第07章 与基督同工
§1
第07章 与基督同工
§2
Chap. 7 - Co-Workers with Christ
§3
1874的帐棚聚会期间和之后是一个重要时期。那次若有一个舒适宽畅的敬拜场所，接受真理的人数就会是实际所得人数的两倍以上。上帝与我们同工。我们或许因为疏忽和自私，而封闭了罪人得救之路；我们应当极其殷勤，去设法拯救那些虽有错误而仍注意真理的人。基督服务之工需要英明的将领，正如保护人民生命和自由的军队需要英明的将领一样。在救灵的工作上，并非人人都能作得合情合理。我们需要多多周密的思考。我们不可随意参加圣工而指望成功。主所需要的，是有头脑有思想的人。耶稣呼召同工，而不是轻率粗心的人。上帝需要睿智而思想健全的人，来参加救灵的大工。{4T 67.1}[1]
§4
It was an important time for ----- during and after the tent meeting in 1874. Had there been a pleasant and commodious house of worship there, more than double the number that were really gained would have taken their stand for the truth. God works with our efforts. We may close the way for sinners by our negligence and selfishness. There should have been great diligence in seeking to save those who were still in error, yet interested in the truth. Just as wise generalship is needed in the service of Christ as is needed over the battalions of an army that protects the life and liberty of the people. It is not everyone who can labor judiciously for the salvation of souls. There is much close thinking to be done. We must not enter into the Lords work haphazard and expect success. The Lord needs men of mind, men of thought. Jesus calls for co-workers, not blunderers. God wants right-thinking and intelligent men to do the great work necessary to the salvation of souls. {4T 67.1}[1]
§5
工匠，律师，商人，以及各行各业的人，都需要训练自己通晓其专业。难道基督门徒在号称参加圣工之时，却可以缺少智慧，不懂作工所应使用的方法吗？这种获得永生的事业，是超乎一切属世挂虑的。为要引人归向耶稣，我们必须认识人性，研究人心。若要知道如何在真理大道上接近男女，就要多多认真思考，诚恳祈祷。{4T 67.2}[2]
§6
Mechanics, lawyers, merchants, men of all trades and professions, educate themselves that they may become masters of their business. Should the followers of Christ be less intelligent, and while professedly engaged in His service be ignorant of the ways and means to be employed? The enterprise of gaining everlasting life is above every earthly consideration. In order to lead souls to Jesus there must be a knowledge of human nature and a study of the human mind. Much careful thought and fervent prayer are required to know how to approach men and women upon the great subject of truth. {4T 67.2}[2]
§7
有些冒失，冲动，然而诚实的人，听了一篇犀利的讲道之后，就去向那些与我们立场不同的人讲论，但因其态度唐突，就使我们希望他们接受的真理成为可厌的了。“今世之子，在世事之上，较比光明之子，更加聪明”（路16:8）。商人和政治家研究礼貌之道。他们的方针，就是使自己越能动人越好。他们研究自己的措辞及态度，以便能在四围的人身上发挥最大的感化力。他们为要达到此目的，便尽力巧妙地运用其知识和才能。{4T 68.1}[3]
§8
Some rash, impulsive, yet honest souls, after a pointed discourse has been given, will accost those who are not with us in a very abrupt manner, and make the truth, which we desire them to receive, repulsive to them. The children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. Business men and politicians study courtesy. It is their policy to make themselves as attractive as possible. They study to render their address and manners such that they may have the greatest influence over the minds of those about them. They use their knowledge and abilities as skillfully as possible in order to gain this object. {4T 68.1}[3]
§9
自称为基督信徒的人，带来了大量垃圾，堵塞了十字架的道路。虽然如此，仍是有人十分深信：他们必通过每一灰心绝望之境，超越每一道障碍之物，以便获得真理。然而若是相信真理的人借着顺从真理洁净了自己的心，若是他们感到在基督的工作中，知识及文雅的态度是何等的重要，那么，在只有一人得救之处，就会有二十人得救了。{4T 68.2}[4]
§10
There is a vast amount of rubbish brought forward by professed believers in Christ, which blocks up the way to the cross. Notwithstanding all this, there are some who are so deeply convicted that they will come through every discouragement and will surmount every obstacle in order to gain the truth. But had the believers in the truth purified their minds by obeying it, had they felt the importance of knowledge and of refinement of manners in Christs work, where one soul has been saved there might have been twenty. {4T 68.2}[4]
§11
人接受真理以后需要得到关照。许多传道人在工作取得一定的成效时，热情似乎就减退了。他们没有认识到这些新信徒需要照顾，儆醒守望，帮助和鼓励。不要把他们独自撇下，成为撒但最强烈试探的猎物；应当教导他们明白自己的责任，仁慈地对待他们，引导他们，探访他们，同他们祷告。要按时分粮给每一个这样的人。{4T 68.3}[5]
§12
Again, after individuals have been converted to the truth, they need to be looked after. The zeal of many ministers seems to fail as soon as a measure of success attends their efforts. They do not realize that these newly converted ones need nursing--watchful attention, help, and encouragement. These should not be left alone, a prey to Satans most powerful temptations; they need to be educated in regard to their duties, to be kindly dealt with, to be led along, and to be visited and prayed with. These souls need the meat apportioned to every man in due season. {4T 68.3}[5]
§13
撒但正在追踪所有的人。他派遣他的爪牙去招集他所失去的人归队。难怪有些人变得灰心，徘徊途中，沦为豺狼的掠物。应当有更多的父母用心照料这些在真理中的婴儿，鼓励他们，为他们祷告，使他们的信仰不至于混乱。{4T 68.4}[6]
§14
No wonder that some become discouraged, linger by the way, and are left for wolves to devour. Satan is upon the track of all. He sends his agents forth to gather back to his ranks the souls he has lost. There should be more fathers and mothers to take these babes in the truth to their hearts, and to encourage them and pray for them, that their faith be not confused. {4T 68.4}[6]
§15
讲道只是救灵工作的一小部分而已。上帝的灵使罪人信服真理，把他们交在教会的手中。传道人可以尽自己的本分，但决不能代替信徒的工作。上帝要信徒们照顾那些在信仰和经验上尚幼稚的人，探访他们，不是去同他们闲谈，而是与他们祷告，对他们说合适的话，“就如同金苹果在银网子里”（箴25:11）。{4T 69.1}[7]
§16
Preaching is a small part of the work to be done for the salvation of souls. Gods Spirit convicts sinners of the truth, and He places them in the arms of the church. The ministers may do their part, but they can never perform the work that the church should do. God requires His church to nurse those who are young in faith and experience, to go to them, not for the purpose of gossiping with them, but to pray, to speak unto them words that are like apples of gold in pictures of silver. {4T 69.1}[7]
§17
我们都需要研究人的品格和态度，以便了解如何聪明地对付各种人的思想，用最好的方法帮助他们正确地理解圣经，过真正基督徒的生活。我们应同他们查经，引导他们的思想离开暂时的事物，去注意他们永恒的福利。上帝的儿女有责任为祂作传道工作，结识需要帮助的人。如果有人在试探之下摇动，就要小心对待，聪明地处理，因为他永恒的福利正处于生死攸关之际。为他服务之人的言行，对于他来说，要么是活的香气叫他活，要么是死的香气叫他死。{4T 69.2}[8]
§18
We all need to study character and manner that we may know how to deal judiciously with different minds, that we may use our best endeavors to help them to a correct understanding of the word of God and to a true Christian life. We should read the Bible with them, and draw their minds away from temporal things to their eternal interests. It is the duty of Gods children to be missionaries for Him, to become acquainted with those who need help. If one is staggering under temptation, his case should be taken up carefully and managed wisely; for his eternal interest is at stake, and the words and acts of those laboring for him may be a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death. {4T 69.2}[8]
§19
有时情况表明需要虔心研究。必须向人指明其真实品格，使他明白自己的性情和脾气，看出自己的软弱。应当审慎合理地对待他。若是藉着聪明忍耐的工作可以接近他，感动他的心，就可用坚韧的绳索将他与基督连在一起，引导他信靠上帝。何时作成了这样的工作，全天庭都要看见而欢欣鼓舞，因为一个宝贵的生灵已从撒但的网罗中救出而免死得生了！这样为救人而聪明地作工，难道不是值得的吗？基督已经为他们付上了自己的生命为赎价，祂的门徒岂可说：“我岂是看守我兄弟的吗”（创4:9）？我们难道不该与主协力同心作工吗？我们难道不重视救主所代死之人的价值吗？{4T 69.3}[9]
§20
Sometimes a case presents itself that should be made a prayerful study. The person must be shown his true character, understand his own peculiarities of disposition and temperament, and see his infirmities. He should be judiciously handled. If he can be reached, if his heart can be touched by this wise and patient labor, he can be bound with strong cords to Christ and led to trust in God. Oh, when a work like this is done, all the heavenly courts look and rejoice; for a precious soul has been rescued from Satans snare and saved from death! Oh, will it not pay to work intelligently for the salvation of souls? Christ paid the price of His own life for them, and shall His followers ask: Am I my brothers keeper? Shall we not work in unison with the Master? Shall we not appreciate the worth of souls for whom our Saviour died? {4T 69.3}[9]
§21
教会虽为使儿童慕道作了一些工夫，但还不够。我们的安息日学应当办得更有趣味。近几年来，各公立学校大大改良教学的方法。他们利用实物，图画，以及黑板等，使幼年的头脑可以明白艰深的功课。利用这样的方法也可使真理简明易懂，令儿童活跃的脑筋感兴趣。{4T 69.4}[10]
§22
Some efforts have been made to interest children in the cause, but not enough. Our Sabbath schools should be made more interesting. The public schools have of late years greatly improved their methods of teaching. Object lessons, pictures, and blackboards are used to make difficult lessons clear to the youthful mind. Just so may present truth be simplified and made intensely interesting to the active minds of the children. {4T 69.4}[10]
§23
有些父母在用别种方法不能接近之时，往往藉着他们的子女便可接近。安息日学的教员可以教导儿童真理，儿童又可将真理传进他们的家庭圈内。然而似乎很少的教员明白这项工作的重要。在公立学校中所用的有效教学法，也可在安息日学中收到同样的果效，引导儿童归向耶稣，教导他们圣经真理。这种工作远比一场来也匆匆去也匆匆的情绪性宗教奋兴会要好得多。{4T 70.1}[11]
§24
Parents who can be approached in no other way are frequently reached through their children. Sabbath school teachers can instruct the children in the truth, and they will, in turn, take it into the home circle. But few teachers seem to understand the importance of this branch of the work. The modes of teaching which have been adopted with such success in the public schools could be employed with similar results in the Sabbath schools and be the means of bringing children to Jesus and educating them in Bible truth. This will do far more good than religious excitement of an emotional character, that passes off as rapidly as it comes. {4T 70.1}[11]
§25
我们的心中应存有基督之爱，对于我们所认为基督复临之前应该作成的工作，需要有更多的信心。我们应该在正确的方向上，有更克己更自我牺牲的努力。应当多多思想及虔诚研究怎样使工作最有效验。应当完成缜密的计划。我们之中有些人的心思，只要肯加以运用，就能有所发明并付诸实行。循循善诱而聪明的努力，必有大效果。{4T 70.2}[12]
§26
The love of Christ should be cherished. More faith is needed in the work which we believe is to be done before the coming of Christ. There should be more self-denying, self-sacrificing labor in the right direction. There should be thoughtful, prayerful study how to work to the best advantage. Careful plans should be matured. There are minds among us that can invent and carry out if they are only put to use. Great results would follow well-directed and intelligent efforts. {4T 70.2}[12]
§27
祷告聚会应成为所有聚会中最有兴趣的；但往往却主持的不得其法。许多人参赴讲道聚会，却忽略了祷告聚会。对于这事，仍是需要思考的。当求上帝赐下智慧，并拟定计划使祷告聚会成为有兴趣而且动人的。人们渴慕生命的粮。如果在祷告聚会中可以得着它，他们自会到那里去领受了。{4T 70.3}[13]
§28
The prayer meetings should be the most interesting gatherings that are held, but these are frequently poorly managed. Many attend preaching, but neglect the prayer meeting. Here, again, thought is required. Wisdom should be sought of God, and plans should be laid to conduct the meetings so that they will be interesting and attractive. The people hunger for the bread of life. If they find it at the prayer meeting they will go there to receive it. {4T 70.3}[13]
§29
冗长乏味的讲论和祈祷，无论何处均不相宜；尤其是在祷告与见证聚会中。那些冒失而常常抢先发言的人，往往使胆小退让的人没有作见证的机会。那些最肤浅的人，一般总是说话最多的。他们的祷告也是冗长而机械式的；足使天使和听见的人感到厌倦。我们的祷告应当简短而中肯。任何人若要作冗长而使人厌倦的祈求，尽可到密室里去作。应当让上帝的灵进入你们的心中，一切枯燥的形式就会一扫而空了。{4T 70.4}[14]
§30
Long, prosy talks and prayers are out of place anywhere, and especially in the social meeting. Those who are forward and ever ready to speak are allowed to crowd out the testimony of the timid and retiring. Those who are most superficial generally have the most to say. Their prayers are long and mechanical. They weary the angels and the people who listen to them. Our prayers should be short and right to the point. Let the long, tiresome petitions be left for the closet, if any have such to offer. Let the Spirit of God into your hearts, and it will sweep away all dry formality. {4T 70.4}[14]
§31
音乐能发挥很大的向善能力，但是我们并没有充分利用崇拜的这个方面。人们一般都是受了感动或遇到特殊场合才唱歌的。在其他场合，他们就随意乱唱，使音乐在会众心中失去应有的效果。音乐应当有美、有情、有力。要发出赞美和奉献的歌声。在有条件的时候，要配上乐器，让雄壮和谐的歌声上升到上帝面前，成为蒙悦纳的祭物。{4T 71.1}[15]
§32
Music can be a great power for good, yet we do not make the most of this branch of worship. The singing is generally done from impulse or to meet special cases, and at other times those who sing are left to blunder along, and the music loses its proper effect upon the minds of those present. Music should have beauty, pathos, and power. Let the voices be lifted in songs of praise and devotion. Call to your aid, if practicable, instrumental music, and let the glorious harmony ascend to God, an acceptable offering. {4T 71.1}[15]
§33
但有时训练人唱歌符合节拍，要比改善人祈祷和劝勉的习惯更难。许多人自行其是，不愿请教别人，不耐烦受人指导。侍奉上帝需要有成熟的计划。在崇拜上帝的事上，通情达理是非常重要的。我们应当将思想的能力奉献给基督，也应当发明各种最能为祂服务的方式方法。上帝教会的信徒，藉着过真理的生活和设法救人而行善，他们若愿领受上帝之灵的训练，就可在世大有能力。他们切不可觉得可以随便作工而得永生。{4T 71.2}[16]
§34
But it is sometimes more difficult to discipline the singers and keep them in working order than to improve the habits of praying and exhorting. Many want to do things after their own style; they object to consultation, and are impatient under leadership. Well-matured plans are needed in the service of God. Common sense is an excellent thing in the worship of the Lord. The thinking powers should be consecrated to Christ, and ways and means should be devised to serve Him best. The church of God who are trying to do good by living out the truth and seeking to save souls, can be a power in the world if they will be disciplined by the Spirit of the Lord. They must not feel that they can work carelessly for eternity. {4T 71.2}[16]
§35
我们这班人因为缺少同情心和彼此交际，以致损失甚大。那谈论独立和闭关自守的人，是不能充任上帝所命定他应担的职位。我们是上帝的儿女，彼此互赖以求幸福。上帝的要求和人类的要求，都落在我们的身上。我们应当在今生各尽本分。我们本性中的社交成分，若有适当的培养，就可使我们对弟兄们有同情之心，并使我们在努力造福他人之时，也给自己福乐。天庭的福乐在于圣洁生灵之间的纯洁交往，以及蒙福的天使与曾用羔羊的血把衣裳洗净了的赎民之间的和谐交际的生活。我们被自己的利益所笼罩，就不能快乐。我们应当生活在这个世界上，得人归向救主。我们若损害别人，自己也就受害。我们若造福他人，自己也就蒙福；因为每一善行的影响，都会在我们自己的心上反映出来。{4T 71.3}[17]
§36
As a people, we lose much by lack of sympathy and sociability with one another. He who talks of independence and shuts himself up to himself is not filling the position that God designed he should. We are children of God, mutually dependent upon one another for happiness. The claims of God and of humanity are upon us. We must all act our part in this life. It is the proper cultivation of the social elements of our nature that brings us into sympathy with our brethren and affords us happiness in our efforts to bless others. The happiness of heaven will consist in the pure communion of holy beings, the harmonious social life with the blessed angels and with the redeemed who have washed their robes and made them white in the blood of the Lamb. We cannot be happy while we are wrapped up in our interest for ourselves. We should live in this world to win souls to the Saviour. If we injure others, we injure ourselves also. If we bless others, we also bless ourselves; for the influence of every good deed is reflected upon our own hearts. {4T 71.3}[17]
§37
我们有责任彼此帮助。我们所接近的人，不一定都是和蔼可亲，善于交际的基督徒。许多人未受过正确的教育。他们性情乖僻，强硬粗鲁，似乎在凡事上都不对劲。在帮助这些人看明并改正其缺点时，我们应当小心，不要对邻居的过失表显出急躁和不耐烦。在信奉基督的人中，也有与众不和的人；然而他们若肯殷勤向自己所跟从的主学习温柔谦卑，并记得“我们没有一个人为自己活”（罗14:7），基督徒恩典的美就会改变他们。与基督同工！这是何等高尚的地位啊！在这些大城市之中，哪里能找到克己牺牲的布道士呢？在主的葡萄园中需要工人。我们应当害怕夺取祂所要求于我们的光阴。我们应当害怕将光阴浪费在无谓的事或身体的装饰上。上帝所赐的宝贵光阴不应浪费在愚蠢的用途上，而应用来诚心祈祷，熟研圣经，及努力造福同胞，这样，就使我们和他们配作那委托给我们的大工。{4T 72.1}[18]
§38
We are in duty bound to help one another. It is not always that we are brought in contact with social Christians, those who are amiable and mild. Many have not received a proper education; their characters are warped, they are hard and gnarled, and seem to be crooked in every way. While we help these to see and correct their defects, we must be careful not to become impatient and irritable over our neighbors faults. There are disagreeable ones who profess Christ; but the beauty of Christian grace will transform them if they will set diligently about the work of obtaining the meekness and gentleness of Him whom they follow, remembering that none of us liveth to himself. Co-workers with Christ! What an exalted position! Where are to be found the self-sacrificing missionaries in these large cities? The Lord needs workers in His vineyard. We should fear to rob Him of the time He claims from us; we should fear to spend it in idleness or in the adornment of the body, appropriating to foolish purposes the precious hours God has given us to be devoted to prayer, to becoming conversant with our Bibles, and to laboring for the good of our fellow beings, thus fitting ourselves and them for the great work devolving upon us. {4T 72.1}[18]
§39
母亲们枉费了许多不必要的功夫在衣裳上，想要使自己和孩子好看。我们的本分是应当朴素着装，使孩童穿得整洁，不用无益的装饰品和绣花的或炫耀的衣饰。当留意不可助长那对他们有害的爱打扮的精神，而应设法培养基督徒的美德。我们没有一个人可以推卸责任；我们若不去作主交托我们的工作，就决不能清白地站在上帝的宝座前。{4T 72.2}[19]
§40
Mothers spend unnecessary labor upon garments with which to beautify the persons of themselves and their children. It is our duty to dress ourselves plainly and to clothe our children neatly, without useless ornamentation, embroidery, or display, taking care not to foster in them a love of dress that will prove their ruin, but seeking rather to cultivate the Christian graces. None of us can be excused from our responsibilities, and in no case can we stand clear before the throne of God unless we do the work that the Master has left for us to do. {4T 72.2}[19]
§41
我们需要为上帝作工的布道士，需要不规避责任的忠心男女。明智的工作必收效良好。现今有一番切实的工作要完成。需要有温柔智慧的人谨慎地把真理带到人前。我们对于同胞不应疏远冷淡，而要接近他们，因为他们的灵魂与我们的灵魂是一样的宝贵。我们可以把光明带到他们的家中，本着柔和顺服的精神，请求他们来得这贡献给他们的高尚权利，并在适当的时候与他们一同祷告，指明他们可以得到更高的造诣，然后再向他们小心地说明末日的神圣真理。{4T 73.1}[20]
§42
Missionaries for God are wanted, faithful men and women who will not shirk responsibility. Judicious labor will accomplish good results. There is real work to be done. The truth should be brought before people in a careful manner by those who unite meekness with wisdom. We should not hold ourselves aloof from our fellow men, but come close to them; for their souls are as precious as our own. We can carry the light into their homes, with a softened and subdued spirit plead with them to come up to the exalted privilege offered them, pray with them when it seems proper, and show them that there are higher attainments that they may reach, and then guardedly speak to them of the sacred truths for these last days. {4T 73.1}[20]
§43
在我们的人中唱诗的聚会比祷告的聚会还多；然而就连这些唱诗的聚会，若能主持得既庄严又愉快，也可发挥良好的影响。可惜聚会中有太多的说笑，闲谈，以致这些聚会无益，不能提高人的思想和培养人的礼貌。{4T 73.2}[21]
§44
There are more gatherings for singing than for prayer among our people; but even these gatherings can be conducted in so reverential yet cheerful a manner that they may exert a good influence. There is, however, too much jesting, idle conversation, and gossiping to make these seasons beneficial, to elevate the thoughts and refine the manners. {4T 73.2}[21]
§45
耸动听闻的奋兴会[22]
§46
Sensational Revivals[22]
§47
某地有太多令人分心的事。当一场新的奋兴运动掀起时，总是有人把自己的影响力投在错误的一边。在到处流行欺骗，引诱人离开真理之际，每一个人都应保持警惕。有些人总爱听爱看新奇的事。众生之敌便在这些大城市中发明了许多激起人好奇心的东西，使人心转离末日伟大神圣的真理。{4T 73.3}[23]
§48
There has been too much of a divided interest in-----. When a new excitement is raised, there are some who cast their influence on the wrong side. Every man and woman should be on guard when there are deceptions abroad calculated to lead away from the truth. There are those who are ever ready to see and hear some new and strange thing; and the enemy of souls has, in these large cities, plenty to inflame the curiosity and keep the mind diverted from the great and sanctifying truths for these last days. {4T 73.3}[23]
§49
如果每一波宗教的奋兴，都使一些人忽略用自己的赴会和影响力，来大力支持那些相信不受欢迎之真理的少数人，本来应当坚强的教会，就会变得软弱了。撒但千方百计实现自己的目的。他如果在流行宗教的伪装下，能引诱那些游移不定和不警醒的人离开真理的道路，就在分化上帝子民的力量上大有成就。这种波动的奋兴热心，来去犹如潮水，带有欺人的外表，迷惑了许多诚实的人，相信这真是上帝圣灵的作为。这种奋兴能使皈依的人加倍。那些性情激动，软弱驯服的群众，云集其旗下，及至潮水消退之时，他们就搁浅在滩上了。切不可被假教师所迷惑，也不可受虚妄言语的引诱。众生之敌确有大量令人喜爱的无稽之谈，迎合众人的口味。{4T 73.4}[24]
§50
If every fluctuating religious excitement leads some to neglect to fully sustain, by their presence and influence, the minority who believe unpopular truth, there will be much weakness in the church where there should be strength. Satan employs various means by which to accomplish his purposes; and if, under the guise of popular religion, he can lead off vacillating and unwary ones from the path of truth, he has accomplished much in dividing the strength of the people of God. This fluctuating revival enthusiasm, that comes and goes like the tide, carries a delusive exterior that deceives many honest persons into believing it to be the true Spirit of the Lord. It multiplies converts. Those of excitable temperaments, the weak and yielding, flock to its standard; but when the wave recedes, they are found stranded on the beach. Be not deceived by false teachers, nor led by vain words. The enemy of souls is sure to have enough dishes of pleasing fables to suit the appetites of all. {4T 73.4}[24]
§51
总有闪烁的流星出现，但其光迹转瞬即逝，使黑暗似乎比先前更甚。那些耸人听闻的宗教奋兴，出自轶事的叙述，或新奇古怪的表演，全是肤浅的工作；我们的同道若醉心迷恋于这些一闪即逝的流光，就决不能建立上帝的圣工。他们随时可因极轻微的事故而收回其感化力，并引诱别人去赴那些聚会，听那软弱人灵性及混乱人心思的邪道。这些从工作收回兴趣的事，使上帝的圣工衰颓。我们应当在信仰上坚定，必须是不可动摇的。我们当前的工作，就是按着上帝律法所显示的去发真理之光，照耀别人的心思，引人离开黑暗。这种工作需要坚决不挠的精力和坚定不移的心志去作成。{4T 74.1}[25]
§52
There will ever be flashing meteors to arise; but the trail of light they leave immediately goes out in darkness that seems denser than it was before. These sensational religious excitements that are created by the relation of anecdotes and the exhibition of eccentricities and oddities are all surface work, and those of our faith who are charmed and infatuated by these flashes of light will never build up the cause of God. They are ready to withdraw their influence upon the slightest occasion and to induce others to attend those gatherings where they hear that which weakens the soul and brings confusion to the mind. It is this withdrawal of the interest from the work that makes the cause of God languish. We must be steadfast in the faith; we must not be movable. We have our work before us, which is to cause the light of truth, as revealed in the law of God, to shine in upon other minds and lead them out of darkness. This work requires determined, persevering energy and a fixed purpose to succeed. {4T 74.1}[25]
§53
教会中有些人不当随表面的奋兴飘流和凭冲动行事，而当紧抓我们信仰的柱石，定居下来，探到磐石的根基。教会中有些在属灵上消化不良，使自己虚弱的人。他们属灵上衰败，是他们摇摆不定的结果。他们全凭感情用事，所以受异教变幻之风的摆布，忽东忽西，常常困惑烦恼，陷入不稳定的境地。他们是感情冲动的基督徒，常常渴望一些新鲜奇异的事；新奇的道理混乱他们的信仰，使他们在真理圣工上不起作用。{4T 74.2}[26]
§54
There are some in the church who need to cling to the pillars of our faith, to settle down and find rock bottom, instead of drifting on the surface of excitement and moving from impulse. There are spiritual dyspeptics in the church. They are self-made invalids; their spiritual debility is the result of their own wavering course. They are tossed about here and there by the changing winds of doctrine, and are often confused and thrown into uncertainty because they move entirely by feeling. They are sensational Christians, ever hungering for something new and diverse; strange doctrines confuse their faith, and they are worthless to the cause of truth. {4T 74.2}[26]
§55
上帝呼召稳定而有坚决宗旨的人。在危急和磨练之际，他们能靠得住。他们在真理中盘根札底，稳如泰山，不向左右摇摆，而是要笔直前进，总是在正确的一边。在宗教逼迫之时，有些人几乎总是出现在仇敌的队伍中。他们若是有什么影响，也都是在邪恶的一边。他们不觉得自己负有道义上的责任，应为其所承认的真理竭尽全力。这等人将来必照其行为受报应。{4T 75.1}[27]
§56
God calls for men and women of stability, of firm purpose, who can be relied upon in seasons of danger and trial, who are as firmly rooted and grounded in the truth as the eternal hills, who cannot be swayed to the right or to the left, but who move straight onward and are always found on the right side. There are some, who, in time of religious peril, may almost always be looked for in the ranks of the enemy; if they have any influence, it is on the wrong side. They do not feel under moral obligation to give all their strength to the truth they profess. Such will be rewarded according to their works. {4T 75.1}[27]
§57
人若只为救主作一点点的救灵工作，不在上帝面前保持正直，就得不到什么属灵的肌肉。我们需要不断地运用我们的力量，使之发展和增加。人干犯自然律就会患病，照样，属灵的衰弱也是因不断违犯上帝的律法所致。可是这些犯法的人竟自称遵守上帝的全部诫命。{4T 75.2}[28]
§58
Those who do little for the Saviour in the salvation of souls and in keeping themselves right before God, will gain but little spiritual muscle. We need continually to use the strength we have that it may develop and increase. As disease is the result of the violation of natural laws, so is spiritual declension the result of a continued transgression of the law of God. And yet the very transgressors may profess to keep all of Gods commandments. {4T 75.2}[28]
§59
我们必须更亲近上帝，使自己与天庭有更密切的联络，并在日常生活最微小的行动上实行律法的原则，以达到属灵上的健康。上帝赐给祂的仆人能力和才干，本是为荣耀祂而用，不是要怠惰或浪废掉。祂已赐给他们亮光和关于祂旨意的知识，是要他们传授给别的人，在分授给别人之时，我们就成了活的传光导管。我们若不运用自己的属灵力量，就会变得软弱，正如病人日久卧床不动，四肢就软弱无力一样。只有运用才能产生力量。{4T 75.3}[29]
§60
We must come nearer to God, place ourselves in closer connection with heaven, and carry out the principles of the law in the minutest actions of our everyday lives in order to be spiritually whole. God has given His servants ability, talents to be used for His glory, not to lie idle or be wasted. He has given them light and a knowledge of His will to be communicated to others, and in imparting to others we become living channels of light. If we do not exercise our spiritual strength we become feeble, as the limbs of the body become powerless when the invalid is compelled to remain long inactive. It is use that gives power. {4T 75.3}[29]
§61
最能增强人的属灵力量和诚挚态度，加深人情感的，莫过于探望和服务有病和沮丧的人，帮助他们看见光明并紧紧信靠耶稣。有些不称意的本分总得有人去作，否则就有人要灭亡了。基督徒执行这些本分，无论其如何不舒服，总能从中得到福气。基督曾承担了不愉快的工作，从纯洁而有无比荣耀的居所下来，进入这因罪恶，强暴，不法而暗无天日的世界，住在人间为人。祂这样做是为了救人。祂的奇妙大爱和无比屈尊的对象，岂拿原谅自己自私安逸的生活呢？他们岂可图自己的欢乐，随自己的嗜好，因为作救人之工不免要遇到失望和回绝，就任人在黑暗之中灭亡呢？基督为救赎人付出了无限的代价，难道人可以说：“我的主啊，我不愿在祢的葡萄园中工作；请祢准我辞了？”{4T 75.4}[30]
§62
Nothing will give greater spiritual strength and a greater increase of earnestness and depth of feeling than visiting and ministering to the sick and the desponding, helping them to see the light and to fasten their faith upon Jesus. There are disagreeable duties that somebody must do or souls will be left to perish. Christians will find a blessing in doing these duties, however unpleasant they may be. Christ took the disagreeable task upon Himself of coming from the abode of purity and unsurpassed glory, to dwell, a man among men, in a world seared and blackened by crime, violence, and iniquity. He did this to save souls; and shall the objects of such amazing love and unparalleled condescension excuse their lives of selfish ease? shall they choose their own pleasure, follow their own inclinations, and leave souls to perish in darkness because they will meet with disappointment and rebuffs if they labor to save them? Christ paid an infinite price for mans redemption, and shall he say: My Lord, I will not labor in Thy vineyard; I pray Thee have me excused? {4T 75.4}[30]
§63
上帝召呼那在锡安山安逸的人起来作工。他们岂可不听主人的呼声呢？祂要那些在各水旁撒种的诚心祷告和忠心作工的工人。凡这样努力的人，会惊讶地发现在遇见苦难之时，坚决地奉耶稣的名和力量去忍受，会如何使他们的信心坚固和勇气复新。在谦卑顺从的道路上有安全与能力，安慰与指望；但那些为耶稣不作一事的人，最后的报偿却是沉沦。软弱的手必不能抓住大能者的膀臂，无力的腿必在患难之日站立不住。阅读圣经的人和基督徒工人，将要得到荣耀的奖赏，并听主说: “好，你这又良善又忠心的仆人，……可以进来享受你主人的快乐”（太25:21）。{4T 76.1}[31]
§64
God calls for those who are at ease in Zion to be up and doing. Will they not listen to the Masters voice? He wants prayerful, faithful workers who will sow beside all waters. Those who labor thus will be surprised to find how trials, resolutely borne in the name and strength of Jesus, will give firmness to the faith and renew the courage. In the path of humble obedience is safety and power, comfort and hope; but the reward will finally be lost by those who do nothing for Jesus. Weak hands will be unable to cling to the Mighty One, feeble knees will fail to support in the day of adversity. Bible readers and Christian workers will receive the glorious prize, and hear the Well done, thou good and faithful servant: . . . enter thou into the joy of thy Lord. {4T 76.1}[31]
§65
【扣留钱财】
§66
某地的人把基督圣工放在心上，上帝的福气要降在他们的身上。我们的弟兄姊妹们向那被钉十字架的救赎主表示信心和爱心，而献上乐意的捐款，就会得回许多福气；因为上帝注意并记得圣徒的每一慷慨行动。在预备建造礼拜堂的事上，必须大大运用信心和依靠上帝。人若经营商业而不敢冒险，所得的成就也必很少；那么，为什么不在上帝的事业上有信心，投资于祂的圣工呢？{4T 76.2}[32]
§67
【Withholding Means】
§68
The blessing of God will rest upon those in-----who have the cause of Christ at heart. The freewill offerings of our brethren and sisters, made in faith and love to the crucified Redeemer, will bring back blessings to them; for God marks and remembers every act of liberality on the part of His saints. In preparing a house of worship, there must be a great exercise of faith and trust in God. In business transactions those who venture nothing make but little advancement; why not have faith also in an enterprise for God and invest in His cause? {4T 76.2}[32]
§69
有些人在贫穷之时，钱虽不多，但却慷慨；及至得到财利，反而变成吝啬的人。他们信心太小的原因，是他们在发达时没有继续前进，也没有本着牺牲捐献给上帝的圣工。{4T 77.1}[33]
§70
Some, when in poverty, are generous with their little; but as they acquire property, they become penurious. The reason they have so little faith is that they do not keep moving forward as they prosper, and give to the cause of God even at a sacrifice. {4T 77.1}[33]
§71
犹太人的制度要人先向上帝表示慷慨捐献。在收获庄稼和葡萄时，田园初熟之物──五谷，酒，油之类──应当作为祭物奉献给主。田角与所遗落的庄稼要留给穷人。我们仁慈的天父没有忽略穷人的需要。初剪的羊毛，初打的麦穗，应当献给主；主也命令他们邀请孤儿，寡妇，穷人，客人到家中坐席。每年之终大家都要为自己已否照着上帝的命令行事而起重誓。{4T 77.2}[34]
§72
In the Jewish system it was required that beneficence should first be shown to the Lord. At the harvest and the vintage the first fruits of the field--the corn, the wine, and the oil--were to be consecrated as an offering to the Lord. The gleanings and the corners of the fields were reserved for the poor. Our gracious heavenly Father did not neglect the wants of the poor. The first fruits of the wool when the sheep were shorn, of the grain when the wheat was threshed, were to be offered to the Lord; and it was commanded that the poor, the widows, the orphans, and the strangers, be invited to their feasts. At the close of every year all were required to make solemn oath whether or not they had done according to the command of God. {4T 77.2}[34]
§73
主如此安排是要人铭记在心，凡事必须以主为首。藉着此种慈善制度，要他们记得，仁慈的耶和华乃是他们田地牛羊真正的业主。天上的上帝在他们撒种和收割之时，出太阳及降雨露，他们所拥有的一切都是祂所创造的。一切都属于主，而祂已使人作祂产业的管家。{4T 77.3}[35]
§74
This arrangement was made by the Lord to impress upon the people that in every matter He must be first. By this system of benevolence they were to bear in mind that their gracious Master was the true proprietor of their fields, their flocks, and their herds; that the God of heaven sent them sunshine and rain for their seedtime and harvest, and that everything they possessed was of His creation. All was the Lords, and He had made them stewards of His goods. {4T 77.3}[35]
§75
在制造会幕及建筑圣殿时，犹太人所表现的慷慨捐献精神，真是后代基督徒所比不上的。他们那时刚从埃及长久为奴之地得释放，在旷野过着漂流的生活，方才逃脱在他们匆促旅途上埃及追兵的虎口，主的话便临到摩西，说：“你告诉以色列人，当为我送礼物来，凡甘心乐意的，你们就可以收下归我”（出25:2）。{4T 77.4}[36]
§76
The liberality of the Jews in the construction of the tabernacle and the erection of the temple illustrates a spirit of benevolence which has not been equaled by Christians of any later date. They had just been freed from their long bondage in Egypt and were wanderers in the wilderness; yet scarcely were they delivered from the armies of the Egyptians who pursued them in their hasty journey, when the word of the Lord came to Moses. saying: Speak unto the children of Israel, that they bring Me an offering: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take My offering. {4T 77.4}[36]
§77
祂的子民那时所有的财产很少，也没有什么增加财产的可喜前途；但却有一个目标摆在他们的面前，就是为上帝建造会幕。主既说了话，他们就当顺从。他们毫不保留。大家都乐意奉献，并不是从他们的进益中抽出一部分，而是从他们实际所有的财物中拿出大部分来。他们乐意热心奉献，并为此蒙主喜悦。万物岂不都是祂的么？他们所有的一切岂不是祂所给的么？如果祂发出要求，他们岂不是有本分向物主奉还其物么？{4T 78.1}[37]
§78
His people had small possessions and no flattering prospect of adding to them; but an object was before them--to build a tabernacle for God. The Lord had spoken, and they must obey His voice. They withheld nothing. All gave with a willing hand, not a certain amount of their increase, but a large portion of their actual possessions. They devoted it gladly and heartily to the Lord, and pleased Him by so doing. Was it not all His? Had He not given them all they possessed? If He called for it, was it not their duty to give back to the Lender His own? {4T 78.1}[37]
§79
那时无需勉强，百姓奉献的甚至超过了需要的，以致告诉他们要终止奉献，因已够用有余了。后来在建筑圣殿之时，募捐的呼声也得到热心的响应。百姓并不是勉强地奉献。他们以建造敬拜上帝之殿的期望为乐，捐献足用有余。大卫在会众之前称颂主说：“我算什么，我的民算什么，竟能如此乐意奉献；因为万物都从祢而来，我们把从祢而得的献给祢”（代上29:14）。他又在祷告之中发出感谢之声，说：“耶和华我们的上帝啊，我们预备这许多材料，要为祢的圣名，建造殿宇，都是从祢而来，都是属祢的”（代上29:16）。{4T 78.2}[38]
§80
No urging was needed. The people brought even more than was required, and were told to desist, for there was already more than could be appropriated. Again, in building the temple, the call for means met with a hearty response. The people did not give reluctantly. They rejoiced in the prospect of a building being erected for the worship of God, and donated more than enough for the purpose. David blessed the Lord before all the congregation, and said: But who am I, and what is my people, that we should be able to offer so willingly after this sort? for all things come of Thee, and of Thine own have we given Thee. Again in his prayer David gave thanks in these words: O Lord our God, all this store that we have prepared to build Thee an house for Thine holy name cometh of Thine hand, and is all Thine own. {4T 78.2}[38]
§81
大卫十分明白他的一切恩惠是从谁而来的。今日凡以救主之爱为乐的人，也当明白他们的金银是属于主的，应当为彰显祂的荣耀而用，而不应吝啬地保留，以增加自己的财富，满足自己的心意。祂对所借给人的一切都有无可争辩的权利。人所有的一切都是属于祂的。{4T 78.3}[39]
§82
David well understood from whom came all his bounties. Would that those of this day who rejoice in a Saviours love could realize that their silver and gold are the Lords and should be used to promote His glory, not grudgingly retained to enrich and gratify themselves. He has an indisputable right to all that He has lent His creatures. All that they possess is His. {4T 78.3}[39]
§83
有高尚而神圣的目标需要用钱；人若这样投资，比为满足个人之乐而花钱，或是为自私贪得而积蓄，必得更高尚而永久的快乐。在上帝要求我们的资财时，不论是多是少，若是甘心响应，就可使那礼物成为圣洁的祭物献给主，并为奉献的人积攒财宝在天上，在那里没有虫咬，没有火烧，也没有贼挖窟窿来偷。这种投资是可靠的。是将钱放在没有漏洞的钱袋里；它是安全的。{4T 78.4}[40]
§84
There are high and holy objects that require means, and money thus invested will yield to the giver more elevated and permanent enjoyment than if it were expended in personal gratification or selfishly hoarded for greed of gain. When God calls for our treasure, whatever the amount may be, the willing response makes the gift a consecrated offering to Him and lays up for the giver a treasure in heaven that moth cannot corrupt, that fire cannot consume, nor thieves break in and steal. The investment is safe. The money is placed in bags that have no holes; it is secure. {4T 78.4}[40]
§85
今日的基督徒，自夸有比希伯来人更广阔的亮光，岂能比他们捐得还少呢？生于靠近时间结束的基督徒，其捐献还不及犹太人所献的一半，他们怎可自满呢？犹太人慷慨捐献，当时只是惠及本国；而末日的圣工，却是扩展到全世界。真理的信息要传遍各国，各族，各方，各民，它那印成许多不同语言的出版物，要如秋天的落叶散布各地。{4T 79.1}[41]
§86
Can Christians, who boast of a broader light than had the Hebrews, give less than they? Can Christians living near the close of time be satisfied with their offerings when not half so large as were those of the Jews? Their liberality was to benefit their own nation; the work in these last days extends to the entire world. The message of truth is to go to all nations, tongues, and people; its publications, printed in many different languages, are to be scattered abroad like the leaves of autumn. {4T 79.1}[41]
§87
圣经上说：“基督既在肉身受苦，你们也当将这样的心志作为兵器”（彼前4:1）。又说：“人若说他住在主里面，就该自己照主所行的去行”（约壹2:6）。我们要问：如果救主居于我们的境地，祂要作什么呢？祂为救人要尽何等的力量呢？基督的榜样已回答了这一问题。祂离开了王位，撇下荣耀，牺牲富足，并以人性披覆神性，为的是可以达到人所在之处。祂的榜样显明祂为罪人舍弃自己的生命。{4T 79.2}[42]
§88
It is written: Forasmuch then as Christ hath suffered for us in the flesh, arm yourselves likewise with the same mind. And again: He that saith he abideth in Him ought himself also so to walk, even as He walked. Let us inquire: What would our Saviour have done in our circumstances? what would have been His efforts for the salvation of souls? This question is answered by the example of Christ. He left His royalty, laid aside His glory, sacrificed His riches, and clothed His divinity with humanity, that He might reach men where they were. His example shows that He laid down His life for sinners. {4T 79.2}[42]
§89
撒但对夏娃说，若能满足非法的食欲，就可达到福乐的高境；然而上帝所给人的应许，却是要藉着克己方可达到。基督在耻辱的十字架上为救赎人类而受痛苦之时，人性就被提高了。只有藉着十字架，人类才能被提拔与天庭联络。在我们奔向天国的旅程上，每一举步都要遇到克己和十字架。{4T 79.3}[43]
§90
Satan told Eve that a high state of felicity could be gained through the gratification of unlicensed appetite, but the promise of God to man is through denial of self. When upon the shameful cross Christ was suffering in agony for mans redemption, human nature was exalted. Only by the cross can the human family be elevated to connect with heaven. Self-denial and crosses meet us at every step on our heavenward journey. {4T 79.3}[43]
§91
慷慨的精神乃是天国的精神；自私的精神乃是撒但的精神。基督自我牺牲的爱在十字架上显明了。祂先舍弃祂所有的一切，然后连自己的性命也献上了，使人类可以得救。基督的十字架，应引动每一个跟随神圣救主之人的慷慨之心。这里所表现的原则就是施舍，施舍。这种实行实际的慈善和在好行为上所表现的，乃是基督徒人生的真果效。世人的原则乃是获得，获得；他们希望如此得到快乐，但他们各方面的结果乃是痛苦和死亡。{4T 79.4}[44]
§92
The spirit of liberality is the spirit of heaven; the spirit of selfishness is the spirit of Satan. Christs self-sacrificing love is revealed upon the cross. He gave all He had, and then gave Himself, that man might be saved. The cross of Christ appeals to the benevolence of every follower of the blessed Saviour. The principle there illustrated is to give, give. This, carried out in actual benevolence and good works, is the true fruit of the Christian life. The principle of worldlings is to get, get, and thus they expect to secure happiness; but, carried out in all its bearings, the fruit is misery and death. {4T 79.4}[44]
§93
基督门徒的使命就是向地上的居民传扬真理，救他们脱离罪恶和冷淡的态度。人必须有真理，以便藉真理成圣。我们乃是上帝传光的导管。我们的才干，金钱，知识，不单是为我们自己的益处；也要用来救人，提拔人脱离罪恶的生活，藉着基督把人带到无穷的上帝面前。{4T 80.1}[45]
§94
To carry the truth to the inhabitants of the earth, to rescue them from their guilt and indifference, is the mission of the followers of Christ. Men must have the truth in order to be sanctified through it, and we are the channels of Gods light. Our talents, our means, our knowledge, are not merely for our own benefit; they are to be used for the salvation of souls, to elevate man from his life of sin and bring him, through Christ, to the infinite God. {4T 80.1}[45]
§95
我们应当在这圣工上作热心的工人，设法领导罪人悔改和相信神圣的救赎主，也感动他们对于上帝爱人之心有高尚的感觉。“上帝爱世人，甚至将祂的独生子赐给他们，叫一切信祂的，不至灭亡，反得永生”（约3:16）。这是一种何等无与伦比的爱！何等高深的思考题目！上帝对一个不爱祂的世界所表示的惊人大爱！这种思想有感服人心的力量，并使人皈依上帝的旨意。那些为财利疯狂，在追求世界中失望不乐的人，实在需要这种真理知识，来平静他们烦乱不宁的饥渴心灵。{4T 80.2}[46]
§96
We should be zealous workers in this cause, seeking to lead sinners, repenting and believing, to a divine Redeemer, and to impress them with an exalted sense of Gods love to man. God so loved the world, that He gave His only-begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. What an incomparable love is this! A theme for the most profound meditation! The amazing love of God for a world that did not love Him! The thought has a subduing power upon the soul and brings the mind into captivity to the will of God. Men who are crazy for gain, and are disappointed and unhappy in their pursuit of the world, need the knowledge of this truth to quiet the restless hungering and thirsting of their souls. {4T 80.2}[46]
§97
在各大城市中需要有为上帝作工的布道士，去向那些坐在死荫之地的人传送光明。我们需要有经验的工人，用智慧的温柔和信心的能力，来提拔那些疲倦的人到慈悲救赎主的怀中。唉！自私自利！何等的大害！它拦阻我们参加上帝的服务。它拦阻我们不能看清那所当尽的，应当使我们心热如火的责任。我们应转移一切精力来顺从基督。我们若随从错误的领袖而分心，那就是帮助错的一方，而给我们的仇敌便利了。上帝的真理决不与罪恶妥协，不与奸计联络，也不与犯法的人联合。现今需要的是枕戈待旦，敏于应命的精兵，而非那些在需要之时被发现是助敌为虐的人。{4T 80.3}[47]
§98
Missionaries for God are wanted in your large city to carry light to those who sit in the shadow of death. Experienced hands are needed, in the meekness of wisdom and the strength of faith, to lift weary souls to the bosom of a compassionate Redeemer. Oh, selfishness! What a curse! It prevents us from engaging in the service of God. It prevents us from perceiving the claims of duty, which should set our hearts aglow with fervent zeal. All our energies should be turned to the obedience of Christ. To divide our interest with the leaders of error is aiding the wrong side and giving advantage to our foes. The truth of God knows no compromise with sin, no connection with artifice, no union with transgression. Soldiers are wanted who will always answer to the roll call and be ready for immediate action, not those who, when needed, are found aiding the enemy. {4T 80.3}[47]
§99
我们的工作是伟大的。然而仍有许多自称信仰神圣真理的人，却中了撒但的诡计而麻木不灵，一事无成，反而耽误上帝的圣工。何时他们才会与那等候主的人同样行动呢？何时他们才表现和其信仰相符的热心呢？许多人自私地保留金钱而自慰其良心说，他们计划在死后要为上帝的圣工作些大事。他们写下遗嘱，捐献大批的钱财给教会及其各种权益，然后就安心坐待，觉得自己已尽了主所要求的一切本分了。请问在这种行为中，哪里有克己呢？相反地，他们却表现出自私自利的本性。他们到了自己不能再用钱的时候，才提出给上帝用。但他们在一息尚存，自己仍能用钱之时，还是保留不放，直到那无法拒绝的使者不能通融之时，他们才被迫撒手而去。{4T 81.1}[48]
§100
Ours is a great work. Yet there are many who profess to believe these sacred truths, who are paralyzed by the sophistry of Satan, and are doing nothing for, but rather hinder, Gods cause. When will they act like those who wait for the Lord? When will they show a zeal in accordance with their faith? Many people selfishly retain their means, and soothe their conscience with a plan for doing some great thing for the cause of God after their death. They make a will donating a large sum to the church and its various interests, and then settle down with a feeling that they have done all that is required of them. Wherein have they denied self by this act? They have, on the contrary, exhibited the true essence of selfishness. When they have no longer any use for their money they propose to give it to God. But they will retain it as long as they can, till they are compelled to relinquish it by a messenger that cannot be turned aside. {4T 81.1}[48]
§101
这样的遗嘱往往是真正贪心的凭据。上帝使我们都作祂的管家。在任何情形中祂都没有授权我们去忽视自己的责任，或是把它留给别人去作。那为促进圣工而募捐的呼声，再不会比今日的更为迫切了。我们的钱财所能作的最大善行，莫过于现在了。每日延误合理的处置钱财，正是限制了这些钱财行善救人的时限。我们若把上帝所分派我们的工作留给别人去作，我们就是亏负自己，又亏负了那赐我们百物的上帝。别人怎能比我们自己更配作我们的善工呢？上帝愿意每个人在其一生中亲自执行关于这事的遗嘱。因为逆境，意外事故，或是阴谋，常会永远截断人所想要作的善行，那时，广积财利的人就不再能守着他的财产了。有许多人忽略当前行善的黄金机会，他们竟坐待被取消其管家的身份之后，才将上帝借给他们作为荣耀祂而用的钱财交还祂，这真是一件悲惨的事。{4T 81.2}[49]
§102
Such a will is often an evidence of real covetousness. God has made us all His stewards, and in no case has He authorized us to neglect our duty or leave it for others to do. The call for means to advance the cause of truth will never be more urgent than now. Our money will never do a greater amount of good than at the present time. Every day of delay in rightly appropriating it, is limiting the period in which it will do good in saving souls. If we leave others to accomplish that which God has left for us to do, we wrong ourselves and Him who gave us all we have. How can others do our work of benevolence any better than we can do it ourselves? God would have every man, during his lifetime, the executor of his own will in this matter. Adversity, accident, or intrigue may forever cut off meditated acts of benevolence, when he who has accumulated a fortune is no longer by to guard it. It is sad that so many neglect the present golden opportunity to do good, and wait to be cast out of their stewardship before giving back to the Lord the means which He has lent them to be used for His glory. {4T 81.2}[49]
§103
在基督的教训中，有一个显著的特点，就是祂常常恳切痛责贪心之罪，并指出贪爱世俗财利的危险。在富人的大厦，在圣殿和通衢大道上，祂警告那些询问得救之道的人说：“你们要谨慎自守，免去一切的贪心”（路12:15）。“你们不能又事奉上帝，又事奉玛门”（太6:24；路16:13）。{4T 82.1}[50]
§104
One marked feature in the teachings of Christ is the frequency and earnestness with which He rebuked the sin of covetousness and pointed out the danger of worldly acquisitions and inordinate love of gain. In the mansions of the rich, in the temple and in the streets, He warned those who inquired after salvation: Take heed, and beware of covetousness. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. {4T 82.1}[50]
§105
人愈来愈想要发财，及追寻钱财所造成的自私自利，就导致教会的灵性趋于灭亡，令上帝不再喜悦她。当我们的头脑和手不断地设法收聚更多的财富时，会忘掉上帝和人类的要求。上帝若惠赐我们大笔的财富，我们就不应把时间和注意力，集中于这些暂借给我们的东西，而转离上帝。施主总大于他所施予之物。我们不是自己的人，而是重价买来的。我们是否忘记上帝为救赎我们所付出无限的代价呢？我们感恩的心是否死掉了？难道过着自私安逸和放纵的生活，站在基督的十字架前也不觉得羞耻吗？{4T 82.2}[51]
§106
It is this increasing devotion to money getting, the selfishness which the desire for gain begets, that removes the favor of God from the church and deadens its spirituality. When the head and hands are constantly occupied with planning and toiling for the accumulation of riches, the claims of God and humanity are forgotten. If God has blessed us with prosperity, it is not that our time and attention should be diverted from Him and given to that which He has lent us. The giver is greater than the gift. We are not our own; we have been bought with a price. Have we forgotten that infinite price paid for our redemption? Is gratitude dead in the heart? Does not the cross of Christ put to shame a life of selfish ease and indulgence? {4T 82.2}[51]
§107
基督在各方面被人忘恩侮辱，如果祂因此厌倦而放弃祂的工作，将会怎么样呢！如果祂未曾达到那说“成了”的阶段，将会怎么样呢！如果祂因所受的待遇而灰心，中途退回天庭去，将会怎么样呢！如果祂未曾经过客西马尼园中心灵忧伤，使祂流出大滴血汗的惨途，又将会怎么样呢！{4T 82.3}[52]
§108
What if Christ, becoming weary of the ingratitude and abuse that met Him on every side, had left His work! What if He had never reached that period when He said: It is finished. What if He had returned to heaven, discouraged by His reception! What if He had never passed through that soul agony in the garden of Gethsemane that forced from His pores great drops of blood! {4T 82.3}[52]
§109
基督的心充满无比之爱和奉行天父旨意的热忱。祂为救赎人类而操劳。祂为人类的益处而含辛茹苦，直到忍辱受难的时辰。祂为堕落的罪人而过穷苦克己的生活。在这个原属于祂的世界上，疲倦的祂连枕头的地方都没有。我们正在收获这无限自我牺牲的果实。然而在此工作尚待完成，需要奉献我们的金钱来支持救赎主拯救生灵的工作时，我们竟退避责任，并请求准我们辞了吧。无耻的懒惰，粗心的冷淡，及罪恶的私心，封闭了我们对上帝要求的感觉。{4T 82.4}[53]
§110
Christ was influenced in His labor for the redemption of the race by a love that is without parallel, and a devotion to the Fathers will. He toiled for the good of man up to the very hour of His humiliation. He spent His life in poverty and self-denial for the degraded sinner. In a world that was His own He had no place to lay His weary head. We are reaping the fruits of this infinite self-sacrifice; and yet when labor is to be done, when our money is wanted to aid the work of the Redeemer in the salvation of souls, we shrink from duty and pray to be excused. Ignoble sloth, careless indifference, and wicked selfishness seal our senses to the claims of God. {4T 82.4}[53]
§111
唉！难道基督，这位天庭之君，荣耀之王，必须背负沉重的十字架，戴上刑棘的冠冕，和喝那苦杯，而我们却留恋安逸，荣耀自己，忘却祂受死而用其宝血所赎回来的生灵吗？断乎不可！让我们趁着有能力时就奉献；有力量时就作工吧。我们应当趁着白日作工。把我们的光阴和金钱，用来为上帝服务，使我们可以蒙祂嘉许，得祂奖赏。{4T 83.1}[54]
§112
Oh, must Christ, the Majesty of heaven, the King of glory, bear the heavy cross, wear the thorny crown, and drink the bitter cup, while we recline at ease, glorifying ourselves and forgetting the souls He died to redeem by His precious blood? No; let us give while we have the power. Let us do while we have the strength. Let us work while it is day. Let us devote our time and means to the service of God, that we may have His approbation and receive His reward. {4T 83.1}[54]