第03章 文字布道士为福音工作者
§1
第03章 文字布道士为福音工作者
§2
Chap. 3—The Canvasser a Gospel Worker
§3
聪明，敬畏上帝，爱慕真理的文字布道士，是应当受人尊敬的；因为他的地位是与福音传道人的相等。我们许多年轻的传道人及那些预备作传道工作的人，若是真正悔改了，藉着参加推销书报的工作，就必有极好的成就。在会见人并介绍我们书报之时，他们必得一种经验，是单靠讲道所不能得的。在挨家挨户推销书报之时，他们就有机会和人交谈，传播基督生命的香气。他们这样尽力造福他人，自己也必蒙福；在信心方面可得经验；圣经知识也要大大增加；并要时刻学习如何得人归向基督。{MC29.1}[1]
§4
The intelligent, God-fearing, truth-loving canvasser should be respected for he occupies a position equal to that of the gospel minister. Many of our young ministers and those who are fitting for the ministry would, if truly converted, do much good by working in the canvassing field. And by meeting the people and presenting to them our publications, they would gain an experience which they can not gain by simply preaching. As they went from house to house, they could converse with the people, carrying with them the fragrance of Christ’s life. In thus endeavoring to bless others, they would themselves be blessed; they would obtain an experience in faith; their knowledge of the Scriptures would greatly increase; and they would be constantly learning how to win souls for Christ.?{MC 29.1}[1]
§5
我们一切传道人都当自觉要随身多带书刊，随时随地分发。一个传道人无论何往，可在所逗留过的家里留下一本书刊，或卖或送都可以。在我们信息初期的历史中，这种工作做得很多。那时的传道人也做文字布道士的工作，把推销书报所得的钱充作推广工作的经费，帮助有需要的地方。这些人会很聪明地提倡这种工作的方法；因为他们在这方面已有过实际的经验{MC29.2}[2]
§6
All our ministers should feel free to carry with them books to dispose of wherever they go. Wherever a minister goes, he can leave a book in the family where he stays, either selling it or giving it to them. Much of this work was done in the early history of the message. Ministers acted as colporteurs, using the means obtained from the sale of the books to help in the advancement of the work in places where help was needed. These can speak intelligently in regard to this method of work; for they have had an experience in this line.?{MC 29.2}[2]
§7
不要有人以为传道人参加文字布道之工来向人传扬真理乃是降低身份的事。这不过是效法从前使徒保罗的办法而已。他说：“你们知道，自从我到亚细亚的日子以来，在你们中间始终为人如何，服事主，凡事谦卑，眼中流泪，又因犹太人的谋害，经历试炼。你们也知道，凡与你们有益的，我没有一样避讳不说的。或在众人面前，或在各人家里，我都教导你们。又对犹太人和希腊人证明当向上帝悔改，信靠我主耶稣基督”（徒20:18-21）。上帝曾用奇妙的方法，将自己显示给大有口才的保罗，然而他仍“凡事谦卑，眼中流泪，”饱经试炼，挨家挨户去传道。{MC29.3}[3]
§8
Let none think that it belittles a minister of the gospel to engage in canvassing as a means?of carrying truth to the people. In doing this work he is laboring in the same manner as did the apostle Paul, who says: “Ye know, from the first day that I came into Asia, after what manner I have been with you at all seasons, serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me by the lying in wait of the Jews; and how I kept back nothing that was profitable unto you, but have showed you, and have taught you publicly, and from house to house, testifying both to the Jews, and also to the Greeks, repentance toward God, and faith toward our Lord Jesus Christ.”?Acts 20:18-21. The eloquent Paul, to whom God manifested Himself in a wonderful manner, went from house to house in all humility of mind, and with many tears and temptations.?{MC 29.3}[3]
§9
凡望得机会作真实传道服务的人，若肯无保留地献身给上帝，就必在文字布道工作上得到机会，讲论许多关于不朽来生的大事。如此获得的经验，对于那些训练自己作传道工作的人是有最大的价值。上帝的圣灵与男女工人同在，预备他们成为上帝羊群的牧者。他们在一切苦难的经验和试炼之中，一想起基督是他们的同伴，就会觉得有神圣的敬畏和圣洁的喜乐了。他们在作工时，必学习怎样祈祷。他们必在忍耐，慈爱，温和，及有益的事上都受教练。他们必实行真诚的基督徒礼让，心里记着基督是他们的同伴，祂必不赞许人有粗暴，不仁的言语或情感。他们的言语都要变为清洁，并视说话的能力是一种借给他们作高贵圣洁之工的宝贵才干。凡作上帝代表的人，必须学习怎样代表那与他联合的神圣同伴。他对那位看不见的圣者，必须显出尊崇和恭敬来，因为他正在负祂的轭，并学习祂纯洁圣善的作风。那些信靠这神圣同伴的人，必有长进，他们必蒙赐予权柄，使真理的信息披上圣洁的美丽。{MC30.1}[4]
§10
All who desire opportunity for true ministry, and who will give themselves unreservedly to God, will find in the canvassing work, opportunities to speak upon many things pertaining to the future, immortal life. The experience thus gained will be of the greatest value to those who are fitting themselves for the ministry. It is the accompaniment of the Holy Spirit of God that prepares workers, both men and women, to become pastors to the flock of God. As they cherish the thought that Christ is their Companion, a holy awe, a sacred joy will be felt by them amid all their trying experiences and all their tests. They will learn how to pray as they work. They will be educated in patience, kindness, affability, and helpfulness. They will practise true, Christian?courtesy, bearing in mind that Christ, their Companion, can not approve of harsh, unkind words or feelings. Their words will be purified. The power of speech will be regarded as a precious talent, lent them to do a high and holy work. The human agent will learn how to represent the divine Companion with whom he is associated. To that unseen, holy One he will show respect and reverence, because he is wearing His yoke, and is learning His pure, holy ways. Those who have faith in this divine Attendant will develop. They will be gifted with power to clothe the message of truth with a sacred beauty.{MC 30.1}[4]
§11
有些人很适合于文字布道士的工作，并能在这方面比讲道有更大的成功。若有基督的灵住在他们的心里，他们就可找到机会向别人传主的道，并引人注意现代的特别真理。有些配作这工的人负起了这种工作，可是一些不智的传道人却奉承他们，说他们的恩赐应当用于讲台之前，而不应用于文字布道的工作。因此他们就受人的影响去追求讲道的文凭；这些本当受训为优等的布道士，到人家庭里去拜望人，与人谈话，也同人作祷告的人，竟转离了很适合他们的工作，被提去充当劣等的传道人，以致那需要多人作工的田地，以及本可为教会完成极多善工的地区，都被疏忽了。{MC31.1}[5]
§12
There are some who are adapted to the work of the colporteur, and who can accomplish more in this line than by preaching. If the Spirit of Christ dwells in their hearts, they will find opportunity to present His word to others, and to direct minds to the special truths for this time. Men suited to this work undertake it; but some injudicious minister flatters them that their gifts should be employed in preaching instead of in the work of the colporteur. Thus they are influenced to get a license to preach; and the very ones who might have been trained to make good missionaries to visit families at their homes, to talk and pray with them, are turned away from a work for which they are fitted, to make poor ministers; and the field where so much labor is needed, and where so much good might be accomplished, is neglected.?{MC 31.1}[5]
§13
传道的工作是主所定的方法，要将其警告的信息传给世人。在圣经中，忠心的教师被描绘为上帝羊群的牧人，是当受尊敬的，他的工作也当受人重视。真正的医疗布道工作，是与传道的工作密切相关的，而文字布道工作也应该是医疗布道工作与传道工作的一部分。我愿对那些参加这份工作的人说，当你们去拜望人的时候，要告诉他们说你们是传福音的工人，是敬爱上帝的。不要寄居在旅馆里，反当设法住在私人的家庭里，变得与那一家的人相熟。基督随时随地撒播真理的种子，你们作祂的门徒，也能为主作见证，在人的家庭中作一种最宝贵的工作。在这样与人亲近之时，往往会遇见那些患病及灰心的人。只要你们常常靠近基督的身旁，负祂的轭，就必每天学习祂如何把和平及安慰的信息，传给伤心失望，愁苦断肠的人。你们能向灰心的人指明上帝的道，并在祈祷中把患病的人领到主面前。你们祈祷之时，要象对一位亲信爱友的态度，向基督说话。作为上帝的儿女，应当保持一种甜美，坦白，令人愉快的尊严。这都是会被人看得出的。{MC31.2}[6]
§14
The preaching of the word is a means by which the Lord has ordained that His warning?message shall be given to the world. In the Scriptures the faithful teacher is represented as a shepherd to the flock of God. He is to be respected, and his work appreciated. Genuine medical missionary work is bound up with the ministry, and the canvassing work is to be a part both of the medical missionary work and of the ministry. To those who are engaged in this work I would say: As you visit the people, tell them that you are a gospel worker, and that you love the Lord. Do not seek a home in a hotel, but stay at a private house, and become acquainted with the family. Christ was sowing the seeds of truth wherever He was, and as His followers you can witness for the Master, doing a most precious work in fireside labor. In thus coming close to the people, you will often find those who are sick and discouraged. If you are pressing close to the side of Christ, wearing His yoke, you will daily learn of Him how to carry messages of peace and comfort to the sorrowing and disappointed, the sad and broken-hearted. You can point the discouraged ones to the word of God, and take the sick to the Lord in prayer. As you pray, speak to Christ as you would to a trusted, much-loved friend. Maintain a sweet, free, pleasant dignity, as a child of God. This will be recognized.?{MC 31.2}[6]
§15
关于对病人的治疗，文字布道士应当能予以指导。他们应当学习卫生治疗的简单方法，从而可以象医疗布道士一样，为病苦之人的身心服务。这种工作现今应当向世界各处进行，使众人可因上帝仆人的祈祷与指导而得福。{MC32.1}[7]
§16
Canvassers should be able to give instruction in regard to the treatment of the sick. They should learn the simple methods of hygienic treatment. Thus they may work as medical missionaries, ministering to the souls and the bodies of?the suffering. This work should now be going forward in all parts of the world. Thus multitudes might be blessed by the prayers and instruction of God’s servants.?{MC 32.1}[7]
§17
我们应当认识到文字布道工作的重要性，视之为一种寻找那些正在危险中的人并引其归向基督的大方法。切不可禁止文字布道士讲论基督之爱，及述说其为主服务的经验。他们应当随时与那些被唤醒的人谈话或祷告。基督爱人的简短故事，必为他们开路，甚至可达不信之人的家。{MC33.1}[8]
§18
We need to realize the importance of the canvassing work as one great means of finding out those who are in peril, and bringing them to Christ. Canvassers should never be prohibited from speaking of the love of Christ, from telling their experience in their service for the Master. They should be free to speak or to pray with those who are awakened. The simple story of Christ’s love for man will open doors for them, even to the homes of unbelievers.?{MC 33.1}[8]
§19
当文字布道士去人家拜访之时，往往有机会可以向他们宣读圣经或其它教导真理的书籍。若是发现有寻求真理的人，就可与他们查经谈道。这种查经的工作正是人们所需要的。凡能如此对将亡的生灵表示深切关怀的人，上帝必在祂的服务中使用他们。祂要藉着他们分赐亮光给那些预备接受指示的人。{MC33.2}[9]
§20
As the canvasser visits the people at their homes, he will often have opportunity to read to them from the Bible or from books that teach the truth. When he discovers those who are searching for truth he can hold Bible-readings with them. These Bible-readings are just what the people need. God will use in His service those who thus show a deep interest in perishing souls. Through them He will impart light to those who are ready to receive instruction.?{MC 33.2}[9]
§21
有些参加文字布道工作的人，有一种不按着真知识所生的热心。他们因缺少智慧，以及一直很是倾向于扮演传道人和神学家，以致我们几乎有约束他们的必要。当主的声音呼召说：“我可以差遣谁呢？谁肯为我们去呢？”圣灵就感动人心使之起响应说：“我在这里，请差遣我”（赛6:8）。但须记得，你们的嘴唇须先经坛上取下的火炭沾过，然后你们所说出的才是聪明圣洁的话，并且有智慧知道什么话该说，什么话要留下不说。你们不会设法自显聪明，作神学辩论家，而会小心避免引起争论的道理，唤起人好斗的精神，或激动人的成见。你们会找出许多不至引人反对的话来谈，打开人心，使其渴望更深一层的圣经知识。{MC33.3}[10]
§22
Some who labor in the canvassing field have a zeal that is not according to knowledge. Because of their lack of wisdom, because they have been so much inclined to act the minister and theologian, it has been almost a necessity to place restrictions upon our canvassers. When the Lord’s voice calls, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” the divine Spirit puts it into hearts to respond, “Here am I; send me.”?Isaiah 6:8.?But bear in mind that the live coal from the altar must first touch your lips and cleanse you from all impurity. Then the words you speak will be wise and holy words. Then you will have wisdom to know what to say and what to leave unsaid. You will not try to reveal your smartness as theologians. You will be careful not to arouse a combative spirit or excite prejudice by introducing controverted points of doctrine. You will find enough to talk about that will not excite opposition, but that will open the heart to desire a deeper knowledge of God’s word.?{MC 33.3}[10]
§23
主希望你们作得人的人；因此，你们虽然不当强迫人接受道理，但若是“有人问你们心中盼望的缘由，就要常作准备，以温柔、敬畏的心回答各人”（彼前3:15）。畏什么呢？畏你们的话中会有自尊自大的口气，畏你们会说未经考虑的话，畏你们的言语举止会与基督不相像。应当与基督坚固联络，把在祂里面的真理切实表扬出来。应当作工像保罗作工一样。他无论何往，不拘是在生气的法利赛人或罗马的官长，穷人或富人，有学问的人或无知识的人，路司德的残疾人或马其顿土牢中已定罪的囚徒之前，都高举基督是一位恨罪恶而爱罪人的主，又是一位担当我们的罪而把自己的义分赐给我们的主。{MC34.1}[11]
§24
The Lord desires you to be soul-winners; therefore, while you should not force doctrinal points upon the people, you should “be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”?1 Peter 3:15. Why fear?—Fear lest your words should savor of self-importance, lest unadvised words be spoken, lest the words and manner should not be after Christ’s likeness. Connect firmly with Christ, and present the truth as it is in Him. Work as Paul worked. Wherever he was, whether before scowling Pharisee or Roman authority, rich or poor, learned or ignorant, the cripple at Lystra or the convicted sinners in the Macedonian dungeon, he lifted up Christ as the One who hates sin and loves the sinner, the One who bore our sins that He might impart to us His righteousness.?{MC 34.1}[11]
§25
赎罪的故事必能感动人心。你们若学基督的柔和谦卑，就会知道应当对人说什么话；因为圣灵必告诉你们当说的话。那些认识到使心服从圣灵管理之必要性的人，必能撒出那会结出永生的种子。这就是文字布道士的工作。{MC34.2}[12]
§26
Hearts can not fail to be touched by the story of the atonement. As you learn the meekness and lowliness of Christ, you will know what you?should say to the people; for the Holy Spirit will tell you what words to speak. Those who realize the necessity of keeping the heart under the control of the Holy Spirit, will be enabled to sow seed that will spring up unto eternal life. This is the work of the evangelistic canvasser.?{MC 34.2}[12]
§27
【文字布道士和查经工作】
§28
我收到来信，询问有关文字布道士义务的问题。有些人说他们在访问人时有好机会介绍现代真理，几乎被迫给人查经。他们在良心上不能忽视这些机会。另一方面，有些来信说我们的文字布道士正在为了给人就教义问题查经而忽视自己的工作，并且因为这种查经而引起了偏见，以致难以推销他们的书。有些人就这些问题请求忠告。{MC35.1}[13]
§29
【The Canvasser and Bible Work】
§30
Letters have been received by me making inquiries in regard to the duties of the canvasser. Some have said that in visiting the people they have found favorable opportunities for presenting the truth for this time, and have almost been forced into giving Bible-readings. These opportunities they could not conscientiously neglect. On the other hand, letters come saying that our canvassers are neglecting their work in order to give Bible-readings upon doctrinal subjects, and that the prejudice aroused by these readings has made it difficult for the canvasser to deliver his books; and some are asking counsel in regard to these matters.?{MC 35.1}[13]
§31
【我们认为这两种说法都是事实】
§32
文字布道士有好机会引导人们更好地明白圣经，而且，因为他们利用这些机会的方式而引起了偏见，使工作受阻。当文字布道士开展自己的工作时，不应让自己分心，而应聪明地全力以赴地切中要点。可是他在忠心地推销书报时，也不应忽视帮助那些正在寻求亮光和需要圣经安慰之人的机会。文字布道士若与上帝同行，若是祈求天上的智慧以便在自己的工作中行善而且只是行善，就会迅速看出所接触之人的需要。他要充分利用机会吸引人归向基督，不要细述教义问题，而要细述上帝的爱，细述祂救恩计划的仁慈和良善。他要本着基督的精神随时准备向疲乏的人说合宜的话。{MC35.2}[14]
§33
We think that there is truth in both the statements,—that canvassers find favorable opportunities for leading the people to a better understanding of the Bible, and that, because of the way in which they meet these opportunities, prejudice is aroused, and the work hindered. When the canvasser enters upon his work, he should not allow himself to be diverted, but should intelligently keep to the point with all diligence. And yet while he is faithful in his canvassing, he should not neglect opportunities to help those?who are seeking for light and who need the consolation of the Scriptures. If the canvasser walks with God, if he prays for heavenly wisdom that he may do good and only good in his labor, he will be quick to discern the needs of those with whom he comes in contact. He will make the most of his opportunities to draw souls to Christ, not dwelling upon doctrinal subjects, but upon the love of God, upon His mercy and goodness in the plan of salvation. In the spirit of Christ he will be ready to speak a word in season to him that is weary.?{MC 35.2}[14]
§34
人心的大需要就是认识上帝和祂所差来的耶稣基督。圣经充满实际的教训，是文字布道士可以安全讲解的。他若是能用这种方法传授实际信仰的知识，就会使人得食，因为他们所需要的就是这种宝贵的食物。{MC36.1}[15]
§35
The great need of the soul is to know God and Jesus Christ, whom He has sent. The Bible abounds in practical lessons, which the canvasser may safely present. If he can by this means impart a knowledge of practical religion, he will be feeding the people, who need just such precious food.?{MC 36.1}[15]
§36
上帝的要求应当总是摆在我们面前。我们决不应该忘记：我们要为本身的行为向上帝交账。文字布道士既负有这种思想，就会为灵魂警醒，就会从没有诡诈的口中祈求智慧好向需要帮助的人说合宜的话。这种工人必不断藉着顺从真理而提高和净化心灵。他们必真实地意识到灵魂的价值，且会充分利用每一个机会使人知道基督恩典的丰盛。文字布道士们要向前去，口中祈祷说：“主啊，祢要我做什么？”他要作工象在上帝眼前和天使面前一样；他要渴望在一切事上蒙上帝嘉许；他的工作也必有果效。{MC36.2}[16]
§37
The claims of God are to be ever before us. We should never forget that we are to give an account for the deeds done in the body. Weighted with this thought, canvassers will watch for souls, and their prayer will go forth from unfeigned lips for wisdom to speak a word in season to those in need of help. Such workers will continually be elevating and purifying the soul through obedience to the truth. They will have a true sense of the value of the soul, and will make the most of every opportunity to make known the riches of the grace of Christ. Let the canvasser go forth with the prayer upon his lips, “Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?”?Let him labor as in the sight of God, and in the presence of heavenly angels; let him desire in all things to be approved by God; and his work will not be fruitless.?{MC 36.2}[16]
§38
我们需要大大减少争论，而多多宣扬基督。我们的救赎主乃是我们一切信仰与希望的中心。那些能传扬祂无比之爱，感动人心，使人把至美至圣的爱情奉献给主的人，乃是在从事伟大圣洁的工作。文字布道士藉着殷勤推销书报，忠心向人介绍髑髅地的十字架，就要加倍其效力。{MC37.1}[17]
§39
We need far less controversy, and far more presentation of Christ. Our Redeemer is the center of all our faith and hope. Those who can present His matchless love, and inspire hearts to give Him their best and holiest affections, are doing work that is great and holy. By diligence in canvassing, by faithfully presenting to the people the cross of Calvary, the canvasser doubles his usefulness.?{MC 37.1}[17]
§40
然而我们在提出这些工作方法之时，却不能定下一成不变的路线给每个人去遵循，因为环境时势将使各种情形有所变动。上帝必感动那些向真理打开心门及渴望指导的人。祂会对作祂代表的人说：“对这人或对那人讲论耶稣的爱吧。”当本着爱和温柔提到耶稣的名字时，上帝的天使就走近来，软化并折服人心。{MC37.2}[18]
§41
But while we present these methods of work, we can not lay out an undeviating line for every one to follow. Circumstances alter cases. God will impress those who are longing for guidance. He will say to His human agent, “Speak to this one or that one of the love of Jesus.” No sooner is the name of Jesus mentioned in love and tenderness than angels of God draw near, to soften and subdue the heart.?{MC 37.2}[18]
§42
传讲教义问题往往没有特别的果效；在因为听的人早已料到讲的人要力传他们的要道；然而若是细述基督无与伦比的爱，祂的恩典就会感动人心。有许多人诚心寻求亮光，他们不知道应当怎样行才能得救。要向他们述说上帝的爱，和祂为拯救将亡的人而在髑髅地的十字架上所作的牺牲！要告诉他们把自己的心意放在上帝的旨意这一边；“人若立志遵着祂的旨意行，就必晓得这教训或是出于上帝”（约7:17）。{MC37.3}[19]
§43
Often doctrinal subjects are presented with no special effect; for men expect others to press upon them their doctrines; but when the matchless love of Christ is dwelt upon, His grace impresses the heart. There are many who are sincerely seeking for light, who know not what they must do to be saved. O, tell them of the love of God, of the sacrifice made on Calvary’s cross to save the perishing! Tell them to place their will on the side of God’s will; and “if any man?will do His will, he shall know of the doctrine, whether it be of God.”?John 7:17.?{MC 37.3}[19]
§44
人若不自己先解决了投诚于上帝的问题，就不能成为一个能成功得人的人。我们个人要披戴主耶稣基督。祂必须成为智慧、公义、圣洁、救赎，才能教导我们中的每一个人。当我们的信心持定基督为我们个人的救主时，我们才会将祂以一种新的亮光摆在他人面前。及至人们仰望基督的本体，他们就不会就教义问题争论，而会逃向祂求赦免、纯洁和永生。{MC38.1}[20]
§45
No one can be a successful soul-winner till he himself has settled the question of surrender to God. We are individually to put on the Lord Jesus Christ. To each one of us He must become wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. When our faith lays hold upon Christ as our personal Saviour, we shall place Him before others in a new light. And when the people behold Christ as He is, they will not wrangle over doctrines; they will flee to Him for pardon, purity, and eternal life.?{MC 38.1}[20]
§46
最可怕的困难是遇到这些爱询问之人的文字布道士自己还没有悔改；他自己还没有凭经验知道基督无法测度的爱。他自己若是还没有这种知识，又怎么能告诉别人那古老的宝贵故事呢？人们需要受教知道真信心的本质，就是接受基督和信靠祂为个人救主的方法。他们需要知道可以怎样跟随祂的脚踪行，无论祂往哪里去。工人的脚要亦步亦趋跟随耶稣的脚踪，没有其它的路可以走向天国。{MC38.2}[21]
§47
The difficulty most to be dreaded is that the canvasser who meets these inquiring souls has not himself been converted; that he does not himself know by experience the love of Christ which passes knowledge. If he himself has not this knowledge, how can he tell others the precious old, old story? The people need to be taught the very essence of true faith, the way to accept Christ and to confide in Him as their personal Saviour. They need to know how they may follow His steps whithersoever He goes. Let the feet of the worker follow step by step the footprints of Jesus, and mark out no other way in which to proceed heavenward.?{MC 38.2}[21]
§48
当藉着这种个人之工把一个人带给基督时，就要把这个内心已经降服、谦卑的人留给上帝去作工；要让上帝督促他做祂看为合适的服务。上帝已应许，祂的恩典足够每一个愿意到祂面前来的人使用。那些投诚于耶稣、敞开心门邀请祂进来的人，必定得蒙安全的保守。祂说：“我就是道路、真理、生命”（约14:6）。他们既拥有耶稣，就拥有了真理。他们必在祂里面得以完全。{MC38.3}[22]
§49
When the soul has been brought to Christ through this personal labor, leave the surrendered, humbled heart for God to work with; let God urge upon him just such service as He sees fit. God has promised that His grace shall be sufficient for every one who will come unto Him.?Those who surrender to Jesus, who open the door of the heart and invite Him in, will be in safe keeping. He says, “I am the Way, the Truth, and the Life.”?John 14:6. Possessing Jesus, they will possess truth. They will be complete in Him.?{MC 38.3}[22]
§50
许多自称基督徒的人已经远离伟大的中心基督，而以自己为中心；但他们若是想要成功地吸引他人归向救主，他们自己必须先回头逃奔祂，并且认识到自己是全然依赖祂恩典的。撒但竭尽所能要切断使人与上帝连在一起的链条；他想把他们的心灵捆绑在他自己的战车上，使他们作奴隶侍奉他；但我们要作工反对他，并要吸引人们归向救赎主。{MC39.1}[23]
§51
Many professed Christians have broken away from Christ, the great center, and they make themselves a center; but if they would be successful in attracting others to the Saviour, they must themselves flee back to Him, and realize their utter dependence upon His grace. Satan has tried to the uttermost to sever the chain that unites men to God; he desires to bind their souls to his own car, and make them slaves in his service; but we are to work against him, and draw men to the Redeemer.?{MC 39.1}[23]
§52
文字布道士应当作忠心的学生，学习怎样使其工作成功；在这样学习之时，他们应当打开眼睛，耳朵，及心窍，接受从上帝而来的智慧，以便知道如何帮助那些因缺乏对基督的认识而将要灭亡的人。每位工人应当集中精力，运用其才能来从事万般服务之中最高尚的工作，把人从撒但的罗网中救出来，使之与上帝相联，并用由耶稣基督而成的信靠之链，与那有应许之虹环绕着的宝座牢牢系住。{MC39.2}[24]
§53
Let canvassers be faithful students, learning how to be most successful. And while they are thus employed, let them keep their eyes and ears and understanding open to receive the wisdom from God, that they may know how to help those who are perishing for lack of a knowledge of Christ. Let every worker concentrate his energies and use his powers for the highest of all service,—to recover men from the snare of Satan and bind them to God, making the chain of dependence through Jesus Christ fast to the throne encircled with the rainbow of promise.?{MC 39.2}[24]
§54
男男女女正在错谬的迷雾中徘徊。他们想知道何为真理。要告诉他们，不是用夸张的语言，而是用上帝儿女单纯简明的语言。{MC39.3}[25]
§55
Men and women are wandering in the mist and fog of error. They want to know what is truth.?Tell them, not in high-flown language, but with the simplicity of the children of God.?{MC 39.3}[25]
§56
撒但正在跟踪你们。他是一个狡猾的对手，你们在工作中遇到的恶毒的精神是他授意的。那些受他控制的人随声附和他的话语。若是帘幕能从眼前揭去，那些如此行事的人就会看到撒但不断用诡计使他们远离真理。在救人脱离他的诡计方面，用基督化谦卑的祈祷比不祈祷而说许多话所成就的，要多得多。{MC40.1}[26]
§57
Satan is on your track. He is an artful opponent, and the malignant spirit which you meet in your work is inspired by him. Those whom he controls echo his words. If the veil could be rent away from their eyes, those thus worked would see Satan plying all his arts to win them from the truth. In rescuing souls from his devices, far more will be accomplished by Christlike, humble prayer than by many words without prayer.?{MC 40.1}[26]
§58
工人应当在祷告中不断提升心灵到上帝面前。他们决不是孤独的。他们若对上帝有信心，若是认识到已蒙托付把圣经问题的亮光传给人们的工作，就会不断享有基督的同在。{MC40.2}[27]
§59
The workers should keep the soul constantly uplifted to God in prayer. They are never alone. If they have faith in God, if they realize that to them is committed the work of giving to the people light on Bible subjects, they constantly enjoy the companionship of Christ.?{MC 40.2}[27]
§60
主耶稣站在文字布道士身边，与他们同行。祂是工人们的首领。如果我们认识到基督与我们同在预备道路，我们旁边的圣灵就会在需要之处感动人心。{MC40.3}[28]
§61
The Lord Jesus standing by the side of the canvassers, walking with them, is the chief worker. If we recognize Christ as the One who is with us to prepare the way, the Holy Spirit by our side will make impressions in just the lines needed.?{MC 40.3}[28]
§62
【一种宝贵的经验】
§63
凡按着所应该做的参加文字布道工作的人，必须同时作教师和学生。当他设法教导别人之时，自己也必须学习做福音布道士的工作。文字布道士若果存着谦卑的心，充满热切作工的精神出发，就必发现许多机会，可向灰心垂死的人说及时的话。他们在为这些困苦的人出力之后，就可以说：“从前你们是暗昧的，但如今在主里面是光明的”（弗5:8）。当他们见到别人犯罪的行为时，他们可以说：“你们中间也有人从前是这样；但如今你们奉主耶稣基督的名，并藉着我们上帝的灵，已经洗净、成圣、称义了”（林前6:11）。[29]
§64
【A Precious Experience】
§65
He who takes up the work of canvassing as he should, must be both an educator and a student. While he tries to teach others, he himself must learn to do the work of an evangelist. As canvassers go forth into the field with humble hearts, full of earnest?activity, they will find many opportunities to speak a word in season to souls ready to die in discouragement. After laboring for these needy ones, they will be able to say, “Ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord.”?Ephesians 5:8. As they see the sinful course of others, they can say, “Such were some of you; but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.”?1 Corinthians 6:11.?{MC 40.4}[29]
§66
那些为上帝作工的人，不免会遇到灰心失意的事，但主的应许始终都是他们的：“我就常与你们同在，直到世界的末了”（太28:20）。上帝要使那些能说“我信靠祢的应许，我必不灰心也不丧胆”的人，获得一种最奇妙的经验。{MC41.1}[30]
§67
Those who work for God will meet with discouragement; but the promise is always theirs, “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”?Matthew 28:20. God will give a most wonderful experience to those who will say, “I believe Thy promise; I will not fail nor become discouraged.”?{MC 41.1}[30]
§68
那些为主作工而得到此类经验的人，应当写下一篇报告，在我们的报刊上发表，使别人也可得到鼓励。文字布道士应当把自己在福音传道的工作上所得到的快乐和福气告诉别人。我们的报刊上应留出篇幅刊登这些报告，因为它们的影响是很深远的，必将在教会中成为馨香之气，一种使人活的香气。这样，就可显明上帝是与那些和祂合作之人同工的。“把剩下的零碎收拾起来，免得有糟蹋的”（约6:12）。{MC41.2}[31]
§69
【Reporting】
§70
Let those who gain such an experience in working for the Lord write an account of it for our papers, that others may be encouraged. Let the canvasser tell of the joy and blessing he has received in his ministry as an evangelist. These reports should find a place in our papers; for they are far-reaching in their influence. They will be as sweet fragrance in the church, a savor of life unto life. Thus it is seen that God works with those who cooperate with Him. “Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.”?{MC 41.2}[31]
§71
【文字布道是传道事工的准备工作】
§72
文字布道的工作比其他一些部门的工作困难更多；但由此所学得的教训，所受到的训练及机智，将使你们配在别的许多方面作有用的人，服务生灵。凡学不好这种教训并在待人方面粗鲁冒失的人，若参加了传道工作，在与人交接时，也必在礼貌上、机智上和技巧上显出同样的缺点。{MC41.3}[32]
§73
【Canvassing a Preparation for the Ministry】
§74
There are more difficulties in this work than in?some other branches of business; but the lessons learned, the tact and discipline acquired, will fit you for other fields of usefulness, where you can minister to souls. Those who poorly learn their lesson, and are careless and abrupt in approaching persons, would show the same want of tact and skill in dealing with minds, should they enter the ministry.?{MC 41.3}[32]
§75
有些蒙上帝呼召要做传道工作的人已参加了文字布道的工作。我蒙指示，如果他们的目标是要散布真光，将圣经真理直接带到人的家中，这便是最好的预备。在谈话之中，他们往往有机会可以讲论圣经的宗教。这种工作如果行之得当，就可以拜望许多的家庭，工人们也要表现出基督徒的仁慈爱人之心，结果必成就许多善事了。这对于任何一个有志传道的人都是一种最好的经验。{MC42.1}[33]
§76
Some men whom God was calling to the work of the ministry have entered the field as canvassers. I have been instructed that this is an excellent preparation, if their object is to disseminate light, to bring the truth revealed in God’s word directly to the home circle. In conversation the way will frequently be opened to speak of the religion of the Bible. If the work is taken hold of as it should be, families will be visited, the workers will manifest Christian tenderness and love for souls, and great good will be the result. This would be an excellent experience for those who have the ministry in view.?{MC 42.1}[33]
§77
把我们的书刊送进家家户户，与他们谈话，与他们一起祷告和为他们祷告的传道工作，是一种会培养人从事教牧的工作。{MC42.2}[34]
§78
Missionary work—introducing our publications into families, conversing and praying with and for them—is a work that will educate men and women to do pastoral labor.?{MC 42.2}[34]
§79
比起花费多年的光阴在学校中学习，年轻人可以在文字布道工作中为从事传道工作得着更好的预备。在那些为传道工作装备自己的人所从事的职业中，什么也不如文字布道工作会使他们得着那么大的经验。然而许多人被吸引进入文字布道工作，却推销不表明我们的信仰、也不使顾客得到亮光的书刊和图书。他们之所以这样做，是因为经济前景会比领有传道证书的人更加诱人。这种人不是在获得传福音工作的特殊训练，也不是在得着使他们配做此项工作的经验。他们不是在学习负起救灵的重任，也没有天天研究最有效的救人归向真理的方法。他们是徒耗光阴与机会而已。{MC43.1}[35]
§80
In evangelistic canvassing, young men may become better prepared for ministerial labor than by spending many years in school. Those who are fitting for the ministry can engage in no other occupation that will give them so large an experience as will the canvassing work.?But many are attracted into the canvassing work to sell books and pictures that do not express our faith, and do not give light to the purchaser. They are induced to do this because the financial prospects are more flattering than those that can be offered them as licentiates. These persons are obtaining no special fitness for the gospel ministry. They are not gaining that experience which would fit them for the work. They are not learning to bear the burden of souls and daily obtaining a knowledge of the most successful way of winning people to the truth. They are losing time and opportunities.?{MC 42.3}[35]
§81
这些人往往远离圣灵的感动，却接受属世品格的印记，忘了自己欠那为他们舍命之主多少债。他们用自己的能力谋取自私的利益，拒绝在主的葡萄园内作工。{MC43.2}[36]
§82
These men are frequently turned aside from the convictions of the Spirit of God, and receive a worldly stamp of character, forgetting how much they owe to the Lord, who gave His life for them. They use their powers for their own selfish interests, and refuse to labor in the vineyard of the Lord.?{MC 43.1}[36]