第39章 衣阿华州的圣工
§1
第39章 衣阿华州的圣工
§2
Chap. 39 - The Cause in Iowa
§3
我蒙指示看到衣阿华州的圣工处于可悲的状态。参加各部门工作的年轻人没有处于可以造福于人的属灵状况。相当多没有经验的和不称职的人一直在从事圣工，需要为他们下一番大工夫。{4T 430.1}[1]
§4
I have been shown that the cause in Iowa is in a deplorable condition. Young men have been connected with the different branches of the work who have not been in a condition spiritually to benefit the people. Quite a number of inexperienced and inefficient men have been laboring in the cause who need a great work done for them. {4T 430.1}[1]
§5
【大学生】
§6
B弟兄完全没有应该有的影响。他还在巴特尔克里克学院时，在许多方面都不是年轻人的榜样；却和一些年轻的先生女士们偷偷地去某地远足。这是不高尚、不坦诚、不公正的。他们都知道这是违背校规的，但他们斗胆走了犯规的路。这些年轻人因这个举动和后来对这种错误做法的态度，使学院受到了极不公正的指责。{4T 430.2}[2]
§7
【College Students】
§8
The influence of Brother B has not been altogether what it should be. While at the college in Battle Creek he was in many respects an exemplary young man; but he, with other young gentlemen and ladies, in a secretive manner, made an excursion to -----. This was not noble, frank, and just. They all knew that it was a breach of the rules, but they ventured in the path of transgression. These young men, by this act and their attitude since in relation to their wrong course, have cast reflections upon the college that are most unjust. {4T 430.2}[2]
§9
衣阿华州的弟兄们既在这种情况下接受了B弟兄的工作，就是错了。他们若在其他情况下采取类似的做法，也必大大令上帝不悦。他是一个风度极好的年轻人，这使他对别人有更大的影响力，而他无视维持和管理学校之规章和权威的榜样，也影响了别人照他所行的去行。我们的弟兄若普遍认可这种事，校规校纪就没有管理的效力了。道德败坏的风气很容易进入学校。若不时刻保持警觉，藉着严格的规则管制学生的行为来维护学校的标准，许多人就会欣然参与反叛和挑衅的精神。{4T 430.3}[3]
§10
When the brethren in Iowa accepted the labors of Brother B under these circumstances, they did wrong. If they pursue a similar course in other cases, they will greatly displease God. The fact that he had been a young man of excellent deportment gave him greater influence over others, and his example in standing in defiance of the rules and authority which sustain and control the school influenced others to do as he had done. Laws and regulations will be of no force in conducting the school if such things are sanctioned by our brethren at large. A demoralizing influence is easily introduced into a school. Many will readily partake of the spirit of rebellion and defiance unless prompt and vigilant efforts are continually put forth to maintain the standard of the school by strict rules regulating the conduct of the students. {4T 430.3}[3]
§11
B弟兄的工作不会蒙上帝悦纳，除非他充分看明和承认自己违背校规的错误，并且尽力抵消他所发挥的损害学院名誉的影响。要不是因为这种不幸的情况，原会有更多的学生来自衣阿华州。B弟兄啊，你若看到和认识到这错误的一步，和你因自己的做法受到布朗斯伯格教授的质疑而心中充满的激烈、嫉妒和近乎仇恨的情绪所产生的影响，就会战兢，因为看到了你自己，也看到那些无法忍受约束的人和奋起反抗阻止他们偏行己路的规章制度的人获得了胜利。你既自称为柔和谦卑的耶稣的门徒，你的影响和责任就大大增加了。{4T 430.4}[4]
§12
The labors of Brother B will not be acceptable to God until he shall fully see and acknowledge his wrong in violating the rules of the college and shall endeavor to counteract the influence he has exerted to injure its reputation. Many more students would have come from Iowa had it not been for this unhappy circumstance. Could you, Brother B, see and realize the influence of this one wrong step, and the feelings of passion, of jealousy, and almost hatred that filled your heart because your course was questioned by Professor Brownsberger, you would tremble at the sight of yourself and at the triumph of those who cannot bear restraint and who wage war against rules and regulations which check them from pursuing their own course. Being a professed disciple of the meek and lowly Jesus, your influence and responsibility are greatly increased. {4T 430.4}[4]
§13
B弟兄啊，我希望你细心地调查一下事实，想想引诱你偏离学院规章的第一个试探。要仔细研究一下我们学校管理的性质。所执行的规章一点也不严格。但你却心存愤怒；理智暂时被废黜，心便成了不羁情欲的掠物。在你意识到之前，你就迈出了几小时之前你在任何试探的压力之下都不会迈出的一步。冲动胜过了理智，你无法取消对你自己和上帝的机构造成的伤害。我们在任何情况下的唯一保障，乃是始终靠我们的救赎主耶稣的力量控制自己。{4T 431.1}[5]
§14
Brother B, I hope you will go over the ground carefully and consider your first temptation to depart from the rules of the college. Study critically the character of the government of our school. The rules which were enforced were none too strict. But anger was cherished; for the time being, reason was dethroned and the heart was made a prey to ungovernable passion. Before you were aware, you had taken a step which a few hours previous you would not have taken under any pressure of temptation. Impulse had overcome reason, and you could not recall the injury done to yourself nor to an institution of God. Our only safety under all circumstances is in being always master of ourselves in the strength of Jesus our Redeemer. {4T 431.1}[5]
§15
我们的学院没有其它学院所拥有的大众观点的影响力支持它行使管理和执行校规。它在一个方面虽是一所宗派学校；但若不谨慎，就会使它有属世的特征和影响。守安息日的学生必须拥有更多的道德勇气，过于迄今所表现的，要保持学校的道德和宗教影响，否则它就会与其它宗派的学院只有名义上的不同。上帝设计和建立了这所学院，原是要它按照高尚的宗教志趣受塑造，而且每一年送到巴特尔克里克的未悔改归主的学生，在回家时都应成为基督十字架的精兵。{4T 431.2}[6]
§16
Our college has not that influence of popular opinion to sustain it in exercising government and enforcing its rules, which other colleges have. In one respect it is a denominational school; but, unless guarded, a worldly character and influence will be given to it. Sabbathkeeping students must possess more moral courage than has hitherto been manifested, to preserve the moral and religious influence of the school, or it will differ from the colleges of other denominations only in name. God devised and established this college, designing that it should be molded by high religious interests and that every year unconverted students who are sent to Battle Creek should return to their homes as soldiers of the cross of Christ. {4T 431.2}[6]
§17
教授和教师们应该仔细思考维护我们学校特殊性质的最佳办法；大家都应该高度重视我们所享有的拥有这样一所学校的特权，且应忠心地支持它保护它免受任何的责备。自私自利可能会冻结学生们的活力，属世的成分可能会在整个学校获得优势。这会给那个机构招致上帝的不悦。{4T 432.1}[7]
§18
Professors and teachers should reflect upon the best means of maintaining the peculiar character of our college; all should highly esteem the privileges which we enjoy in having such a school and should faithfully sustain it and guard it from any breath of reproach. Selfishness may chill the energies of the students, and the worldly element may gain a prevailing influence over the entire school. This would bring the frown of God upon that institution. {4T 432.1}[7]
§19
凡自称爱上帝，并顺从真理的学生，应当具有自制和坚持宗教原则的能力，在试探面前毫不动摇。在学校、在宿舍和他们所在的任何地方，都能为耶稣而坚立。宗教不应只是在圣殿里穿的一件外衣，它的原则应当表现于人的整个一生。凡从生命泉源取饮的人，决不会像世俗的人一样，渴望改换口味，以求快活。由于他们每日将困难和重担，放在耶稣脚前，从他们的态度和品格上，必能看出那从耶稣身上得来的安息、平安和喜乐。他们必证明在顺从和责任的道路上，有着满足和恒久的喜乐。这样的人一定会在他们的同学身上，发挥一种普及全校的影响。组成这支忠心队伍的人，必要鼓舞和振奋那些由于种种不忠诚、纷争和不守纪律的行为而灰心的教师。他们的影响，必是积极的；他们的工作成绩，在上帝的大日必不至泯灭，却要与他们一同带入将来的世界；他们今生的影响，必波及永恒岁月。一个热诚、正直和忠心的青年，在学校中乃是无价之宝。众天使亲切地俯视他们。天上的册子上，记下他的每一件义行，和每一次抵挡试探，战胜邪恶的事迹。他正在为来生建立美好的基础，得以保持永恒的生命。{4T 432.2}[8]
§20
Those students who profess to love God and obey the truth should possess that degree of self-control and strength of religious principle that will enable them to remain unmoved amid temptations and to stand up for Jesus in the college, at their boardinghouses, or wherever they may be. Religion is not to be worn merely as a cloak in the house of God, but religious principle must characterize the entire life. Those who are drinking at the fountain of life will not, like the worldling, manifest a longing desire for change and pleasure. In their deportment and character will be seen the rest and peace and happiness that they have found in Jesus by daily laying their perplexities and burdens at His feet. They will show that there is contentment and even joy in the path of obedience and duty. Such will exert an influence over their fellow students which will tell upon the entire school. Those who compose this faithful army will refresh and strengthen the teachers and professors in their efforts by discouraging every species of unfaithfulness, of discord, and of neglect to comply with the rules and regulations. Their influence will be saving, and their works will not perish in the great day of God, but will follow them into the future world; and the influence of their life here will tell throughout the ceaseless ages of eternity. One earnest, conscientious, faithful young man in school is an inestimable treasure. Angels of heaven look lovingly upon him. His precious Saviour loves him, and in the Ledger of Heaven will be recorded every work of righteousness, every temptation resisted, every evil overcome. He will thus be laying up a good foundation against the time to come, that he may lay hold on eternal life. {4T 432.2}[8]
§21
C弟兄在学院采取的追求与年轻女士们交际的做法是错误的。他被派到巴特尔克里克，并不是为了这个目的。学生们被送到这里并不是要他们彼此依恋，沉湎于调情或求爱，而是为了获得一种教育。要是让他们随心所欲，学院不久就会败德混乱。一些人把宝贵的在校时光用在了偷偷地调情和求爱上，尽管教授和教师们对此很警惕。若有任何一个部门的教师利用职务之便赢得了学生的爱情想要结婚，他的做法就应受到最严厉的谴责。{4T 433.1}[9]
§22
The course pursued at the college by Brother C, in seeking the society of young ladies, was wrong. This was not the object for which he was sent to Battle Creek. Students are not sent here to form attachments, to indulge in flirtation or courting, but to obtain an education. Should they be allowed to follow their own inclinations in this respect, the college would soon become demoralized. Several have used their precious school days in slyly flirting and courting, notwithstanding the vigilance of professors and teachers. When a teacher of any of the branches takes advantage of his position to win the affections of his students with a view to marriage, his course is worthy of severest censure. {4T 433.1}[9]
§23
D弟兄的儿子们、几个来自衣阿华州的学生和来自伊利诺斯州的E先生的影响，一直无益于我们的学校。这些学生的亲友也帮助他们给学院带来了谴责。D弟兄的儿子们聪明能干，很令父母心满意足；但当这些年轻人的才能被用来毁掉学校的规章制度时，就不是该令任何一个人心中喜悦的事了。当各人的行为都在上帝面前受审阅的那日，含有对在学院中教书之人适当而尖锐批评的案卷，读来就不这么令人满意了。D弟兄和姐妹那时就要面对自己在这事上拙劣地隐瞒以他们的儿子为义的行为记录。他们那时必须对所发挥的对学校不利的影响作交待，这所学校是上帝的一个工具，也要为他们发出错误言论阻止学生们来到学院负责任，学生们原可在学院受到真理的感化。有些人会因这种错误的影响而沦丧。上帝审判的大日会显明所说话语和所取态度的影响。D弟兄和姐妹在家里有义务，是他们所忽视的。他们已沉醉于今生的挂虑。工作和匆忙赶路就是他们的议事日程，而他们强烈的世俗精神已经影响了自己的儿女，教会和世人。那些秉公义坚持真理之人的榜样，才能谴责世界。{4T 433.2}[10]
§24
The influence of the sons of Brother D and of several others from Iowa, also that of Mr. E of Illinois, has been no benefit to our school. The relatives and friends of these students have sustained them in casting reflections upon the college. The sons of Brother D have ability and aptness, which is a source of gratification to the parents; but when the ability of these young men is exerted to break down the rules and regulations of the college, it is nothing that should excite pleasure in the hearts of any. The paper containing that apt and sharp criticism concerning one who teaches in the college will not be read with such gratification in the day when every mans work shall pass in review before God. Brother and Sister D will then meet a record of the work they did in giving their son poorly concealed justification in this matter. They must then answer for the influence they have exerted against the school, one of Gods instrumentalities, and for making the colored statements which have prevented youth from coming to the college, where they might have been brought under the influence of truth. Some souls will be lost in consequence of this wrong influence. The great day of Gods judgment will unfold the influence of the words spoken and the attitude assumed. Brother and Sister D have duties at home which they have neglected. They have been drunken with the cares of this life. Work and hurry and drive are the order of the day, and their intense worldliness has had its molding influence upon their children, upon the church, and upon the world. It is the example of those who hold the truth in righteousness which will condemn the world. {4T 433.2}[10]
§25
上帝所设立推进圣工的机构，是否能维持下去，大多有赖于基督化的青年。这个严重的责任落在今日正在进入社会的青年人身上。在历史上，从来没有像今日这样，由一个世代的人，来决定如此重大的成败。可见青年人为这伟大的工作作好准备，使上帝能用他们作为器皿，这是何等的重要！造他们的主对于他们的要求，超过其他任何人。{4T 434.1}[11]
§26
Upon Christian youth depend in a great measure the preservation and perpetuity of the institutions which God has devised as means by which to advance His work. This grave responsibility rests upon the youth of today who are coming upon the stage of action. Never was there a period when results so important depended upon a generation of men; then how important that the young should be qualified for the great work, that God may use them as His instruments. Their Maker has claims upon them which are paramount to all others. {4T 434.1}[11]
§27
青年的生命，以及体力和智力，都是上帝所赐的。祂赐给他们种种才能，是要他们善于利用，使他们能作成永垂不朽的工作。为了报答祂的大恩赐，祂要求他们适当地培养和运用智力及道德力。祂赐给他们这些才能，并不只是供他们自己享受，或浪费在违背祂旨意的工作上，而是要在世界上传播真理和圣洁的知识。为了报答祂恒久的恩慈，和无穷的怜悯，祂要求得到他们的感谢、崇拜和敬爱。祂要求他们顺从祂的律法，和种种智慧的制度。这些制度能保障并引导青年避开撒但的诡计，把他们领到平安的路上。如果青年能认识到遵守我们学校的规章制度会使他们在社会上站立得住，并能提炼品格、提高心智、增进幸福，他们就不会反对这些正确的制度和合理的规章，也不会对这些机构抱有怀疑和偏见了。我们的青年，必须积极忠实地遵守对于他们的各项要求，而这会成为他们成功的保证。现今世代中，许多青年放荡不羁的品格，是令人痛心的。许多的责备会落在他们家中父母的身上。若没有敬畏上帝的心，谁也不会真正地快乐。{4T 434.2}[12]
§28
It is God that has given life and every physical and mental endowment they possess. He has bestowed upon them capabilities for wise improvement, that they may be entrusted with a work which will be as enduring as eternity. In return for His great gifts He claims a due cultivation and exercise of their intellectual and moral faculties. He did not give them these faculties merely for their amusement, or to be abused in working against His will and His providence, but that they might use them to advance the knowledge of truth and holiness in the world. He claims their gratitude, their veneration and love, for His continued kindness and infinite mercies. He justly requires obedience to His laws and to all wise regulations which will restrain and guard the youth from Satans devices and lead them in paths of peace. If youth could see that in complying with the laws and regulations of our institutions they are only doing that which will improve their standing in society, elevate the character, ennoble the mind, and increase their happiness, they would not rebel against just rules and wholesome requirements, nor engage in creating suspicion and prejudice against these institutions. Our youth should have a spirit of energy and fidelity to meet the demands upon them, and this will be a guaranty of success. The wild, reckless character of many of the youth in this age of the world is heartsickening. Much of the blame lies upon their parents at home. Without the fear of God no one can be truly happy. {4T 434.2}[12]
§29
那些因权威而生气，回家责骂学院的学生，必须看到自己的罪并且抵消自己所发挥的影响，之后才能蒙上帝悦纳。衣阿华州的信徒因轻信所传给他们的谣言已令上帝不悦。他们应该总是在秩序和纪律的一边，而不是鼓励松弛的管理。{4T 435.1}[13]
§30
Those students who have chafed under authority, and have returned to their homes to cast reproach upon the college, will have to see their sin and counteract the influence they have cast, before they can have the approval of God. The believers in Iowa have displeased God in their credulity in accepting the reports brought them. They should ever be found on the side of order and discipline, instead of encouraging lax government. {4T 435.1}[13]
§31
一个青年远道而来，要分享巴特尔克里克学院的裨益。他带着父母的祝福从家出发。他已天天听到在家庭祭坛上献上的祷告，也显然已经开始过高尚刚毅而纯正的生活。他离家时的信念和宗旨都是正确的。在巴特尔克里克，他遇见和结交了各等的人，开始熟悉一些其榜样对凡来到他们影响范围内的人都是一种福气的人。此外，他也遇见了那些外表虽然亲切有趣，才智魅人，道德标准却很低下，也没有宗教信仰的人。他一度抵抗了屈服于试探的每一个诱因；但是当他看到那些自称为基督徒的人与这些没有宗教信仰的人结交得很愉快，他的意志和高尚的决心就开始动摇了。他喜欢这些年轻人脱口而出的妙语和快活的精神，几乎不知不觉地跟他们越来越亲近了。他的堡垒似乎要垮掉；他至今勇敢的心正在变得软弱。他受邀陪他们去散步，他们就把他带到了一个酒吧。叫了些饮料，他便耻于退却和拒绝这种招待。他既一次踏出界限，便再三越界了。想想一杯啤酒也不是很讨厌，他就接受了。但是，尽管这样，良心还是有阵阵刺痛。他不公开采取自己站在上帝真理和公义一边的立场；他喜欢所结交的那群狡猾的骗子，就受诱导越陷越深了。引诱他的那些人极力主张玩一下纸牌和在台球厅看一下比赛肯定无害，他就多次屈服于试探了。{4T 435.2}[14]
§32
A youth is sent from a distant state to share the benefits of the college at Battle Creek. He goes forth from his home with the blessing of his parents upon his head. He has listened daily to the earnest prayers offered at the family altar, and he is apparently well started in a life of noble resolve and purity. His convictions and purposes when he leaves home are right. In Battle Creek he will meet with associates of all classes. He becomes acquainted with some whose example is a blessing to all who come within the sphere of their influence. Again, he meets with those who are apparently kind and interesting, and whose intelligence charms him; but they have a low standard of morality and no religious faith. For a time he resists every inducement to yield to temptation; but as he observes that those who profess to be Christians seem to enjoy the company of this irreligious class, his purposes and high resolves begin to waver. He enjoys the lively sallies and jovial spirit of these youth, and he is almost imperceptibly drawn more and more into their company. His stronghold seems to be giving way; his hitherto brave heart is growing weak. He is invited to accompany them for a walk, and they lead him to a saloon. Oysters or other refreshments are called for, and he is ashamed to draw away and refuse the treat. Having once overstepped the bounds, he goes again and again. A glass of beer is thought to be unobjectionable, and he accepts it; but still, with all, there are sharp twinges of conscience. He does not openly take his stand on the side of God and truth and righteousness; the society of the sly, deceptive class with which he is associated pleases him, and he is led a step further. His tempters urge that it is certainly harmless to play a game of cards and to watch the players in a billiard hall, and he yields repeatedly to the temptation. {4T 435.2}[14]
§33
到我们学校上学的年轻人，他们的父母和监护人不会料到他们竟在酒吧闲荡，喝啤酒，玩纸牌和打台球。学生们设法把这些事存为心底的秘密；而教授和教师们一直不知道这邪恶工作在进行着。当这个年轻人受引诱去做某种必须保密的坏事时，他要跟良心打仗；但他的爱好得了胜。他当初来巴特尔克里克时，是要做基督徒的，却被诱导稳步走上了下坡路。在守安息日之父母的儿女中，发现了邪恶的同伴和骗子，其中有些人生活在巴特尔克里克，发现他是可以被引诱的；他们便因自己的能力和他是软弱的，会这么容易屈服于他们诱人的影响而窃喜。他们发现那些有亮光和已在罪中刚硬了心肠的人会以他为耻。只要有青少年结交的地方，就会发现有这种影响。{4T 436.1}[15]
§34
Young men attend our college who, unsuspected by parents or guardians, hang about saloons, drink beer, and play cards and games in billiard halls. These things the students try to keep a profound secret among themselves; and professors and teachers are kept in ignorance of the satanic work going on. When this young man is enticed to pursue some evil course which must be kept secret, he has a battle with conscience; but inclination triumphs. He meant to be a Christian when he came to Battle Creek, but he is led steadily and surely in the downward road. Evil companions and seducers found among the youth of Sabbathkeeping parents, some of them living in Battle Creek, find that he can be tempted; and they secretly exult in their power and the fact that he is weak and will yield so readily to their seductive influences. They find that he can be shamed and confused by those who have had light and who have hardened their hearts in sin. Just such influences as these will be found wherever youth associate together. {4T 436.1}[15]
§35
时候要到，那个离开父家时纯洁忠诚，有高尚宗旨的年轻人会被毁掉。他学会了爱恶拒善。他没有认识到自己的危险，没有用警醒和祷告武装自己。他没有立刻置身于教会的保护关照之下。他竟以为独立不羁才是男子汉。有人教他说无视校规藐视律例就会享有真正的自由；还说总是恐惧战兢免得做错乃是奴隶盲从。他屈服于不敬虔之人的影响，这些人虽然有美好的外表，却在实行欺骗、卑鄙的行为和罪孽；于是他就因这么容易受骗而被藐视和嘲笑。他去了不会料到有纯洁和良善的地方，学到了并不高尚高贵的生活方式和谈吐习惯。许多人都有这样不知不觉被带走直到自暴自弃的危险。他们为了获得无情和不虔诚之人的赞赏，便有放弃人性的纯洁和高贵，成为撒但奴隶的危险。{4T 436.2}[16]
§36
The time will come when that young man who left his fathers house pure and true, with noble purposes, will be ruined. He has learned to love the evil and reject the good. He did not realize his danger, not being armed with watchfulness and prayer. He did not place himself at once under the guardian care of the church. He was made to believe that it was manly to be independent, not allowing his liberty to be restricted. He was taught that to ignore rules and defy laws was to enjoy true freedom; that it was slavish to be always fearing and trembling lest he do wrong. He yielded to the influence of ungodly persons who, while carrying a fair exterior, were practicing deception, vileness, and iniquity; and he was despised and derided because he was so easily duped. He went where he could not expect to find the pure and the good. He learned ways of life and habits of speech which were not elevating and ennobling. Many are in danger of being thus lead away imperceptibly until they become degraded in their own estimation. In order to gain the applause of the heartless and ungodly, they are in danger of yielding the purity and nobleness of manhood, and of becoming slaves to Satan. {4T 436.2}[16]
§37
【青年传道人】
§38
我蒙指示看到，衣阿华州的区会既显然与上帝没有联络，若不允许年轻人在区会中发挥影响力，该州在纯洁敬虔的标准上就会远远落后于其它州。我感到有极严肃的责任要说，如果F和G弟兄曾保持沉默，衣阿华州今天原会处于更好的状况。他们自己既没有经验上的敬虔，又怎么能把人们带到他们自己都不熟悉的那个源头呢？{4T 437.1}[17]
§39
【Young Ministers】
§40
I have been shown that Iowa will be left far behind other states in the standard of pure godliness if young men are permitted to have influence in her conference while it is evident that they are not connected with God. I feel it to be a most solemn duty resting upon me to say that Iowa would be in a better condition today if Brethren F and G had remained silent. Not having experimental godliness themselves, how can they lead the people to that Fountain with which they themselves are unacquainted? {4T 437.1}[17]
§41
对于上帝圣灵的证言，有一种流行的怀疑心理正在不断地滋长着；这些青年人不但不铲除疑惑及不信之心，反而助长疑问，这是因为他们不懂证言的精意，权能，及力量之故。他们的心既因而不圣洁，他们的工作就不能给人们带来益处。他们可以表面上使人信服我们拥有真理，但上帝感动人心和使人觉悟己罪的圣灵和能力在哪里呢？使知罪的人前进到具有至关重要之敬虔的经验上的知识在哪里呢？他们自己既没有这种知识，又怎么能表现基督的宗教呢？若有年轻人愿意进入园地，千万不要劝阻他们；但要先让他们学会作工。{4T 437.2}[18]
§42
A prevailing skepticism is continually increasing in reference to the Testimonies of the Spirit of God; and these youth encourage questionings and doubts instead of removing them, because they are ignorant of the spirit and power and force of the Testimonies. While thus unsanctified in heart their labor can do the people no good. They may apparently convince souls that we have the truth, but where is the Spirit and power of God to impress the heart and awaken conviction of sin? Where is the power to carry the convicted forward to an experimental knowledge of vital godliness? They have not a knowledge of this themselves; then how can they represent the religion of Christ? If young men would enter the field, in no wise discourage them; but first let them learn the trade. {4T 437.2}[18]
§43
G弟兄原可与疗养院的医生们努力同工，但他跟他们协调不起来。他太自信了，不能做一个学习者。他又张狂又自我本位。他本来与其他的年轻人有一个好的前途，但他们乐于领受指导和居于任何可以作出最好服务的位置，而他却不愿使自己适应形势。他自以为知道得太多，不可屈居次要位置。他没有给病人留下好印象。他是那么专横独裁，以致疗养院中不能容忍他的影响。他并不缺乏能力，若是乐于受教，原可获得医生工作的实际知识；要是他保持了柔和谦卑的精神，原可取得成功。但他却没有看到和克服生来的品格缺陷。他一直有欺骗、支吾搪塞的性情。这会摧毁任何一个人人生的效用，也必定会向他关闭传道之门。应该培养最严格的诚实习惯，一切欺骗都应避免，如同躲避大麻风一样。他因自己身材矮小而感到困窘。这是无法弥补的，但他若愿意，补救自己的品格缺陷就是他力所能及的事。可以小心地按照那神圣的楷模塑造心思和品格。{4T 437.3}[19]
§44
Brother G might have united his efforts with those of the physicians at the sanitarium, but he could not harmonize with them. He was too self-sufficient to be a learner. He was puffed up and egotistical. He had just as good a prospect as other young men; but while they were willing to receive instruction and to occupy any position where they could be of the greatest service, he would not adapt himself to the situation. He thought he knew too much to occupy a secondary position. He did not commend himself to the patients. He was so overbearing and dictatorial that his influence could not be tolerated in the sanitarium. He was not lacking in ability, and had he been willing to be taught he might have gained a practical knowledge of the work of a physician; had he preserved his spirit in meekness of humility he might have made a success. But natural defects of character have not been seen and overcome. There has been a disposition on his part to deceive, to prevaricate. This will destroy the usefulness of anyones life, and would certainly close to him the doors of the ministry. The strictest veracity should be cultivated and all deception shunned as one would shun the leprosy. He has felt embarrassed because of his diminutive stature. This cannot be remedied, but it is within his power to remedy his defective character if he will. Mind and character may, with care, be molded after the divine Pattern. {4T 437.3}[19]
§45
造就人的是真诚高尚的心，而不是装出优越的样子。正确地培养智力，会使人达到应有的状态。主赐下这些提高人的才能，是要帮助人形成适合不朽来生的品格。人受造是为享有比这个世界所能提供的更高尚更圣洁的快乐状况。人按着上帝的形像受造是为了高尚高贵的目的，引起天使的关注。{4T 438.1}[20]
§46
It is the true elevation of the mind, not an affectation of superiority, that makes the man. The proper cultivation of the mental powers makes man all that he is. These ennobling faculties are given to aid in forming character for the future, immortal life. Man was created for a higher, holier state of enjoyment than this world can afford. He was made in the image of God for high and noble purposes, such as engage the attention of angels. {4T 438.1}[20]
§47
现今的青年一般都思想不深刻，行动不聪明。他们若是意识到困扰着自己每一脚步的重重危险，就会谨慎行事，避开撒但为他们的脚预备好的许多陷阱。我的弟兄，要小心，不要显出非你本相的样子。镀金的赝品很容易与纯金属区别出来。不仅要十分仔细地省察你自己，也要检查你家每一个人所居的位置。追溯每一个人的历史，默想所取做法的结果。思考为什么有些人受到真正善良的人爱戴和尊敬，有些人却遭到轻视和回避。要按照永恒的眼光看这些事，看到别人失败的地方，就要小心避免他们的行径。最好要记得，品格的倾向是由父母传给儿女的。要认真地默想这些事，然后本着敬畏上帝的心穿上军装，与遗传的倾向作终身的斗争，单单效法那神圣的模范。你若要成功，就必须坚定、恒切、热心地下工夫。你有自我要征服，这是一切斗争中最艰巨的斗争。坚决反对你自己的道路和你的错误习惯，会使你获得宝贵而持久的胜利。但你若珍爱自己强硬的品格特性，想要领导人而不是乐于追随，你就不会取得成功。你很敏感，若不当心，就会发脾气。必须让年轻人负责任，履行重要的义务。你在使自己有资格本着敬畏上帝的心尽自己的本分吗？{4T 438.2}[21]
§48
The youth of today do not generally think deeply or act wisely. Were they aware of the dangers besetting their every step, they would move cautiously and escape many snares that Satan has prepared for their feet. Be careful, my brother, not to appear what you are not. Gilded imitation will be readily distinguished from the pure metal. Examine with the greatest care not only yourself, but the position which each one of your family occupies. Trace the history of each, and meditate as to the result of the course pursued. Consider why it is that some persons are loved and respected by the truly good, while others are despised and shunned. Look upon these things in the light of eternity, and wherein you discover that others have failed, carefully avoid the course that they have pursued. It will be well to remember that tendencies of character are transmitted from parents to children. Meditate seriously upon these things, and then in the fear of God gird on the armor for a life conflict with hereditary tendencies, imitating none but the divine Pattern. You must work with perseverance, constancy, and zeal if you would succeed. You will have yourself to conquer, which will be the hardest battle of all. Determined opposition to your own ways and your wrong habits will secure for you precious and everlasting victories. But while your strong traits of character are cherished, while you wish to lead instead of being willing to follow, you will make no success. Your feelings are quick, and unless you are guarded you indulge in temper. Upon the young must rest responsibilities and the discharge of important duties; are you qualifying yourself to do your part in the fear of God? {4T 438.2}[21]
§49
F弟兄不适合做他的工作。他几乎事事都要学。他的品格有缺陷。他没有从小受教要做一个照顾人的人，作工的人，挑担子的人。他没有看到和认识到要为自己做成的工作，因此也没有预备好赏识要为别人做成的工作。他过于自信。他以为自己知道的比实际知道的多。何时他变得完全因上帝的灵成圣，并且充分认识到基督传道人工作的严肃和责任，他就会觉得自己完全不胜任这任务。他在许多方面都不足；他的不足会在别人身上再现，使世人对我们的工作和从事这工作的传道人产生不良的印象。他必须先熟悉人生实际的重担和责任，才能适合参加曾赐给凡人的最有责任的工作。我们的传道人都需要先作学生，才能作教师。虽然我愿意鼓励年轻人参加传道事工，但我要说，我蒙上帝授权劝告和敦促他们要适合做自己所要从事的工作。{4T 439.1}[22]
§50
Brother F is not fitted for his work. He has nearly everything to learn. His character is defective. He has not been educated from childhood to be a care-taker, a laborer, a burden bearer. He has not seen and felt the work to be done for himself, and hence is not prepared to appreciate the work to be done for others. He is self-sufficient. He assumes to know more than he really does. When he becomes thoroughly consecrated by the Spirit of God, and fully realizes the solemnity and responsibility of the work of a minister of Christ, he will feel himself entirely insufficient for the task. He is deficient in many respects; and his deficiencies will be reproduced in others, giving to the world an unfavorable impression of the character of our work and of the ministers who are engaged in it. He must become acquainted with the burdens and duties of practical life before he can be fitted to engage in the most responsible work ever given to mortal man. All young ministers need to be learners before they become teachers. While I would encourage young men to enter the ministry, I would say that I am authorized of God to recommend and urge upon them a fitness for the work in which they are to engage. {4T 439.1}[22]
§51
F家的弟兄们不喜欢做照顾人的人和挑担子的人。他们做的一切都显出粗心疏忽和不完全。他们的谈吐和举止都很鲁莽。他们若不改变并按照那神圣的形像受塑造，就无法发挥每一个福音传道人都应该发挥的严肃、高尚、使人高贵的感化力。他们每一个人都或多或少存在自私自利，尽管有些人比其他人更严重。在这些年轻人中间有一种自足自负和自尊自大的精神，这使他们不适合做上帝的工作。他们需要严格自律，之后才能蒙上帝悦纳，在祂的圣工中作工人。有一种本性的懒惰必须克服。他们应该在人生暂时的事务上忠心地受到训练。他们必须做学习者；及至他们在较小的责任上显出明显的成功，才会适合受托更大的责任。各区会若没有这种无能的工人倒更好。救灵的负担落在处于未献身状态的人身上，跟落在婴儿身上差不多。他们不知道至关重要的敬虔，需要极其彻底的悔改，才能成为基督徒。{4T 440.1}[23]
§52
The Brethren F are not inclined to be care-takers and burden bearers. Carelessness and imperfection are seen in all they undertake. They are reckless in their conversation and deportment. The solemn, elevating, ennobling influence which should characterize every minister of the gospel cannot be exerted in their lives until they have been transformed and molded after the divine image. Selfishness exists more or less in each of them, though in a much larger degree in some than in others. There is a spirit of self-sufficiency and self-importance in these young men that unfits them for the work of God. They need to severely discipline themselves before they can be accepted of God as laborers in His cause. There is a natural laziness that must be overcome. They should have a faithful drilling in the temporal affairs of life. They must be learners; and when they show a marked success in the lesser responsibilities, then they will be fitted to be entrusted with greater ones. The different conferences are better off without such inefficient workers. The burden of souls can no more rest upon men in their state of unconsecration than upon babes. They are ignorant of vital godliness and need a most thorough conversion before they can be even Christians. {4T 440.1}[23]
§53
AF弟兄需要在我们的学院中受到充分的训练。他的语言有缺陷。他的举止粗鲁，缺乏文雅；可是尽管如此，他却过于自信，在自己的能力上完全受了蒙蔽。他对上帝之灵的证言没有真实的信心。他没有仔细学习那些证言和实行所阐明的真理。他很不属灵，不会明白证言的价值及其真实目的。这些年轻人虽然读圣经，但他们很少有虔诚、认真、谦卑查考圣经，预备行各样的善事的经验。{4T 440.2}[24]
§54
Brother A F needs a thorough drill in our college. His language is defective. There is a coarseness and want of refinement in his deportment; yet notwithstanding this, he is self-sufficient and entirely deceived in regard to his ability. He has had no real faith in the Testimonies of the Spirit of God. He has not carefully studied them and practiced the truths brought out. While he has so little spirituality he will not understand the value of the Testimonies nor their real object. These young men read the Bible, but they have very little experience in prayerful, earnest, humble searching of the Scriptures, that they may be thoroughly furnished unto all good works. {4T 440.2}[24]
§55
有一个大危险，就是鼓励一班对生灵没有真实负担的人进入园地。他们或许能引起人们的注意，也能参加辩论，但他们决不是有思想的人，会善用自己的才干，扩大自己的能力。我们的传道事工是发育不良且有缺陷的。若没有基督住在传讲真理的人里面，他们就会在凡容忍他们的地方降低道德和宗教的标准。一个榜样已经赐给了他们，就是基督。“圣经都是上帝所默示的，于教训，督责，使人归正，教导人学义，都是有益的。叫属上帝的人得以完全，预备行各样的善事”（提后3:16,17）。圣经中载有上帝确实无误的训诲。人若能切实奉行其中的教训，就可担当任何的职责。圣经就是上帝天天向人心说话的声音。年轻人应该多么细心地研究上帝的道，并将其观点铭记在心，以便让它的训诲管理人全部的操行啊。我们年轻的传道人，和那些已经传道一段时间的人，在对圣经的理解上显出明显的缺乏。圣灵的工作是要开导人蒙昧的悟性，熔化人自私刚硬的心，驯服悖逆的罪人，并救他脱离世上败坏的影响。基督为祂门徒的祷告是：“求祢用真理使他们成圣，祢的道就是真理”（约17:17）。圣灵的宝剑就是上帝的道，能刺透并切碎罪人的心。传道人若是反复传讲真理的理论，而自己的心仍未觉得其神圣的感化，这道在听的人身上就毫无能力，反要被他们看为异端，加以拒绝，这样传道人就要为许多人的沦丧负责任。我们务必保证我们的传道人是悔改归正的人，心里柔谦卑的人。{4T 441.1}[25]
§56
There is great danger of encouraging a class of men to enter the field who have no genuine burden for souls. They may be able to interest the people and to engage in controversy, while they are by no means men of thought, who will improve their ability and enlarge their capacities. We have a dwarfed and defective ministry. Unless Christ shall abide in the men who preach the truth, they will lower the moral and religious standard wherever they are tolerated. One example is given them, even Christ. All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works. In the Bible we have the unerring counsel of God. Its teachings, practically carried out, will fit men for any position of duty. It is the voice of God speaking every day to the soul. How carefully should the young study the word of God and treasure up its sentiments in the heart, that its precepts may be made to govern the whole conduct. Our young ministers, and those who have been some time preaching, show a marked deficiency in their understanding of the Scriptures. The work of the Holy Spirit is to enlighten the darkened understanding, to melt the selfish, stony heart, to subdue the rebellious transgressor, and save him from the corrupting influences of the world. The prayer of Christ for His disciples was: Sanctify them through Thy truth: Thy word is truth. The sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God, pierces the heart of the sinner and cuts it in pieces. When the theory of the truth is repeated without its sacred influence being felt upon the soul of the speaker, it has no force upon the hearers, but is rejected as error, the speaker making himself responsible for the loss of souls. We must be sure that our ministers are converted men, humble, meek, and lowly of heart. {4T 441.1}[25]
§57
在传道事工中必须有一番明确的改变。要更为严格地审查传道人的资格。摩西蒙上帝指示去获得一种经验，照管、体贴、温柔地关怀他的羊群，以便作为忠心的牧人，准备好在上帝呼召他时，去照管祂的子民。从事传讲真理之伟大工作的人，需要有相似的经验。传道人为要把人带到那赐生命的泉源，必须自己先从那泉源取饮。他必须看到上帝儿子为拯救堕落人类而做出的无限牺牲，他自己的心灵也必须被不死之爱的精神所充满。上帝若指定我们去做艰苦的工作，我们必须毫无怨言地去做。道路若是艰难危险，上帝计划是要让我们温顺地跟从，并且向祂呼求得力量。应该从我们一些传道人的经验中得到教训，他们一点儿也未经历过艰难和试炼，却总是视自己为殉道者。他们还要学会对上帝选择的道路充满感激，记念我们救恩的创始者。应该用比在业务交易中所付出的更大的恳切、活力和热心，从事传道人的工作，因为这项工作更加神圣，结果也更加重要。每一天的工作都应当在那永恒的记录中表明“做得好”；以便不再有工作的机会时，这项工作已彻底完成。我们的传道人，尤其是年轻人，应该认识到为使他们适合做严肃的工作和配与天使为伍而必须做的预备工作。我们为要在天上有家，就必须在尘世将天国珍藏在自己的心里。我们若不处在这种情形，最好还是不要参与上帝的工作。{4T 442.1}[26]
§58
There must be a decided change in the ministry. A more critical examination is necessary in respect to the qualifications of a minister. Moses was directed of God to obtain an experience in care-taking, in thoughtfulness, in tender solicitude for his flock, that he might, as a faithful shepherd, be ready when God should call him to take charge of His people. A similar experience is essential for those who engage in the great work of preaching the truth. In order to lead souls to the life-giving fountain, the preacher must first drink at the fountain himself. He must see the infinite sacrifice made by the Son of God to save fallen men, and his own soul must be imbued with the spirit of undying love. If God appoints us hard labor to perform, we must do it without a murmur. If the path is difficult and dangerous, it is Gods plan to have us follow in meekness and cry unto Him for strength. A lesson is to be learned from the experience of some of our ministers who have known nothing comparatively of difficulties and trials, yet ever look upon themselves as martyrs. They have yet to learn to accept with thankfulness the way of Gods choosing, remembering the Author of our salvation. The work of the minister should be pursued with an earnestness, energy, and zeal as much greater than that put forth in business transactions as the labor is more sacred and the result more momentous. Each days work should tell in the eternal records as well done; so that if no other day should be granted in which to labor, the work would be thoroughly finished. Our ministers, young men especially, should realize the preparation necessary to fit them for their solemn work and to prepare them for the society of pure angels. In order to be at home in heaven, we must have heaven enshrined in our hearts here. If this is not the case with us, it were better that we had no part in the work of God. {4T 442.1}[26]
§59
传道事工被不圣洁的传道人败坏了。传道事工若没有更高尚更属灵的标准，福音真理就会变得越来越没有能力。人心就好比园中富饶的土壤，若不予以适当的开垦，无知的野草和荆棘就会枝繁叶茂。心思和意念需要天天培养，若是疏忽，就会产生邪恶。上帝赋予一个人的本领越多，他要作出的进步就越大，他利用自己的光阴和才干来荣耀上帝的责任也越大。心智不可处于休眠状态，若不用它来获得知识，就会陷入到无知、迷信和空想之中。智力若不得到应有的培养来荣耀上帝，就会变得强有力地促使人走向灭亡。{4T 442.2}[27]
§60
The ministry is corrupted by unsanctified ministers. Unless there shall be altogether a higher and more spiritual standard for the ministry, the truth of the gospel will become more and more powerless. The human mind is represented by the rich soil of a garden. Unless it shall receive proper cultivation, it will be overgrown with the weeds and briers of ignorance. The mind and heart need culture daily, and neglect will be productive of evil. The more natural ability God has bestowed upon an individual, the greater the improvement he is required to make, and the greater his responsibility to use his time and talents for the glory of God. The mind must not remain dormant. If it is not exercised in the acquisition of knowledge, there will be a sinking into ignorance, superstition, and fancy. If the intellectual faculties are not cultivated as they should be to glorify God, they will become strong and powerful aids in leading to perdition. {4T 442.2}[27]
§61
年轻人应该谨防变得华而不实和独立不羁，同时也应该不断取得显著进步。他们应该接受每一个机会，培养更加高尚慷慨的品格特性。年轻人若是愿意意识到自己时时刻刻对上帝的依赖，并且怀有一种祈祷的精神，随时随地向上帝倾心吐意，就能更加明白上帝的旨意。但我却蒙指示看到F和G弟兄几乎完全不熟悉上帝之灵的运行。他们一直在靠自己的力量作工，完全专注于自我，以致看不见也意识不到自己的大缺乏。他们对于上帝为祂子民的利益而赐下的证言放肆谈论，妄加意见，说三道四，其实他们倒不如用手掩口，俯伏尘埃更好；因为他们对上帝之灵知道得这么少，无法赏识证言的精意。{4T 443.1}[28]
§62
While young men should guard against being pompous and independent, they should be continually making marked improvement. They should accept every opportunity to cultivate the more noble, generous traits of character. If young men would feel their dependence upon God every moment and cherish a spirit of prayer, a breathing out of the soul to God at all times and in all places, they might better know the will of God. But I have been shown that Brethren F and G are almost wholly unacquainted with the operations of Gods Spirit. They have been working in their own strength and have been so fully wrapped up in themselves that they have not seen and realized their great destitution. They talk flippantly of the Testimonies given of God for the benefit of His people, and pass judgment upon them, giving their opinions and criticizing this and that, when they would better place their hands upon their lips and lie with their faces in the dust; for they know no more of the spirit of the Testimonies than they do of the Spirit of God. {4T 443.1}[28]
§63
他们在真理上是生手，在宗教经验上是侏儒。为圣工赢得最大的胜利不是藉着辛苦的辩论，充足的设备，充裕的影响力和大量的钱财，而是藉着在密室与上帝同在，用诚恳而熬炼人的信心持住那大能的膀臂。雅各发现自己完全无力抵抗，处在无助的状态时，便极其恳切地向上帝倾心吐意。上帝的使者恳求放行，但雅各不愿放手。这个被打击的人忍受着身体的疼痛，用活泼信心所给予的胆量提出了他的恳切祈求。他说：“你不给我祝福，我就不容你去”（创32:26）。{4T 443.2}[29]
§64
They are novices in the truth and dwarfs in religious experience. The greatest victories which are gained to the cause are not by labored argument, ample facilities, abundance of influence, and plenty of means; but they are those victories which are gained in the audience chamber with God, when earnest, agonizing faith lays hold upon the mighty arm of power. When Jacob found himself utterly prostrate and in a helpless condition, he poured out his soul to God in an agony of earnestness. The angel of God pleaded to be released, but Jacob would not let go his hold. The stricken man, suffering bodily pain, presented his earnest supplication with the boldness which living faith imparts. I will not let Thee go, he said, except Thou bless me. {4T 443.2}[29]
§65
上帝的道中有深奥的事，若无上帝的灵帮助，人心决心不会发现。救赎的计划中也有测不透的奥秘，有限的心智决不能领会。没有经验的青少年最好耗费心神和运用自己的能力去理解明显的事；因为他们若不具有比现在更多的属灵光照，就要花一生的时间去学习上帝明显的旨意。他们若珍爱了已经拥有的亮光，并且实际应用了所拥有的亮光，就能向前迈进一步了。上帝的天意乃是一所长期学校，祂总是在其中带领人们去注意真正的人生目标。没有人太年幼，也没有人太年老，以致不能在这所学校中学习，用功领会那神圣的教师所教的功课。祂是真牧人，祂按名叫自己的羊。迷路的羊听到祂的声音说：“这是正路，要行在其间”（赛30:21）。{4T 444.1}[30]
§66
There are deep mysteries in the word of God, which will never be discovered by minds that are unaided by the Spirit of God. There are also unsearchable mysteries in the plan of redemption, which finite minds can never comprehend. Inexperienced youth might better tax their minds and exercise their ability to gain an understanding of matters that are revealed; for unless they possess more spiritual enlightenment than they now have, it would take a lifetime to learn the revealed will of God. When they have cherished the light they already have, and made a practical use of it, they will be able to take a step forward. Gods providence is a continual school, in which He is ever leading men to see the true aims of life. None are too young, and none too old, to learn in this school by paying diligent heed to the lessons taught by the divine Teacher. He is the True Shepherd, and He calls His sheep by name. By the wanderers His voice is heard, saying: This is the way, walk ye in it. {4T 444.1}[30]
§67
那些在今生属世的本分上没有取得成功的青年，不可能真正预备好承担更高的责任。宗教经验，只有通过挣扎、挫折、严格的自律和诚恳的祈祷，才能获得。必须用果敢的信心抓紧应许，然后许多人就可容光焕发地从与上帝密切的交通出来，象雅各一样说：“我面对面见了上帝，我的性命仍得保全”（创32:30）。{4T 444.2}[31]
§68
Young men who have never made a success in the temporal duties of life will be equally unprepared to engage in the higher duties. A religious experience is attained only through conflict, through disappointment, through severe discipline of self, through earnest prayer. Living faith must grasp the promises unflinchingly, and then many may come from close communion with God with shining faces, saying, as did Jacob: I have seen God face to face, and my life is preserved. {4T 444.2}[31]
§69
通向天国的阶梯，必须一步一步攀登，每前进一步，都会给下一步带来力量。上帝恩典在人心上运行的改变之能，是一种很少人领会的工作，因为人们太懒惰了，没有做出必需的努力。青年传道人在不适合工作时就四处走动和受人伺候，对他们有一种腐化的影响。他们不知道自己的位置，也不持守本位。他们没有受坚定的原则所制约。他们不懂装懂地讲论自己并不知道的事，于是那些接受他们为教师的人就被误导了。一个这样的人在人心中引起的怀疑，几个人竭尽所能都抵消不了。心眼小的人喜欢诡辩、批评、质疑，以为这是智力敏锐的标志。但这反而显明他们缺乏文雅和高尚的情操。他们若努力造就自己，提高自己的思想境界，就会好得多了。花儿怎样转向太阳，让明亮的光线促成其美丽与匀称，青年也当怎样转向那公义的日头，让天上的亮光照在他们身上，完善他们的品格，使他们在上帝的事上有深刻持久的经验。这样，他们就能将神圣的光线反照到他人身上。那些宁愿收集疑惑不信和怀疑的人，不会在恩典或属灵上长进，也不配负担将真理传给他人的严肃责任。{4T 444.3}[32]
§70
The steps upward to heaven must be taken one at a time; every advance step strengthens us for the next. The transforming power of the grace of God upon the human heart is a work which but few comprehend because they are too indolent to make the necessary effort. The lessons which young ministers learn in going about and being waited upon when they have not a fitness for the work have a demoralizing influence upon them. They do not know their place and keep it. They are not balanced by firm principles. They talk knowingly of things they know nothing of, and hence those who accept them as teachers are misled. One such person will inspire more skepticism in minds than several will be able to counteract, do the best they can. Men of small minds delight to quibble, to criticize, to seek for something to question, thinking this a mark of sharpness; but instead it shows a mind lacking refinement and elevation. How much better to be engaged in seeking to cultivate themselves and to ennoble and elevate their minds. As a flower turns to the sun that the bright rays may aid in perfecting its beauty and symmetry, so should the youth turn to the Sun of Righteousness, that heavens light may shine upon them, perfecting their characters and giving them a deep and abiding experience in the things of God. Then they may reflect the divine rays of light upon others. Those who choose to gather doubts and unbelief and skepticism will experience no growth in grace or spirituality and are unfitted for the solemn responsibility of bearing the truth to others. {4T 444.3}[32]
§71
要警告世人将要临到的厄运。那些躺在罪孽过犯中昏睡的人睡得那么深，象死了一样，以致需要上帝的声音藉着十分清醒的传道人唤醒他们。传道人若不悔改归正，人们也不会悔改归正。如今在我们中间盛行冷淡的形式主义，必须让位于经验上敬虔的活泼能力。真理的理论是没有错误的；它是完全清晰和谐的。但青年传道人虽然能把真理讲得很流利，却不明白自己所说话语的真意。他们不赏识自己所介绍之真理的价值，也没怎么认识到这些真理使前辈们付出了什么代价，他们以祈祷和眼泪经受试炼和反对，寻找真理如同寻找隐藏的珍宝。真理之链的每一个新链环对他们来说都如试验过的金子一般宝贵。这些链环如今连成了一个完美的整体。藉着恳切地祈求亮光和知识，真理已从迷信和谬误的垃圾中被挖掘出来，且如无价的宝珠被介绍给人。{4T 445.1}[33]
§72
The world is to be warned of its coming doom. The slumbers of those who are lying in sin and error are so deep, so deathlike, that the voice of God through a wide-awake minister is needed to awaken them. Unless the ministers are converted, the people will not be. The cold formalism that is now prevailing among us must give place to the living energy of experimental godliness. There is no fault with the theory of the truth; it is perfectly clear and harmonious. But young ministers may speak the truth fluently, and yet have no real sense of the words they utter. They do not appreciate the value of the truth they present, and little realize what it has cost those, who, with prayers and tears, through trial and opposition, have sought for it as for hid treasures. Every new link in the chain of truth was to them as precious as tried gold. These links are now united in a perfect whole. Truths have been dug out of the rubbish of superstition and error, by earnest prayer for light and knowledge, and have been presented to the people as precious pearls of priceless value. {4T 445.1}[33]
§73
福音乃是来自永恒世界的亮光和盼望对人类的一个启示。亮光并非一下子全部迸射出来，而是照我们所能承受的来到。渴求认识上帝旨意的勤学好问的人决不会感到满足；他们查究得越深，就越认识到自己的无知，悲叹自己的盲目。上帝是一切智慧和能力之源，人若愿意将自己的努力与上帝的恩典结合，他所能达到的高尚高贵的造诣是无法想象的。“上帝为爱祂的人所预备的是眼睛未曾看见，耳朵未曾听见，人心也未曾想到的”（林前2:9）。{4T 446.1}[34]
§74
The gospel is a revelation to man of beams of light and hope from the eternal world. All the light does not burst upon us at once, but it comes as we can bear it. Inquiring minds that hunger for a knowledge of Gods will are never satisfied; the deeper they search, the more they realize their ignorance and deplore their blindness. It is beyond the power of man to conceive the high and noble attainments that are within his reach if he will combine human effort with the grace of God, who is the Source of all wisdom and power. And there is an eternal weight of glory beyond. Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love Him. {4T 446.1}[34]
§75
我们拥有传给世人的最严肃的信息。这真理越来越受到不信之人的尊重，因为它是无可反驳的。考虑到这个事实，我们的年轻人就变得自信和自我膨胀了。他们拿着别人已经阐明的真理，不研究或不恳切祷告就去应付反对，参加辩论，沉湎于犀利和俏皮的言辞，自以为这就是在做福音传道人的工作。这些人需要象保罗一样经历彻底的悔改，才能适合上帝的工作。传道人必须是他们所传真理的活代表。他们必须有更加属灵的生活，表现出更加纯朴的特色。他们所讲的话必须从上帝领受，然后传给人。必须吸引人们的注意力。我们的信息要么是活的香气叫人活，要么是死的香气叫人死。众生的命运悬悬待定。众多人的都在断定谷。应该听到有声音喊着说：“若耶和华是上帝，就当顺从耶和华；若巴力是上帝，就当顺从巴力”（王上18:21）。{4T 446.2}[35]
§76
We have the most solemn message of truth ever borne to the world. This truth is more and more respected by unbelievers because it cannot be controverted. In view of this fact, our young men become self-confident and self-inflated. They take the truths which have been brought out by other minds, and without study or earnest prayer meet opponents and engage in contests, indulging in sharp speeches and witticisms, flattering themselves that this is doing the work of a gospel minister. In order to be fitted for Gods work, these men need as thorough a conversion as Paul experienced. Ministers must be living representatives of the truth they preach. They must have greater spiritual life, characterized by greater simplicity. The words must be received from God and given to the people. The attention of the people must be arrested. Our message is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. The destinies of souls are balancing. Multitudes are in the valley of decision. A voice should be heard crying: If the Lord be God, follow Him: but if Baal, then follow him. {4T 446.2}[35]
§77
迅速、积极而热心的行动可以救一个犹豫不决的人。无人能断定没有圣灵的恩膏而试图讲道会造成多少损失。在每一次聚会中，都有人犹豫不决，几乎听劝，要完全归向上帝。这种决定涉及今生永世。然而传道人心中往往没有真理信息的精神及能力，因此没有对犹豫不决的人发出直接的呼吁。结果感受己罪的人心中没有获得深刻的印象。他们在离开聚会时，没有比来时更愿意接受基督的功劳。他们决定等到更合适的机会，然而机不再来。那种不虔诚的讲道象该隐的祭物一样，没有救主。绝好的机会失去了，这些生灵的案件决定了。以漠然的态度讲道，感觉不到对生灵的负担，这岂不是太危险了吗？{4T 446.3}[36]
§78
Prompt, energetic, and earnest action may save an undecided soul. No one can tell how much is lost by attempting to preach without the unction of the Holy Spirit. There are souls in every congregation who are hesitating, almost persuaded to be wholly for God. The decision is being made for time and for eternity; but it is too often the case that the minister has not the spirit and power of the message of truth in his own heart, hence no direct appeals are made to those souls that are trembling in the balance. The result is that impressions are not deepened upon the hearts of the convicted ones, and they leave the meeting feeling less inclined to accept the service of Christ than when they came. They decide to wait for a more favorable opportunity, but it never comes. That godless discourse, like Cains offering, lacked the Saviour. The golden opportunity is lost, and the cases of these souls are decided. Is not too much at stake to preach in an indifferent manner and without feeling the burden of souls? {4T 446.3}[36]
§79
在这个道德黑暗的时代，单用枯燥的理论不能感动人心。传道人必须与上帝有活泼的联络。他们讲道必须叫人看出他们相信自己所讲的。从属上帝的人口中讲出的活泼真理，会使罪人战兢服罪，喊着说：“耶和华是上帝；我决心完全站在主这边。”上帝的使者决不应停止追求来自上头的更大亮光和能力的努力。他应当在挫折和黑暗中继续辛苦的工作，继续祈祷，继续盼望，决心彻底明白圣经，在各样恩赐上都不落后。只要有一个人可以受益，他就应以新的勇气推进每一次的努力。有一项工作，一项热心的工作要完成。基督为之而死的生灵处在危险中。只要耶稣仍在说：“我总不撇下你，也不丢弃你”（来13:5），只要公义的冠冕仍为得胜者存留，只要我们的中保仍在为罪人代求，基督的传道人就应该本着盼望，以不倦的精力和恒切的信心作工。{4T 447.1}[37]
§80
In this age of moral darkness it will take something more than dry theory to move souls. Ministers must have a living connection with God. They must preach as though they believed what they said. Living truths, falling from the lips of the man of God, will cause sinners to tremble and the convicted to cry out: Jehovah is the God; I am resolved to be wholly on the Lords side. Never should the messenger of God cease his strivings for greater light and power from above. He should toil on, pray on, hope on, amid discouragement and darkness, determined to gain a thorough knowledge of the Scriptures and to come behind in no gift. As long as there is one soul to be benefited, he should press forward with new courage at every effort. There is work, earnest work, to be accomplished. Souls for whom Christ died are in peril. So long as Jesus has said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee, so long as the crown of righteousness is offered to the overcomer, so long as our Advocate pleads in the sinners behalf, ministers of Christ should labor in hope, with tireless energy and persevering faith. {4T 447.1}[37]
§81
但是上帝的真理若由年轻且没有经验的人传讲，他们的心也很少被上帝的恩典感动，圣工就会衰退。F和G弟兄更喜欢辩论而不是祈祷；他们更喜欢争论而不是劝说，努力使人们感到这个时代工作的严肃性质。胆敢承担责任从上帝的口中领受话语且将之传给人们的人，使自己对所讲的真理和所发挥的影响负责。他们若真是属上帝的人，他们的盼望就不在自己，而在祂会为他们和藉着他们所做的。他们不会自我膨胀地出去，叫人们注意他们的机灵和聪明；而会感到自己的责任，且以属灵的活力作工，踏定主所走过的舍己的道路。他们的每一步都表现出自我牺牲，他们因自己没有能力在上帝的圣工中做更多的事而忧伤。他们的道路是一条试炼挣扎的路；但这条路上却印有他们救赎主的足迹，主是他们救恩的元帅，因所受的苦难得以完全。{4T 447.2}[38]
§82
But while the truth of God is carried by young and inexperienced men whose hearts are scarcely touched by the grace of God, the cause will languish. Brethren F and G are more ready to argue than to pray; they are more ready to contend than to persuade, endeavoring to impress the people with the solemn character of the work for this time. Men who dare to assume the responsibility of receiving the word from the mouth of God and giving it to the people, make themselves accountable for the truth they present and the influence they exert. If they are truly men of God, their hope is not in themselves, but in what He will do for them and through them. They do not go forth self-inflated, calling the attention of the people to their smartness and aptness; they feel their responsibility and work with spiritual energy, treading in the path of self-denial which the Master trod. Self-sacrifice is seen at every step, and they mourn because of their inability to do more in the cause of God. Their path is one of trial and conflict; but it is marked by the footprints of their Redeemer, the Captain of their salvation, who was made perfect through suffering. {4T 447.2}[38]
§83
主手下的牧人在自己的工作中，必须紧紧跟随牧长的指示，表现牧长的精神。到处都可遇见怀疑和背道的事。上帝需要在祂圣工中工作的人有钢铁般忠诚的心，会坚守纯正，不为环境所屈。他们在试炼和阴暗中，与因盼望而前途明亮和外部环境事事顺心时一样，显出自己的本色。在狮子坑中的但以理，与站在王面前，被上帝的亮光环绕的但以理，是一样的。在黑暗的地牢中等候，明知残忍的尼禄的判决必要来到的保罗，与在亚基帕的庭前演讲的保罗，是一样的。一个在最痛苦的考验时辰和最令人气馁的环境中坚心倚赖上帝的人，与他在兴旺的时候，在上帝的恩宠和亮光似乎在他身上的时候，是一样的。信心达到那不可见的，并且握住永恒的事。{4T 448.1}[39]
§84
In their labor the undershepherds must closely follow the directions, and manifest the spirit, of the Chief Shepherd. Skepticism and apostasy are met everywhere. God wants men to labor in His cause who have hearts as true as steel and who will stand steadfast in integrity, undaunted by circumstances. Amid trial and gloom they are just what they were when their prospects were brightened by hope and when their outward surroundings were all that they could desire. Daniel in the lions den is the same Daniel who stood before the king, enshrouded by the light of God. Paul in the dark dungeon, awaiting the sentence which he knew was to come from the cruel Nero, is the same Paul who addressed the court of Areopagus. A man whose heart is stayed upon God in the hour of his most afflicting trials and most discouraging surroundings is just what he was in prosperity, when the light and favor of God seemed to be upon him. Faith reaches to the unseen and grasps eternal things. {4T 448.1}[39]
§85
在衣阿华州有许多人是在拆毁而不是在建造，投下不信和黑暗而不是亮光；而上帝的圣工在应该兴旺时却在衰退。传道人应该敢于真诚。保罗写信给提摩太说：“不可叫人小看你年轻，总要在言语、行为、爱心、信心、清洁上，都作信徒的榜样。……这些事你要殷勤去做，并要在此专心，使众人看出你的长进来。你要谨慎自己和自己的教训，要在这些事上恒心；因为这样行，又能救自己，又能救听你的人”（提前4:12,15,16）。受圣灵感动的作者在圣经中明示了上帝的话语和旨意。我们应当将之系在心上，并且遵照圣经的训诲而行；这样，我们才会走得安全。每一章每一节都是上帝在与人交通。在研究这道时，饥渴慕义的心就会受到上帝话语的感动。怀疑论对于谦卑查考圣经的人毫无作用。{4T 449.1}[40]
§86
There are many in Iowa who are tearing down rather than building up, casting unbelief and darkness rather than light; and the cause of God is languishing when it should be flourishing. Ministers should dare to be true. Paul wrote to Timothy: Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity. Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. The word and will of God are expressed in the Scriptures by inspired penmen. We should bind them as frontlets between our eyes and walk according to their precepts; then we shall walk safely. Every chapter and every verse is a communication of God to man. In studying the word, the soul that hungers and thirsts for righteousness will be impressed by the divine utterances. Skepticism can have no power over a soul that with humility searches the Scriptures. {4T 449.1}[40]