第11章 教会中间的工作
§1
第11章 教会中间的工作
§2
Chap. 11 - Labor Among the Churches
§3
1870年春天，在为巴特尔克里克教会所做的工作中，并非人人都按照那个重要时刻所需要的依赖上帝。R弟兄和S弟兄没有以上帝作为自己的倚靠，没有照着他们所应当的完全靠祂的力量和恩典行事。{3T 104.2}[1]
§4
In the work done for the church at Battle Creek in the spring of 1870, there was not all that dependence upon God that the important occasion demanded. Brethren R and S did not make God their trust, and move in His strength and with His grace, as fully as they should. {3T 104.2}[1]
§5
S弟兄在认为一个人犯了错误的时候，往往表现得过于严厉。他没有显示出在类似情况下他会对自己表现的同情和体谅。他还有很大的危险，在做人的思想工作时判断和行动失误。做人的思想工作，是交给人类的最美好，最重要的工作。从事这项工作的人，应当具有清晰的辨识力和良好的鉴别力。真正的独立思考与轻率鲁莽完全是两回事。不要轻易放弃那能带来谨慎，虔诚和成熟观念的独立精神，直到有足够的证据证明我们错了。这种独立的精神，会使我们的思想在流行的各种错误中保持镇静不变，还能引导身负重责之人细心考虑各方面的证据，不因别人的影响而动摇，不受环境左右，在没有全面了解情况时就匆匆下结论。{3T 104.3}[2]
§6
When Brother S thinks a person is wrong, he is frequently too severe. He fails to exercise that compassion and consideration that he would have shown toward himself under like circumstances. He is also in great danger of misjudging and erring in dealing with minds. It is the nicest and most critical work ever given to mortals, to deal with minds. Those who engage in this work should have clear discernment and good powers of discrimination. True independence of mind is an element entirely different from rashness. That quality of independence which leads to a cautious, prayerful, deliberate opinion should not be easily yielded, not until the evidence is sufficiently strong to make it certain that we are wrong. This independence will keep the mind calm and unchangeable amid the multitudinous errors which prevail, and will lead those in responsible positions to look carefully at the evidence on every side, and not be swayed by the influence of others, or by the surroundings, to form conclusions without intelligent, thorough knowledge of all the circumstances. {3T 104.3}[2]
§7
巴特尔克里克情况的调查很象律师盘问证人，显然没有上帝的灵在场。当时只有少数几个人在这事上团结一致、积极热心。有些人骄傲自负、自以为义。他们的证词得到采纳，他们的影响左右了R弟兄和S弟兄的判断。T和U两位姐妹，因为一些微不足道的缺点，竟被开除了教籍。R和S两位弟兄原应有辨别力和判断力，看出这些异议并不足以开除那两位姐妹。她们已信道多年，忠心遵守安息日也有十八到二十年的时间了。{3T 105.1}[3]
§8
The investigation of cases in Battle Creek was very much after the order in which a lawyer criticizes a witness, and there was a decided absence of the Spirit of God. There were a few united in this work who were active and zealous. Some were self-righteous and self-sufficient, and their testimonies were relied upon, and their influence swayed the judgment of Brethren R and S. Because of some trivial deficiency, Sisters T and U were not received as members of the church. Brethren R and S should have had judgment and discrimination to see that these objections were not of sufficient weight to keep these sisters out of the church. Both of them had been long in the faith and had been true to the observance of the Sabbath for eighteen or twenty years. {3T 105.1}[3]
§9
提出这些事情的V姐妹，她倒应该好好问问，为什么自己至今还能留在教会中呢？她难道没有罪吗？她的一切行为在上帝眼前尽都完全吗？她是否在忍耐，克己，温柔，宽容和心性宁静方面都完美无缺了呢？如果她没有普通妇女的那些弱点，她就可以先拿石头打别人。那些被开除的姐妹实在有资格继续留在教会中；她们是蒙上帝所爱的。然而她们却在没有充分理由的情况下受到了轻率的对待。S弟兄在处理其他一些人的情况时，既无属天的智慧又无健全的判断力。多年以来，S弟兄的判断力和辨别力已经被他妻子的影响扭曲了。她妻子是撒但最有效的一个工具。S弟兄若具有真正独立自主的精神，原会拥有适当的自尊，并用合宜的尊严建立自己的家庭。他在开始做一件旨在令家人肃然起敬的事情时，往往做过头，而且态度严厉，说话苛刻专横。过了一段时间，他意识到这一点时，又走向相反的极端，失去独立自信。{3T 105.2}[4]
§10
Sister V, who brought up these things, should have urged against herself more weighty reasons why she should not have become a member of the church. Was she without sin? Were all her ways perfect before God? Was she perfect in patience, self-denial, gentleness, forbearance, and calmness of temper? If she were without the weaknesses of common women, then she could cast the first stone. Those sisters who were left out of the church were worthy of a place in it; they were beloved of God. But they were dealt with unwisely, without sufficient cause. There were others whose cases were handled with no more heavenly wisdom and without even sound judgment. Brother Ss judgment and power of discrimination have been perverted for very many years through the influence of his wife, who has been a most effective medium of Satan. If he had possessed the genuine quality of independence he would have had proper self-respect and with becoming dignity would have built up his own house. When he has started upon a course designed to command respect in his family he has generally carried the matter too far and has been severe and has talked harshly and overbearingly. Becoming conscious of this after a time, he would then go to the opposite extreme and come down from his independence. {3T 105.2}[4]
§11
在这种心态下，他往往听信他妻子的一面之辞，放弃自己的判断，轻易被她的诡计所欺骗。她有时会装出受了很大委屈的样子，说她丈夫不在时，她忍受了多么大的困难，弟兄们如何忽略了她。她的谣言和欺骗极大地影响了她丈夫的思想。S弟兄没有完全接受主过去就他妻子赐给他的亮光，否则他就不会被她骗到如此地步了。S弟兄没有将自己的心灵和生命完全奉献给上帝，所以多次受他妻子的精神所束缚。他受煽动对自己的弟兄发怒，压制他们。他并没有将自我钉死。他应当力图诚恳地使自己的全部思想和感情都顺服于基督。信心和克己原可给S弟兄带来极大的帮助。如果他将上帝的全副盔甲穿戴在身，单单以上帝的圣灵和真理的力量作为自己的保护，他原会靠上帝的能力得以坚强。{3T 106.1}[5]
§12
In this state of mind he would receive reports from his wife, give up his judgment, and be easily deceived by her intrigues. She would sometimes feign to be a great sufferer and would relate what privations she had endured and what neglect from her brethren, in the absence of her husband. Her prevarications and cunning artifices to abuse the mind of her husband have been great. Brother S has not fully received the light which the Lord has given him in times past in regard to his wife or he would not have been deceived by her as he has been. He has been brought into bondage many times by her spirit because his own heart and life have not been fully consecrated to God. His feelings kindled against his brethren, and he oppressed them. Self has not been crucified. He should seek earnestly to bring all his thoughts and feelings into subjection to the obedience of Christ. Faith and self-denial would have been Brother Ss strong helpers. If he had girded on the whole armor of God and chosen no other defense than that which the Spirit of God and the power of truth gives him, he would have been strong in the strength of God. {3T 106.1}[5]
§13
S弟兄在许多事情上很软弱。如果上帝要他揭发和谴责一位邻居，责备和告戒一位弟兄，或是抵挡和毁灭他的仇敌，这对他来说相当简单自然。但是针对自我的斗争，制伏本心的欲望和情感，搜寻并约束内心隐秘的动机，却是更难打的仗。他是多么不愿意在这样的战斗上忠心啊！针对自我的战斗是有史以来最大的一场战争。自我的降伏，完全顺从上帝的旨意，以谦卑为衣，具有清洁、和平、温良柔顺，满有善果的爱心，不是轻易能达到的。可是他有特权和义务在这个战场上完全得胜。心灵必须顺服上帝，才能在知识和真圣洁上更新。基督圣洁的生活和品格是一个诚实可靠的榜样。祂对祂天父的信赖是无限无量的。祂的顺从和降服是毫无保留而完全的。祂来不是要受人的服侍，乃是要服侍人。祂来不是要按自己的意思行，乃是要按那差祂来者的意思行。祂在凡事上都顺从那位按公义判断的主。我们从世界的救主口中听到的话是：“我凭着自己不能做什么”（约5:30）。{3T 106.2}[6]
§14
But Brother S is weak in many things. If God required him to expose and condemn a neighbor, to reprove and correct a brother, or to resist and destroy his enemies, it would be to him a comparatively natural and easy work. But a warfare against self, subduing the desires and affections of his own heart, and searching out and controlling the secret motives of the heart, is a more difficult warfare. How unwilling is he to be faithful in such a contest as this! The warfare against self is the greatest battle that was ever fought. The yielding of self, surrendering all to the will of God and being clothed with humility, possessing that love that is pure, peaceable, and easy to be entreated, full of gentleness and good fruits, is not an easy attainment. And yet it is his privilege and his duty to be a perfect overcomer here. The soul must submit to God before it can be renewed in knowledge and true holiness. The holy life and character of Christ is a faithful example. His confidence in His heavenly Father was unlimited. His obedience and submission were unreserved and perfect. He came not to be ministered unto, but to minister to others. He came not to do His own will, but the will of Him that sent Him. In all things He submitted Himself to Him that judgeth righteously. From the lips of the Saviour of the world were heard these words: I can of Mine own self do nothing. {3T 106.2}[6]
§15
基督成为贫穷，在这世上默默无闻。祂常常又饥又渴，劳碌作工，疲惫不堪；却没有枕头的地方。当黑暗潮湿的夜幕降临时，祂经常以地为床。可是祂却祝福了那些憎恨祂的人。这是何等的人生！何等的经验！我们这些自称跟随基督的人，能够像我们的主一样，欢喜忍受贫穷痛苦而不发怨言吗？我们能喝那杯受那洗吗？若能，则我们必和祂在祂的国里同享荣耀；若不能，则我们必与祂无关无份。{3T 107.1}[7]
§16
He became poor, and made Himself of no reputation. He was hungry and frequently thirsty, and many times weary in His labors; but He had not where to lay His head. When the cold, damp shades of night gathered about Him, the earth was frequently His bed. Yet He blessed those who hated Him. What a life! what an experience! Can we, the professed followers of Christ, cheerfully endure privation and suffering as did our Lord, without murmuring? Can we drink of the cup and be baptized with the baptism? If so, we may share with Him His glory in His heavenly kingdom. If not, we shall have no part with Him. {3T 107.1}[7]
§17
S弟兄必须获得一种经验，若没有这种经验，他的工作只能给别人造成伤害。他太容易受别人的是非之言影响了；他习惯于根据自己头脑中的印象来作决定，他对待别人过于严厉，其实采取柔和的方法效果更好。他不记得自己的软弱，即便他真的错了，也难以接受别人置疑他的做法。当他判定一位弟兄或姐妹犯了错时，他就会立马追究这事和横加指责，尽管这样做既伤人、又害己。{3T 107.2}[8]
§18
Brother S has an experience to gain, without which his work will do positive injury. He is affected too much by what others tell him of the erring; he is apt to decide according to the impressions made upon his mind, and he deals with severity, when a milder course would be far better. He does not bear in mind his own weakness, and how hard it is for him to have his course questioned, even when he is wrong. When he decides that a brother or sister is wrong he is inclined to carry the matter through and press his censure, although in doing so he hurts his own soul and endangers the souls of others. {3T 107.2}[8]
§19
S弟兄躲避教会里的麻烦，一点儿不想解决难题。他有很宝贵的恩赐，是上帝的圣工所需要的。但是他应当远离不良的影响；那些影响利用他的同情心，混淆他的判断力，使他行事没有智慧。这是不应该也不必要的。他太少操练对于上帝的信心，太多关注自己肉体的软弱，并因思想自己可怜的感受而增强了不信之念。凡诚恳寻求真心相信的，上帝都有智慧和力量为他们存留。{3T 107.3}[9]
§20
Brother S should shun church trials and should have nothing to do in settling difficulties, if he can possibly avoid it. He has a valuable gift, which is needed in the work of God. But he should separate himself from influences which draw upon his sympathies, confuse his judgment, and lead him to move unwisely. This should not and need not be. He exercises too little faith in God. He dwells too much upon his bodily infirmities and strengthens unbelief by dwelling upon poor feelings. God has strength and wisdom in store for those who seek for it earnestly, in faith believing. {3T 107.3}[9]
§21
我蒙指示看到S弟兄在某些方面是一个刚强的人，但在另一些方面却软弱得像一个孩子。他对待犯错之人的方式发挥了同基督分散的影响。他对自己的办事能力颇为自负，觉得能把需要办的事处理好，但其实他看待事情的观点并不正确。他的努力中搀杂了太多自我的精神，而且没有明智的判断，却往往处事缺乏温柔。S弟兄在向人尽严格的本分时，经常把事情做得过分。“有些人你们要从火中抢出来，搭救他们；有些人你们要存惧怕的心怜悯他们，连那被情欲沾染的衣服也当厌恶”（犹23）。 {3T 108.1}[10]
§22
I was shown that Brother S is a strong man upon some points, while upon others he is as weak as a child. His course in dealing with the erring has had a scattering influence. He has confidence in his ability to labor in setting things in order where he thinks it is needed, but he does not view the matter aright. He weaves into his labors his own spirit, and he does not discriminate, but often deals without tenderness. There is such a thing as overdoing the matter in performing strict duty to individuals. And of some have compassion, making a difference: and others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh. {3T 108.1}[10]
§23
严肃的责任有一个孪生的姊妹，就是仁慈。如果将责任和仁慈结合起来，就必获得明显的效果。但是责任若与仁慈分离，慈爱若不与义务交融，就必遭遇失败，并造成许多伤害。人是不愿意被驱赶的。仁慈与爱心却能争取许多的人。S弟兄高举着福音的鞭子，他自己的话常常是那鞭子的响声。这并不能激发别人更大的热诚和善行，反倒会激起他们好斗的精神，抵制他的严厉。{3T 108.2}[11]
§24
Duty, stern duty, has a twin sister, which is kindness. If duty and kindness are blended, decided advantage will be gained; but if duty is separated from kindness, if tender love is not mingled with duty, there will be a failure, and much harm will be the result. Men and women will not be driven, but many can be won by kindness and love. Brother S has held aloft the gospel whip, and his own words have frequently been the snap to that whip. This has not had an influence to spur others to greater zeal and to provoke them to good works, but it has aroused their combativeness to repel his severity. {3T 108.2}[11]
§25
S弟兄若行在光中，就不会有这么多严重的失败了。“人在白日走路，就不至跌倒，因为看见这世上的光。若在黑夜走路，就必跌倒，因为他没有光”（约11:9,10）。顺从的道路乃是安全的道路。“行正直路的，步步安稳。”行在光中，“你就坦然行路，不至碰脚”（箴3:23）。人若不行在光中，他的信仰就是病态而发育不良的。S弟兄应当认识到行在光中的重要性，并立志将自我钉在十字架上。人被爱同胞的心所激励，作出诚恳的努力，才能加强心力，发扬恩典。{3T 108.3}[12]
§26
If Brother S had walked in the light, he would not have made so many serious failures. If any man walk in the day, he stumbleth not, because he seeth the light of this world. But if a man walk in the night, he stumbleth, because there is no light in him. The path of obedience is the path of safety. He that walketh uprightly walketh surely. Walk in the light, and then shalt thou walk in thy way safely, and thy foot shall not stumble. Those who do not walk in the light will have a sickly, stunted religion. Brother S should feel the importance of walking in the light, however crucifying to self. It is earnest effort, prompted by love for souls, which strengthens the heart and develops the graces. {3T 108.3}[12]
§27
我的弟兄，你生性独立自负。你高估了自己的能力，过于你的实际水平。你祈求主使你谦卑，使你可以胜任祂的工作，而当上帝应允你的祷告，将你放在完成目标所必要的训练之下时，你却常常产生疑惑和沮丧，觉得自己有理由灰心失望。当W弟兄对你提出警告并阻止你参与解决教会的难题时，你常常觉得他是在刁难你。{3T 109.1}[13]
§28
My brother, you are naturally independent and self-sufficient. You estimate your ability to do, more highly than it will bear. You pray for the Lord to humble you and fit you for His work, and when He answers your prayer and puts you under the course of discipline necessary for the accomplishment of the object, you frequently give way to doubts and despondency, and think you have reason for discouragement. When Brother W has cautioned and held you back from engaging in church difficulties, you have frequently felt that he was restraining you. {3T 109.1}[13]
§29
我蒙指示看到了你在爱荷华州的工作。你在同基督收聚时有明显的失败。你使那里人心涣散，思想混乱，赶散了可怜的羊群。你有热心，但却不是按着真知识。你的工作中没有爱心，而是充满了严厉。你为人既傲慢又苛刻。软弱的，你没有坚固；受伤的，你没有缠裹。你那不明智的严厉与苛刻将一些人赶出了上帝的羊圈，再也无法找到并寻回他们了。话语若说得合宜，就如金苹果在银网子里。话语说得不合适，其结果就相反。你所发挥的影响力就象使地荒凉的冰雹一样。{3T 109.2}[14]
§30
I was shown your labors in Iowa. There was a decided failure to gather with Christ. You distracted, confused, and scattered the poor sheep. You had a zeal, but it was not according to knowledge. Your labors were not in love, but in sternness and severity. You were exacting and overbearing. You did not strengthen the sick and bind up the lame. Your injudicious harshness pushed some out of the fold who can never be reached and brought back. Words fitly spoken are like apples of gold in pictures of silver. Words unfitly spoken are the reverse. Your influence will be like desolating hail. {3T 109.2}[14]
§31
当W弟兄警告、劝勉、责备你时，你感觉受到了限制，焦躁不安。你认为自己若能自由行事，必能成就一番又大又好的工作。然而，你妻子的影响力大大破坏了你的效能。你并没有管理好你自己的家；你并未能吩咐你的眷属效法你的榜样。你以为自己知道如何管理家事。但其实你在这件事上受了可怕的欺骗！你经常随心所欲，任意行事，其结果就是混乱和失望。这蒙蔽了你的辨识力，削弱了你的灵性，以致你的工作一直显出很大的缺欠。{3T 109.3}[15]
§32
You have felt restless under restraint when Brother W has cautioned, advised, and reproved you. You have thought that if you could be free and act yourself, you could do a good and great work. But your wifes influence has greatly injured your usefulness. You have not ruled well your own house; you have failed to command your household after you. You have thought that you understood how to manage your home matters. But how have you been deceived! You have too often followed the promptings of your own spirit, which has resulted in perplexities and discouragements, and these have clouded your discernment and weakened you spiritually so that your labors have been marked with great imperfection. {3T 109.3}[15]
§33
R和S两位弟兄在某地的工作是不成熟的。他们依仗自己过去的经验，其实那些经验有错误，不足以保障他们参加他们还没有资格去做的工作。有足够多的工作需要去做。某地是一个极难建立教会的地方。他们周围环绕着反对的势力。他们的每一举动都应当谨慎小心，多多祷告，深思熟虑。{3T 110.1}[16]
§34
The labors of Brethren R and S in ----- were premature. These brethren had their past experience with its mistakes before them, which should have been sufficient to guard them from engaging in a work that they were not qualified to perform. There was enough that needed to be done. It was a hard place in which to raise up a church. Opposing influences surrounded them. Every move made should have been with due caution and prayerful consideration. {3T 110.1}[16]
§35
这两位弟兄经常因不明智的举动而受到警告和责备，其实他们不该担负现在所负的责任。如果他们能到新的园地去作工，则上帝在某地的圣工就必好得多了。像其它罪恶的城市一样，某地也设有撒但的座位，他是一个狡猾的仇敌，需要对付。某地遵守安息日的信徒中有制造混乱的人，阻碍那里的圣工。说话有时，行动有时，善用金子般的机会，将会给你们的努力带来最佳的效果。{3T 110.2}[17]
§36
These two brethren had been warned and reproved repeatedly for moving injudiciously, and they should not have taken the responsibilities upon themselves that they did. Oh, how much better would it have been for the cause of God in _____ had they been laboring in new fields! Satans seat is in -----, as well as in other wicked cities, and he is a wily foe to contend with. There were disorderly elements among the Sabbathkeepers in ----- that were hindrances to the cause. But there is a proper time to speak and act, a golden opportunity which will show the best results of labor put forth. {3T 110.2}[17]
§37
一些事情，先别去触及，容其发育成熟，如此，那些不守规矩、也未献身之人原可分别出来，教会中反对的团体也就不复存在了。倘若可能，要尽力挽救这些人。教会可以忍受诸多烦恼的事，操练更大的忍耐，这比匆忙驱赶，激起好斗的精神要好得多了。那些真正热爱真理之人，应当为了真理的缘故，寻求上帝的荣耀，并让真理的光辉照耀在所有人面前。{3T 110.3}[18]
§38
If things had been left to more fully develop before they were touched, there would have been a separation of the disorderly, unconsecrated ones, and there would not have been an opposition party. This should ever be saved if possible. The church might better suffer much annoyance, and exercise the more patience, than to get in a hurry, drive matters, and provoke a combative spirit. Those who really loved the truth for the truths sake should have pursued their course with the glory of God in view and let the light of truth shine out before all. {3T 110.3}[18]
§39
他们担心教会中存在的混乱和不满因素会给自己带来麻烦。撒但决不会坐视不理，眼睁睁看着某地建立起一个教会，维护真理，并驱散错谬和诡辩。他必要忿怒如狂，发动战争，攻击那些守上帝诫命和有耶稣见证的人。但这却不会使真正的信徒失去忍耐或勇气。这些事情只能令真正的信徒更加警醒、祷告，对那些在永恒的事上犯了大错的人更加温柔、怜悯、充满爱心。基督一直容忍我们的过错、忘恩负义、和微弱的爱心，我们也应容忍那些使我们的耐心受考验的人。耶稣克己牺牲，难道跟随祂的人不像他们主吗？基督徒应当有仁慈忍耐的心。{3T 110.4}[19]
§40
They might expect that the elements of confusion and dissatisfaction among them would make them trouble. Satan would not remain quiet and see a company raised up in ----- to vindicate truth and to dispel sophistry and error. His ire would be kindled, and he would institute a war against those who keep the commandments of God and have the testimony of Jesus. But this should not have made the faithful believers impatient or discouraged. These things should have had an influence to make the true believer more guarded, watchful, and prayerful--more tender, pitiful, and loving to those who were making so great a mistake in regard to eternal things. As Christ has borne, and continues to bear, with our errors, our ingratitude, and our feeble love, so should we bear with those who test and try our patience. Shall the followers of the self-denying, self-sacrificing Jesus be unlike their Lord? Christians should have hearts of kindness and forbearance. {3T 110.4}[19]
§41
【播撒福音种子的人】
§42
基督对祂的听众所讲撒种的比喻，包含着我们应当学习的教训。那些传扬现代真理并播撒好种子的人，将会收获与播撒福音种子的人相同的结果。各个阶层都会或多或少被这率直的、使人信服的真理所影响。有些人会成为路旁的听众。他们会受所讲的真理影响；但他们却没有培养道德力，他们随从自己的欲望，没有尽自己的本分。种种恶习使他们的心刚硬，直到他们变得如同坚硬的道路。这些人或许宣称自己相信真理；但他们对真理的神圣崇高性质却没有正确的认识。他们没有与爱慕享乐之人断绝友谊，也没有与腐败的社会隔绝；他们置身于不断受到试探的境地，完全可以用没有篱笆的园地来代表。他们自邀仇敌的试探，终于丧失了好种撒入他们心中时对真理似乎拥有的尊重。{3T 111.1}[20]
§43
【The Gospel Sower】
§44
The parable of the gospel sower, which Christ presented before His hearers, contains a lesson that we should study. Those who preach present truth and scatter the good seed will realize the same results as the gospel sower. All classes will be affected more or less by the presentation of pointed and convincing truth. Some will be wayside hearers. They will be affected by the truths spoken; but they have not cultivated the moral powers, they have followed inclination rather than duty, and evil habits have hardened their hearts until they have become like the hard, beaten road. These may profess to believe the truth; but they will have no just sense of its sacred, elevated character. They do not separate from the friendship of the lovers of pleasure and corrupt society; but they place themselves where they are constantly tempted, and may well be represented by the unfenced field. They invite the temptations of the enemy and finally lose the regard they seemed to have for the truth when the good seed was dropped into their hearts. {3T 111.1}[20]
§45
有些人是土浅石头地的听众，他们随时准备接受任何新鲜及令人兴奋的事物。他们欢喜领受真理的道，热切地谈论自己的信仰与盼望，甚至会谴责那些长久以来有某种明显缺陷或缺乏热心的人。然而，当他们经受磨练与试探的热潮考验之时，当上帝修剪的刀临到他们，以便使他们结出完全的果实时，他们的热心就消失了，他们的声音也沉寂了。他们就不再吹嘘真理的力量与大能了。{3T 111.2}[21]
§46
Some are stony-ground hearers. They readily receive anything new and exciting. The word of truth they receive with joy. They talk earnestly, with ardor and zeal, in reference to their faith and hope, and may even administer reproof to those of long experience for some apparent deficiency or for their lack of enthusiasm. But when they are tested and proved by the heat of trial and temptation, when the pruning knife of God is applied, that they may bring forth fruit unto perfection, their zeal dies, their voices are silent. No longer do they boast in the strength and power of truth. {3T 111.2}[21]
§47
这等人乃是被感觉所控制。他们没有深刻而稳固的品格。原则没有在他们里面深深扎根，作为引发行动的基础。他们口头上高举真理，却没有实行真理。真理的种子没有深深扎根。他们的内心没有被上帝圣灵改变人心的影响力更新。当真理呼召做工的男女时，当呼召他们为了真理做出牺牲时，他们却不知去向了；当考验和逼迫来临时，他们就跌倒了，因为他们没有根。清晰、率直、严谨的真理进入人心并显明品格的瑕疵。有些人不愿承受这个考验，却常常闭眼不看自己的缺点；尽管良心告诉他们，上帝使者说的这些话将对他们基督徒的品格产生积极作用，这些见证是真实的，然而他们仍不愿听从这声音。他们因这信息而动怒，没有因真理而成圣，反倒放弃了真理。他们谄媚自己说，可以通过一条更容易的路进入天国。{3T 112.1}[22]
§48
This class are controlled by feeling. They have not depth and stability of character. Principle does not reach down deep, underlying the springs of action. They have in word exalted the truth, but are not doers of it. The seed of truth has not rooted down below the surface. The heart has not been renewed by the transforming influence of the Spirit of God. And when the truth calls for working men and women, when sacrifices have to be made for the truths sake, they are somewhere else; and when trials and persecution come, they fall away because they have no depth of earth. The truth, plain, pointed, and close, is brought to bear upon the heart and reveals the deformity of character. Some will not bear this test, but frequently close their eyes to their imperfections; although their consciences tell them that the words spoken by the messengers of God, which bear so closely upon their Christian characters, are truth, yet they will not listen to the voice. They are offended because of the word and yield the truth rather than submit to be sanctified through it. They flatter themselves that they may get to heaven an easier way. {3T 112.1}[22]
§49
这个比喻中还有一等人。世人听了道，被真理折服，加以接受，却未看清自己内心的罪恶。贪爱世界在他们的情感中占据着最重要的位置。他们在交易中精明算计，斤斤计较。他们为获利益，闪烁其辞，行诡诈，好欺骗，然而所得之财对他们来说不过是扎手的荆棘。因为不义之财必定压倒他们良好的动机和意图。那撒在他们心中的好种子被挤住了。他们心中时常充满挂虑和焦急，患得患失，担心到手之财如飞而去。他们将暂时之事摆在首位。他们并未给那撒在心中的好种施肥浇水。聚会可使他们的心灵因宗教的特权变得坚固，然而他们不去参加。他们担心因为聚会而在属世之事上遭受损失。钱财的迷惑引诱他们自以为竭尽全力劳碌求财也是一项责任，好使他们可以资助上帝的圣工。然而，他们属世的财富越多，他们的心越不愿与之分离，直到他们的心灵彻底转离他们所爱慕的真理。因为不必要的世俗挂虑和无谓的焦急，因为贪爱世界上的财宝及其所赋予的尊荣，那撒在他们心田里的好种子被挤死了。{3T 112.2}[23]
§50
Still another class is represented in the parable. Men and women who listen to the word are convinced of the truth and accept it without seeing the sinfulness of their hearts. The love of the world holds a large place in their affections. In deal they love to get the best of the bargain. They prevaricate, and by deception and fraud gain means which will ever prove as a thorn to them; for it will overbalance their good purposes and intentions. The good seed sown in their hearts is choked. Frequently they are so full of care and anxiety, fearing that they will not gain means, or that they will lose what they have gained, that they make their temporal matters primary. They do not nourish the good seed. They do not attend meetings where their hearts can be strengthened by religious privileges. They fear that they will meet with some loss in temporal things. The deceitfulness of riches leads them to flatter themselves that it is duty to toil and gain all they can, that they may help the cause of God; and yet the more they increase their earthly riches the less are their hearts inclined to part with their treasure, until their hearts are fully turned from the truth they loved. The good seed is choked because overgrown with unnecessary worldly cares and needless anxiety--with love for the worldly pleasures and honors which riches give. {3T 112.2}[23]
§51
【麦子与稗子】
§52
耶稣向门徒又说一个比喻，把天国比作人撒好种在田里，到人睡觉的时候，有仇敌来，将稗子撒在麦子里，后来田主的仆人来问说：“主啊，你不是撒好种在田里么？从哪里来的稗子呢？主人说，这是仇敌作的。仆人说，你要我们去薅出来么？主人说，不必，恐怕薅稗子，连麦子也拔出来。容这两样一齐长，等着收割；当收割的时候，我要对收割的人说，先将稗子薅出来，捆成捆，留着烧；惟有麦子，要收在仓里”（太13:27-30）。如果人始终保持忠心警醒，没有睡觉及疏忽，仇敌就不会有那么顺利的机会，去把稗子撒在麦子里了。撒但是从不睡觉的。他是警醒的，善用每一机会打发他的爪牙去散布异端，在许多尚未成圣之人的心中找到了好土。{3T 113.1}[24]
§53
【The Wheat and Tares】
§54
In another parable which Jesus presented to His disciples, He likened the kingdom of heaven to a field wherein a man sowed good seed, but in which, while he was sleeping, the enemy sowed tares. The question was asked the householder: Didst not thou sow good seed in thy field? from whence then hath it tares? He said unto them, An enemy hath done this. The servants said unto him, Wilt thou then that we go and gather them up? But he said, Nay; lest while ye gather up the tares, ye root up also the wheat with them. Let both grow together until the harvest: and in the time of harvest I will say to the reapers, Gather ye together first the tares, and bind them in bundles to burn them: but gather the wheat into my barn. If faithfulness and vigilance had been preserved, if there had been no sleeping or negligence upon the part of any, the enemy would not have had so favorable an opportunity to sow tares among the wheat. Satan never sleeps. He is watching, and he improves every opportunity to set his agents to scatter error, which finds good soil in many unsanctified hearts. {3T 113.1}[24]
§55
许多诚心相信真理的人，因中间有人使他们烦恼，灰心和失望就非常忧愁；他们的磨难和悲伤大大增加了。然而主教训祂的仆人，一切行动要十分谨慎。祂说：“容这两样一齐长。”不要勉强用力把稗子拔出，免得在拔之时，连宝贵的麦子也摇动了。传道人和教会信徒都应很小心，免得产生一种不是按着真知识的热心。费太多的功夫去解决教会中的困难是有危险的；其实若听其自然，这些困难往往会自息自灭。任何教会若在时机未成熟之时，太早办理这些事，乃是下策。我们应当以最大的谨慎，忍耐及自制，来应付这些事，切不可本着自己的精神，贸然处理这些事，使其就序。{3T 113.2}[25]
§56
The sincere believers of truth are made sad, and their trials and sorrows greatly increased, by the elements among them which annoy, dishearten, and discourage them in their efforts. But the Lord would teach His servants a lesson of great carefulness in all their moves. Let both grow together. Do not forcibly pull up the tares, lest in rooting them up the precious blades will become loosened. Both ministers and church members should be very cautious, lest they get a zeal not according to knowledge. There is danger of doing too much to cure difficulties in the church, which, if let alone, will frequently work their own cure. It is bad policy to take hold of matters in any church prematurely. We shall have to exercise the greatest care, patience, and self-control to bear these things and not go to work in our own spirit to set them in order. {3T 113.2}[25]
§57
某地所做的工是不成熟的，造成了那个小教会不合时宜的分裂。如果上帝的仆人们明白救主麦子与稗子比喻的意义，他们就不会那样做了。在将信徒除名时，即使所采取的各项步骤，连最不配作信徒的人也无微辞可怨，我们仍当先为这事作最谨慎的考虑和恳切的祷告。某地所采取的步骤，引起了一个反对派。有些人是路旁的听众，有些人是石头地的听众，还有些人虽接受了真理，但是心中长着荆棘，把好种挤住了；这等人决不会使基督徒的品格美满完备。但其中有少数的人，也许可得滋养与力量，可在真理中坚固建立。然而R及S两位弟兄所取的立场，却过早引发了一场危机，其后在处理这场纷争时，也缺乏聪明和判断力。{3T 114.1}[26]
§58
The work done in ----- was premature and caused an untimely separation in that little church. If the servants of God could have felt the force of our Saviours lesson in the parable of the wheat and tares, they would not have undertaken the work they did. Before steps are taken which will give even those who are utterly unworthy the least occasion to complain of being separated from the church, the matter should always be made a subject of the most careful consideration and earnest prayer. Steps were taken in ----- which created an opposition party. Some were wayside hearers, others were stony-ground hearers, and still others were of that class who received the truth while the heart had a growth of thorns which choked the good seed--these would never have perfected Christian characters. But there were a few who might have been nourished and strengthened, and have become settled and established in the truth. But the positions taken by Brethren R and S brought a premature crisis, and then there was a lack of wisdom and judgment in managing the faction. {3T 114.1}[26]
§59
有人应该开除出教会，象撒但该被逐出天庭那样，但仍有同情他们的人。总有一等人容易受某些个人的影响，过于受上帝之灵及纯正原则的影响。这些人在未献身的情况下，常常会站在犯罪作错的人一边，对那最不配的人表示同情和怜惜。这些同情者，在别人的身上有很强的影响；他们的看法错谬，酿成了大害，败坏了多人。撒但叛逆之时，曾得了三分之一天使的拥护。这些天使反叛了圣父和圣子，与叛逆的策动者合作。既有了这些事实摆在我们的面前，我们的行动就应当极其小心。我们与那些个性倔强的男女结交，除了磨难及困惑之外，还能希望得到什么呢？我们必须忍受这事，极力避免那必要拔除稗子之举，免得把麦子也拔出来了。{3T 114.2}[27]
§60
If persons are as deserving of being separated from the church as Satan was of being cast out of heaven, they will have sympathizers. There is always a class who are more influenced by individuals than they are by the Spirit of God and sound principles; and, in their unconsecrated state, these are ever ready to take sides with the wrong and give their pity and sympathy to the very ones who least deserve it. These sympathizers have a powerful influence with others; things are seen in a perverted light, great harm is done, and many souls are ruined. Satan in his rebellion took a third part of the angels. They turned from the Father and from His Son, and united with the instigator of rebellion. With these facts before us we should move with the greatest caution. What can we expect but trial and perplexity in our connection with men and women of peculiar minds? We must bear this and avoid the necessity of rooting up the tares, lest the wheat be rooted up also. {3T 114.2}[27]
§61
基督说：“在世上你们有苦难，”但你们在我里面有平安。基督徒所受的忧患，逆境及辱骂等苦难，都是上帝指定使糠秕与麦子分开的方法。我们的骄傲，自私，恶欲，及贪爱世俗欢乐之心都必须予以制服；因此上帝便打发苦难来试验我们，使我们知道在自己的品格中有这些弊病。我们应当靠着主的恩典及能力得胜，脱离世上从情欲来的败坏，与上帝的性情有分。保罗说：“我们这至暂至轻的苦楚，要为我们成就极重无比永远的荣耀。原来我们不是顾念所见的，乃是顾念所不见的； 因为所见的是暂时的，所不见的是永远的”（林后4:17-18）。苦楚，艰难，试探，逆境，及各种的磨练，都是上帝的工匠，要修炼我们，圣化我们，并使我们配被收进天仓。{3T 115.1}[28]
§62
In the world ye shall have tribulation, says Christ; but in Me ye shall have peace. The trials to which Christians are subjected in sorrow, adversity, and reproach are the means appointed of God to separate the chaff from the wheat. Our pride, selfishness, evil passions, and love of worldly pleasure must all be overcome; therefore God sends us afflictions to test and prove us, and show us that these evils exist in our characters. We must overcome through His strength and grace, that we may be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. For our light affliction, says Paul, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; while we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal. Afflictions, crosses, temptations, adversity, and our varied trials are Gods workmen to refine us, sanctify us, and fit us for the heavenly garner. {3T 115.1}[28]
§63
过早的行动使真理的事业所蒙受的祸害，是无法完全恢复的。在某地的上帝圣工，并没有达到应有的进展，也不会比此举之前更博得人的同情。我们之中往往有些人对正义一方毫无影响。他们的人生似乎是无用的；但若听凭他们变得叛逆好斗，他们就会成为撒但的热心工人；因为这种工作更顺乎他们天性的感情。现今极其需要自省和私祷。上帝已经应许赐智慧给凡求告祂的人。往往有一些尚未预备好的人参加了传道的工作，他们培养了外表的热心，却忽略了私下的祷告。何时有了这种情形，就会酿成大害，因为这等工人只想用自己的尺度去纠正别人的良心。自制的工作是极其需要的。急躁的话语会鼓动起纷争。S弟兄的危险就是放肆其尖刻批评人的精神。这是与仁义的差役不适宜的。{3T 115.2}[29]
§64
The harm done to the cause of truth by premature moves can never be fully repaired. The cause of God in ----- has not advanced as it might, and will not stand in as favorable a light before the people as before this work was done. There are frequently persons among us whose influence seems to be but a cipher on the right side. Their lives seem to be useless; but let them become rebellious and combative, and they become zealous workmen for Satan. This work is more in accordance with the feelings of the natural heart. There is great need of self-examination and secret prayer. God has promised wisdom to those who ask Him. Missionary labor is frequently entered upon by those unprepared for the work. Outward zeal is cultivated, while secret prayer is neglected. When this is the case, much harm is done, for these laborers seek to regulate the consciences of others by their own rule. Self-control is much needed. Hasty words stir up strife. Brother S is in danger of indulging a spirit of sharp criticism. This does not become ministers of righteousness. {3T 115.2}[29]
§65
S弟兄啊，你有许多事情要学习。你总是将自己的失败和灰心归咎于W弟兄；但若仔细检查你的动机和行为，就会发现你自己也存有其他引起这些灰心的原因。你随从自己天性的倾向，就使你受了束缚。你有时所放纵严厉责备人的脾气，削弱了你的感化力。我的弟兄啊，你有一番自己当作之工，是别人不能代替你做的。每个人都应当向上帝负责交账。祂已赐我们律法当作镜子，从中可看出及发现我们品格上的缺欠。我们照镜子的目的，不是要看邻舍有什么过错反映出来，也不是要查看他是否达到标准，而是要看在我们自己里面有什么缺欠，以便消除之。我们所需要的，不完全是知识；我们必须顺从那亮光。我们不可自行选择，合我们心意者顺从之，与我们不便利者背弃之。顺从是胜过献祭。{3T 116.1}[30]
§66
Brother S, you have much to learn. You have been inclined to charge your failures and your discouragements to Brother W, but close investigation of your motives and of your course of action would reveal other causes which exist in yourself for these discouragements. Following the inclinations of your own natural heart brings you into bondage. The severe, torturing spirit in which you sometimes indulge cuts off your influence. My brother, you have a work to do for yourself which no other person can do for you. Each must give an account of himself to God. He has given us His law as a mirror into which we may look and discover the defects in our characters. We are not to look into this mirror for the purpose of seeing our neighbors faults reflected, of watching to see if he comes up to the standard, but to see the defects in ourselves, that we may remove them. Knowledge is not all that we need; we must follow the light. We are not left to choose for ourselves and to obey that which is agreeable to us and to disobey when it best suits our convenience. Obedience is better than sacrifice. - {3T 116.1}[30]