第32章 自我改善
§1
第32章 自我改善
§2
Chap.32—Self-Improvement
§3
《文稿》,1903年第91号（1903年8月20日星期四上午在加利福尼亚州希尔兹堡学院礼拜堂教师短训班上的演讲。部分内容发表在《布道论》和《演讲与唱歌》中。）
§4
我一直在多多思考上帝的道对我们的意义。当我们阅读圣经时，要记住上帝正在对我们讲话，也在教导我们。例如，拿《启示录》来说。我们都知道有许多人视这卷圣经为一本封闭的书，因为他们看不懂；可是它却是基督所赐的启示，为要启迪我们的悟性。{2SAT 238.1}[1]
§5
Manuscript 91, 1903[Address given Thursday morning, August 20, 1903, at the Teachers’ Institute, College Chapel, Healdsburg, California. Portions appear in?Evangelism?and?The Voice in Speech and Song.]
§6
I have been thinking much in regard to what the Word of God is to us. As we read this Word, we are to remember that God is speaking to us, and teaching us. Take, for instance, the book of Revelation. We all know that there are many who regard this scripture as a closed book, because they cannot understand it; and yet it is a revelation that Christ has given in order to enlighten our understanding.?{2SAT 238.1}[1]
§7
在《启示录》第一章第一节中就让我们看到了这本书的性质和目的。它是“耶稣基督的启示，就是上帝赐给祂，叫祂将必要快成的事指示祂的众仆人。祂就差遣使者晓谕祂的仆人约翰。约翰便将上帝的道和耶稣基督的见证，凡自己所看见的都证明出来。念这书上预言的和那些听见又遵守其中所记载的，都是有福的，因为日期近了”（启1:1-3）。{2SAT 238.2}[2]
§8
In the very first verses the character and object of the book are brought to view. It is “the revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto Him, to show unto His servants things which must shortly come to pass; and He sent and signified it by His angel unto His servant John: who bare record of the word of God, and of the testimony of Jesus Christ, and of all things that he saw. Blessed is he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy, and keep those things which are written therein: for the time is at hand.”?{2SAT 238.2}[2]
§9
上帝在全本圣经中给了我们许多指示，我们应该始终以适当的心境接受它。在《罗马书》第12章中，我们读道：“所以弟兄们，我以上帝的慈悲劝你们，将身体献上，当作活祭，是圣洁的，是上帝所喜悦的；你们如此事奉乃是理所当然的。不要效法这个世界，只要心意更新而变化，叫你们察验何为上帝的善良、纯全、可喜悦的旨意”（1-2节）。{2SAT 238.3}[3]
§10
All through His Word God has given us much instruction, and we should always be in a proper frame of mind to receive it. In the twelfth of Romans we read: “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world, but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”?{2SAT 238.3}[3]
§11
每一个有理性和一般能力的青少年都能不断改善上帝所赐的心智。我直到17岁的时候，才能明白圣经；但我的经验是特殊的。上帝在教导我功课，祂希望我暂时全神贯注于这些事，然后才向我的悟性解开圣经。我意识到我不能理解祂的道之后，晚上就会醒着躺在床上，思考这事；我常常会起来俯伏在上帝面前，恳求祂赐给我悟性。过了一段时间之后我的祷告才蒙应允；及至我终于能看懂圣经的时候，对我来说似乎好像涉及我们基督徒经验的每一段圣经都闪耀着美丽的光辉，而且这种亮光进入了我的全身百体。{2SAT 238.4}[4]
§12
Every youth of common sense and ordinary capability can constantly improve the mind that God has given him. Until I was seventeen years old, I could not understand the Scriptures; but my experience was a peculiar one. God was teaching me lessons, and He desired me to give my whole attention to these matters for a time, before He opened the Scriptures to my understanding. After I realized that I could not understand His Word, I would lie awake at night, thinking over the matter; and often I would get up and bow before God, to plead with Him to give me understanding. It was some time before my prayer was answered; and when at last it was, it seemed to me as if there shone a beautiful light around every passage relating to our Christian experience, and?that this light entered into every fiber of my being.?{2SAT 238.4}[4]
§13
有人可能会问，你之前为什么不能明白圣经呢？是因为1844年的定期刚刚过去，我们的弟兄姐妹们在殷勤地寻索真理。他们会聚在一起，讲啊讲啊讲，似乎好像他们永远不会就圣经的教导达到正确的结论。我会与他们一起聚会，我们会一起学习和祈祷，因为我们感到好像我们必须获悉上帝的真理是什么。我们常常留在一起直到深夜，有时彻夜祈求亮光并研究圣经。大家都能看出我的心智好像被锁住了，而且我不能明白我们正在研究的问题。{2SAT 239.1}[5]
§14
Some may ask, Why could you not understand the Bible before? It was because our brethren and sisters, immediately after the passing of the time in 1844, were searching diligently for the truth. They would meet together, and talk and talk and talk, and it seemed as if they could never come to right conclusions in regard to the teachings of the Word. I would meet with them, and we would study and pray together, for we felt as if we must learn what God’s truth was. Often we remained together until late at night, and sometimes through the entire night, praying for light and studying the Word. All could see that my mind was locked, as it were, and that I could not understand what we were studying.?{2SAT 239.1}[5]
§15
然后上帝的灵会临到我身上，我就会被带入异象中，蒙指示看到我们正在研究的经文段落的意思，以及我们应该采取的立场。一系列从那时起直到我们进入上帝圣城时的真理，都清清楚楚地显明在我面前，我便把上帝所赐给我的指示传给我的弟兄姐妹们。他们既知道我原本明白不了这些事，所以就将所赐给我的启示欣然接受为直接来自上帝的亮光。{2SAT 239.2}[6]
§16
Then the Spirit of God would come upon me, and I would be taken off in vision, and be shown the meaning of the passages that we had been studying, and the position we were to take. A line of truth extending from that time to the time when we shall enter the city of our God, was plainly marked out before me, and I gave to my brethren and sisters the instruction God had given to me. They knew that I had not been able to understand these matters, and so they were ready to accept as light coming direct from heaven the revelations given me.?{2SAT 239.2}[6]
§17
我继续处于这种状况约有两年之久，那时，我正祷告的时候，圣经中所赐给我们的宝贵应许和指教的话语便显明在我面前，这些话的意思也清楚了。我就知道主给我的心智解了锁。从那时到现在，圣经对我来说一直是一本敞开的书。我能理解我所读的。上帝藉着我的这段经历成就了祂的旨意，从那时到现在，我们的人一直怀有并坚持了当时所采取的立场。{2SAT 239.3}[7]
§18
For about two years I continued in this way, when, as I was praying, the precious promises and the words of instruction given us in the Scriptures were laid open before me, and the meaning of these words made clear. I knew that my mind had been unlocked by the Lord. From that time to this the Scriptures have been an open book to me. I can understand what I read. God accomplished His purpose through this experience of mine, and ever since that time our people have cherished and maintained the positions that were taken then.?{2SAT 239.3}[7]
§19
学生们，你们和我不一样。上帝有一项特别的工作要我去做，所以我必须有耻辱的经历，自以为拥有真理，却不能明白和解释它。但你们可以明白圣经而不必有这种经历。{2SAT 239.4}[8]
§20
Students, it is not with you as it was with me. God had a special work for me to do, therefore I had to pass through the humiliating experience of believing that we had the truth, and yet of being unable to understand and explain it. But you may gain an understanding of the Word without passing through such an experience.?{2SAT 239.4}[8]
§21
在澳大利亚，我们有许多年轻人都没有我们在美国的年轻人所拥有的有利条件。在那里我们的弟兄姐妹们接受信息的时间相对比较晚。他们在年幼的时候并没有受到真理的教导，所以什么都要学。{2SAT 239.5}[9]
§22
In Australia many of our young people have not had the advantages that most of our young people in America have had. There our brethren and sisters accepted the message a comparatively short time ago. They were not taught the truth in their youth, and so have had everything to learn.?{2SAT 239.5}[9]
§23
当我们住在埃文代尔学校所坐落的库兰邦时，曾考虑娱乐问题。学校的教师们问：“我们应当做些什么事来为学生提供娱乐呢？”我们一起讨论这个问题，然后我来到学生面前，对他们说：“亲爱的朋友们：我们可以有益地运用自己的智力和时间，而不用设法搞娱乐。不要把光阴花在打球上，象许多学生所做的那样，而要努力为主作些工作。我们已经决定，你们所能采取最好的行径就是向邻居和附近的居民作传道工作。你们在听道时要做笔记，记下传道人所用的章节，以便仔细地复习这个讲题。这样你很快就能用以经解经的形式向没有参加过我们聚会的人传达讲题的纲要了。”{2SAT 239.6}[10]
§24
While we were living at Cooranbong, where the Avondale School is located, the question of amusements came up. “What shall we do?to provide for the amusement of our students?” the faculty inquired. We talked matters over together, and then I came before the students and said: “Dear friends, we can occupy our minds profitably without trying to devise methods for amusing ourselves. Instead of spending our time in playing the games that so many students play, let us strive to do something for the Master. We have decided that the best course you can pursue is to do missionary work in the neighborhood. When you are listening to a discourse, take notes, and mark down the passages that the minister uses, so that you can study the subject carefully yourselves. Thus you will be able to prepare for giving a synopsis of the discourse, in the form of a Bible reading, to those who do not come to our meetings.”?{2SAT 239.6}[10]
§25
学生们决定接受这个建议。他们举行晚上聚会一起研究圣经。他们首先彼此作工。由于他们进行圣经的研究，相当多未悔改的学生得以归向真理。他们所作的努力，不仅造福了他们自己，而且造福了他们在邻里作工的对象。{2SAT 240.1}[11]
§26
The students decided to follow this suggestion. They had evening meetings for studying the Scriptures together. They worked for one another, and as the result of these Bible studies among themselves quite a large number of the students were converted to the truth. And the effort resulted in good not only to themselves but to those for whom they labored in the neighborhood.?{2SAT 240.1}[11]
§27
那些出去作工的人蒙指示要向我们汇报他们可能遇见的任何病情。那些曾在医病方面受过一些培训的人便受鼓励将他们的知识付诸实用，帮助那些需要帮助的人。我告诉他们，为主工作就是参加他们所能参加的最基督化的娱乐。{2SAT 240.2}[12]
§28
Those who went out were instructed to report to us any cases of sickness that they might find. Those who had had some training in giving treatment to the sick were encouraged to use their knowledge in a practical way by helping those who needed help. To work for the Master, I told them, was to engage in the most Christlike amusement in which they could engage.?{2SAT 240.2}[12]
§29
后来发生了星期日作工的问题，亟待解决。当时的环境似乎是将逼着我们不能再在星期日作工了。我们的学校原设在森林的中心，离开任何村庄和车站都很远。周围并没有什么临近的居民，所以我们的动作是无论如何不致打搅别人的。虽然如此，但我们还是受人窥伺。有人怂恿政府的官员来调查我们的地方，他们真的来了。那一次他们若真要检举我们，就有许多事可以与我们为难，然而他们似乎并不注意在那里作工的人。他们十分信任我们这班人，并因我们在当地所有的工作成绩而非常尊重我们，认为我们无论在哪里都是可资信任的。{2SAT 240.3}[13]
§30
The Sunday-labor question came up for decision. It seemed as if the lines were soon to be drawn so tightly about us that we should not be able to work during Sunday. Our school was situated in the heart of the woods, far from any village or railway station. No one was living near enough to us to be disturbed in any way by anything we might do. Nevertheless, we were watched. The officers were urged to come around to inspect our premises; and they did come. They could have seen many things if they had desired to prosecute us; but they did not appear to notice those who were at work. They had so much confidence in us as a people, and so great a respect for us on account of the work we had done in that community, that they believed they could trust us anywhere.?{2SAT 240.3}[13]
§31
有许多人承认自从我们到了那里以后，当地的情形便完全改观了。有一位妇女原不是信徒，但在某个传道士使她心中对我们的观点充满偏见之前几乎接受了真理。她对我说道：“自从你们迁到此地，开办学校，举行这些小规模的聚会以来，这一带地方就有了莫大的改良。要是我把详细的情形告诉你，恐怕你还难以相信呢！”{2SAT 240.4}[14]
§32
Many recognized the fact that the whole community had been transformed since we went there. A woman who was not a believer, but who had almost accepted the truth before some churchman filled her mind with prejudice against our views, said to me, “You would not believe me if I could inform you fully in regard to the?transformation that has taken place in this community as the result of your moving here, establishing a school, and holding these little meetings.”?{2SAT 240.4}[14]
§33
所以我们的弟兄在受到逼迫的恐吓，在疑难之中不知怎样行的时候，我就要用那答复关乎娱乐问题同样的话劝他们说：“当用星期日的光阴为上帝作布道的工作。作教师的要与学生一同出去。带着他们到丛林（这是我们对森林中居民很少的地区的称呼，那些地区每隔一两英里路才有几户人家）中去，到人们的家中去拜访，使他们知道你们是关心其灵性得救问题的。”他们照样去作了，结果不但自己大得益处，也帮助了别人。他们既殷勤查考圣经，要学会如何将圣经真理阐明出来，使人乐意接受，上帝就赐福给他们了。{2SAT 241.1}[15]
§34
So when our brethren were threatened with persecution, and thrown into perplexity in regard to what they should do, the same advice was given as was given in answer to the question concerning games. I said, “Employ Sunday in doing missionary work for God. Teachers, go with your students. Take them into the bush (this is what we called the sparsely-settled districts in the woods, where houses are often a mile or two apart), and visit the people in their homes. Let them know that you are interested in their souls’ salvation.” They did so, and, as the result, were greatly benefited themselves, and were able to help others as well. The blessing of God rested upon them as they diligently searched the Scriptures in order to learn how to present the truths of the Word in such a way that these truths would be received with favor.?{2SAT 241.1}[15]
§35
我们在圣经中读到每一个人都蒙上帝赐予了各自的工作。这是什么意思呢？意思是我们每一个人都有一份工作要做。人人不都有同样的工作，但人人都要在上帝的服务中尽自己的本分。{2SAT 241.2}[16]
§36
In the Scriptures we read that to every man God has given his work. What does this mean? It means that every one of us has a work to do. All do not have the same work, but all are to act their part in the service of God.?{2SAT 241.2}[16]
§37
我们为何需要马太、马可、路加、约翰、保罗和其他作者作他们关于救主在地上服务期间祂生活的见证呢？为什么门徒中不能有一个人写一份完整的记录，从而使我们有一份关于基督的生活和工作的连贯记录呢？各部福音书是不同的。一位作者介绍另一位没有介绍的要点。这些要点既是必要的，为什么这些作者没有都提到它们呢？是因为人的心智各有不同，对一切事情的理解并不完全按照同样的方式。有些圣经真理对某些人比对其他人有更加强烈的吸引力。有些要点对某些人比对其他人显得更加重要。同样的原则也适用于讲话的人。有些讲员相当详细地论述其他人会迅速掠过甚至根本不提的要点。这样，全部真理就由几个人比由一个人介绍得更加清楚。在各部福音书中的记录结合为一个和谐的整体。{2SAT 241.3}[17]
§38
Why do we need a Matthew, a Mark, a Luke, a John, a Paul, and all these other writers who have borne their testimony in regard to the life of the Saviour during His earthly ministry? Why could not one of the disciples have written a complete record, and thus have given us a connected account of Christ’s life and work? The Gospels differ. One writer brings in points that another does not bring in. If these points are essential, why did not all these writers mention them? It is because the minds of men differ, and do not comprehend all things in exactly the same way. Some Scripture truths appeal much more strongly to the minds of certain persons than to others; some points appear to be much more important to some than to others. The same principle applies to speakers. Some speakers dwell at considerable length on points that others would pass by quickly, or not mention at all. Thus the whole truth is presented more clearly by several than by one. In the Gospels the records blend in one harmonious whole.?{2SAT 241.3}[17]
§39
上帝希望我们照祂指示我们的心意而行，而不是照某个人指示我们的心意而行。我们应当在上帝面前庄严地保持我们的个性，并且集中我们的思想，不是集中在任何人身上，而是集中在基督耶稣身上。我们是王室的成员，天上君王的儿女。{2SAT 241.4}[18]
§40
God desires us to move as He directs our minds, and not as some human mind directs us. We should preserve our identity sacred before God, and center our thoughts, not on any human being but on Christ Jesus. We are members of the royal family, children of the heavenly King.?{2SAT 241.4}[18]
§41
学生们，你们在上学时，要以在理智上成长为你们的要务。要认识到你们有权行事使你们的心智天天发育并加强。你们若是献身于上帝，你们的心智就会在圣灵的指示之下工作。但你们不可让任何琐事干扰这项工作。要将心思集中在你们正在做的事情上。要祷告，向上帝祷告，祂就会开你们的心窍。{2SAT 241.5}[19]
§42
Students, as you attend school, make it your business to grow in intellect. Realize that it is your?privilege so to act that your minds will develop and strengthen from day to day. If you consecrate yourselves to God, your minds will work under the direction of the Holy Spirit. But you must allow no trivial matters to interfere with this work. Concentrate your minds on what you are doing. Pray, pray to God, and He will open your understanding.?{2SAT 241.5}[19]
§43
【联合会培训学校的工作】
§44
我们教会的学院和培训学校都应作出准备，向学生提供作传道士和基督徒商人所必须的教育。青年和更为年长的人若觉得有责任使自己适合作工，需要经过某些法定的考试，就应能够在我们联合会的培训学校获得一切必要的资格，而不必去巴特尔克里克接受预备的教育。{2SAT 242.1}[20]
§45
【The Work of Union Conference Training Schools】
§46
All our denominational colleges and training schools should make provision to give their students the education essential for evangelists and for Christian business men. The youth and those more advanced in years who feel it their duty to fit themselves for work requiring the passing of certain legal tests should be able to secure at our union conference training schools all that is essential, without having to go to Battle Creek for their preparatory education.?{2SAT 242.1}[20]
§47
凡在这方面祷告警醒的人，祷告必为他们成就奇迹。上帝要我们都能保持时刻等候和盼望的姿态。凡祂所应许的，祂都必成就。国家法律既要求医科学生先学好某种预备课程，我们的学院就应当以与基督的教育一致的方式教导所需的额外课程。{2SAT 242.2}[21]
§48
Prayer will accomplish wonders for those who give themselves to prayer, watching thereunto. God desires us all to be in a waiting, hopeful position. What He has promised, He will do; and if there are legal requirements making it necessary that medical students shall take a certain preparatory course of study, let our colleges teach the required additional studies in a manner consistent with Christian education.?{2SAT 242.2}[21]
§49
主已表示不悦，因为我们有那么多人涌到巴特尔克里克；祂既不希望那么多人去那里，我们就应明白祂希望我们在其它地方的学校有能干的教师，很好地做必须做成的工作。他们应当安排让学生受到所需的文化和科学训练。之所以有这些必要条件，许多都是因为在普通学校中所作的预备工作是肤浅的。我们一切的工作都要做得彻底、忠心、真实。{2SAT 242.3}[22]
§50
The Lord has signified His displeasure that so many of our people are drifting into Battle Creek; and since He does not want so many to go there, we should understand that He wants our schools in other places to have efficient teachers, and to do well the work that must be done. They should arrange to carry their students to the point of literary and scientific training that is necessary. Many of these requirements have been made because so much of the preparatory work done in ordinary schools is superficial. Let all our work be thorough, faithful, and true.?{2SAT 242.3}[22]
§51
在我们的培训学校中，要以圣经为一切教育的基础。在必修的科目中，我们的教师不必引进主已指示我们不要用在我们学校中的不良书籍。根据主所赐给我的亮光，我知道我们在各地的培训学校应当处在最有利的位置，使我们的青年有资格应付国家法律所规定的有关医科学生的考试。为此应当获得最佳的教学才干，使我们的学校达到所需的标准。{2SAT 242.4}[23]
§52
In our training schools, the Bible is to be made the basis of all education. And in the required studies, it is not necessary for our teachers to bring in the objectionable books that the Lord has instructed us not to use in our schools. From the light that the Lord has given me, I know that our training schools in various parts of the field should be placed in the most favorable position possible for qualifying our youth to meet the tests specified by State laws regarding medical students. To this end the very best teaching talent should be secured, that our schools may be brought up to the required standard.?{2SAT 242.4}[23]
§53
但是不要让我们教会的青年男女受劝到巴特尔克里克去获得预备教育。巴特尔克里克已有的拥挤状态使它成了一个不利于基督徒工人受到适当教育的地方。因为就那个拥挤的中心的工作所发的警告没有受到注意，主便允许我们的两个机构被火烧灭了。{2SAT 242.5}[24]
§54
But let not the young men and young women in our churches be advised to go to Battle Creek in order to obtain a preparatory?education. There is a congested state of things at Battle Creek that makes it an unfavorable place for the proper education of Christian workers. Because the warnings in regard to the work in that congested center have not been heeded, the Lord permitted two of our institutions to be consumed by fire.?{2SAT 242.5}[24]
§55
甚至在祂表示这种明显的不悦之后，祂的警告还是没有得到注意。疗养院仍在那里。若是把它分成几个机构，它的工作和影响分散在几个不同的地方，上帝原会得到多得多的荣耀！但是如今既然疗养院已经重建，我们就必须尽力帮助那些正在那里与许多困难作斗争的人。{2SAT 243.1}[25]
§56
Even after this revealing of His signal displeasure, His warnings were not heeded. The sanitarium is still there. If it had been divided into several plants, and its work and influence given to several different places, how much more God would have been glorified! But now that the sanitarium has been rebuilt, we must do our very best to help those who are there struggling with many difficulties.?{2SAT 243.1}[25]
§57
我要再说一遍：没有必要让我们那么多的青年去学医。但是对于那些应该学医的人，我们联合会的培训学校应当在预科教育的设施上作出充足的预备。这样，每个联合会的青年都可在离家乡更近的地方受训，免受伴随着巴特尔克里克工作的特别试探。{2SAT 243.2}[26]
§58
Let me repeat: It is not necessary for so many of our youth to study medicine. But for those who should take medical studies our union conference training schools should make ample provision in facilities for preparatory education. Thus the youth of each union conference can be trained nearer home, and be spared the special temptations that attend the work in Battle Creek.?{2SAT 243.2}[26]
§59
【所谓“普通学科”的重要性】
§60
我在与我们在加利福尼亚州南部费尔南多学校的一位教师交谈。他告诉我，一些来到这所学校的学生带来的毕业证书表明他们已在别的学校受过一些更高的教育。我问他：“你们有没有检查每一个这样的学生，好查明他有没有在这些学科受过适当的教育呢？”那位老师说：“我们不能照着文凭所表明的信任这些学生过去的成绩。他们所受的训练甚至在普通学科上都是很有缺陷的。”{2SAT 243.3}[27]
§61
【The Importance of So-called “Common Branches”】
§62
I was talking with one of the teachers of our school at Fernando, in southern California; and he told me that some had come to this school with diplomas showing that they had taken some of the higher studies in other schools. “Did you examine every such student,” I inquired, “to find out whether he had received the proper instruction in these branches?” “Why,” said the teacher, “we could give the students no credit for the work done in the past, as represented by the diplomas. Their training even in the common branches had been very defective.”?{2SAT 243.3}[27]
§63
而这正是许多人的情况。不少学习古典文学和其它高级学科的人和达到某些标准的人，最终却失败了。为什么呢？因为他们疏忽了在普通学科方面下彻底的工夫。他们从来没有对英语获得良好的认识。他们没有学会正确的阅读、拼写和讲话。那些要求蒙允许学习高级学科的人应当先在这些基础学科通过考试，这些基本学科才是最重要的。{2SAT 243.4}[28]
§64
And thus it is in many instances. Not a few who study the classics and other higher branches of learning, and who reach certain standards, finally fail. And why? Because they have neglected to do thorough work in the common branches. They have never obtained a good knowledge of the English language. They have not learned to read and spell and speak correctly. Those who ask to be allowed to take the higher branches should first be examined in these elementary branches, which are of greatest importance.?{2SAT 243.4}[28]
§65
教师的一个最重要的资格就是能清晰有力地讲话和朗读。我一直蒙指示，所谓的普通学科比法律所要求的高级学科更加重要。能流利而且正确地使用英语的人，能比不能迅速而清楚地表达自己思想的人发挥大得多的感化力。有许多人不能成功开展学校工作，因为他们没有资格去做这种工作。有些人会永远没有能力接受这方面的工作，因为他们没有教学的恩赐。他们的才干使他们适合从事别的方面的服务。{2SAT 243.5}[29]
§66
One of the most important qualifications of a teacher is the ability to speak and to read distinctly and forcibly. I have been instructed that the so-called common branches are of more importance than the higher branches required by law. He who has the ability to use the English language fluently and correctly can exert a far greater influence than he could if he were?unable to express his thoughts readily and clearly. There are many who cannot carry on school work successfully, because they are not qualified to do such work. Some will never be able to do acceptable work in this line, because they have not the gift of teaching. Their talents fit them for some other line of service.?{2SAT 243.5}[29]
§67
语言的学习乃是基本的学科之一。在我们所有的学校中，应当特别注意让学生正确地用英语说话、阅读和写作。这些学科的重要性怎么说都不过分。在阅读课上应当教授声音的训练，在别的课上教师们也应当坚持让学生讲话清晰，使用能清晰有力地表达他们思想的词句。{2SAT 244.1}[30]
§68
One of the fundamental branches of learning is language study. In all our schools special care should be taken to teach the students to use the English language correctly in speaking, reading, and writing. Too much cannot be said in regard to the importance of these branches. Voice culture should be taught in the reading classes, and in the other classes the teachers should insist that their students speak distinctly, and use words which express their thoughts clearly and forcibly.?{2SAT 244.1}[30]
§69
要让学生们明白，上帝已赐给我们每一个人一部奇妙的机器——人体——是我们要用来荣耀祂的。身体的各项能力不断在为我们的利益工作着，我们若是愿意，就可将它们置于控制之下。应当教导学生们利用腹肌呼吸和发言。这会使音调更加圆满清晰。最重要的是，我们要保持身体机器处在良好状态，以便我们能够把我们所学到的传给他人。{2SAT 244.2}[31]
§70
Let the students understand that God has given to every one of us a wonderful mechanism—the human body—which we are to use to glorify Him. The powers of the body are constantly working in our behalf, and, if we choose, we may bring them under control. Students should be taught to use their abdominal muscles in breathing and speaking. This will make the tones more full and clear. It is of greatest importance that we keep the bodily mechanism in good condition, in order that we may be able to impart to others that which we have learned.?{2SAT 244.2}[31]
§71
大家都要提防自己因为没有在这些普通学科受过训练而变得心神不安。学生们，要记住你们自己会成为教育别人的人。要不断努力提高声音的训练和清晰发言的能力。甚至传道人也往往在这方面失败。不少人说到句子的结尾声音就小了，而且最后一两个字说得很不清楚，甚至听不见。这种传道人承担任何传道工作都几乎总是失败。他们无法使人归向基督，因为他们工作的后面部分是有缺陷的，正如他们说话时句子的结尾有缺陷一样。{2SAT 244.3}[32]
§72
Let all guard themselves against becoming disturbed in spirit because they have to be drilled in these common branches. Students, remember that you yourselves will be educators of others. Strive constantly to improve in voice culture and in the ability to speak distinctly. Even ministers often fail in this respect. Not a few lower the voice at the end of sentences, and utter the last syllable or two so indistinctly that they cannot be heard. Such ministers almost invariably fail in any missionary effort they undertake. They cannot bring souls to Christ, because the latter part of their work is defective, just as their expression is defective at the close of sentences.?{2SAT 244.3}[32]
§73
话语若是值得说，就值得说得适当。要以圆满清晰的音调发言。声音的训练若不重要，我们的青少年就不必上学了。他们就能在家学习。但是他们如果不能把所学的知识聪明地传给他人，他们的知识又有什么用处呢？{2SAT 244.4}[33]
§74
If words are worth speaking at all, they are worth speaking properly. Let the words be uttered in full, distinct tones. If voice culture were unimportant, it would not be so necessary for our youth to attend school. They could study at home. But of what use would their knowledge be, if they had not the ability to impart it understandingly to others??{2SAT 244.4}[33]
§75
我只有十一岁左右时，曾听到一位传道人读彼得被囚的事，就如《使徒行传》中所记载的；他读经的方式那么感人，以致故事的细节似乎都活生生地在我眼前经过，在我心中留下了那么深刻的印象，以致我永远忘不了。几年后，我在一般的聚会上演讲时，又遇见了这个人，在我讲道结束时，他问道：“你是怎么得到那种奇妙的声音的？”我告诉他是主赐给我的。当我开始公开服务时，我没有声音，除非当我站在会众面前要发言的时候。别的时候我只能耳语似的低声说话。我又说：“我常常想到你在有人问你怎么成了一位传道人时对人们说的话。你告诉他们：你的朋友们说你决不会成为传道人，因为你不能适当地说话；但你独自走到树木中对树木说话；你在赶着牛时也对牛说话，好像在参加聚会一样。你说：‘我就是这样学会当众讲话的。’”{2SAT 244.5}[34]
§76
When I was only about eleven years old, I heard a minister read the account of Peter’s imprisonment, as recorded in the book of Acts; and he read in so impressive a manner that the details of the story in all their reality seemed to?be passing before my eyes. So deep was the impression made upon my mind that I have never forgotten it. When, a few years afterward, I was speaking in general meetings, I met this man again, and at the close of my discourse he asked, “How did you get that wonderful voice?” I told him that the Lord had given it to me. When I began my public labors, I had no voice except when I stood before the congregations to speak. At other times I could not speak above a whisper. “And,” I added, “I have often thought of what you said to the people when someone asked you how you became a minister. You told them that your friends said you could never be a minister, because you could not speak properly; but that you went away by yourself and talked to the trees in the woods; and then when driving the oxen, you would talk to them just as if you were in meeting. ‘This,’ you said, ‘is the way I learned to speak in public.’”?{2SAT 244.5}[34]
§77
我们第一位去欧洲的传道士安德鲁斯长老原是一个自学的人。我想他在十一岁以后就没有在学校上过一天学。他几乎总是在口袋里放一本论述他想要明白的某种语言的书，或者有关某个历史或科学问题的书；当他去从事日常的工作时，会常常查阅这本书。他只要有一点余下的时间，就会拿出那本书来阅读，从而利用他的空闲时刻。{2SAT 245.1}[35]
§78
Elder Andrews, our first missionary to Europe, was a self-educated man. I do not think he was in school a day after he was eleven years old. He almost always kept in his pocket a book treating on some language that he desired to understand, or on some historical or scientific subject; and as he went about his daily work, he would keep referring to this book. Whenever he had a little spare time, he would take out the book and improve his leisure moments by studying.?{2SAT 245.1}[35]
§79
有一次，他在身体虚弱时去了爱荷华州的沃坎，要在露天工作，希望能有益于他的肺并恢复健康。他会与他的牛一起到田里去，并在赶牛的时候查阅他的书，朗读几个字或几个句子，然后以圆满的高音调予以重复，为了锻炼他的肺，也为了记住那些字句。他就这样善用自己的机会，成了我们最宝贵的一位工人。{2SAT 245.2}[36]
§80
At one time, when in feeble health, he went to Waukon, Iowa, to labor in the open air, hoping thereby to benefit his lungs and regain his health. He would go into the field with his oxen, and as he drove them, he would refer to his book, and read a few words or sentences and then repeat these in full, loud tones in order to exercise his lungs as well as to impress the words and sentences upon his memory. Thus he improved his opportunities, and became one of our most valued laborers.?{2SAT 245.2}[36]
§81
我还能说到其他几位靠自己的努力获得教育的人。许多人藉着在天天辛劳时把一本书带在身边，藉着殷勤善用一切余剩的时间，获得了知识，使他们有资格在主的服务中作有用的工人。{2SAT 245.3}[37]
§82
I could speak of several others who obtained an education by their own efforts. By keeping a book before them as they toiled from day to day, and by diligently improving all their spare time, many have gained knowledge that fitted them to be useful laborers in the Master’s service.?{2SAT 245.3}[37]
§83
我们每一个人，若是愿意，都可以成功。弟兄姐妹们，无论你们的职业可能是什么，无论你们可能拥有怎样的机会，你们都可以在自己的工作中取得成功。但是你们在企图学习文学知识的高级学科之前，一定要彻底明白英语语法的简单规则，且已学会正确地朗读、写作和拼写。先攀登较低的阶梯再攀登较高的阶梯。{2SAT 245.4}[38]
§84
Every one of us, if we will, can be successful. Brethren and sisters, whatever your calling may be, whatever opportunities you may have had, you can be successful in your work. But before attempting to study the higher branches of literary knowledge, be sure that you thoroughly understand the simple rules of English grammar, and that you have learned to read and write and spell correctly. Ascend the lower rounds?of the ladder before reaching for the higher rounds.?{2SAT 245.4}[38]
§85
在歌唱方面可以作出很大的改进。有人以为他们唱得越响就越好听；但噪音不是音乐。优美的歌声象鸟儿的歌声那样悦耳——既柔和又动听。我在我们的一些教会中听过完全不适于上帝圣殿崇拜的独唱。歌剧中常见的那种拖长的音符和怪异的声音并不令天使们感到愉快。他们喜欢听一种用自然的音调唱出来的简单的赞美诗。他们乐意与我们同唱吐字清晰，旋律悦耳的诗歌。他们要应和那出于内心，用心灵和悟性唱出来的歌。{2SAT 246.1}[39]
§86
Great improvement can be made in singing. Some think that the louder they sing, the more music they make; but noise is not music. Good singing is like the music of the birds—subdued and melodious. In some of our churches I have heard solos that were altogether unsuitable for the service of the Lord’s house. The long-drawn-out notes, and the peculiar sounds common in operatic singing, are not pleasing to the angels. They delight to hear the simple songs of praise sung in a natural tone. The songs in which every word is uttered clearly, in a musical tone, are the songs that they join us in singing. They take up the refrain that is sung from the heart with the spirit and the understanding.?{2SAT 246.1}[39]
§87
学生们，要充分利用你们自己。基督已为你们付了无限的代价，你们担不起令祂失望，疏于利用出现在你们面前的机会进行自我改善。要培养一种镇静、仁慈、文雅、温柔的精神。你们这样做就能学得又多又快，因为你们不会因某人说了你什么而烦恼不安。何时我们达到能彼此帮助的地步，就会因知道自己尽了全力而感到满足。{2SAT 246.2}[40]
§88
Students, try to make the most of yourselves. Christ has paid an infinite price for you, and you cannot afford to disappoint Him by neglecting to avail yourselves of the opportunities for self-improvement presented to you. Cultivate a spirit that is calm, kind, gentle, tender. By doing this you can learn so much the more rapidly, because you are not troubled over something that somebody has said in regard to you. When we come into a position where we can help one another, we shall have the satisfaction of knowing that we have done our best.?{2SAT 246.2}[40]
§89
【希尔兹堡的学校】
§90
重要的是，我们在希尔兹堡的学校中的一切教育都要象任何一所类似学校中的教育一样全面彻底。国家法律要求医科生必修的什么课你们现在如果还没有开设，就应开设这些必修的学科。把我们的青少年送到巴特尔克里克去获得这种必需的知识，或者在他们所生活的不同联合会的我们的学校中教给他们这些知识，哪一个更差呢？这种教育若是正当的，我们就要供应设施在我国的每一所培训学校提供这种教育。这样我们就能避免必需把我们的青少年送到巴特尔克里克去，或者向以往所做过的，把他们送到某个属世的学院去——去安阿伯或别的某个属世的学校。{2SAT 246.3}[41]
§91
【The Healdsburg School】
§92
It is important that in our school in Healdsburg all the instruction shall be as thorough as it is in any similar school. If the laws of the land require that youth preparing for a medical course shall study some branches which you do not now teach, you should provide instruction in these required branches. Which is worse, to send our youth to Battle Creek to gain this required knowledge, or to give it to them in our schools in the various union conferences where they are living? If it is right for this instruction to be given, we are to provide facilities for giving it in every training school in our land. Thus we shall be able to avoid the necessity of sending our youth to Battle Creek, or, as has been done in the past, to some worldly institution—to Ann Arbor or some other school of the world.?{2SAT 246.3}[41]
§93
【一个高标准】
§94
我脑海中又出现了主多年前所赐的指示，论到带进我们学校的大量垃圾——确实不适合使我们的许多青少年成为有用之材作基督化教师和工人的东西。我们所有的学校都必须是基督的学校；所施的教育必须基于上帝的道。教师和学生天天都要思考基督为了拯救他们已经牺牲了多少；他们也要默想祂在离开门徒之前所赐给他们的指示。祂说：“天上地下所有的权柄都赐给我了。所以，你们要去，使万民作我的门徒，奉父、子、圣灵的名给他们施洗。凡我所吩咐你们的，都教训他们遵守”（太28:18-20）。我们应该能在圣经中找到祂所吩咐的事。{2SAT 246.4}[42]
§95
【A High Standard】
§96
Again there has been brought to my mind the instruction given years ago in reference to the great amount of trash that was brought into our schools—things that really unfitted many of our youth for usefulness as Christian teachers and workers. All our schools must be Christian schools; the education given must be based on the Word of God. Both teachers and students are daily to consider how much Christ has sacrificed in order to save them; and they are to?ponder the instruction that He gave to His disciples just before He left them. “All power,” He declared, “is given unto Me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you.” These things we shall be able to find in His Word.?{2SAT 246.4}[42]
§97
我们不要探索稀奇古怪的事，也不要追寻没有启示的事。有些人问我在天庭的一些事。我总是打发他们到圣经去查明上帝已吩咐他们去遵守的那些事。保罗虽然领受了一个又一个的启示，但他却没有一次满足人们的好奇心，叙述他在天庭所见到的。他写道他曾“被提到乐园里，听见隐秘的言语，是人不可说的”（林后12:4）。许多事无法被描绘得能在人们被罪蒙蔽的心中造成正确的印象。这种知识会被错误地利用。上帝吩咐我们去学习的东西才是我们要去教导去实践的东西。对于那些按照这些教导形成自己日常行为的人，基督应许说：“我就常与你们同在，直到世界的末了”（太28:20）。{2SAT 247.1}[43]
§98
We are not to search after oddities, or after things that are not revealed. Some have asked me in regard to things that are in the heavenly courts. I have always sent them to the Bible to search out those things that God has commanded them to observe. Paul received revelation after revelation, but in no instance did he satisfy the curiosity of men by relating what he saw in the heavenly courts. He wrote that he “was caught up into Paradise, and heard unspeakable words, which it is not lawful for a man to utter.” Many things cannot be described so that they will make a correct impression upon minds befogged by sin. A wrong use would be made of such knowledge. The things that God has commanded us to study are the things that we are to teach and to live. To those who fashion their daily conduct in accordance with these teachings, Christ gives the promise, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”?{2SAT 247.1}[43]
§99
学生们，决不要心满意足于一个低下的标准。你们在上学时一定要考虑一个高尚圣洁的目标。要因为你们想要使自己有资格在主葡萄园的某个部分服务而去上学。要做一切能达到这个目标的事。你们能为自己做更多的事，过于其他任何人能为你们做的。你们若是做凡能为你们自己做的事，就会给校长和老师们减轻多么大的负担啊！{2SAT 247.2}[44]
§100
Students, never rest satisfied with a low standard. In attending school be sure that you have in view a noble, holy object. Go because you desire to fit yourselves for service in some portion of the Master’s vineyard. Do all that you can to attain this object. You can do more for yourselves than anyone else can do for you. And if you do all that you can for yourselves, what a burden you will lift from the principal and the teachers!?{2SAT 247.2}[44]
§101
我要对每一位学生说：记住你是在上帝的规则之下。祂已给你机会训练自己在祂的圣工中作有用之材。祂已赐给你优良的教师和你们可以信任的校长。要小心，不要用你们应该自己照顾的琐细小事使这些忠心的工人负担过重。要特别注意学校日常生活中的小事。这一切的事都与品格的形成有关系。你们要形成一种会使你们在世上有为的品格，否则就会形成一种会使你们对同胞毫无益处的品格。{2SAT 247.3}[45]
§102
To every student I would say: Remember that you are under the rule of God. He has given you opportunity to train yourself for usefulness in His cause. He has given you good teachers and a principal in whom you have confidence. Be careful not to load down these faithful workers with unimportant details that you should attend to yourself. Give special attention to the little things of everyday school life. All these have to do with the formation of character. You may form a character that will make you useful in this world, or you may form one that will make you of no benefit to your fellow men.?{2SAT 247.3}[45]
§103
要让每一个学生都获得一种丰富的经验，将其生命与基督一同藏在上帝里面。总要记住圣天使正在看守着你们，而当一天结束时，你们要么过了荣耀上帝的生活，要么过了有缺陷的生活，亏缺了祂的荣耀。当受到试探时，要抵挡仇敌。要不断认识到你们领受是为传授，你们是消费者，为要使你们成为生产者。{2SAT 247.4}[46]
§104
Let every student gain a rich experience in having his life hid with Christ in God. Let every one perfect a Christian character. Remember always that the holy angels are watching over you, and that when the day is completed, you have either lived to the glory of God or else you have been defective and?have detracted from His glory. When tempted, resist the enemy. Realize constantly that you are receiving to impart, that you are consumers in order that you may become producers.?{2SAT 247.4}[46]
§105
我对在我们国家的每一所学校都确实关心；我也切愿所有这些学校里做成的工作不要集中在一个已经很拥挤的地方。每一所学校都要拥有所能得到的最好的教师，以便工作能做得彻底。教师和学生都应该在基督里并且藉着基督达到所能达到的高度。耶稣基督的宗教乃是一切真教育的根基。{2SAT 248.1}[47]
§106
I have a decided interest in every school in our land; and I greatly desire that the work which should be done in all these schools shall not be centered in one place that is already congested. Every school is to have the best teachers that can be obtained, so that the work done will be thorough. Both teachers and students are to rise as high as they can in and through Christ. The religion of Jesus Christ lies at the foundation of all true education.?{2SAT 248.1}[47]
§107
藉着领受为要施予，我们可以成为与上帝同工的人。于是祂就会按照祂的美意在我们里面并藉着我们行事。学生们，你们若是认识到你们要成为与祂同工的人，就不会屈尊去做无聊的事；你们一切的工作就会本着良心做得彻底。你们是站在一个高尚的平台上：你们是上帝所耕种的田地，所建造的房屋（林前3:9），所以你们不要把朽木或其它有缺陷的材料带入你们品格的建造中。万物在那与我们有关系的主面前都是赤露敞开的。我们行事为人要使我们最终如经上所说：“你们在祂里面也得了丰盛”（西2:10）。--《文稿》,1903年第91号(MR900.65).[48]
§108
By receiving to impart, we shall become laborers together with God. Then He will work in and through us according to His good pleasure. Students, if you realize that you are to be laborers together with Him, you will not stoop to frivolity; all your work will be done thoroughly and conscientiously. You are standing on a high platform: you are God’s husbandry, God’s building, and therefore you are to bring into your character-building no rotten timbers or other imperfect material. All things are open to Him with whom we have to do. Let us so conduct ourselves that at last it may be said of us, “Ye are complete in Him.”—Ms 91, 1903 (MR 900.65).?{2SAT 248.2}[48]
§109
（1990年9月13日由怀爱伦著作托管委员会在马里兰州银泉全文发表）{2SAT 248.2}[49]
§110
Ellen G. White Estate?Silver Spring, Maryland?September 13, 1990. Entire Ms.[49]