射给赐福的上帝。然而照着上帝形像而造的人，却由于不节制，而在自己的身体方面违犯了上帝的律法和原则。任何不节制的行为都会使感官麻木，并削弱脑神经的力量，使人不能赏识永恒的事物，而将之置于俗物的水平。原本要用于高尚目的的高级思维能力，却被低级的情欲所奴役。如果身体的习惯不正确，智力和道德力就无法坚强；因为身体与道德之间存在着极大的感应。使徒彼得明白这一点，并发出警告的声音说：“亲爱的啊，你们是客旅，是寄居的，我劝你们要禁戒肉体的私欲；这私欲是与灵魂争战的”（彼前2:11）。{3T 50.3}[8]
§18
God created man a little lower than the angels and bestowed upon him attributes that will, if properly used, make him a blessing to the world and cause him to reflect the glory to the Giver. But although made in the image of God, man has, through intemperance, violated principle and Gods law in his physical nature. Intemperance of any kind benumbs the perceptive organs and so weakens the brain-nerve power that eternal things are not appreciated, but placed upon a level with the common. The higher powers of the mind, designed for elevated purposes, are brought into slavery to the baser passions. If our physical habits are not right, our mental and moral powers cannot be strong; for great sympathy exists between the physical and the moral. The apostle Peter understood this and raised his voice of warning to his brethren: Dearly beloved, I beseech you as strangers and pilgrims, abstain from fleshly lusts, which war against the soul. {3T 50.3}[8]
§19
在自称信仰基督的世界里，道德力量已经很薄弱了。人们沉溺于错误的习惯，无视自然和道德的法则，以致德行和虔诚的一般标准降到极低。降低身体健康水平的习惯，也削弱心智和道德的力量。放纵反常的食欲和情欲对大脑的神经会产生控制性的影响。兽性的器官增强了，而道德力却降低了。一个不节制的人是不可能成为基督徒的，因为他使自己的高级能力成了情欲的奴隶。{3T 51.1}[9]
§20
There is but little moral power in the professed Christian world. Wrong habits have been indulged, and physical and moral laws have been disregarded, until the general standard of virtue and piety is exceedingly low. Habits which lower the standard of physical health enfeeble mental and moral strength. The indulgence of unnatural appetites and passions has a controlling influence upon the nerves of the brain. The animal organs are strengthened, while the moral are depressed. It is impossible for an intemperate man to be a Christian, for his higher powers are brought into slavery to the passions. {3T 51.1}[9]
§21
那些拥有亮光，晓得如何本着简单的原则，遵照自然律和道德律吃喝、穿戴的人，后来若是背弃指示他们本分的亮光，就也会逃避其它的本分。如果他们的良心麻木，而逃避负起他们应负的与自然法则相一致的十字架，为了避免受到指摘，他们也会违背十条诫命。有些人坚决不愿忍受十字架的苦难和轻看羞辱。有些人会因害怕嘲笑而偏离原则。在上帝的子民——自称在世上是寄居的，是客旅，警醒等候主显现的人——中间，效法世界的风气正在得势。在纽约教会，在自称为守安息日的信徒中间，就有许多人坚持世上的风尚和欲望，而不是固守健康的身体、健全的心智、和圣洁的心灵。{3T 51.2}[10]
§22
Those who have had the light upon the subjects of eating and dressing with simplicity in obedience to physical and moral laws, and who turn from the light which points out their duty, will shun duty in other things. If they blunt their consciences to avoid the cross which they will have to take up to be in harmony with natural law, they will, in order to shun reproach, violate the Ten Commandments. There is a decided unwillingness with some to endure the cross and despise the shame. Some will be laughed out of their principles. Conformity to the world is gaining ground among Gods people, who profess to be pilgrims and strangers, waiting and watching for the Lords appearing. There are many among professed Sabbathkeepers in New York who are more firmly wedded to worldly fashions and lusts than they are to healthy bodies, sound minds, or sanctified hearts. {3T 51.2}[10]
§23
上帝正在检验纽约教会的每一个人。祂允许某些信徒昌盛，以便显明他们内心如何。骄傲和贪爱世界使他们与上帝隔绝。他们虽然口称爱慕真理，事实上却牺牲了真理的原则。基督徒应当清醒过来并采取行动。他们在影响并模塑他人的观点和习惯。他们藉着自己的影响而决定了许多人的命运，他们必须承担这严肃的责任。{3T 51.3}[11]
§24
God is testing and proving individuals in New York. He has permitted some to have a measure of prosperity, to develop what is in their hearts. Pride and love of the world have separated them from God. The principles of truth are virtually sacrificed, while they profess to love the truth. Christians should wake up and act. Their influence is telling upon, and molding, the opinions and habits of others. They will have to bear the weighty responsibility of deciding by their influence the destiny of souls. {3T 51.3}[11]
§25
借着赐给末世之精密而率直的真理，主正从世界鉴出一批百姓，洁净他们归于祂自己。骄傲及不健康的时尚，爱炫耀的心，爱称赞的心──都必须留在世界，我们才会在效法我们创造主形像的知识上更新。“因为上帝救众人的恩典已经显明出来，教训我们除去不敬虔的心和世俗的情欲，在今世自守、公义、敬虔度日，等候所盼望的福，并等候至大的上帝和我们救主耶稣基督的荣耀显现。他为我们舍了自己，要赎我们脱离一切罪恶，又洁净我们，特作自己的子民，热心为善”（多2:11-14）。{3T 52.1}[12]
§26
The Lord, by close and pointed truths for these last days, is cleaving out a people from the world and purifying them unto Himself. Pride and unhealthful fashions, the love of display, the love of approbation--all must be left with the world if we would be renewed in knowledge after the image of Him who created us. For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world; looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ; who gave Himself for us, that He might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto Himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works. {3T 52.1}[12]
§27
某地的教会需要过筛。在教会能正常运转之前，需要经历彻底的转变。自私、骄傲、嫉妒、怨恨、恶意的猜忌、诽谤、流言蜚语、以及闲谈在他们中间盛行，直到上帝的灵几乎无法在他们中间运行。一些自称认识上帝的人若保持现状，他们的祈祷在上帝看就为可憎。他们没有藉行为证明自己的信心，一些从未宣称自己拥有真理的人反倒比这些自称拥有真理却羞辱了这真理的人更好。虽然他们口称是基督的仆人，实际上他们乃是公义之敌的仆人；他们的行为证明他们根本不认识上帝，他们的心也没有顺从基督的心意。他们把宗教当成儿戏；行事像坏脾气的孩子。{3T 52.2}[13]
§28
The church in ----- need sifting. A thorough conversion is necessary before they can be in working order. Selfishness, pride, envy, malice, evil surmising, backbiting, gossiping, and tattling have been cherished among them, until the Spirit of God has but little to do with them. While some who profess to know God remain in their present state, their prayers are an abomination in His sight. They do not sustain their faith by their works, and it would have been better for some never to have professed the truth than to have dishonored their profession as they have. While they profess to be servants of Christ, they are servants of the enemy of righteousness; and their works testify of them that they are not acquainted with God and that their hearts are not in obedience to the will of Christ. They make childs play of religion; they act like pettish children. {3T 52.2}[13]
§29
世界各地上帝的儿女都是兄弟姐妹。对于那些藉着始终如一的圣洁生活与这个世界分别的人，我们的救主已经清楚说明应管束他们的精神与原则。彼此相爱，且将自己最大的爱献给天上的父，应当彰显在他们的言语与行为之中。很多上帝儿女的现状就象是来自一个忘恩负义家庭的好争吵的儿女。{3T 52.3}[14]
§30
The children of God, the world over, are one great brotherhood. Our Saviour has clearly defined the spirit and principles which should govern the actions of those who, by their consistent, holy lives, distinguish themselves from the world. Love for one another, and supreme love to their heavenly Father, should be exemplified in their conversation and works. The present condition of many of the children of God is like that of a family of ungrateful and quarrelsome children. {3T 52.3}[14]
§31
甚至纽约教会中的牧者也有成为那类人的危险，常常学习，终久不能明白真道（提后3:7）。他们不实践自己所学的。他们听道却不行道。这些牧者需要一种在真理中的经历，使他们能领会圣工的崇高性质。{3T 53.1}[15]
§32
There is danger of even ministers in New York being of that class who are ever learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth. They do not practice what they learn. They are hearers, but not doers. These ministers need an experience in the truth that will enable them to comprehend the elevated character of the work. {3T 53.1}[15]
§33
我们是生于世界历史最严肃最重要的时代中。我们是处于末日危险之间。许多重大而骇人的大事出现在我们之前。凡敬畏上帝，爱护他律法的人，都应当在祂面前自卑，痛心悔过，忏悔那使上帝与其子民隔绝的罪恶，这件事真是何其需要啊！因为我们还不知觉不了解自己的处境，自己的卑陋情形，而竟自满自足，依然故我，所以就当激发最大的警觉。我们应该逃到上帝的道，勤作祷告，个别切心寻求主，使我们可以寻见祂。我们应当以此为当急之务，首要之事。{3T 53.2}[16]
§34
We are living in a most solemn, important time of this earths history. We are amid the perils of the last days. Important and fearful events are before us. How necessary that all who do fear God and love His law should humble themselves before Him, and be afflicted and mourn, and confess the sins that have separated God from His people. That which should excite the greatest alarm, is that we do not feel or understand our condition, our low estate, and that we are satisfied to remain as we are. We should flee to the word of God and to prayer, individually seeking the Lord earnestly, that we may find Him. We should make this our first business. {3T 53.2}[16]
§35
教会里的信徒要对托付他们的各项才干负责，这些信徒若不居于与自己所宣称的神圣真理一致的崇高位置，就绝不可能尽到自己的责任。照耀在我们道路上的亮光使我们有责任将这光照亮他人，使他们也荣耀上帝。{3T 53.3}[17]
§36
The members of the church are responsible for the talents committed to their trust, and it is impossible for Christians to meet their responsibilities unless they occupy that elevated position that is in accordance with the sacred truths which they profess. The light that shines upon our pathway makes us responsible to let that light shine forth to others in such a manner that they will glorify God. {3T 53.3}[17]
§37
【教会中的亲戚】
§38
某地教会在属灵方面的进步与照耀在他们道路上的亮光不相称。上帝托付给每个人不同的才干，要他们予以善用，以便主人来的时候，可以连本带利收回。某地的教会有大量宝贵的材料，但是该教会的信徒却未能达到他们有权达到的崇高标准。{3T 53.4}[18]
§39
【Relatives in the Church】
§40
The advancement of the church in --- in spiritual things is not in proportion to the light which has shone upon their pathway. God has committed to each talents to be improved by putting them out to the exchangers, that when the Master comes He may receive His own with usury. The church at---is largely composed of valuable material, but its members fail to reach the high standard which it is their privilege to attain. {3T 53.4}[18]
§41
这个教会的工作人选主要来自结成姻亲的三个家族。教会中还有更多的人才，更多的人选可以成为优秀的工人，用来推进当地教会的工作富富有余。整个教会在灵性上都没有成长。他们没有处于有利的位置，藉着运用上帝赐予他们的才干来发展力量。没有足够的空间让人人都工作，这人妨碍着那人。他们缺乏属灵的力量。这个教会若不是家族教会，每一个人便会感到自己的责任。{3T 54.1}[19]
§42
The working material in the church is found mostly in branches of three families which are connected by marriage. There is more talent in the church, and more material to make good workmen, than can be employed to advantage in that locality. The entire church are not growing in spirituality. They are not favorably situated to develop strength by calling into exercise the talents that God has given them. There is not room for all to work. One gets in the way of another. There is a lack of spiritual strength. If this church were less a family church each would feel individual responsibility. {3T 54.1}[19]
§43
这个教会中若干信徒的才干和影响力若能用在确实需要他们帮助的其他教会，他们就会在属灵的事上获得具有最高价值的经验，既这样在上帝的工作中负责任挑重担，便会造福他人。他们忙于帮助他人之时，就在效法基督的榜样。基督来不是要受人的服侍，乃是要服侍人。祂从不取悦自己，也不贪图名利，却取了奴仆的样式，一生行善事。祂本可以在地上度一种安逸而富足的生活，本可以尽情享受今生一切的享乐。但祂活着不是为了享乐，而是要行善并搭救别人脱离苦难，我们都当效学祂的榜样。{3T 54.2}[20]
§44
If the talent and influence of several of its members should be exercised in other churches, where they would be drawn out to help where help is really needed, they would be obtaining an experience of the highest value in spiritual things, and by thus bearing responsibilities and burdens in the work of God would be a blessing to others. While engaged in helping others, they would be following the example of Christ. He came not to be ministered unto, but to minister to others. He pleased not Himself. He made Himself of no reputation, but took upon Himself the form of a servant, and spent His life in doing good. He could have spent His days on earth in ease and plenty, and have appropriated to Himself the enjoyments of this life. But He lived not to enjoy, He lived to do good and to save others from suffering, and His example is for us to follow. {3T 54.2}[20]
§45
I 弟兄和 J弟兄若献身于上帝，就能担负更大的责任。他们认为自己可以迅速回应奉献钱财的任何呼吁，这便是他们在上帝圣工中的主要重担了。但上帝对他们的要求不止这些。他们若曾训练自己的心思更加细致地研究上帝的话语，就早已成为圣工中的工人，为罪人的得救而劳力，就像为谋生而热切劳力一样，他们便会发展力量和智慧，在极其缺乏工人的地方从事上帝的圣工。{3T 54.3}[21]
§46
If consecrated to God, Brethren I and J could bear greater responsibilities than they have borne. They have thought that they would be prompt to respond to any call that should be made for means, and that this was the principal burden that they had to bear in the cause of God. But God requires more of them than this. If they had trained their minds to a more critical study of the word of God, that they might have become laborers in His cause, and had worked for the salvation of sinners as earnestly as they have to obtain the things of this life, they would have developed strength and wisdom to engage in the work of God where laborers are greatly needed. {3T 54.3}[21]
§47
这些弟兄因呆在家族范围之内，而在心智和属灵力量上成了侏儒。一个或两三个彼此有姻亲关系的家庭，聚居在数里范围之内，并非上策，其影响对各个家庭都不好。往往个人的事成了大家的事。每个家庭所免不了的、本应尽量限于自家之内的、或多或少的困惑与难题；却延及有姻亲关系的各家中，也影响到宗教的聚会。有些事情是不该叫第三个人知道的，不拘与那人有多么友善亲密的关系。个人和家庭应当承担这些事。可是常常因有亲属关系的家庭如此亲密地交往，便损及各个家庭所当保持的尊严。在执行督责和劝诫的微妙义务时，若不以极大的亲切慎重行事，就会有伤害情感的危险。连品格最优美的模范者，也易犯错误与过失，所以应该格外慎重，以免有小事闹大之弊。 {3T 55.1}[22]
§48
These brethren, by remaining in a family community, are being dwarfed in mental and spiritual strength. It is not the best policy for children of one, two, or three families that are connected by marriage, to settle within a few miles of one another. The influence is not good on the parties. The business of one is the business of all. The perplexities and troubles which every family must experience more or less, and which, as far as possible, should be confined within the limits of the family circle, are extended to family connections, and have a bearing upon the religious meetings. There are matters which should not be known to a third person, however friendly and closely connected he may be. Individuals and families should bear them. But the close relationship of several families, brought into constant intercourse, has a tendency to break down the dignity which should be maintained in every family. In performing the delicate duty of reproving and admonishing, there will be danger of injuring feelings, unless it be done with the greatest tenderness and care. The best models of character are liable to errors and mistakes, and great care should be exercised that too much is not made of little things. {3T 55.1}[22]
§49
某地存在的这种家庭和教会的关系对天性感情来说是非常愉快的；然而若予全面考虑，这对于培养匀称的基督化品格却非上策。彼此之间亲密的关系以及亲密的交往，同时又在一间教会里，就会削弱影响力。使教会兴旺的那种尊严、高度的尊重、信任、以及爱心都不能保存下来。各个家庭若分居各处，偶尔相访，就会更加快乐，彼此之间的良好影响也会加增十倍。{3T 55.2}[23]
§50
Such family and church relationship as exists in ----- is very pleasant to the natural feelings; but it is not the best, all things considered, for the development of symmetrical Christian characters. The close relationship and the familiar associations with one another, while united in church capacity, render the influence feeble. That dignity, that high regard, confidence, and love that make a prosperous church is not preserved. All parties would be much happier to be separated and to visit occasionally, and their influence upon one another would be tenfold greater. {3T 55.2}[23]
§51
由于婚姻关系而联合一起的这些家庭，会因时时彼此交接，使各人都觉察到对方的缺点与过失，而认为自己有义务矫正之。正因为这些亲属们彼此切实相爱，他们也常常会因微不足道的事情而担忧，如果没有这么密切的关系，就不会注意到这些琐碎的事了。有人或要忍受极大的精神上的痛苦，因为心中觉得没有得着公平的待遇，没有得到当得的体谅。有时也会产生小小的妒忌之念，以致小丘变为泰山、小题大作。这些细小的误会与微末的分歧，往往造成比从其他方面来的困难更大的精神痛苦。 {3T 55.3}[24]
§52
United as these families are by marriage, and mingling as they do in one anothers society, each is awake to the faults and errors of the others, and feels in duty bound to correct them; and because these relatives are really dear to one another, they are grieved over little things that they would not notice in those not so closely connected. Keen sufferings of mind are endured, because feelings will arise with some that they have not been treated impartially and with all that consideration which they deserved. Petty jealousies sometimes arise, and molehills become mountains. These little misunderstandings and petty variances cause more severe suffering of mind than do trials that come from other sources. {3T 55.3}[24]
§53
这些事情使那些真正尽责的、心志高尚的男女无力忍受，以致他们没有培养在其他环境中本可以养成的品格。他们在智力和灵力的成长上成了矮子，这会导致他们成为无用之人。他们的劳苦和兴趣主要限于自己。当需要发挥广大而更为普遍的影响力时，他们的影响力却如此狭隘，他们需要被安置在各样的环境中，以便运用上帝所赐予他们的能力，多多将荣耀归给上帝。心智所有的能力都能够获得极大的发展。心灵的活力需要被激起，并活动起来，以便归荣耀于上帝。{3T 56.1}[25]
§54
These things make these truly conscientious, noble-minded men and women feeble to endure, and they are not developing the character they might were they differently situated. They are dwarfed in mental and spiritual growth, which threatens to destroy their usefulness. Their labors and interests are confined mostly to themselves. Their influence is narrowed down when it should be widening and becoming more general, that they may, by being placed in a variety of circumstances, bring into exercise the powers which God has given them, in such a manner as shall contribute most to His glory. All the faculties of the mind are capable of high improvement. The energies of the soul need to be aroused and brought into action for the glory of God. {3T 56.1}[25]
§55
【上帝的工人】
§56
上帝在呼召传道士。某地教会有一些才子，他们在上帝的事工上运用自己的才干时，才干和能力便会增长。倘若这些弟兄愿意训练自己，使上帝的圣工成为自己第一关心的事，乐意为了真理的缘故而牺牲自己的乐趣和喜好，那么上帝的祝福便要临到他们了。这些热爱真理并由于圣经中不断照出的亮光而欢喜的弟兄们，也当使他们的光照亮那些黑暗中的人。上帝要作他们的智慧和力量，也要藉着与这些人同工，又因着他们完全跟随祂，而荣耀祂的名。“若有人服事我，我父必尊重他”（约16:26）。上帝的智慧和能力要赐给那些乐意且忠心的人。{3T 56.2}[26]
§57
【Laborers for God】
§58
God calls for missionaries. There are men of ability in the church at---who will grow in capacity and power as they exercise their talents in the work and cause of God. If these brethren will educate themselves to make the cause of God their first interest, and will sacrifice their pleasure and inclination for the truths sake, the blessing of God will rest upon them. These brethren, who love the truth, and who have been for years rejoicing because of increasing light upon the Scriptures, should let their light shine forth to those who are in darkness. God will be to them wisdom and power, and will glorify Himself in working with and by those who wholly follow Him. If any man serve Me, him will My Father honor. The wisdom and power of God will be given to the willing and faithful. {3T 56.2}[26]
§59
某教会的弟兄们愿意把钱财捐给各项事业，却不愿意奉献自己。他们没有说：主啊，我在这里，请差遣我。不是人的力量，而是那位使人做工并与人同工的上帝的能力和智慧，才能使人成功完成必需完成的工作。我们将自己的财物奉献给那位天地的拥有者，却不愿意奉献自己，就不能得到祂的嘉许，也不能获得祂的赐福。某教会弟兄姐妹的心中必须有一个原则，就是将一切，包括自己，都摆在上帝的坛上。{3T 57.1}[27]
§60
The brethren in ----- have been willing to give of their means for the various enterprises, but they have withheld themselves. They have not said: Here am I, Lord; send me. It is not the strength of human instruments, but the power and wisdom of Him who employs them and works with them that makes men successful in doing the work that is necessary to be done. By offering our goods to the Possessor of heaven and earth while we withhold ourselves, we cannot meet His approbation nor secure His blessing. There must be in the hearts of the brethren and sisters in ----- a principle to lay all, even themselves, upon the altar of God. {3T 57.1}[27]
§61
巴特尔克里克需要能够而且乐意挑担子负责任的人。虽已再三发出呼召，却几乎无人响应。倘若能增进属世的利益，一些人原会响应这呼召。然而，由于来到巴特尔克里克并不会增进他们属世的利益，他们就看不到前来的义务。“听命胜于献祭”（撒上15:22）。既缺少顺从与无私之爱，则即使是最丰厚的祭礼，奉献与那位万有之主，还是太贫乏了。{3T 57.2}[28]
§62
Men are needed in Battle Creek who can and will take burdens and bear responsibilities. The call has been given time and again, but hardly a response has been made. Some would have answered the call if their worldly interests would have been advanced by so doing. But as there was no prospect of increasing their means by coming to Battle Creek, they could see no duty to come. To obey is better than sacrifice. And without obedience and unselfish love, the richest offerings are too meager to be presented to the Possessor of all things. {3T 57.2}[28]
§63
上帝呼召某地方的弟兄姐妹起来帮助耶和华，帮助耶和华攻击勇士。那些自称拥有真理的人之所以如此软弱，是因为他们不运用上帝赐予他们的能力。太多人将自己的才干包裹起来埋藏在地里了。才干只有藉着运用才能增加。上帝要检验祂的子民。{3T 57.3}[29]
§64
God calls upon the brethren and sisters in ----- to arise and come up to the help of the Lord, to the help of the Lord against the mighty. The reason why there is so little strength among those who profess the truth is that they do not exercise the ability that God has given them. Very many have wrapped their talent in a napkin and hid it in the earth. It is by using the talents that they increase. God will test and prove His people. {3T 57.3}[29]
§65
I弟兄与I姐妹一直都在上帝的圣工中忠心担负重担，如今，他们的子女不应当退后，使这重担很沉重的压在他们的父母身上。如今乃是孩子们运用损耗较少的心智能力，尤其应当在主的葡萄园中做工的时候。{3T 57.4}[30]
§66
Brother and Sister I have been faithful burden bearers in the cause of God, and now their children should not stand back and let the burdens rest so heavily upon them. It is time that the powers of the less-worn minds of the children should be exercised and they work more especially in the Masters vineyard. {3T 57.4}[30]
§67
纽约教会中的某些弟兄姐妹急于鼓励K弟兄和K姐妹尤其是K姐妹在各教会中做工。然而教会并不是他们验证自己的正确场所。倘若上帝真的安排给他们作工的担子，那么这担子也不是为了各教会；因为这些教会一般比他们进步。有一个世界摆在K弟兄和K姐妹眼前，一个卧在邪恶当中的世界。他们的工作园地十分广大。他们有足够的空间试验自己的恩赐和上帝对他们的呼召，而不必参与别人的工作，在别人已经建立的基础上建造。K弟兄和K姐妹一直迟迟没有获得舍己的经验。他们接受全方面健康改良的速度也很缓慢。在克制食欲的事上，各教会普遍超过了他们。因此，他们无法在这方面使教会受益，反而会成为教会的障碍。{3T 57.5}[31]
§68
Some of the brethren and sisters in New York have felt anxious that Brother and Sister K, especially Sister K, should be encouraged to labor among the churches. But this is the wrong place for them to prove themselves. If God has indeed laid upon them the burden of labor, it is not for the churches; for these are generally in advance of them. There is a world before Brother and Sister K, a world lying in wickedness. Their field is a large one. They have plenty of room to try their gifts and test their calling without entering into other mens labors and building upon a foundation that they have not laid. Brother and Sister K have been very slow to obtain an experience in self-denial. They have been slow to adopt the health reform in all its branches. The churches are in advance of them in the denial of appetite. Therefore they cannot be a benefit to the churches in this direction, but rather a hindrance. {3T 57.5}[31]
§69
K弟兄向来都不是某教会中的福惠，而是一个沉重的负担。他直接挡在他们前进的道路上。他们最需要帮助的时候，他无法帮助。他没有正确的代表我们的信仰；他的言谈和生活并不是圣洁的。他远远地落在了后面，也没有随时准备或者说乐于分辨上帝天意的带领。他挡住了罪人的道路；没有处在一个可以用自己的感化力向非信徒推荐我们信仰的位置。{3T 58.1}[32]
§70
Brother K has not been a blessing to the church in -----, but a great burden. He has stood directly in the way of their advancement. He has not been in a condition to help when and where they needed help the most. He has not correctly represented our faith; his conversation and life have not been unto holiness. He has been far behind, and has not been ready or willing to discern the leadings of Gods providence. He has stood in the way of sinners; he has not been in such a position that his influence would recommend our faith to unbelievers. {3T 58.1}[32]
§71
他的榜样乃是教会以及不信之邻舍的障碍。倘若K弟兄曾完全献身于上帝，他的工作原会大有成效，结实累累。那使上帝的子民与一般流行的宗教团体分别开来的，不仅仅是他们所宣称的信仰，而是他们模范的品格与无私之爱的原则。上帝圣灵洁净人心的强大影响力表现在人的言语和行为之中，使他们与世界分别，指定他们为上帝特选的子民。基督门徒的品格与性情要像他们的主。基督乃是楷模，是基督徒要效学的圣洁完美的榜样。真实的基督徒必定会爱自己的弟兄，与他们和睦相处。他们也会爱自己的邻舍，因为基督已给他们作了榜样，倘若可以拯救生灵离弃罪恶，经历转变归向真理，他们会不惜一切代价。{3T 58.2}[33]
§72
His example has been a hindrance to the church and to his unbelieving neighbors. If Brother K had been wholly consecrated to God, his works would have been fruitful, productive of much good. But that which more especially distinguishes Gods people from the popular religious bodies is not their profession alone, but their exemplary characters and their principles of unselfish love. The powerful, purifying influence of the Spirit of God upon the heart, carried out in words and works, separates them from the world and designates them as Gods peculiar people. The character and disposition of Christs followers will be like their Masters. He is the pattern, the holy and perfect example given for Christians to imitate. His true followers will love their brethren and be in harmony with them. They will love their neighbors as Christ has given them example and will make any sacrifice if they can by so doing persuade souls to leave their sins and be converted to the truth. {3T 58.2}[33]
§73
真理若深深扎根于信徒的心中，便会发芽生长，结出公义的果实。他们的言语和行为要成为渠道，藉以将真理和圣洁的纯正原则传给世人。特殊的福惠与特权属于那些热爱真理并依照自己所领受之光而行的人。倘若他们忽视或有意不这样做，他们的光就会变为黑暗。上帝的子民变得自足时，上帝便任凭他们靠着自己的智慧行事了。怜悯和真理乃是应许给那些谦卑、顺从、与忠心之人的。{3T 59.1}[34]
§74
The truth, deeply rooted in the hearts of believers, will spring up and bear fruit unto righteousness. Their words and works are the channels through which the pure principles of truth and holiness are conveyed to the world. Especial blessings and privileges are for those who love the truth and walk according to the light they have received. If they neglect to do this, their light will become darkness. When the people of God become self-sufficient, the Lord leaves them to their own wisdom. Mercy and truth are promised to the humble in heart, the obedient and faithful. {3T 59.1}[34]
§75
K弟兄一直阻挡着子女们前进的道路。倘若他献身于上帝，全心作工并实践自己所宣称的真理，就会像亚伯拉罕一样，早已感觉到吩咐家人效法他的重要性了。 {3T 59.2}[35]
§76
Brother K has stood in the way of his children. If he had been consecrated to God, having his heart in the work, and living out the truth he professed, he would have felt the importance of commanding his household after him, as did faithful Abraham. {3T 59.2}[35]
§77
两位K弟兄之间缺乏和谐仁爱乃是上帝圣工的耻辱。他们两个都错了，都需要征服自我并培养基督徒的美德。他们的争吵使上帝受了羞辱，我即使是说这两个亲兄弟之间存在着仇恨也不为过。A K弟兄的问题非常严重。他抱着那些与上帝的旨意相违背的情绪。他晓得自己的兄弟BK的特点，就是具有烦躁不快乐的性情。他常常看不到那直接摆在自己道路上的好事，却只看到了邪恶，很容易变得灰心沮丧。撒但在他面前把小丘夸大成大山。从全面考虑，BK弟兄在很多事情上应该比他的弟兄少受谴责，因为他的行为对传扬真理圣工的危害较小。{3T 59.3}[36]
§78
The lack of harmony and love between the two brothers K is a reproach to the cause of God. Both are at fault. Both have a work to do in subduing self and cultivating the Christian graces. God is dishonored by the dissensions, and I do not go too far when I say hatred, that exist between these two natural brothers. Brother A K is greatly at fault. He has cherished feelings that have not been in accordance with the will of God. He knows the peculiarities of his brother, B K, that he has a fretful, unhappy temperament. Frequently he cannot see good when it lies directly in his path. He sees only evil and becomes discouraged very easily. Satan magnifies a molehill into a mountain before him. All things considered, Brother B K has in many things pursued a less censurable course than his brother, because it has been less injurious to the cause of present truth. {3T 59.3}[36]
§79
这些亲兄弟必须彼此完全和好，才能消除他们带给上帝圣工的耻辱。“从此就显出谁是上帝的儿女，谁是魔鬼的儿女。凡不行义的就不属上帝，不爱弟兄的也是如此。”“人若说自己在光明中，却恨他的弟兄，他到如今还是在黑暗里。”那些为上帝工作的人应当成为清洁的器皿，分别为圣归主所用。“你们扛抬耶和华器皿的人哪，务要自洁。”“人若说“我爱上帝”，却恨他的弟兄，就是说谎话的；不爱他所看见的弟兄，怎能爱没有看见的上帝呢？爱上帝的，也当爱弟兄，这是我们从上帝所受的命令”（约壹3:10;2:9;赛52:11;约壹4:20,21）。 {3T 59.4}[37]
§80
These natural brothers must be fully reconciled to each other before they can lift the reproach from the cause of God that their disunion has caused. In this the children of God are manifest, and the children of the devil: whosoever doeth not righteousness is not of God, neither he that loveth not his brother. He that saith he is in the light, and hateth his brother, is in darkness even until now. Those who labor for God should be clean vessels, sanctified to the Masters use. Be ye clean, that bear the vessels of the Lord. If a man say, I love God, and hateth his brother, he is a liar: for he that loveth not his brother whom he hath seen, how can he love God whom he hath not seen? And this commandment have we from Him, That he who loveth God love his brother also. {3T 59.4}[37]
§81
基督的使者有一份责任和神圣的工作要做。他们或成为活的香气叫人活，或成为死的香气叫人死。他们的影响决定了基督为之牺牲之人的命运。K弟兄和K姐妹都缺乏经验。他们的生活没有成圣。他们对于上帝的旨意没有深刻透彻的认识。他们没有在属灵生活中稳步向前向上，以致他们的经验对教会毫无价值。他们的行为大大加重了教会的负担。{3T 60.1}[38]
§82
The ambassadors of Christ have a responsible and sacred work before them. They are savors of life unto life, or of death unto death. Their influence decides the destiny of souls for whom Christ died. Brother and Sister K both lack experience. Their lives have not been unto holiness. They have not had a deep and thorough knowledge of the divine will. They have not been steadily advancing onward and upward in the divine life, so that their experience could be of value to the church. Their course has burdened the church not a little. {3T 60.1}[38]
§83
K姐妹过去的生活使她的经验不能造福他人。她没有度一种尽职尽责的生活。她太多次违背自己的良心了。她面对着那照耀在她道路上的真理亮光，却追求享乐，沉溺于虚荣、轻浮、追求时尚的生活。她知道正路，却不行在其中。主已经赐给K姐妹警告和责备的证言。她相信了证言并脱离了那般爱享乐过于爱上帝的人。然后，她回顾自己过去那充满疏忽与错行的生活时，便陷于不信和冷漠忧郁中。绝望笼罩着她。她和K弟兄结婚稍微改变了事态，但有时是因为她非常忧郁和沮丧。{3T 60.2}[39]
§84
Sister Ks past life has not been of such a character that her experience could be a blessing to others. She has not lived up to her convictions of duty. Her conscience has been violated too many times. She has been a pleasure seeker and has given her life to vanity, frivolity, and fashion, in face of the light of truth which has shone upon her pathway. She knew the way, but neglected to walk in it. The Lord gave Sister K a testimony of warning and reproof. She believed the testimony and separated herself from that class who were lovers of pleasure more than lovers of God. Then, as she viewed her past life, so full of neglects and wrongs, she gave up to unbelief and stolid gloom. Despair spread its dark wings over her. Her marriage to Brother K changed the order of things somewhat, but at times since she has been very gloomy and desponding. {3T 60.2}[39]
§85
K姐妹对于预言有清楚的了解，可以随时讲解预言。有些弟兄和姐妹一直急于催促K弟兄和K姐妹出去积极作工。然而他们有从错误立场作工的危险。K姐妹所受的教育要比她周围的许多人优越。她在公开作工时依赖自己的力量过于依赖上帝的灵。她有一种高傲独立的精神，认为自己有资格教导别人，而不是受别人的教导。她既在属灵的事上缺乏经验，就没有预备好在各教会中做工。她没有造就各教会所必需的辨识力和灵力。倘若她和丈夫完全投身于这工作，就应开始在某地的教会发挥一种善的影响力。他们应当把精力用在最需要完成的工作上。{3T 60.3}[40]
§86
Sister K has a good knowledge of the prophecies and can trace them and speak upon them very readily. Some of the brethren and sisters have been anxious to urge Brother and Sister K to go out as active laborers. But there is danger of their working from a wrong standpoint. Sister Ks educational advantages have been superior to those of many by whom she is surrounded. As she has labored publicly, she has depended upon her own strength more than upon the Spirit of God. She has had a spirit of lofty independence and has thought that she was qualified to teach rather than be taught. With her lack of experience in spiritual things she is unprepared to labor among the churches. She has not the discernment and spiritual strength necessary to build them up. If she and her husband engage in this work at all, they should commence by exerting a good influence in the church at -----. Their labor should be bestowed where the work most needs to be done. {3T 60.3}[40]
§87
在新的工作园地有工作需要完成。从未听到警告信息的罪人需要受到警告。K弟兄和K姐妹有充足的空间作工并证明自己的呼召。谁也不应拦阻他们在新的园地做工。在各处都有需要拯救的罪人。然而，有些传道人喜欢反反复复的在同样的教会园地做工，其实他们的劳苦并不能帮助他们，他们的时间也浪费了。{3T 61.1}[41]
§88
There is work to be done in new fields. Sinners who never have heard the warning message need to be warned. Here Brother and Sister K have ample room to work and prove their calling. No one should hinder them in their efforts in new fields. There are sinners to save in every direction. But some ministers are inclined to go over and over the same ground among the churches, when their labors cannot help them, and their time is wasted. {3T 61.1}[41]
§89
我们希望上帝的仆人都成为工人。警告生灵的工作不应当仅仅局限于传道人，凡心中有真理的人，凡在家中发挥了良善影响力的人，都应当感受到自己承担了一份责任，应当奉献出自己的部分时间，出去与邻舍以及周围城镇的居民接触，作上帝的布道士。他们应当带着我们的出版物出去，本着基督的精神与自己所访问的人交谈，与他们一同祷告并为他们祷告。这样的工作会引起研究和改革的精神。{3T 61.2}[42]
§90
We wish that all the Lords servants were laborers. The work of warning souls should not be confined to ministers alone, but brethren who have the truth in their hearts, and who have exerted a good influence at home, should feel that a responsibility rests upon them to devote a part of their time to going out among their neighbors and into adjoining towns to be missionaries for God. They should carry our publications and engage in conversation and, in the spirit of Christ, pray with and for those whom they visit. This is the work that will arouse a spirit of investigation and reformation. {3T 61.2}[42]
§91
多年以来，主一直在招呼祂的百姓注意健康改良。这是为人子降临作预备工作的一个主要的分支。施洗约翰本着以利亚的心志与能力，出去预备主的道路，使百姓转向义人的智慧。他是那些生存在这末日，蒙上帝委托神圣真理要传给民众，为基督的第二次显现预备道路之人的一个代表。约翰是一位改革家。天使加百列奉上天指示，给约翰的父母上了一堂关于健康改良的课，说他清酒浓酒都不该喝，从出生就要被圣灵充满。{3T 61.3}[43]
§92
For years the Lord has been calling the attention of His people to health reform. This is one of the great branches of the work of preparation for the coming of the Son of man. John the Baptist went forth in the spirit and power of Elijah to prepare the way of the Lord and to turn the people to the wisdom of the just. He was a representative of those living in these last days to whom God has entrusted sacred truths to present before the people to prepare the way for the second appearing of Christ. John was a reformer. The angel Gabriel, direct from heaven, gave a discourse upon health reform to the father and mother of John. He said that he should not drink wine or strong drink, and that he should be filled with the Holy Ghost from his birth. {3T 61.3}[43]
§93
约翰使自己与朋友和奢华的生活隔离。他服装的简朴——一件骆驼毛织成的衣服，对于当时犹太祭司以及一般民众的奢侈与炫耀，乃是一种经常的谴责。他的纯全素食——蝗虫和野蜜，对于到处流行的放纵食欲与贪吃暴饮，也是一种谴责。先知玛拉基宣告：“看哪，耶和华大而可畏之日未到以前，我必差遣先知以利亚到你们那里去：他必使父亲的心转向儿女，儿女的心转向父亲”（玛4:5,6）。先知在此描绘了工作的性质。那班要为基督复临预备道路的人，是由忠心的以利亚来代表的，正如约翰本着以利亚的心志来预备基督头一次降临的道路一样。改良的伟大主题要予以极力地提倡，民众的思想要加以激发。凡事节制当与这信息相联，使上帝的子民转离他们的偶像，他们的贪食暴饮，以及他们在衣着和其它事上的奢侈浪费。 {3T 62.1}[44]
§94
John separated himself from friends and from the luxuries of life. The simplicity of his dress, a garment woven of camels hair, was a standing rebuke to the extravagance and display of the Jewish priests, and of the people generally. His diet, purely vegetable, of locusts and wild honey, was a rebuke to the indulgence of appetite and the gluttony that everywhere prevailed. The prophet Malachi declares: Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord: and he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers. Here the prophet describes the character of the work. Those who are to prepare the way for the second coming of Christ are represented by faithful Elijah, as John came in the spirit of Elijah to prepare the way for Christs first advent. The great subject of reform is to be agitated, and the public mind is to be stirred. Temperance in all things is to be connected with the message, to turn the people of God from their idolatry, their gluttony, and their extravagance in dress and other things. {3T 62.1}[44]
§95
要将上帝向祂特别引导赐福之人所要求的克己、谦卑和节制呈现在人们面前，与那些生存在这堕落世代之人的奢侈浪费，败坏健康的习惯形成对照。上帝已指明卫生改良与第三位天使的信息有着密切的关系，犹如手与身体的关系一样。身体与道德败坏的最重大原因，莫过于忽视这一非常重要的题目。那些放纵食欲和情欲的人，以及那些唯恐见到自己所不愿放弃的种种有罪放纵而闭眼不接受亮光的人，在上帝面前是有罪的。人若在一件事上拒绝了亮光，就必硬起心来漠视那照在其它事上的亮光。人若在饮食和服装上违背道德责任，就会门户洞开，进而违背上帝有关永恒福利的要求。我们的身子并不是我们自己的，上帝有权要求我们好好照顾祂赐我们的这个居所，以便将身体献给祂，当作活祭，是圣洁的，是可喜悦的。我们的身体是属于造身体之主的，我们也有义务明智地学习如何以最完善的方式保守它们免于衰败。假若我们因自我满足，因放任食欲，因穿着损害健康的时髦服装，以求与世俗相符而致削弱身体，我们便成为上帝的仇敌了。{3T 62.2}[45]
§96
The self-denial, humility, and temperance required of the righteous, whom God especially leads and blesses, is to be presented to the people in contrast to the extravagant, health-destroying habits of those who live in this degenerate age. God has shown that health reform is as closely connected with the third angels message as the hand is with the body. There is nowhere to be found so great a cause of physical and moral degeneracy as a neglect of this important subject. Those who indulge appetite and passion, and close their eyes to the light for fear they will see sinful indulgences which they are unwilling to forsake, are guilty before God. Whoever turns from the light in one instance hardens his heart to disregard the light upon other matters. Whoever violates moral obligations in the matter of eating and dressing prepares the way to violate the claims of God in regard to eternal interests. Our bodies are not our own. God has claims upon us to take care of the habitation. He has given us, that we may present our bodies to Him a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable. Our bodies belong to Him who made them, and we are in duty bound to become intelligent in regard to the best means of preserving them from decay. If we enfeeble the body by self-gratification, by indulging the appetite, and by dressing in accordance with health-destroying fashions, in order to be in harmony with the world, we become enemies of God. {3T 62.2}[45]
§97
K弟兄和K姐妹不欣赏健康改良的亮光。他们没有看出这亮光与第三位天使信息的关系。上天的美意在引领着上帝的子民脱离属世奢侈浪费的风习，远离食欲与情欲的放纵，置身于克己和凡事节制的立场上。上帝所引领的子民必定与众不同。他们不会象世人一样。然而他们若顺从上帝的引导，就必成全祂的美旨，使自己的意愿归服于祂的意愿。基督也必居住在他们心里。上帝的殿要圣洁。使徒说：“你们的身子就是圣灵的殿”（林前6:29）。上帝没有要求祂的子民克己以致损害身体的力量。祂要求他们顺从自然律，保持身体健康。自然之道乃是上帝制定出来的，对于任何一个基督徒来讲，这条道路都足够宽阔。上帝用慷慨的手为我们提供了丰富多样的福惠供我们享用。然而，为了使我们享受自然的食欲，以便保持健康并延长寿命，上帝限制了这食欲。祂说：要当心；要约束、克制不自然的食欲。我们若造成了不正当的食欲，便违背了生存的定律，要为滥用自己的身体和招致疾病负责。{3T 63.1}[46]
§98
Brother and Sister K have not appreciated the light upon health reform. They have not seen a place for it in connection with the third message. Providence has been leading the people of God out from the extravagant habits of the world, away from the indulgence of appetite and passion, to take their stand upon the platform of self-denial and temperance in all things. The people whom God is leading will be peculiar. They will not be like the world. But if they follow the leadings of God they will accomplish His purposes, and will yield their will to His will. Christ will dwell in the heart. The temple of God will be holy. Your body, says the apostle, is the temple of the Holy Ghost. God does not require His children to deny themselves to the injury of physical strength. He requires them to obey natural law, to preserve physical health. Natures path is the road He marks out, and it is broad enough for any Christian. God has, with a lavish hand, provided us with rich and varied bounties for our sustenance and enjoyment. But in order for us to enjoy the natural appetite, which will preserve health and prolong life, He restricts the appetite. He says: Beware; restrain, deny, unnatural appetite. If we create a perverted appetite, we violate the laws of our being and assume the responsibility of abusing our bodies and of bringing disease upon ourselves. {3T 63.1}[46]
§99
以利亚的心志能力一直在激动人心进行改革，把他们指向义人的智慧。尽管上帝已赐下健康改良的足够证据，但K弟兄和K姐妹并没有实行健康改良。舍己乃是真宗教所必不可少的。那些没有学习克己的人缺乏至关重要的实际的敬虔。我们不能指望宗教要求之外有什么事能触及本性的情感和世俗的利益。上帝的葡萄园中有每个人当做之工。没有人应该闲懒。上帝的天使都很活跃，升到天上又降到地上，带来怜悯与警告的信息。这些天上的使者在感动人的心思意念。各处都有男女的心可以被真理所激励。那些拥有真理知识的人现在若愿与上帝的圣灵和谐同工，我们便可看到一项大工告成。{3T 64.1}[47]
§100
The spirit and power of Elijah have been stirring hearts to reform and directing them to the wisdom of the just. Brother and Sister K have not been converted to the health reform, notwithstanding the amount of evidence that God has given upon the subject. Self-denial is essential to genuine religion. Those who have not learned to deny themselves are destitute of vital, practical godliness. We cannot expect anything else than that the claims of religion will come in contact with the natural affections and worldly interests. There is work for everyone in the vineyard of the Lord. None should be idle. Angels of God are all astir, ascending to heaven and descending to earth again with messages of mercy and warning. These heavenly messengers are moving upon minds and hearts. There are men and women everywhere whose hearts are susceptible of being inspired with the truth. If those who have a knowledge of the truth would now work in unison with the Spirit of God, we would see a great work accomplished. {3T 64.1}[47]
§101
很多新的园地都已敞开，人人都可在这些园地中做工，将人从黑暗和错误中领出来，使他们坚立在永恒真理的立场上，从而验证自己所蒙的呼召。倘若K弟兄和K姐妹感觉到上帝已呼召他们从事祂的圣工，他们便有充分的工作要做，呼召罪人悔改；然而，为要使上帝能在他们里面并藉着他们做工，他们需要经历彻底的转变。在这些末后的日子预备一班人迎见基督的第二次降临，乃是最神圣严肃的工作，这工作需要献身无私的工人。那些谦卑、有信心、充满活力、不屈不挠、意志坚定的人，会发现在主人的葡萄园中有很多工作要做。有很多责任需要履行，这需要付上热心并全力以赴。上帝所悦纳的乃是乐意的侍奉。我们所宣称的真理是如此无限的重要，以致能决定生灵的命运，我们在宣扬这真理时应当多么谨慎啊。{3T 64.2}[48]
§102
New fields are open in which all can test their calling by experimental effort in bringing souls out from darkness and error, and establishing them upon the platform of eternal truth. If Brother and Sister K feel that God has called them to engage in His work, they have enough to do to call sinners to repentance; but in order for God to work in and through them, they need a thorough conversion. The work of fitting a people in these last days for the coming of Christ, is a most sacred, solemn work, and calls for devoted, unselfish laborers. Those who have humility, faith, energy, perseverance, and decision will find plenty to do in their Masters vineyard. There are responsible duties to be performed, which require earnestness and the exertion of all their energies. It is willing service that God accepts. If the truth we profess is of such infinite importance as to decide the destiny of souls, how careful should we be in its presentation. {3T 64.2}[48]
§103
“义人的路好像黎明的光，越照越明，直到日午”（箴4:18）。K弟兄和K姐妹，要是你们曾行在那照在你们路上的光中，不断就近上帝，坚定地相信真理，并照着上帝所赐的亮光谦卑的行在祂面前，现在原会拥有那不可估量之价值的经验。要是你们善用了上帝借给你们的才干，你们原会在世上如明灯发光。然而，对于凡不行在光中之人，光就成了黑暗。为了像我们的先祖一样得蒙上帝的悦纳和祝福，我们必须象他们一样忠心。我们必须善用我们的亮光，象古时忠心的众先知善用他们的亮光一样。上帝乃是照着祂所赐予我们的恩典要求我们，不及祂的要求便不蒙祂悦纳。祂一切公义的要求必须完全得到满足。我们为了履行责任，务须立足于圣洁神圣真理的秩序与进步为我们所预备的那个高尚的基地。 {3T 64.3}[49]
§104
The path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. Brother and Sister K, had you walked in the light as it shone upon your pathway, had you been drawing nearer to God, steadfastly believing the truth and walking humbly before God in the light He has given, you would now have an experience that would be of inestimable value. Had you improved the talents lent you of God, you would have shone as lights in the world. But light becomes darkness to all those who will not walk in it. In order to be accepted and blessed of God as our fathers were, we must, like them, be faithful. We must improve our light as the ancient, faithful prophets improved theirs. God requires of us according to the grace that He has bestowed upon us, and He will not accept less than He claims. All His righteous demands must be fully met. In order for us to discharge our responsibilities, we must stand on that elevated ground which the order and advancement of holy, sacred truth has prepared for us. {3T 64.3}[49]
§105
L弟兄没能认识到上帝的真理使人心成圣的影响力。他不象他应该的那样忍耐、谦卑、宽容。他很容易被激动；自我便显出来，而且他不加充分的思考就说很多话做很多事。他没有时刻发挥一种救人的影响力。他若被基督的灵所充满，就能一手紧紧抓住大能的主，同时用信心与爱心的手接触可怜的罪人。L弟兄需要神圣慈爱的大能影响力；这种影响力会更新和净化人心、圣化生活、提升整个人，使之高尚。这样，他的言语与行为就会散发属天的气息，而非他自己的精神了。{3T 65.1}[50]
§106
Brother L fails to realize the sanctifying influence of the truth of God upon the heart. He is not as patient, humble, and forbearing as he should be. He is easily stirred; self arises, and he says and does many things without due reflection. He does not at all times exert a saving influence. If he were imbued with the Spirit of Christ, he could with one hand take hold of the Mighty One, while with the hand of faith and love he would reach the poor sinner. Brother L needs the powerful influence of divine love; for this will renew and refine the heart, sanctify the life, and elevate and ennoble the entire man. Then his words and works will savor of heaven rather than of his own spirit. {3T 65.1}[50]
§107
永生之道若撒在人心里，便会结出公义与和平的果子。我亲爱的弟兄啊，你必须克服自足自大的精神。你应当培养一种乐于受教听劝的精神。不论他人说什么，做什么，你都应当说: 那与我有什么相干？基督已吩咐我跟随祂。你应当培养一种温柔的精神。你需要经历真实的敬虔，你若没有这种经验，就不能聪明地从事上帝的圣工。你的灵必须藉着顺从基督的心意而软化折服。你应当时刻保持基督门徒谦卑的尊严。我们的举止，我们的言语和行动，都在向人讲话。我们乃是活的荐信，被众人所知道，所念诵。{3T 65.2}[51]
§108
If the words of eternal life are sown in the heart, fruit will be produced unto righteousness and peace. A spirit of self-sufficiency and self-importance must be overcome by you, my dear brother. You should cultivate a spirit that is willing to be instructed and counseled. Whatever others may say or do, you should say: What is that to me? Christ has bidden me follow Him. You should cultivate a spirit of meekness. You need an experience in genuine godliness, and unless you have this, you cannot engage in the work of God understandingly. Your spirit must soften and be subdued by being brought into obedience to the will of Christ. You should at all times maintain the lowly dignity of a follower of Jesus. Our deportment, our words and actions, preach to others. We are living epistles, known and read of all men. {3T 65.2}[51]
§109
你当小心，不可根据斗争或辩论来传扬真理，因为你若如此行，就必使斗争转向你自己，且会发现推进了敌人的事业而不是上帝的真理。你每次参加争辩都应出自责任感。你若以上帝为你的力量并制服自我，让真理夺取胜利，撒但的计谋和火箭就会落在他自己身上，你却要获得力量，远离错谬，防备一切假道。你需要培养谨慎，而不是凭着自己的力量鲁莽行事。这项工作是重要而神圣的，你需要极大的智慧。你也需要请教在这工作上颇有经验的弟兄。然而，最重要的是，你应该彻底认识自己的软弱和危险，且应加强你品格中的弱点，以便你的信心不致失败。{3T 66.1}[52]
§110
You should be careful not to preach the truth from strife or contention, for if you do you will most assuredly turn the battle against yourself and be found advancing the cause of the enemy rather than the truth of God. Every time that you engage in a contest it should be from a sense of duty. If you make God your strength and subdue yourself, and let the truth bear away the victory, the devices of Satan and his fiery darts will fall upon himself, and you will be strengthened, kept from error, and guarded from every false way. You need to cultivate caution and not rush on in your own strength. The work is important and sacred, and you need great wisdom. You should counsel with your brethren who have had experience in the work. But, above everything else, you should obtain a thorough knowledge of your own weakness and dangers, and should strengthen the weak points in your character, that you may not make shipwreck of faith. {3T 66.1}[52]
§111
我们正处在末后日子各样的危险之中，如果我们具有自负及自主的精神，那么我们就会暴露在撒但的诡计之中，且要被他制服。你必须除去自负自大的精神，且要隐藏在上帝里面，唯独靠赖祂得力量。众教会不需要你来做工。你若献身于上帝，就可以在新的园地做工，上帝也必与你同工。上帝必悦纳心灵与生活的纯洁。凡不及于此的事，祂都不重视。我们若要与基督同作王，就必须与祂同受苦难。{3T 66.2}[53]
§112
We are living amid the perils of the last days, and if we have a spirit of self-sufficiency and independence we shall be exposed to the wiles of Satan and be overcome. Self-importance must be put away from you, and you be hid in God, depending alone upon Him for strength. The churches do not need your labor. If you are consecrated to God, you can labor in new fields, and God will work with you. Purity of heart and life God will accept. Anything short of this, He will not regard. We must suffer with Christ if we would reign with Him. {3T 66.2}[53]
§113
倘若M弟兄在几年前就完全献给基督，他本可以成就善工。他并没有通过真理成圣；他的心向上帝不正。他将自己的才干埋藏在地里。当主人要求这些管家交账时，那些错用自己才干的人将如何回答呢？M弟兄一直没有尊荣上帝的圣工。与上帝的天意对抗并对几乎每件事不满乃是十分危险的，仿佛这些试探和毁灭我们的种种环境是特别安排的一样。那修剪炼净而使我们配进天国的工作，乃是一种伟大的工作，并要我们遭受许多的苦难和考验，因为我们的心意尚未顺服基督的心意。我们必须经过洪炉，直到烈火烧化渣滓，使我们成为纯洁，返照上帝的形像。凡顺从自己的癖性，并受外表支配的人，对于上帝的作为不会有良好的判断。他们充满了不平之念。他们看真的胜利为失败，以收获为重大的损失，象雅各一样，他们要喊叫说：“这些事都归到我身上了”（创42:36）。其实他们所抱怨的这些事，都是互相效力，叫他们得益处。{3T 66.3}[54]
§114
Brother M could have accomplished good if he had, years ago, given all for Christ. He has not been sanctified through the truth; his heart has not been right with God. He has hid his talent in the earth. What will he who has put his talents to a wrong use say when the Master shall require him to give account of his stewardship? Brother M has not been an honor to the cause of God. It is dangerous to contend with the providence of God and to be dissatisfied with almost everything, as though there had been a special arrangement of circumstances to tempt and destroy. The work of pruning and purifying to fit us for heaven is a great work and will cost us much suffering and trial, because our wills are not subjected to the will of Christ. We must go through the furnace till the fires have consumed the dross and we are purified and reflect the divine image. Those who follow their inclinations and are governed by appearances are not good judges of what God is doing. They are filled with discontent. They see failure where there is indeed triumph, a great loss where there is gain; and, like Jacob, they are ready to exclaim, All these things are against me, when the very things whereof they complain are all working together for their good. {3T 66.3}[54]
§115
没有十字架，就没有冠冕。人若不经磨难，怎能在主里刚强呢?我们必须操练，才能产生力量。要得坚强的信心，我们也当处于那操练我们信心的环境中。使徒保罗在殉道之前劝勉提摩太说：“总要按上帝的能力，与我们为福音同受苦难”（提后1:8）。我们要进入上帝的国，必须经历许多艰难。我们的救主曾受过种种可能的试炼，但祂靠着上帝而不断得胜。我们靠上帝的力量在无论何种环境之下刚强，并荣耀基督的十字架，这乃是我们的特权。{3T 67.1}[55]
§116
No cross, no crown. How can one be strong in the Lord without trials? To have strength we must have exercise. To have strong faith, we must be placed in circumstances where our faith will be exercised. The apostle Paul, just before his martyrdom, exhorted Timothy: Be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God. It is through much tribulation that we are to enter the kingdom of God. Our Saviour was tried in every possible way, and yet He triumphed in God continually. It is our privilege to be strong in the strength of God under all circumstances and to glory in the cross of Christ. - {3T 67.1}[55]