第43章 支持城市的传道工作
§1
第43章 支持城市的传道工作
§2
Chap. 43—The Support of City Missions
§3
亲爱的M弟兄：数日前我收到了你写给N长老的一封信，提出了很严肃的异议，反对由你们的区会来支持某教会，并说传道园地的其它区会应同样关心该教会。但是如果这些区会现在没有重要的教会来支持他们区域内各城市的传道工作，难道就没有地方该建立这种教会了吗？你们的区会应邀接管某教会，并在总会的监管下继续开展这项工作，负责的人就该感到这是弟兄们信任他们的一个证据，他们应当说：“是的；我们接受这个神圣的委托。我们会竭尽全力使这个教会获得成功，表明弟兄们信任我们没有错。我们要向上帝求智慧，也要实行舍己，如有必要，将厉行节约。”你们若愉快地履行这个职责，上帝就必支持你们，也必使之成为你们的一个福气而非负担，和你们州内圣工的一个障碍。{5T368.3}[1]
§4
Dear Brother M,A few days ago I received a letter written by you to Elder N, in which you raise very serious objections to leaving the ----- mission to be supported by your conference, and say that other conferences all over the field should have an equal interest in this mission. But if these conferences do not now have important missions to sustain in cities in their own borders, are there not places where such missions should be established? If your conference is asked to take the ----- mission under its care and carry it on under the supervision of the General Conference, the responsible men should feel that this is an evidence that their brethren have confidence in them, and they should say: “Yes; we accept the sacred trust. We will do all in our power to make the mission a success and to show that the confidence of our brethren is not misplaced. We will ask wisdom of God and will practice self-denial and rigid economy if necessary.” God will sustain you in the cheerful performance of this duty and will?make it a blessing to you rather than a burden, a hindrance to the cause in your state.?{5T 368.3}[1]
§5
那座大城市处在黑暗和错谬中，而我们已任它长久处在这种状况中。上帝会饶恕我们这种疏忽吗？男男女女没有听到现代真理的声音就去世了，要是把亮光带给他们，他们本该听到的，我们要为他们交什么样的账呢？某地的工作拖延了那么久，我心里很难过。现今在做的工作多年前就应完成了。要是在那时完成了，财力，光阴和人力的花费就会少得多。然而现在务必不可使之半途而废。虽然已经按一个非常节约的计划做出了小小的开端，就所提供的设备来说大大超过了所预期的。但还须提供更好的设备。必须有一处地方使人们可以听到真理。必须有财力支持这个传道园地的工人们，不是以安逸豪华的方式，而是以简单舒适的方式。他们是上帝的器皿，不可说什么或做什么使他们灰心的事。相反，要坚固他们的手，鼓舞他们的心。{5T369.1}[2]
§6
That great city is in darkness and error, and we have left it so thus long. Will God pardon this negligence on our part? What account shall we give for the men and women who have died without hearing the sound of present truth, who would have received it had the light been brought to them? My spirit is stirred that the work in ----- has been delayed so long. The work that is now being done there might have been done years ago and could then have been accomplished with far less expenditure of money, time, and labor. Nevertheless it must not be left undone now. A small beginning has been made on a very economical plan, and much more has been accomplished than could have been expected considering the facilities that have been provided. But better facilities must be furnished. There must be a place where people can hear the truth. There must be means to support the workers in this mission field, not in ease and luxury, but in a plain, comfortable manner. They are God’s instruments, and nothing should be said or done to discourage them. On the contrary, let their hands be strengthened and their hearts encouraged.?{5T 369.1}[2]
§7
你们区会的财力足以成功地推进这项工作；我们岂可因支持各教会要有所花费而任由黑暗之君占据我们的各大城市吗？那些愿意跟从基督的人要充分参与这工作，即使传道人和会长不能理解。那些面对这项工作却说：“请你准我辞了”（路14:18）的人，应该当心，免得遭受今生和永远的损失。爱尽本分的基督徒要竭尽全力，然后指望从上帝得到更多的力量。祂必藉着鞠躬尽瘁的男男女女作工，也必做他们无法做到的。他们在使用所拥有的亮光和能力时，必有新的亮光和能力赐给他们。当他们看到有所成就时，也必有新的热诚和热心激励教会。{5T369.2}[3]
§8
There is enough wealth in your conference to carry forward this work successfully; and shall the prince of darkness be left in undisputed possession of our great cities because it costs something to sustain missions? Let those who would follow Christ fully come up to the work, even if it be over the heads of ministers and president. Those who in such a work as this will say, “I pray thee have me excused,” should beware lest they receive their discharge for time and for eternity. Let Christians who love duty lift every ounce they can and then look to God for further strength. He will work through the efforts of thoroughgoing men and women and will do what they cannot do. New light and power will be given them as they use what they have. New fervor and zeal will stir the church as they see something accomplished.?{5T 369.2}[3]
§9
当我们思想可以成就的事时，灵里就欢喜快乐；但是我们一想到还没做成什么时，就在造我们的主面前感到羞愧。牧人们忽视了他们天赐的责任；他们变得狭隘而没有信心了，并且助长了不可饶恕的胆怯，懒惰和贪婪。他们没有认识到工作的伟大和重要性。现今需要的是眼睛受膏可以看见并明白属天计划的人。然后虔诚的标准才会提高，也才会有真的传道士，乐于随时为真理的缘故作出牺牲。在上帝的教会中没有自私和爱安逸的立足之处；却需要愿意尽力在我们的各大城市中，在通衢大道上插设真理旗帜的人。{5T370.1}[4]
§10
We rejoice in spirit as we contemplate what may be done; but we blush before our Maker at the thought of the little that has been accomplished. Shepherds have neglected their God-given responsibilities; they have become narrow and faithless, and have encouraged unpardonable cowardice, slothfulness, and covetousness. They have not realized the magnitude and importance of the work. Men are wanted whose eyes are anointed to see and understand heaven’s designs. Then the standard of piety will be raised, and there will be real missionaries who will be ready to sacrifice for the truth’s sake. There is no room in the church of God for the selfish and ease-loving; but men and women are called for who will make exertions to plant the standard of truth in our large cities, in the great thoroughfares of travel.?{5T 370.1}[4]
§11
世界需要警告，我们应该按着上帝赐给我们的能力存心谦卑地作工。每个州都要全力以赴投入工作。那些有狭隘和未献身想法的人有什么权利说他们的区会要做什么不要做什么呢？某教会不会完全由你们州负担；但你们区会若有心作工，就可支持两个这样的教会而不感到负担。弟兄们，起来行动吧。因你们的不信和缺乏勇气，光阴已经流失，永远流失了。传道人行事要象有所作为的人。需要有爱上帝并守祂诫命的心胸宽广的人前来帮助耶和华。这样，教会就会为将来的努力受到训练；因为他们的善行永不止息。{5T370.2}[5]
§12
A world is to be warned, and in humility we should work as God has given us ability. Let every state come up to the work. What right have those with narrow and unconsecrated ideas to say what their conference will do and what it will not do? The ----- mission will not be left wholly to your state; but if your conference had a heart to work, it could sustain two such missions and not feel the burden. Come, brethren, arouse to action. Time lost through your unbelief and want of courage is lost forever. Let the ministers act as though something were to be done, and the largehearted men who love God and keep His commandments will come up to the help of the Lord. In this way the church will be disciplined for future efforts; for their beneficence is never to cease.?{5T 370.2}[5]
§13
M长老，作为某区会的会长，你已藉着你的综合管理表明你不配寄予你的重托。你已表明自己是保守的，你的思想是狭隘的。你所做的还不到若是你有工作的真精神原会做成的一半。你原本可以远比现在有能力有经验得多；你原可以得着更好的预备，成功地管理这个神圣而重要的教会——这项工作原本会使你最有权利要求人们普遍信任你。但是，象你们州的其它传道弟兄一样，你没能与上帝敞开的天意一同前进；你没能表明圣灵在深深感动你的心，以致上帝能藉着你对祂的子民讲话。在这场危机中，你若是做什么助长你州中各教会怀疑和不信的事，会阻止人们衷心地从事这工作的事，上帝就要你为此负责。上帝岂给了你无误的证据，表明你们州的弟兄们没有责任伸出手臂拥抱某城象基督伸出手臂拥抱他们一样吗？你们若是站在光中，就会凭着你们的信心鼓励这个教会了。{5T370.3}[6]
§14
Elder M, as president of the ----- Conference, you have shown by your general management that you are unworthy of the trust reposed in you. You have shown that you are conservative, and that your ideas are narrow. You have not done one half what you might have done had you had the true spirit of the work. You might have been far more capable and experienced than you now are; you might have been far better prepared to manage successfully this sacred and important mission—a work which would have given you the strongest claim to the general confidence of our people. But, like the?other ministering brethren in your state, you have failed to advance with the opening providence of God; you have not shown that the Holy Spirit was deeply impressing your heart, so that God could speak through you to His people. If in this crisis you do anything to strengthen doubt and distrust in the churches of your state, anything that will prevent the people from engaging heartily in this work, God will hold you responsible. Has God given you unmistakable evidence that the brethren of your state are excused from the responsibility of putting their arms about the city of ----- as Christ has put His arms about them? If you were standing in the light, you would encourage this mission by your faith.?{5T 370.3}[6]
§15
你需要深饮于恩典与救恩之河，之后才能把他人带到生命水的泉源。你既身居区会会长之职，拥有这个职分的经验和影响力，就不该使人们灰心，而应当敦促他们付出新的努力，负起更重的责任。有特别的责任移交给身负重责的人；有艰辛的努力要付出，是人们方便忽略的。但当牧人们疏忽职守时，愿主怜悯可怜的群羊。{5T371.1}[7]
§16
You need to drink deep of the streams of grace and salvation before you can lead others to the Fountain of living waters. Holding the office of president of a conference, with the experience and influence that this office gives, instead of discouraging the people you should have urged them to new exertion, to bear weightier responsibilities. There are special duties devolving upon men in responsible positions; there are laborious efforts to be made which it would be convenient to neglect. But when the shepherds are negligent of duty, may the Lord pity the poor sheep.?{5T 371.1}[7]
§17
我的弟兄，你的工作没有说明你认识到自己的责任是神圣而重要的。我蒙指示，你是有能力做比你已做的工更好的，而且上帝也要求你做更多更好的工作。祂要求忠正诚实。救灵的工作乃是委托给人类最崇高最高尚的工作；你不该允许任何事介入你和这项神圣的工作之间，吸引你的心思，混乱你的判断。一个象你这样身居要职的人，应该以永恒的利益为第一要紧的事，以现世的事为次要的事。你是基督的使者；应该鼓励你所照管的人追求更高的属灵造诣，过更圣洁更纯洁的生活。你在努力救人脱离灭亡和本着真理与公义造就教会时，应当运用机智，智慧和能力，因为你有特权始终不断地与上帝交通。上帝向你和其他从事祂圣工的每一个传道人提出这样的要求。你应该表明自己忠于被钉的救主，行事好像你认识到自己有一个严肃的责任，要把各人在基督耶稣里完完全地引到上帝面前，毫无缺欠。{5T371.2}[8]
§18
Your work, my brother, does not show that you have realized that your obligations are sacred and weighty. I have been shown that you are capable of doing much better work than you have done, and that God requires more and better work at your hands. He requires integrity and faithfulness. The work of saving souls is the highest and noblest ever entrusted to mortal man; and you should allow nothing to come in between you and this sacred work to absorb your mind and confuse your judgment. One standing in the responsible position that you occupy should make eternal interests first, and temporal matters of secondary importance. You are an ambassador for Christ; and you should encourage those under your charge to seek for higher spiritual attainments, to live holier and purer lives. In your efforts to save souls from perdition and to build up the church in truth and righteousness,?you should use tact, wisdom, and the power that it is your privilege to have through constant communion with God. God requires this of you and of every other minister engaged in His work. You should show your loyalty to your crucified Redeemer by acting as though you realized that you have a solemn charge to present every man perfect in Christ Jesus, wanting in nothing.?{5T 371.2}[8]
§19
按你的情况，你本可以藉着圣洁的生活、热切的祈祷和谨慎辛勤地履行每日的职责而有更多的成就。你本可藉着忠实的警告与督责及慈爱的呼吁有更多的作为。所需要的不只是脑力，还有心力。耶稣里的真理必有一种影响力。你缺乏热情、积极的家庭宗教。自私自利蒙蔽了你的心智，败坏了你的判断力，使你没能认识到上帝的要求。你需要卸下心中属世的挂虑和业务，专注于上帝的荣耀。{5T372.1}[9]
§20
In your case very much more might have been accomplished by holy living, by fervent prayer, and by a careful, painstaking discharge of every duty. You might have done much by faithful warnings and reproofs and by affectionate appeals. It is not brain power alone that is needed, but heart power. The truth presented as it is in Jesus will have an effect. You lack ardent, active home religion. Selfish interests have clouded your mind and perverted your judgment, and the claims of God have not been realized. You need to unburden your soul of worldly cares and business, and to have an eye single to the glory of God.?{5T 372.1}[9]
§21
全人类永远的命运不久就要决定了。从伊利诺斯州，威斯康星州，爱荷华州和其它区会，应有许多传道人以火热的心前去传扬最后的警告信息。在这样的时候，我们各区会的会长们岂可在工作中退后，不肯负重呢？他们岂可藉着笔传口述发挥一种影响力，使那些有心作工的人灰心呢？他们每一个鼓励懒惰和不信的行为都是最高程度的犯罪。他们应该鼓励人们在上帝的圣工中殷勤，为救人竭尽全力；他们心中决不能有一丝一毫的想法，以为自己牺牲太多了，对自己的要求多得不合理。在属天的战争中，必须有所冒险。现在是我们作工的时候，是我们遭遇困难和危险的时候。上帝的天意说：“往前走”，不要回到埃及；传道人不应讲出取悦于人的见证，而应设法唤醒那些沉睡的人。{5T372.2}[10]
§22
The eternal destiny of all is soon to be decided. From Illinois, Wisconsin, Iowa, and other conferences scores of ministers should go forth with burning zeal to proclaim the last message of warning. And at such a time as this will the presidents of our conferences lie back in the harness and refuse to draw the heavy load? Will they by voice or pen exert an influence to discourage those who have a mind to work? Any course on their part that would encourage indolence and unbelief is criminal in the highest degree. They should encourage the people to diligence in the cause of God, to make every exertion for the salvation of souls; but they should never leave even the slightest impression on their minds that they are sacrificing too much for the cause of God, or that more is required of them than is reasonable. In the heavenly warfare something must be ventured. Now is our time to work, to encounter difficulties and dangers. The providence of God says, “Go forward,” not back into Egypt; and instead of framing a testimony to please the people, ministers should seek to arouse those who are asleep.?{5T 372.2}[10]
§23
M长老，我在你的信中看出了不信的心绪，看出你缺乏判断力和辨识力。你的立场确认了我所发的证言，就是你在给区会造成一种狭隘的影响，并且挡住了区会前进的路，因为你没有举起真理的旗帜。我要在此处引用几段来自这个证言的话，写于1883年11月在巴特尔克里克召开的总会会议期间：{5T373.1}[11]
§24
I discern in your letter, Elder M, a vein of unbelief, a lack of judgment and discernment. Your position confirms the testimony I have had that you are giving the conference a narrow mold and have stood in the way of its advancement because you have not elevated the standard of truth. I will here quote a few paragraphs from this testimony, which was written during the General Conference at Battle Creek, in November, 1883:?{5T 373.1}[11]
§25
“我们关于某教会的交谈已在我心中留下了不愉快的印象。不要以为我关于这个教会的言论是严厉的。你说对推进这工作的方式极感满意。你说O弟兄和那些与他联合的人乐于不辞辛劳取得进展；他们住在阁楼的一个小房间里，也在那里预备自己的饭食；他们以最节俭的方式在做一项善工。你关于这个问题的想法是不正确的。主所赐给我们的亮光比金银更宝贵，应当以给圣工增光添色的方式传出去。参与这个教会工作的弟兄们并非脱离了人性的软弱；若不关心他们的健康，他们的工作就必大受困窘。那些在区会的工作中居首的人不该允许这种事态存在。他们应该教育人们奉献自己的钱财，好使工人们不经历困苦的缺乏。作为上帝的管家，他们不应看着一两个人做出所有的牺牲，而别人却安闲自在，吃喝打扮，一点儿不想到我们神圣的使命及自己对这些教会的本分。{5T373.2}[12]
§26
“Our conversation in regard to the ----- mission has left a disagreeable impression on my mind. Do not think me severe in my remarks in regard to this mission. You spoke with great satisfaction of the way this work had been carried forward. You said that Brother O and those associated with him were willing to do any way to get along; that they had a small room in a loft, where they prepared their food; and that they were doing a good work in the most economical way. Your ideas on this subject are not correct. The light which God has given us, precious above the price of silver and gold, is to go forth in a way to give character to the work. The brethren connected with this mission are not free from the infirmities of humanity; and unless attention is given to their health, their work must be greatly embarrassed. Those who stand at the head of the work in the conference should not permit such a state of things to exist. They should educate the people to give of their means, that no pinched want may be experienced by the workers. As the stewards of God the responsibility rests upon them to see that one or two do not have all the sacrificing to do while others are taking their ease, eating, drinking, and dressing, without a thought of our sacred missions or of their duty with reference to them.?{5T 373.2}[12]
§27
“M长老，我蒙指示，你对工作的看法不正确，你没有认识到工作的重要性。你没能教育人们有真正的自我牺牲和奉献精神。你不敢督促有钱人尽责；当你在正确的方向上做出微薄的努力，他们却开始藉故推脱并且在圣工的管理上挑某人的小错时，你就想或许他们是对的。这种托词已在他们心中发展为怀疑和不信，也影响了你自己的心，于是他们就利用了这一点，并且学会了如何对付你的努力。当他们鼓励人怀疑证言时，你没做所该做的，根除这种情绪。你本该向他们说明撒但总是在吹毛求疵，质疑，控告，责备弟兄们，处于这种立场是不安全的。”{5T373.3}[13]
§28
“I have been shown, Elder M, that you do not take a correct view of the work, that you do not realize its importance. You have failed to educate the people in the true spirit of self-sacrifice and devotion. You have feared to urge duty upon wealthy men; and when you have made a feeble effort in the right direction, and they have begun to make excuses and to?find a little fault with someone in regard to the management of the work, you have thought perhaps they were right. This subterfuge, which has developed in them doubt and unbelief, has taken effect in your own heart, and they have turned this to account and have learned just how to treat your efforts. When they have encouraged doubt in regard to the?Testimonies, you have not done what you should to uproot this feeling. You should have shown them that Satan is always picking flaws, questioning, accusing, and laying reproach upon the brethren, and that it is unsafe to be in any such position.”?{5T 373.3}[13]
§29
“我的弟兄啊，你采取的行动方针并没有鼓励人们献身于传道事工。你的职责并不是降低圣工的花费，而是要使人们的心明白‘工人得工价是应当的’”（路10:7）。“众教会应该铭记这个事实，就是他们本分乃是诚实对待上帝的圣工，不让自己犯最恶劣的抢夺之罪，在十分之一和供物上抢夺上帝。当与上帝圣工中的工人们结算时，不该因库中缺乏钱财而迫使他们接受很少的报酬。许多人已这样被诈取了他们应得的，而这在上帝看来乃是犯罪，就如在其他普通业务中，一个人扣留所雇用之人的工资一样。{5T374.1}[14]
§30
“My brother, you have not taken a course to encourage men to give themselves to the ministry. Instead of bringing the expense of the work down to a low figure, it is your duty to bring the minds of the people to understand that ‘the laborer is worthy of his hire.’” “The churches need to be impressed with the fact that it is their duty to deal honestly with the cause of God, not allowing the guilt of the worst kind of robbery to rest upon them, that of robbing God in tithes and offerings. When settlements are made with the laborers in His cause, they should not be forced to accept small remuneration because there is a lack of money in the treasury. Many have been defrauded of their just dues in this way, and it is just as criminal in the sight of God as for one to keep back the wages of those who are employed in any other regular business.?{5T 374.1}[14]
§31
“一些有才干的人愿意出去在我们不同的区会中作工；但他们没有勇气，因为他们必须有钱财来供养自己的家庭。最差的领导能力表现在允许一个区会静止不动，或没能解决其应该清偿的债务。这种事太多了；只要有这种事，上帝就不喜悦。{5T374.2}[15]
§32
“There are men of ability who would like to go out and labor in our several conferences; but they have no courage, for they must have means to support their families. It is the worst kind of generalship to allow a conference to stand still or to fail to settle its honest debts. There is a great deal of this done; and whenever it is done, God is displeased.?{5T 374.2}[15]
§33
“我们各区会的会长和其他工人们若将抢夺上帝之罪的性质深印人心，若有献身并负担圣工的真精神，上帝就会使他们的工作成为人们的一个福气，他们的努力也必见到果效。传道人在这样与各教会同工上，远远没有尽到本分。在讲道之外，还有重要的工作要做。要是照上帝所计划应该做的做了这工作，在园地中就会有比现在多得多的工人了。要是传道人们尽职教育每个信徒，无论贫富，都照自己的进项奉献，库中就会充实，可以支付应该清偿给工人们的债务；而这会大大推进他们境内的传道工作。上帝已指示我，许多人因自私自利和爱世俗而有永远灭亡的危险；守望者们也是有罪的，因为他们疏忽了自己的职责。这种局面是撒但欢喜看到的。{5T374.3}[16]
§34
“If the presidents and other laborers in our conferences impress upon the minds of the people the character of the crime of robbing God, and if they have a true spirit of devotion and a burden of the work, God will make their labors a blessing to the people, and fruit will be seen as the result of?their efforts. Ministers have failed greatly in their duty to so labor with the churches. There is important work to be done aside from that of preaching. Had this been done, as God designed it should be, there would have been many more laborers in the field than there now are. And had the ministers done their duty in educating every member, whether rich or poor, to give as God has prospered him, there would be a full treasury from which to pay the honest debts to the workers; and this would greatly advance missionary work in all their borders. God has shown me that many souls are in danger of eternal ruin through selfishness and worldliness; and the watchmen are guilty, for they have neglected their duty. This is a state of things that Satan exults to see.?{5T 374.3}[16]
§35
“圣工的各部门都是属于传道人的。上帝的命令并不是某人应该追随传道人，打理他们未完成的工作。区会的职责并不是花钱雇用别的工人来追随并捡起怠职工人所丢下的线头。区会会长的职责是要监督工人们和他们的工作，并教导他们要在这些事上忠心；因为没有教会可以抢夺上帝还能兴旺的。我们各教会中属灵的死亡往往是自私自利惊人盛行的结果。自私，属世的追求和计划介入了人与上帝之间。人们坚执于世界，似乎害怕放开他们所依靠的，上帝不会照管他们似的。因此他们就试图照顾自己；他们焦虑，烦恼，悲伤，执着于他们的大型农场，加添他们的产业。{5T375.1}[17]
§36
“All branches of the work belong to the ministers. It is not God’s order that someone should follow after them and bind off their unfinished work. It is not the duty of the conference to be at the expense of employing other laborers to follow after and pick up the stitches dropped by negligent workers. It is the duty of the president of the conference to have an oversight of the laborers and their work, and to teach them to be faithful in these things; for no church can prosper that is robbing God. The spiritual dearth in our churches is frequently the result of an alarming prevalence of selfishness. Selfish, worldly pursuits and schemes interpose between the soul and God. Men cling to the world, seeming to fear that should they let go their hold upon it, God would not care for them. And so they attempt to take care of themselves; they are anxious, troubled, distressed, holding on to their large farms and adding to their possessions.?{5T 375.1}[17]
§37
“上帝的话说道‘工人……你们亏欠他们的工钱’（雅5:4）。这一般理解为应用在雇用仆人而不付给他们工钱的富人身上，但它有比这更广泛的意义。它极有力地适用于那些已蒙上帝之灵启迪，却在任何程度上与这些人的行事原则有染的人，他们雇用仆人却以最低价压榨他们。”{5T375.2}[18]
§38
“The word of God speaks of ‘the hire of the laborers, ... which is of you kept back by fraud.’ This is generally understood to apply to wealthy men who employ servants and do not pay them for their labor, but it has a broader meaning than this. It applies with great force to those who have been enlightened by the Spirit of God and yet in any degree work upon the same principle that these men do in hiring servants, grinding them down to the lowest price.”?{5T 375.2}[18]
§39
我严肃地警告你，不要持与那些前去察看应许之地的不忠心的探子相似的态度。当这些探子察看那地回来时，以色列百姓存着极大的希望，热切地等待着他们。当探子回来的消息从这支派传到那支派时，他们都快乐得欢呼起来。百姓蜂拥出去迎接他们所派的使者，他们风尘仆仆，在烈日炎炎中忍受了旅途的辛劳。这些信使带来了那地的水果样品，说明那地是多么肥沃。百姓见到他们所要承受的是那么美好的土地，心中很是快乐；当探子们向摩西报告的时候，众人便在旁注意谛听，不愿遗漏一句。探子们开始回报说：“我们到了你所打发我们去的那地，果然是流奶与蜜之地；这就是那地的果子”（民13:27）。百姓听了十分兴奋；极愿听从耶和华的话，立刻去得那地。{5T376.1}[19]
§40
I solemnly warn you not to stand in an attitude similar to that of the unfaithful spies, who went up to view the land of promise. When these spies returned from their search, the congregation of Israel were cherishing high hopes and were waiting in eager expectancy. The news of their return is carried from tribe to tribe and is hailed with rejoicing. The people rush out to meet the messengers, who have endured the fatigue of travel in the dusty highways and under a burning sun. These messengers bring specimens of the fruit, showing the fertility of the soil. The congregation rejoice that they are to come into possession of so goodly a land; and they listen intently as the report is brought to Moses, that not a word shall escape them. “We came unto the land whither thou sentest us,” the spies begin, “and surely it floweth with milk and honey; and this is the fruit of it.” The people are enthusiastic; they would eagerly obey the voice of the Lord and go up at once to possess the land.?{5T 376.1}[19]
§41
但探子们继续说：“然而住那地的民强壮，城邑也坚固宽大，并且我们在那里看见了亚衲族的人”（28节）。这时情形就改变了。撒但既用丧胆的思想使探子们灰心，所以当他们一发表没有信心的意见时，百姓的希望和勇气顿时就变成怯懦绝望了。他们的不信给会众播了一个不祥之兆，上帝为选民所显示的那么多次的大能，他们竟都忘记了。{5T376.2}[20]
§42
But the spies continue: “Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.” Now the scene changes. Hope and courage give place to cowardly despair as the spies utter the sentiments of their unbelieving hearts, which are filled with discouragement prompted by Satan. Their unbelief casts a gloomy shadow over the congregation, and the mighty power of God, so often manifested in behalf of the chosen nation, is forgotten.?{5T 376.2}[20]
§43
百姓因失望和绝望而不顾一切了。营中起了痛苦的哀号，搀杂着困惑烦恼的埋怨之声。迦勒明白这情况，就奋勇地出来为上帝的话辩护，并竭尽全力来抵制不忠实之同伴的恶劣影响。百姓立即静听他述说关于那美好之地有希望有勇气的话。他没有反驳别人所说过的话；城墙固然高大，迦南人固然强壮，但他力劝说：“我们立刻上去得那地吧！我们足能得胜”（民13:30）。但那十个探子打断了他，并且把当前的障碍形容得比先前更可怕。他们宣布：“我们不能上去攻击那民，因为他们比我们强壮”（31节）。“我们在那里所看见的人民都身量高大。我们在那里看见亚衲族人，就是伟人；他们是伟人的后裔。据我们看，自己就如蚱蜢一样；据他们看，我们也是如此”（32-33节）。{5T376.3}[21]
§44
The people are desperate in their disappointment and despair. A wail of agony arises and mingles with the confused murmur of voices. Caleb comprehends the situation and, bold to stand in defense of the word of God, does all in his power to counteract the evil influence of his unfaithful associates. For an instant the people are stilled to listen to his words of hope and courage respecting the goodly land. He does not contradict what has already been said; the walls are high and the Canaanites strong. “Let us go up at once, and possess it,” he urges; “for we are well able to overcome it.” But the ten?interrupt him and picture the obstacles in darker colors than at first. “We be not able to go up against the people,” they declare, “for they are stronger than we.” “All the people that we saw in it are men of a great stature. And there we saw the giants, the sons of Anak, which come of the giants: and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers, and so we were in their sight.”?{5T 376.3}[21]
§45
“当下，全会众大声喧嚷；那夜百姓都哭号”（民14:1）。长久忍耐了以色列的乖僻的人，很清楚接下来的场景会是什么样的。暴乱和公然的叛变很快地就发生了；因撒但完全支配了他们，百姓就似乎失了理智。他们咒骂摩西和亚伦，忘记上帝已经听见他们的恶言，那隐在云柱里的使者已经看见他们恐怖的暴动。他们苦毒地大声抱怨说：“巴不得我们早死在埃及地，或是死在这旷野。耶和华为什么把我们领到那地，使我们倒在刀下呢？我们的妻子和孩子必被掳掠。我们回埃及去岂不好吗？众人彼此说：‘我们不如立一个首领回埃及去吧’”（民14:2-4）。{5T377.1}[22]
§46
“And all the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night.” The men who have so long borne with the perversity of Israel know too well what the next scene will be. Revolt and open mutiny quickly follow; for Satan has had full sway, and the people seem bereft of reason. They curse Moses and Aaron, forgetting that God hears their wicked speeches, and that, enshrouded in the cloudy pillar, the Angel of His presence is witnessing their terrible outburst of wrath. In bitterness they cry out: “Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness! And wherefore hath the Lord brought us unto this land, to fall by the sword, that our wives and our children should be a prey? Were it not better for us to return into Egypt? And they said one to another, Let us make a captain, and let us return into Egypt.”?{5T 377.1}[22]
§47
摩西和亚伦在屈辱和悲痛中“就俯伏在以色列全会众面前”（民14:5），不知道该作什么来挽回他们卤莽任性的意志。这时迦勒和约书亚欲安抚叛乱；他们就撕裂了衣服来表示悲愤，冲到百姓中间，以高过那暴风雨般号哭及叛乱悲呼的声音说：“我们所窥探经过之地，是极美之地。耶和华若喜悦我们，就必将我们领进那地，把地赐给我们；那地原是流奶与蜜之地。但你们不可背叛耶和华，也不要怕那地的居民；因为他们是我们的食物。并且，荫庇他们的已经离开他们，有耶和华与我们同在。不要怕他们”（民14:7-9）。{5T377.2}[23]
§48
In humiliation and distress, Moses and Aaron fall on “their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel,” not knowing what to do to turn them from their rash and passionate purpose. Caleb and Joshua attempt to quiet the tumult. With their garments rent in token of grief and indignation, they rush in among the people, and their ringing voices are heard above the tempest of lamentation and rebellious grief: “The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land. If the Lord delight in us, then He will bring us into this land, and give it us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land; for they are bread for us: their defense is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not.”?{5T 377.2}[23]
§49
全会众既完全接受了不忠实之探子的虚伪报告，就因而受了欺哄，正遂撒但所愿；而上帝藉祂忠实仆人所说的话就被漠视了。叛徒们已经完成了他们的工作。全会异口同声地众喊叫起来，要用石头打死迦勒和约书亚。{5T378.1}[24]
§50
The false report of the unfaithful spies was fully accepted, and through it the whole congregation were deluded, just as Satan meant that they should be; and the voice of God through His faithful servants was disregarded. The traitors had done their work. All the assembly, as with one voice, cried out in favor of stoning Caleb and Joshua.?{5T 378.1}[24]
§51
这时大能的上帝向祂悖逆、抱怨的混乱百姓显示了自己。“耶和华的荣光在会幕中向以色列众人显现”（民14:10）。带给摩西亚伦的是何等的担子啊，他们又是多么恳切地乞求上帝不要灭绝祂的百姓啊！摩西在主面前恳求说，神能的奇妙显现已使以色列上帝的名在他们的仇敌中成了可畏的，不要使上帝和祂百姓的仇敌有机会夸胜说：“耶和华因为不能把这百姓领进他向他们起誓应许之地，所以在旷野把他们杀了”（民14:17）。主听了摩西的祈祷；但祂宣布那些在目睹祂的能力和荣耀之后曾背叛祂的人，要倒毙在旷野；他们断不得看见那曾应许他们为产业之地。但论到迦勒祂说：“惟独我的仆人迦勒，因他另有一个心志，专一跟从我，我就把他领进他所去过的那地；他的后裔也必得那地为业”（民14:24）。{5T378.2}[25]
§52
And now the mighty God reveals Himself, to the confusion of His disobedient, murmuring people. “And the glory of the Lord appeared in the tabernacle of the congregation before all the children of Israel.” What a burden was brought upon Moses and Aaron, and how earnest were their entreaties that God would not destroy His people! Moses pleads before the Lord the wonderful manifestations of divine power that have made the name of Israel’s God a terror to their enemies, and entreats that the enemies of God and of His people may have no occasion to triumph, saying: “Because the Lord was not able to bring this people into the land which He sware unto them, therefore He hath slain them in the wilderness.” The Lord hearkened unto the prayer of Moses; but he declared that those who had rebelled against Him, after having witnessed His power and glory, should fall in the wilderness; they should never see the land which was their promised inheritance. But of Caleb He said: “My servant Caleb, because he had another spirit with him, and hath followed Me fully, him will I bring into the land whereinto he went; and his seed shall possess it.”?{5T 378.2}[25]
§53
使迦勒有勇气，不畏世人，甚至不畏强大的巨人，亚衲人，壮胆而不退缩地拥护正义的，乃是他对于上帝所存的信心。基督十字架的每一真诚精兵，都必须从这同一崇高的源头，就是全天军大能的元帅那里，领受能力与勇气，胜过那往往似乎无法克服的种种障碍。人已经废掉了上帝的律法；那些愿意尽职的人必须随时准备说上帝赐给他们的话，而不是怀疑、灰心、绝望的话。{5T378.3}[26]
§54
It was Caleb’s faith in God that gave him courage; that kept him from the fear of man, even the mighty giants, the sons of Anak, and enabled him to stand boldly and unflinchingly in defense of the right. From the same exalted source, the mighty General of the armies of heaven, every true soldier of the cross of Christ must receive strength and courage to overcome obstacles that often seem insurmountable. The law of God is made void; and those who would do their duty must be ever ready to speak the words that God gives them, and not the words of doubt, discouragement, and despair.?{5T 378.3}[26]
§55
M长老，尽管可能有许多人支持你，就象那些不忠实的探子一样，但你信中的观点却不是主的灵所提示的。要当心，免得你的言语和精神象他们一样，你的工作也具有同样恶劣的性质。在这样的时候，我们不可怀存一个不信的想法，说出一句不信的话，也不可鼓励一个侍奉自我的行为。在上哥伦比亚和北太平洋各区会已这么做了；我们也多少感到了摩西和亚伦，迦勒和约书亚所经历过的悲痛，羞辱和灰心。我们设法扭转潮流到相反的方向；但要花上大量辛劳和焦虑痛苦令人心力交瘁的代价。这些区会的改革工作还只是刚刚开始。克服多年的疑惑，不信和猜疑乃是一项旷日费时的工作。撒但在这些区会中已很成功地实现了他的目的，因为他找到了可以用作他代理的人。{5T379.1}[27]
§56
Elder M, although you may be sustained by many, as were the unfaithful spies, yet the sentiments of your letter are not prompted by the Spirit of the Lord. Beware lest your words and your spirit be like theirs, and your work of the same baleful character. At such a time as this we must not harbor a thought nor breathe a word of unbelief, nor encourage an act of self-serving. This has been done in the Upper Columbia and North Pacific Conferences; and while there we felt in some measure the sorrow, mortification, and discouragement that Moses and Aaron, Caleb and Joshua, experienced. We tried to set the current flowing in an opposite direction; but it was at the cost of much severe labor and great anxiety and distress of mind. And the work of reform in these conferences has but just commenced. It is the work of time to overcome the unbelief, distrust, and suspicion of years. Satan has been to a great extent successful in carrying out his purposes in these conferences because he has found persons whom he could use as his agents.?{5T 379.1}[27]
§57
M弟兄，为基督和真理的缘故，不要任你们区会的工作处于这种状况，以致使接替你的人不可能纠正局面。人们已接受了关于工作的狭隘而有限的看法；自私自利得到了鼓励，而爱世俗却未受责备。我号召你尽全力消除你给这个区会带来的错误影响，补救你怠职的可悲结果，从而为另一个工人预备好这个园地。你若不这样做，愿上帝怜悯将要接替你的工人。{5T379.2}[28]
§58
For Christ’s sake and the truth’s sake, Brother M, do not leave the work in your conference in such a shape that it will be impossible for the one that succeeds you to set things in order. The people have received narrow and limited views of the work; selfishness has been encouraged, and worldliness has been unrebuked. I call upon you to do all in your power to efface the wrong mold you have given to this conference, to remedy the sad effects of your neglect of duty, and thus to prepare the field for another laborer. Unless you do this, may God pity the workman who shall follow you.?{5T 379.2}[28]
§59
区会会长应该是可以完全托付以上帝圣工的人。他们应该是正直，无私，献身，作工的基督徒。他们若在这些方面有缺乏，在他们照管之下的各教会就不会兴旺。他们比基督的其他传道人更应树立一个圣洁生活和无私奉献于上帝圣工利益的榜样，好使那些看他们为榜样的人不至被误导。但在有些情况下，他们却在既侍奉上帝又侍奉玛门。他们并不是舍己的人；他们没有救灵的负担。他们的良心不敏感；当上帝的圣工受到损害时，他们灵里并不感觉受伤。他们心中质问怀疑上帝之灵的证言。他们自己并不背基督的十字架；他们不晓得耶稣炽热的爱。他们并非忠心的牧人，照看所监管的群羊；他们的记录是他们在上帝的日子不愿见到的。{5T379.3}[29]
§60
Presidents of conferences should be men who can be fully trusted with God’s work. They should be men of integrity, unselfish, devoted, working Christians. If they are deficient in these respects, the churches under their care will not prosper. They, even more than other ministers of Christ, should set an example of holy living and of unselfish devotion to the interests of God’s cause, that those looking to them for an example may not be misled. But in some instances they are trying to serve both God and mammon. They are not self-denying;?they do not carry a burden for souls. Their consciences are not sensitive; when the cause of God is wounded, they are not bruised in spirit. In their hearts they question and doubt the?Testimonies?of the Spirit of God. They do not themselves bear the cross of Christ; they know not the fervent love of Jesus. And they are not faithful shepherds of the flock over which they have been made overseers; their record is not one that they will rejoice to meet in the day of God.?{5T 379.3}[29]
§61
传道人在为灵魂警醒的工作中多么需要象必须交账的人一样啊！在他的生活和品格中应该看到何等的献身，何等单一的心志，何等高尚的虔诚啊！因为缺乏机智和向他人讲述真理的技巧，已经损失了多少啊，因着粗心的举止，难听的话语，以及决不能代表耶稣或天上香气的世俗精神，又损失了多少啊。我们的工作即将结束。不久天上就要说：“不义的，叫他仍旧不义；污秽的，叫他仍旧污秽；为义的，叫他仍旧为义；圣洁的，叫他仍旧圣洁”（启22:11）。在这严肃的时期，教会蒙召要警醒，因为撒但在猖狂活动。在各处都可看到他的代理，可是传道人和信徒们行事却好像不知道他的阴谋诡计，被他的能力麻痹了似的。要让教会的每个信徒都醒过来。要让每个工人都记得，他所耕种的葡萄园并不是自己的，而是属于他的主的，他出了远门旅行，分派仆人们照管祂的家业；每个工人都要记住，如果自己不忠于所托，在主回来时，必要交账。{5T380.1}[30]
§62
How much is required of the minister in his work of watching for souls as they that must give an account! What devotion, what singleness of purpose, what elevated piety, should be seen in his life and character! How much is lost through a want of tact and skill in presenting the truth to others, how much through a carelessness of deportment, a roughness of speech, and a worldliness that in no way represents Jesus or savors of heaven. Our work is about to close up. Soon it will be said in heaven: “He that is unjust, let him be unjust still: and he which is filthy, let him be filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him be righteous still: and he that is holy, let him be holy still.” At this solemn time the church is called upon to be vigilant because of the intense activity of Satan. His agency is seen on every hand, and yet ministers and people act as though they were ignorant of his devices and paralyzed by his power. Let each member of the church awake. Let each laborer remember that the vineyard he tills is not his own, but belongs to his Lord, who has gone on a long journey and in His absence has commissioned His servants to look after His interests; and let him remember that if he is unfaithful to his trust he must give an account to his Lord when He shall return.?{5T 380.1}[30]
§63
当存心疑惑的人在讲论种种的不可能，当他们因高大的城墙和强有力的巨人而战栗不已之际，且让那“另有一个心志”的忠心的迦勒们进到前面来吧。假若传道人员和自称为信徒的人不堵塞道路，像那些不忠实的探子所作的一样，则那带来救恩的上帝的真理就必传给众人了。我们的工作是积极进取的。必须有所作为，警告世界；不要听到任何声音鼓励自私的利益，疏忽传道园地。我们必须用心用灵用声音从事这工作；心智与身体的各项能力都要被唤醒。全天庭都关心我们的工作，上帝的众天使以我们软弱的努力为耻。{5T380.2}[31]
§64
While the doubting ones talk of impossibilities, while they tremble at the thought of high walls and strong giants, let the faithful Calebs, who have “another spirit,” come to the front. The truth of God, which bringeth salvation, will go forth to the people if ministers and professed believers will not hedge up its way, as did the unfaithful spies. Our work is aggressive. Something must be done to warn the world; and let no voice?be heard that will encourage selfish interests to the neglect of missionary fields. We must engage in the work with heart and soul and voice; both mental and physical powers must be aroused. All heaven is interested in our work, and angels of God are ashamed of our weak efforts.?{5T 380.2}[31]
§65
我对我们各教会的漠不关心感到惊恐。象米罗斯一样，他们没能前来帮助耶和华。平信徒们一直处于安逸自在的状态。他们袖手旁观，觉得责任在传道人身上。但上帝已给每个人指定了工作；不是在各人的玉米地或麦田工作，而是恳切恒切地为救灵工作。M长老，上帝禁止你或任何别的传道人熄灭现存的一丝作工的精神。你们难道不愿用自己充满热心的话语激励这种精神吗？主已使我们成为祂律法的保管人；祂已把神圣而永远的真理交给我们，要我们以忠心的警告，责备和鼓励将这真理传给他人。藉着海陆的交通，我们已与世界各地相连，我们真理的信息也能进入每个国家。我们要在各水边撒福音真理的种子；因为我们不知道哪样发旺，或是早撒的，或是晚撒的，或是两样都好。保罗栽种了，亚波罗浇灌了；但唯有上帝让它生长。{5T381.1}[32]
§66
I am alarmed at the indifference of our churches. Like Meroz, they have failed to come up to the help of the Lord. The laymen have been at ease. They have folded their hands, feeling that the responsibility rested upon the ministers. But to every man God has appointed his work; not work in his fields of corn and wheat, but earnest, persevering work for the salvation of souls. God forbid, Elder M, that you or any other minister should quench one particle of the spirit of labor that now exists. Will you not rather stimulate it by your words of burning zeal? The Lord has made us the depositaries of His law; He has committed to us sacred and eternal truth, which is to be given to others in faithful warnings, reproofs, and encouragement. By means of railroads and steamboat lines we are connected with every part of the world and given access to every nation with our message of truth. Let us sow the seed of gospel truth beside all waters; for we know not which shall prosper, this or that, or whether both shall be alike fruitful. Paul may plant, and Apollos water; but it is God who giveth the increase.?{5T 381.1}[32]
§67
“你们的光也当这样照在人前，叫他们看见你们的好行为，便将荣耀归给你们在天上的父”（太5:16）。不要把你们的灯放在斗底下，而要放在灯台上，好使它可以照亮一家的人。“你们不是自己的人；因为你们是重价买来的”（林前6:19,20），就是上帝儿子的宝血所买来的。我们没有权利为自己活。每一个传道人都应该是一个献身的传道士；每一个平信徒都应该是一个工人，用自己影响力的才干和钱财服务主的圣工；因为积极行善乃是基督教的一个重要原则。正是运用这个原则才能将丰收和禾捆带给主，而缺乏这个原则就会阻碍上帝的圣工，挡住救灵的道路。{5T381.2}[33]
§68
“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.” Do not put your light under a bushel, but on a candlestick, that it may give light to all that are in the house. “Ye are not your own; for ye are bought with a price,” even the precious blood of the Son of God. We have no right to live to ourselves. Every minister should be a consecrated missionary; every layman a worker, using his talents of influence and means in his Lord’s service; for active benevolence is a vital principle of Christianity. It is the exercise of this principle that is to bring sheaves to the Lord of the harvest, while a want of it hinders the work of God and bars the way for the salvation of souls.?{5T 381.2}[33]
§69
传道人们已疏于实施福音的善行。十分之一和奉献的题目未照所应该的予以详述。人们并非生来就倾向于行善，而是倾向于卑鄙贪婪的，要为自己而活。而撒但总是随时准备提出把他们所有的钱财都用在自私、属世的目的上会获得的好处；当他能影响他们逃避职责，在十分之一和奉献上抢夺上帝时，他就洋洋得意了。但没有一个人在这事上是可以推诿的。“各人要照自己的进项抽出来留着”（林前16:2）。穷人和富人，挣工资的青年男女——都要留出一份来；因为上帝要这份。教会每个信徒属灵上的兴盛都依赖于个人的努力和严格忠于上帝。使徒保罗说：“你要嘱咐那些今世富足的人，不要自高，也不要倚靠无定的钱财；只要倚靠那厚赐百物给我们享受的上帝。又要嘱咐他们行善，在好事上富足，甘心施舍，乐意供给人，为自己积成美好的根基，预备将来，叫他们持定那真正的生命。”（提前6:17-19）。所有的人都受命要对上帝圣工的各部门表现出深切的关心，他们也要受紧密而意想不到的考验，好看看谁是配受永生上帝印记的。{5T382.1}[34]
§70
Ministers have neglected to enforce gospel beneficence. The subject of tithes and offerings has not been dwelt upon as it should have been. Men are not naturally inclined to be benevolent, but to be sordid and avaricious, and to live for self. And Satan is ever ready to present the advantages to be gained by using all their means for selfish, worldly purposes; he is glad when he can influence them to shirk duty and rob God in tithes and offerings. But not one is excused in this matter. “Let every one of you lay by him in store, as God hath prospered him.” The poor and the rich, the young men and the young women who earn wages—all are to lay by a portion; for God claims it. The spiritual prosperity of every member of the church depends on personal effort and strict fidelity to God. Says the apostle Paul: “Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not high-minded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life.” All are required to show a deep interest in the cause of God in its various branches, and close and unexpected tests will be brought to bear upon them to see who are worthy to receive the seal of the living God.?{5T 382.1}[34]
§71
所有的人都应该感到自己并非所有者，而是管家，而且时候就要到了，他们必须为使用主的钱财交账。在上帝的圣工中会需要钱财。他们应该与大卫一起说：“万物都从你而来，我们把从你而得的献给你”（代上29:14）。要在不同的地区建立学校，出版社也要增多，要在大城市中建造教堂，工人们也要被被派出去，不止进入各城，而且进入大路和篱笆那里。我相信真理的弟兄们，而今乃是你们的机会。我们宛如站在来世的边界了。我们正期待我们主的光荣显现；黑夜已深；白昼将近。当我们认识到救赎计划的伟大时，我们就会远比现在有勇气，自我牺牲和献身了。{5T382.2}[35]
§72
All should feel that they are not proprietors, but stewards, and that the time is coming when they must give an account for the use they have made of their Lord’s money. Means will be needed in the cause of God. With David they should say: “All things come of Thee, and of Thine own have we given Thee.” Schools are to be established in various places, publications are to be multiplied, churches are to be built in the large cities, and laborers are to be sent forth, not only into the cities, but into the highways and hedges. And now, my brethren who believe the truth, is your opportunity. We are standing, as it were, on the borders of the eternal world. We are looking for the glorious appearing of our Lord; the night is far spent; the day is at hand. When we realize the greatness?of the plan of redemption we shall be far more courageous, self-sacrificing, and devotional than we now are.?{5T 382.2}[35]
§73
在我们的努力获得成功之前，我们有一项大工要做。在我们的家庭和教会中必须有决定性的改革。父母们必须为自己儿女的得救作工。当我们尽力做祂所吩咐我们、并使我们有资格去做的事时，上帝必配合我们的努力；但是因为我们的不信，爱世界和懒惰，在我们的家庭附近就有宝血所买来的灵魂在罪中行将沦亡，而未受警告。难道撒但总要这样夸胜吗？哦，不！从髑髅地所反射的亮光表明，一项我们眼未见过的更大的工作要做成。{5T383.1}[36]
§74
There is a great work for us to do before success will crown our efforts. There must be decided reforms in our homes and in our churches. Parents must labor for the salvation of their children. God will work with our efforts when we do on our part all that He has enjoined upon us and qualified us to do; but because of our unbelief, worldliness, and indolence, blood-bought souls in the very shadow of our homes are dying in their sins, and dying unwarned. Is Satan always thus to triumph? Oh, no! The light reflected from the cross of Calvary indicates that a greater work is to be done than our eyes have yet witnessed.?{5T 383.1}[36]
§75
第三位天使飞在空中，宣扬上帝的诫命及为耶稣作见证，这乃是代表我们的工作。天使的向前飞进，并不使信息失其力量，因为约翰见到它的力量一直增加，直到全地因它的荣耀发光。上帝守诫子民的行程是前进，永远前进的。我们所传的真理信息，必须传至各国各方各民。这信息不久必用大声传出，全地要因它的荣耀发光。我们是否在预备接受上帝之灵的沛然大降呢？{5T383.2}[37]
§76
The third angel, flying in the midst of heaven and heralding the commandments of God and the testimony of Jesus, represents our work. The message loses none of its force in the angel’s onward flight, for John sees it increasing in strength and power until the whole earth is lightened with its glory. The course of God’s commandment-keeping people is onward, ever onward. The message of truth that we bear must go to nations, tongues, and peoples. Soon it will go with a loud voice, and the earth will be lightened with its glory. Are we preparing for this great outpouring of the Spirit of God??{5T 383.2}[37]
§77
在这工作上要使用人类为工具。要加强热情和力量；那因无所事事而逐渐荒废的才干务须投入服务。那说，“等等吧，不可容人将重担加在你身上”的声音，乃是胆小懦怯之探子的声音。我们现在所极需的，乃是勇往直前的迦勒们──在以色列中以勇敢的话语作有力的报告、赞成立即采取行动的首长们。在一般存心自私，贪爱安逸，恐惧惊惶的人因畏惧高大的巨人和无法攀越的城墙而喧闹要求退却时，惟愿这些迦勒都扬起声来，纵然那班怯懦之辈起来手拿石头，因他们所作的忠实见证准备打死他们，也该如此。{5T383.3}[38]
§78
Human agencies are to be employed in this work. Zeal and energy must be intensified; talents that are rusting from inaction must be pressed into service. The voice that would say, “Wait; do not allow yourself to have burdens imposed upon you,” is the voice of the cowardly spies. We want Calebs now who will press to the front—chieftains in Israel who with courageous words will make a strong report in favor of immediate action. When the selfish, ease-loving, panic-stricken people, fearing tall giants and inaccessible walls, clamor for retreat, let the voice of the Calebs be heard, even though the cowardly ones stand with stones in their hands, ready to beat them down for their faithful testimony.?{5T 383.3}[38]
§79
我们岂看不出时代的征兆吗？我们岂看不出撒但在多么热心地作工，把稗子捆成捆，集结他国度的成员，好使他可以控制世界吗？把稗子捆成捆的这种工作正在以远比我们想象的快得多的速度进行着。撒但正在设置每一障碍反对真理的进展。他正企图引起不同的意见，鼓励人爱世俗的心，和贪财的心。他以蛇的狡猾作工，何时他看为有效，就会以狮子的凶猛作工。他以毁灭灵魂为唯一的喜乐，他们的灭亡是他唯一的娱乐；我们岂可行事如同被麻痹了一样呢？那些自称相信真理的人，要听从那狡猾仇敌的种种试探，允许自己变得自私狭隘，让自己属世的利益妨碍救灵的工作吗？{5T383.4}[39]
§80
Can we not discern the signs of the times? Can we not?see how earnestly Satan is at work binding the tares in bundles, uniting the elements of his kingdom, that he may gain control of the world? This work of binding up the tares is going forward far more rapidly than we imagine. Satan is opposing every obstacle to the advancement of the truth. He is seeking to create diversity of opinion and to encourage worldliness and avarice. He works with the subtlety of the serpent and, when he sees it will do, with the ferocity of the lion. The ruin of souls is his only delight, their destruction his only employment; and shall we act as though we were paralyzed? Will those who profess to believe the truth listen to the temptations of the wily foe and allow themselves to become selfish and narrow, and their worldly interests to interfere with efforts for the salvation of souls??{5T 383.4}[39]
§81
凡进入天国城门的人，都必是作为得胜者进入的。当赎民手拿棕树枝，头戴冠冕，群集在上帝宝座的周围时，就会显明他们赢得了什么胜利。那时也会看到撒但曾如何施能力于人心，如何与那些自以为在遵行上帝旨意的人联合。那时也会看到，要是没有神能与人的努力相结合，就不能成功的抵抗他的能力和精明。人也必须胜过自己，他的脾气，爱好和精神必须顺服上帝的旨意。但基督的义和力量是凡愿意接受祂功劳的人都能得到的。{5T384.1}[40]
§82
All who ever enter heaven’s gates will enter as conquerors. When the redeemed throng surround the throne of God, with palm branches in their hands and crowns on their heads, it will be known what victories have been won. It will be seen how Satan’s power has been exercised over minds, how he has linked with himself souls who flattered themselves that they were doing God’s will. It will then be seen that his power and subtlety could not have been successfully resisted had not divine power been combined with human effort. Man must also be victor over himself; his temper, inclinations, and spirit must be brought into subjection to the will of God. But the righteousness and strength of Christ avail for all who will claim His merits.?{5T 384.1}[40]
§83
因而我们要付出恳切而坚决的努力，击退可怕的仇敌。我们需要穿着公义的全副军装。光阴在流逝，我们在迅速接近宽容时期的结束。我们的名字是会登记在羔羊的生命上呢，还是会列在不忠心的人中间呢？我们是被算在将要聚集在那白色的大宝座周围，唱赎民之歌的人之中吗？在那群人中，绝没有冷淡的，徒有其表的人。每个人都是诚挚恳切的，每颗心都满了感恩，因为上帝奇妙的爱和得胜的恩典已使祂的子民在与罪恶的争战中得胜。他们要大声欢唱：“愿救恩归与坐在宝座上我们的上帝，也归与羔羊”（启7:10）。[41]
§84
Then let earnest and determined effort be made to beat back the terrible foe. We want on the whole armor of righteousness. Time is passing, and we are fast approaching the close of our probation. Will our names stand registered in the Lamb’s book of life, or shall we be found with the unfaithful? Are we of the number who shall gather around the great white throne, singing the song of the redeemed? There are no cold, formal ones in that throng. Every soul is in earnest, every heart full of thanksgiving for the marvelous love of God and the overcoming grace that has enabled His people to?conquer in the warfare against sin. And with a loud voice they swell the song: “Salvation to our God which sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb.”?{5T 384.2}[41]