给巴特尔克里克教会的证言
1.我们的学院
(1881年12月在学院大厅里在教会代表，《评论与通讯》、疗养院和大学负责人的面前宣读)
我们的大学，有偏离原来方针的危险。上帝的旨意是明确的，就是要我们的人能有机会学习各门学科，同时学习圣道的要求。要传授圣经课;我们的教育系统，应把研究圣经列在首要位置。{PH117 3.1}
学生们从极远的地方，被送到巴特尔克里克大学，目的是为了接受圣经课的教导。但在过去的一两年中，有人试图要我们的学校效法其它的学校。如果这样，我们就不能鼓励家长把孩子送往巴特尔克里克大学了。不可把道德和宗教的影响，置于次要地位。过去上帝曾与教师们合力同工，使许多人认识并接受了真理，他们回家以后，就为上帝而生活了，作为他们入学的成果。当他们看见研究圣经乃是他们教育的一部分时，他们就会受引导以之为一门更为重要、更值得注意的功课了。{PH117 3.2}
我们太少注意对青年进行传道教育了。这是当初建校的首要目的，决不可忽视或视之为一个次要问题。然而，数年来，从那个学校出来的学生，只有少数人准备好将真理教导给别人。一些人耗费巨款，抱着传道的宗旨而来，但教师们却鼓励他们学习一套需要花几年时间学习的课程。为了获得学费来实现这些计划，他们参加了推销书报的工作，放弃了一切传道的思想，这是完全错误的。我们工作的年日不多了。教师和校长，应当被上帝的灵充满，按上帝所显示的旨意工作，而不是实现他们自己的计划。我们因为没有听从上帝有关这些问题的指示，每年都蒙受了许多损失。{PH117 3.3}
上帝希望我们的大学，能够满足在这危险败坏的世代越来越大的需要。单单书本上的学习，不能使学生受到他们所需要的训练。必须打下更广大的根基。学校不应具有任何人意的迹象。教师和校长应当像弟兄那样同工。他们要彼此商量，也要与传道人及教会负责人交通。此外，更要寻求从上头来的智慧，使他们所决定有关学校工作的一切事，都能得蒙上帝的首肯。{PH117 4.1}
大学的目的并不只是给学生一种书本上的知识。这种教育在国内的任何一所大学都可以获得。我蒙指示，撒但的目的是要阻止我们建立大学所要达到的目标。既受撒但的计谋所阻，大学的管理者们就考虑模仿世界的方式，效法世界的计划和习惯。但是在这么做的时候，他们就不会符合上帝圣灵的心意了。{PH117 4.2}
需要实行一种更全面的教育。教师和校长在贯彻这种教育方针时，要比讲授一般科学知识，耗费更多的思想和精力。学生的品格，应受到适当的训练，使它能得到最完备最崇高的发展。学生在大学里所受的训练，应使他们能在社会上保持可敬、正直和贞洁的美德，对抗那些正在败坏青年的邪恶影响。{PH117 4.3}
如果我们的大学能设置农场和作坊，在称职的人负责之下，指导各系学生从事各种体力劳动，那就好了。由于忽视了智育和体育的结合，我们已蒙受很大的损失。学生们空闲的时间，往往用在轻浮的娱乐上，削弱了体力、智力和道德力。由于放纵情欲的不良影响，由于过早谈恋爱和婚姻的兴奋，许多学生的智力，因此未能发展到应有的程度。{PH117 5.1}
应使青年每日感到他们对上帝的义务。人们不断违犯祂的律法，连信主父母的儿女也是如此。在这些青年人中，有的常去消遣的场所，结果他们的智力和体力都受了损害。他们还引诱别人随从他们罪恶的道路。当校长和教师们在教授各门学科时，撒但就这样用阴险狡诈的手段竭力控制学生的思想，把他们引向毁灭。{PH117 5.2}
一般说来，青年人的道德力量是很薄弱的。这是童年时代疏忽教育的后果。认识上帝的品格和我们对祂的义务，不要等闲视之。圣经的宗教是青年人唯一的保障。道德和宗教应该在我们的教育机构中受到特别的关注。{PH117 5.3}
圣经作为教科书
没有什么其它学科能像研究圣经那样，提高人的每一思想、感情和愿望。圣书是上帝向人所显示的旨意。我们可以由此获悉，上帝对那照着自己形像所造的人有什么期望。在这里我们还可学得如何善用今生，如何获得来生。没有其它的著作能解决心中的疑问和满足内心的渴望。藉着获得有关上帝圣言的知识，并照着这知识去行，人便能从无知和败坏的最深之处兴起，成为上帝的儿女，无罪天使的同伴。{PH117 6.1}
清楚地认识上帝以及祂对我们的要求，会使我们对自我有谦卑的看法。正确研究圣道的人，必获悉人的才智并非万能，也必明白若缺少那惟有上帝才能赐予的帮助，人的力量与智慧只不过是软弱与无知而已。{PH117 6.2}
就教育的功能而言，圣经是无可匹敌的。没有什么比要求学生们去领会所启示的伟大真理那样，会赋予一切才智以活力。人的心思会逐渐适应它所默想的题目。如果所思念的只是一些平凡的事物，人的心智就必变得弱小衰薄;如果从不要它尽力克服难题，也从不要它竭力领会重要真理，过不久它就要几乎丧失长进的机能了。{PH117 6.3}
圣经是人间最全面最具教育意义的史书。它是直接从永恒真理的泉源中流出来的。上帝的圣手曾在各世代中保守它的纯洁。它能照亮那单靠人的研究所无法追溯的远古。唯独在上帝的话里，我们才发现了关于创造的可信记述。在这里我们看到那立定大地根基，铺张诸天的能力。惟有圣经所记载的人类历史，才没有沾染人的偏见或骄傲。{PH117 6.4}
在上帝的话中，人心可以找到许多主题来训练高深的思想，启发最高尚的希望。我们可在此与诸先祖众先知交往，并聆听那位永存者的声音在与人交谈。我们在此看到天上的大君竟自己卑微，成为我们的替身和中保，独自与黑暗的权势对抗，并为我们赢得胜利。在这种主题上虔诚的沉思默想，必使人心软化、净化、而成为高尚的，同时，必以新的力量与活力激发人的心智。{PH117 7.1}
一所学校若要充满道德和宗教的气氛，就必须认识上帝的话。一些人主张，若把宗教教导列在首要地位，我们的学校就会不受欢迎;那些与我们有不同信仰的人，就不会到我们的大学中来。好极了!那就让他们到别的大学去吧，在那里他们会找到合乎他们口味的教育制度。我们学校的创办，并不只是为了教授各门学科，而是要传授上帝之道的伟大原则，和每日生活的实际义务。{PH117 7.2}
这种教育是现代最需要的。如果属世的影响要左右我们的学校，那就干脆把它卖给世俗之徒，让他们去完全接管，而原先投资建立该校的人，要另创办一所学校，不照一般学校的方法，也不照教师校长的心愿，而是执行上帝所指定的方针。{PH117 7.3}
我奉我主的名，奉劝所有在学校中任职者，务要作属上帝的人。主既要我们分别为圣成为独特的民，我们岂能贪求众望，或企图效法世界的风俗和习惯呢?上帝已显示祂的旨意，要在此地创办一所大学，使《圣经》在青年教育中占应有地位，我们岂不应当尽我们的本分，努力实行上帝的旨意吗?{PH117 7.4}
圣经的教训对于许多学生的心思意念似乎没有什么影响。但教师如果靠着上帝进行工作，一些神圣真理的教训就会留在最不在意之人的记忆中。圣灵将会浇灌所播下的种子;种子往往会在多日之后生长出来，结出果实归荣耀给上帝。{PH117 8.1}
撒但在不断设法使人们的注意力转离圣经。上帝对人说的话，应该最先受到我们的关注，却因出于人的智慧的言论被忽视了。祂在能力和智慧上既是无穷的，怎能如此忍受人们的自以为是和狂妄无耻呢!{PH117 8.2}
通过印刷品，人人都可以得到各种知识;但是道德败坏，智力衰退的事，是何等司空见惯呀!如果人们都能阅读并学习圣经，我们就会看见一种完全不同的事态。{PH117 8.3}
当今的世代罪恶越发显多，上帝的品格和祂的律法受到藐视，所以尤其需要教导青年学习尊敬并顺从上帝向人所显示的旨意。由于我们的青年疏忽研究圣经，敬畏上帝的心也就渐退渐消了。{PH117 8.4}
校长和教师们应当与上帝保持活泼的联络，并且要站稳，坚定无畏地为祂作见证，决不能因胆怯或世俗的方针而将上帝的话置于次要地位。这样，学生就能通过学习而在道德、灵性和才智上同得裨益。{PH117 8.5}
学院的目标
我们的大学现今站在上帝并不赞同的立场上。我蒙指示，见到威胁着这个重要机构的种种危险。如果这所大学的负责人们追求达到世界的标准，如果他们效法其它大学的计划和方法，上帝的不悦就要临到我们的学校了。{PH117 9.1}
我以坚决的态度说话的时候已经到了。上帝建立我们大学的目的已经说得很明白了。在福音园地中急需工人。计划参加传道服务的年轻人，不可在获得一项教育上花许多年的时间。教师们本应该能够理解这种情况，并且调整他们的课程好满足这班人的需要。本应该给他们特殊的便利，简要而且全面地学习最需要的各部功课，使他们适于作工。但我蒙指示，这种教育并未完成。{PH117 9.2}
贝尔弟兄原能为那些要成为传道人的人做更好的工作。在这事上，上帝并不喜悦他的做法。他没有使自己适应形势。那些已经离开自己的工作园地的人们，作了相当的牺牲，要在短时间内学会他们所能学的，但他们没有一直得到他们本应得到的帮助和鼓励。他们是已经成年甚至中年的人，有了家室，却遭受了不必要的困窘。贝尔弟兄自己虽是极端敏感的，但他却没有认识到，别人也能像他一样敏锐地感觉嘲笑、挖苦、责难的刺痛。他既这样做，就伤害了弟兄们并且使上帝不悦。贝尔弟兄生性严厉、苛求、爱挑剔，他无论与年长的还是与年幼的学生在一起，都应该时常提防这些问题。{PH117 9.3}
贝尔弟兄过去过分强调了语法的学习，使语法成了最重要的学习内容，却没有给学生们适当的鼓励和机会去学习其它同等重要的学业。为此他受了责备;然而，尽管他努力纠正了这一错误，他的效用还是大大受损了。虽然彻底性是值得赞扬的，但他把事情做得太极端了，因而引起了不满。{PH117 9.4}
在文字布道工作中也犯了同样的错误。花时间和金钱去完善和教导一个如此精确而复杂的体系已使上帝的事业受损。文字布道工作是一项善工，需要有正确的工作方式摆在人们面前，一直在这一个工作方面付出了时间、研究和辛苦努力，却忽视了其它同等重要的工作方面。这些问题已经走了极端。有太多呆板的工作，太少有至关重要的敬虔;太多倚靠人的智慧，太少认真寻求上帝的帮助了。{PH117 10.1}
在巴特尔克里克的安息日学就像一台操控得很好的机器，那惟独能使学校成功的真心的工夫却太少了。更多上帝的同在，更少仅仅是人的努力，才会大有改善。投入到这种机械呆板的工作方式中的思想和光阴若是用在师生属灵的兴趣上，就会产生更好的效果。更多的献身、虔诚和敬虔的简朴是必要的。大学里也需要同样的改变——更少自我，更多上帝的灵。{PH117 10.2}
拉姆齐弟兄以为自己看到了贝尔弟兄的失败之处，但他自己却犯了更严重的错误。他并没有负贝尔弟兄所负的重担。他没有像贝尔弟兄那样操劳。他没有警醒祷告。他是傲慢专横、独裁专制、妄自尊大的。惟有上帝的恩典才能使他对自己有正确的看法，使他能本着谦卑作工。他做出了一些改善，然而基督的灵若不常住在他里面，他就会犯严重的错误。他的自负会使学生反感。在一个年轻人身上，这种精神是极不相称的，非常令上帝不悦。基督邀请妄自尊大的人学祂心里柔和谦卑的样式。{PH117 10.3}
学院中的教师
有一番工作，是我们大学中的每个教师所必须做的。没有一个人脱离了自私。如果教师的道德和信仰品质，已达到了其应有的程度，就会对青年产生更好的影响。教师们没有个别地单单寻求上帝的荣耀，来作成自己的工。他们没有指望耶稣，效法祂的生活和品格，却关注自己，只求迎合人的标准。我希望我能使每一位教师都充分认识到自己对青年发挥的影响负有责任。撒但正在不息不倦地设法获得青年的事奉。他正小心翼翼地为他们无经验的脚布置陷阱。上帝的子民务要警惕防备他的阴谋。{PH117 11.1}
上帝是慈悲怜悯和仁爱的化身。凡真实与祂联络的人，决不会彼此不和。祂的灵一旦管理了人的心，就会产生和谐、仁爱与合一。在撒但之子中看到的情况与此相反。撒但的工作，乃是激起忌恨、纷争和嫉妒。我奉我主的名，要问一切自称跟随基督的人，你们结出了什么果子呢?{PH117 11.2}
在一般学校的教育体系中，忽略了教育的最重要部分，就是圣经的信仰。教育不仅在很大程度上影响学生的今生，而且还要延至来生。因而，教师们成为能发挥一种正确影响的人，是何等的重要。他们应是有宗教经验的人，每日接受上帝的光照，并分给他们的学生。{PH117 11.3}
但是不该指望教师去做父母的工作。许多父母严重地疏忽了自己的责任。他们像以利一样，没能实行适当的限制;于是他们就把不受约束的儿女送进大学，去接受那本应由父母在家中给予的训练。教师的辛劳很少受人欣赏。即使他们成功地改造了这些任性的青年，也只能得到很少的荣誉。但如果青年选择了邪恶的友伴，越变越坏，教师就会受到非难，学校就会受到指责了。{PH117 12.1}
其实在许多情况下，这些责难应归到父母身上。他们曾有优先管教和训练他们孩子的机会。那时孩子的心灵易于受教，心思意念易受感动。但父母因懒惰而听任孩子遂行自己的意愿，直到他们在邪恶的行径上变得刚硬了。{PH117 12.2}
父母应少向世界学习，而多向基督学习;少效法世界的风俗和时尚，多花时间和精力，按着那神圣的榜样塑造孩子的心智和品格。这样，他们就能把道德纯洁，志向高尚的儿女，送出去接受教育，作有用而可靠的人。敬爱上帝的教师，必能引导这样的青年继续向前向上，造福世界，尊荣他们的创造主。{PH117 12.3}
每一位教师既与上帝相联络，就能发挥影响，引导学生研究上帝的话，并顺从上帝的律法。祂必指引他们的心，去思考永久的利益。在他们面前展开广阔的思想领域，和庄严崇高的题目，即使是最聪明的人尽力研究，仍然会觉得还有无限远。{PH117 12.4}
唯我独尊和刚愎自用的缺点，源于自私之心，若不予以克服，就会大大损害我们的效能，造成我们的毁灭。上帝的使者一再向我重申：“你们要共同商量。”撒但藉着影响一个人的判断，可以尽力控制事态适合他自己，他也可以在误导两个人的意念方面获得成功，但几个人共同商量，就稳妥得多了。每一个计划都应更为仔细地评判;每前进一步都应更为细心地研究，就少有草率行事的危险，贸然不智的行动会带来混乱、困惑和失败。团结就是力量，分裂会导致软弱和失败。{PH117 13.1}
上帝正在引出一班人，预备他们变化升天。我们从事这项工作的人是在作上帝的哨兵吗?我们在设法联合作工吗?我们甘心乐意成为众人的仆人吗?我们在效法伟大的榜样耶稣吗?{PH117 13.2}
同工们，我们每个人都在生命的园地里播种。我们撒的是什么，收的也是什么。我们若播撒不信、忌恨、嫉妒、自爱、苦毒的思想和情感，就必在我们自己的心里收割苦毒;我们若向别人显示亲切、仁爱、温柔的思想，也必收到同样的回报。{PH117 13.3}
一个严厉、爱挑剔、专横，不留心他人感受的教师，会遭到同样精神的回报。凡希望维护自己的尊严和自尊的人应当小心，不要不必要地伤害别人的自尊心。即使是对最迟钝、最年幼、最易犯错的学生，也当庄严地遵守这个准则。上帝要怎样使用那些显然令人厌倦的青年，你们并不知道。在过去，祂曾经接纳过一些看起来没有希望或没有吸引力的人，为祂成就了大工。祂的灵运行在人心上，就能振奋人的一切机能，使之朝气蓬勃。主在这些粗糙未经琢磨的石头中，看见了经得起暴雨、酷热和高压考验的宝贵材料。上帝看人并不像人看人，祂不是按外貌判断，而是鉴察人的内心，进行公正的判断。{PH117 13.4}
教师应该永远表现出基督徒绅士的风度。他应当总是以一个朋友和顾问的姿态，站在他的学生中。如果我们所有的人——教师、传道人和平信徒——都培养了基督化礼貌的精神，他们就更易于感动人心;更多的人，就会因而查考并接受真理了。每位教师若忘掉自我，深切关心学生的成功和兴盛，认识到这些学生是上帝的产业，而自己要为对他们的心智和品格造成的影响交账，那么我们的学校就会成为天使喜爱停留的地方。耶稣必赞许地观看教师们的工作，并把祂的恩惠送到学生心中。{PH117 14.1}
我们在巴特尔克里克的大学，乃是主家中年轻的成员按照上帝的成长和发展计划受训的地方。他们要铭记自己是照着创造主的形像而造的，基督是他们应当效法的楷模。我们的弟兄允许自己的思想太过狭窄低下了。他们没有始终把神圣的计划保持在自己眼前，而是将眼目专注在属世的模范上。要向上仰望，在那里有基督坐在上帝的右边，然后再辛勤工作，好使你们的学生可以效法那完全的品格。{PH117 14.2}
如果你降低标准，为要获得声望和增加人数，然后以这种人数的增加为喜乐的缘由，你就表现出了极大的盲目。如果人数能证明成功，撒但就可以认领优胜地位了;因为在这个世界上，大多数都是他的追随者。要试验学校的成功与否，需看那弥漫学校中的道德风气到何程度。那构成我们教会的教友们的美德、才智和虔诚，而不是教友人数，才应成为喜乐和感恩之源。{PH117 14.3}
离开神圣恩典的影响，教育就不能取得真正的成就;学习者就会变得骄傲、自负和偏执。但那在大教师提拔人、炼净人的影响下所接受的教育，却能在道德价值上把人提高到上帝的水准，使人能克服骄傲和情欲，谦卑地行在上帝面前，因为一切才能、机会和特权都依赖于上帝。{PH117 15.1}
我要对我们大学中的同工说：你们不可单单自称是基督徒，而要示范基督的品格。要让从上头来的智慧贯穿在你的一切教导之中。在这个道德黑暗和腐败的世界，你应当显示出指导你行动的精神是从上头来的，而不是从下面来的。你若全靠自己的智慧和力量，你最好的努力也必没有什么成效。你若受上帝之爱的激励，以祂的律法为基础，你的工作就会持久。当草木禾秸全被烧尽时，你的工作却要经得起考验。你所看顾的学生，必要在白色的大宝座周围与你相会。你若放任自己没教养的态度或没约束的脾气，因而不能影响这些青年获得永远的利益，到那日，你就必须面对你工作的严重后果。藉着认识上帝的律法，并且顺从律法的训词，人就可以成为上帝的儿子。但人若违背这律法，就要成为撒但的奴仆。一方面人们可以升到道德优秀的高峰，另一方面也可以堕落到罪恶和败坏的深坑。在本会大学中的同工，应该表现出一种热忱和认真的精神，与所要获得的奖赏相称——这将赏就是他们学生的得救、上帝的赞许、永久的生命和赎民的快乐。{PH117 15.2}
我们的教师，作为基督的同工，有分授上帝知识的有利机会。他们的工作，应像是受到从上头来的默示。青年人的心，不是很刚硬的。他们也不像成年人那样偏执已见。借着你圣洁的举止，你的虔诚献身和基督化的行为，就能赢得他们归向基督。让他们少花些时间研究各门科学，而有较多的时间享受宗教特权，就会好得多了。人们正是在这方面犯了严重的错误。{PH117 16.1}
人们忘记了上帝建立大学的目的。福音的传道人们迄今为止已经表明远远缺少从来头来的智慧，竟使本会大学与属世分子联合了;在给学生们提供娱乐活动的事上，他们已经跟那些与上帝和真理为敌的人联合了。在这种误导青年的事上，他们已经为撒但做成了一项工作。那项工作及其全部结果，都必在上帝的审判台前与他们再次相遇。那些追求这种行径的人，表明他们是不可信任的。在做了这种恶事之后，他们可以承认错误;但他们岂能轻易地收回他们已经发挥的影响吗?对那些已经辜负圣托的人，主会对他们说“做得好”吗?这些不忠心的人并没有在那万古磐石上建造。他们的根基原来是流沙。“岂不知与世俗为友就是与上帝为敌吗?所以凡想要与世俗为友的，就是与上帝为敌了”(雅4:4){PH117 16.2}
我们的影响是无法界定的。一个欠考虑的举动，能造成许多人的毁灭。我们大学中每个同工的举动，都会在青年们的心中留下印象，并进而在其他人的心中繁衍。教师的宗旨，应是预备每一个他所看顾的青年成为世界的福惠。他们决不可忘记这个宗旨。一些自称在为基督作工的人，却时不时地过到撒但那边，做撒但的工作，救主能称他们为又忠心、又良善的仆人吗?他们作为守望者，是在发出明确的号音吗? {PH117 16.3}
在审判的时候，每一个人都要按照本身所作或善或恶的行为接受报应。我们的救主吩咐我们：“总要儆醒祷告，免得入了迷惑”(太14:38)。我们若遇见困难，就要靠基督的能力胜过之;我们若遇见仇敌，就要靠基督的能力使之逃遁;我们若承担职责，就要靠基督的能力忠心地履行之;如此，我们就能得宝贵的经验，认识基督在每次需要的时候都是我们随时的帮助，这是我们通过其它途径所学不到的。{PH117 17.1}
在我们的大学中，有一项伟大的工作要做，这工作要求每一位教师通力合作;彼此泄气是上帝不喜悦的。但几乎所有的人，似乎都忘了撒但是控告弟兄的，他们正在仇敌的工作上与他联合。当自命为基督徒的人彼此相争的时候，撒但正把网罗，放在儿童和青少年毫无经验的脚前。凡有宗教经验的人，应当设法保护青年避开撒但的诡计。他们永不可忘记，他们自己也曾迷恋于罪中之乐。我们每时每刻，都需要上帝的怜悯和容忍，我们反而不能忍受毫无经验之青年的过失，这是多么不相宜啊!上帝已长久容忍他们，我们这些同样在罪中的人，岂敢丢弃他们呢? {PH117 17.2}
我们应自始至终，视青少年为基督的宝血所买来的产业。他们同样需要我们的爱心、忍耐和同情。我们若要跟从耶稣，就不可把我们的关爱限于自己和自己的家庭;我们不可花时间注意世俗的事，而忘记我们周围之人永远的利益。我蒙指示：我们自私的结果，就是现在只有一个人在认真从事拯救自己同胞的工作的地方，没有出现一百个青年人。“我怎样爱你们，你们也要彼此相爱”(约15:12)，这是耶稣的命令。我们应当着眼于祂的舍已;看祂赐给我们是何等的慈爱;然后要努力效法祂的榜样。{PH117 17.3}
在我们大学作教师的青年男女中，有许多事都是上帝不喜悦的。你们太专注于自己，太缺乏灵性了，以致你们不能把青少年带向圣洁和天国。因为你们缺乏对上帝和基督的爱，导致许多学生回家后，更加坚决地不肯悔改了。你们行事为人既没有耶稣的精神，就自己放纵并助长不信、轻浮、冷漠等恶性。你们并没有认识到这种行为的结果——使原本可以得救的人因而沦丧了。{PH117 18.1}
许多人对贝尔弟兄意见很大，控告他冷漠、苛刻、严厉。但是那些指责他的人，自己却和他犯一样的罪。你们中间谁是没有罪的，谁就可以先拿石头打他(约8:7)。贝尔弟兄行事不一定很聪明的，也难于说服他相信没有采取最好的方针。他不乐于接受忠告，也不乐于照他应该做的，修正他的教学方法和与学生们打交道的态度。但是那些想要因为他的缺点而控告他的人，他们自己也该被定罪。每一个人都有其特殊的品格缺陷。一个人可能没有他从弟兄身上看到的弱点，可是他同时可能有在上帝看来远为严重的缺点。{PH117 18.2}
这种彼此无情批评的精神是完全属撒但的。我蒙指示，贝尔弟兄因他所行的善是值得尊敬的。要温柔体贴地对待他。他已经做了三个人该分担的工作。让那些那么急于找他的错的人，列举一下，与他相比他们已经做了什么吧。当别人正追求休息和快乐时，他却在苦干。他是鞠躬尽瘁的;上帝本愿意他暂时放下这些额外负担中的一些担子。他有那么多的事情分占他的时间和注意，以致他不能公平对待任何事情。{PH117 19.1}
贝尔弟兄不该容许他好斗的精神被激起来，导致自我辩白。他已经给人机会产生不满。主已经在证言中把这事呈现在他面前了。{PH117 19.2}
不该鼓励学生们挑剔找错。这种抱怨的精神一受到鼓励便会增长，学生们就会觉得有自由去批评那些不合他们意的教师，一种不满和纷争的精神就会迅速滋长。必须对此表示不悦，直到它灭绝为止。这种恶行要得到纠正吗?教师们愿意放弃他们争大的愿望吗?他们愿意本着谦卑，本着爱，和谐同工吗?时间会证明一切。{PH117 19.3}
PH117 - Testimony for the Battle Creek Church
《Special Testimony》
【Our College】
[Read in College Hall, December, 1881, before conference delegates and leading workers in Review and Herald office, sanitarium and college.]
There is danger that our College will be turned away from its original design. God’s purpose has been made known, that our people should have an opportunity to study the sciences, and at the same time to learn the requirements of his word. Biblical lectures should be given; the study of the Scriptures should have the first place in our system of education.?{PH117 3.1}[1]
Students are sent from a great distance to attend the College at Battle Creek for the very purpose of receiving instructions from the lectures on Bible subjects. But for one or two years past there has been an effort to mold our school after other colleges. When this is done, we can give no encouragement to parents to send their children to Battle Creek College. The moral and religious influences should not be put in the background. In times past, God has worked with the efforts of the teachers, and many souls have seen the truth and embraced it, and have gone to their homes to live henceforth for God, as the result of their connection with the College. As they saw that Bible study was made a part of their education, they were led to regard it as a matter of greater interest and importance.?{PH117 3.2}[2]
Too little attention has been given to the education of young men for the ministry. This was the primary object to be secured in the establishment of?the College. In no case should this be ignored or regarded as a matter of secondary importance. For several years, however, but few have gone forth from that institution prepared to teach the truth to others. Some who came at great expense, with the ministry in view, have been encouraged by the teachers to take a thorough course of study which would occupy a number of years, and in order to obtain means to carry out these plans, have entered the canvassing field, and given up all thought of preaching. This is entirely wrong. We have not many years to work, and teachers and principal should be imbued with the Spirit of God, and work in harmony with his revealed will, instead of carrying out their own plans. We are losing much every year because we do not heed what God has said upon these points.?{PH117 3.3}[3]
Our College is designed of God to meet the advancing wants for this time of peril and demoralization. The study of books only, cannot give students the discipline they need. A broader foundation must be laid. The College was not brought into existence to bear the stamp of any one man’s mind. Teachers and principal should work together as brethren. They should consult together, and also counsel with ministers and responsible men, and above all else, seek wisdom from above, that all their decisions in reference to the school may be such as will be approved of God.?{PH117 4.1}[4]
To give students a knowledge of books merely, is not the purpose of the institution. Such education can be obtained at any college in the land. I was shown that it is Satan’s purpose to prevent the attainment of the very object for which the College was established. Hindered by his devices, its managers reason after the manner of the world, and copy its plans, and imitate its customs. But in thus doing, they will not meet the mind of the Spirit of God.?{PH117 4.2}[5]
A more comprehensive education is needed,—an education which will demand from teachers and principal,?such thought and effort as mere instruction in the sciences does not require. The character must receive proper discipline for its fullest and noblest development. The students should receive at College, such training as will enable them to maintain a respectable, honest, virtuous standing in society, against the demoralizing influences which are corrupting the youth.?{PH117 4.3}[6]
It would be well could there be connected with our College, land for cultivation, and also work-shops, under the charge of men competent to instruct the students in the various departments of physical labor. Much is lost by a neglect to unite physical with mental taxation. The leisure hours of the students are often occupied with frivolous pleasures, which weaken physical, mental, and moral powers. Under the debasing power of sensual indulgence, or the untimely excitement of courtship and marriage, many students fail to reach that height of mental development which they might otherwise have attained.?{PH117 5.1}[7]
The young should every day be impressed with a sense of their obligation to God. His law is continually violated, even by the children of religious parents. Some of these very youth frequent haunts of dissipation, and the powers of mind and body suffer in consequence. This class lead others to follow their pernicious ways. Thus, while principal and teachers are giving instruction in the sciences, Satan, with hellish cunning, is exerting every energy to gain control of the minds of the pupils, and lead them down to ruin.?{PH117 5.2}[8]
Generally speaking, the youth have but little moral strength. This is the result of neglected education in childhood. A knowledge of the character of God, and our obligations to him, should not be regarded as a matter of minor consequence. The religion of the Bible is the only safeguard for the young. Morality and religion should receive special attention in our educational institutions.?{PH117 5.3}[9]
【The Bible as a Text Book】
No other study will so ennoble every thought, feeling, and aspiration, as the study of the Scriptures. This sacred word is the will of God revealed to men. Here we may learn what God expects of the beings formed in his image. Here we learn how to improve the present life, and how to secure the future life. No other book can satisfy the questionings of the mind, and the craving of the heart. By obtaining a knowledge of God’s word, and giving heed thereto, men may rise from the lowest depths of ignorance and degradation, to become the sons of God, the associates of sinless angels.?{PH117 6.1}[10]
A clear conception of what God is, and what he requires us to be, will give us humble views of self. He who studies aright the sacred word, will learn that human intellect is not omnipotent; that, without the help which none but God can give, human strength and wisdom are but weakness and ignorance.?{PH117 6.2}[11]
As an educating power, the Bible is without a rival. Nothing will so impart vigor to all the faculties as requiring students to grasp the stupendous truths of revelation. The mind gradually adapts itself to the subjects upon which it is allowed to dwell. If occupied with common-place matters only, to the exclusion of grand and lofty themes, it will become dwarfed and enfeebled. If never required to grapple with difficult problems, or put to the stretch to comprehend important truths, it will, after a time, almost lose the power of growth.?{PH117 6.3}[12]
The Bible is the most comprehensive and the most instructive history which men possess. It came fresh from the fountain of eternal truth, and a Divine hand has preserved its purity through all the ages. Its bright rays shine into the far distant, past, where human research seeks vainly to penetrate. In God’s word alone we find an authentic account of creation. Here we behold the power that laid the foundation of the earth, and that stretched out the?heavens. Here only, can we find a history of our race, unsullied by human prejudice or human pride.?{PH117 6.4}[13]
In the word of God, the mind finds subject for the deepest thought, the loftiest aspiration. Here we may hold communion with patriarchs and prophets, and listen to the voice of the Eternal as he speaks with men. Here we behold the Majesty of Heaven, as he humbled himself to become our substitute and surety, to cope single-handed with the powers of darkness, and to gain the victory in our behalf. A reverent contemplation of such themes as these, cannot fail to soften, purify, and ennoble the heart, and, at the same time, to inspire the mind with new strength and vigor.?{PH117 7.1}[14]
If morality and religion are to live in a school, it must be through a knowledge of God’s word. Some may urge that if religious teaching is to be made prominent, our school will become unpopular; that those who are not of our faith will not patronize the College. Very well, then, let them go to other colleges, where they will find a system of education that suits their taste. Our school was established, not merely to teach the sciences, but for the purpose of giving instruction in the great principles of God’s word, and in the practical duties of every-day life.?{PH117 7.2}[15]
This is the education so much needed at the present time. If a worldly influence is to bear sway in our school, then sell it out to worldlings, and let them take the entire control; and those who have invested their means in that institution will establish another school, to be conducted, not upon the plan of popular schools, nor according to the desires of principal and teachers, but upon the plan which God has specified.?{PH117 7.3}[16]
In the name of my Master, I entreat all who stand in responsible positions in that school, to be men of God. When the Lord requires us to be distinct and peculiar, how can we crave popularity, or seek to imitate the customs and practices of the world? God has declared his purpose to have one?college in the land where the Bible shall have its proper place in the education of the youth. Will we do our part to carry out that purpose??{PH117 7.4}[17]
It may seem that the teaching of God’s word has but little effect on the minds and hearts of many students; but, if the teacher’s work has been wrought in God, some lessons of divine truth will linger in the memory of the most careless. The Holy Spirit will water the seed sown, and often it will spring up after many days, and bear fruit to the glory of God.?{PH117 8.1}[18]
Satan is constantly seeking to divert the attention of the people from the Bible. The words of God to men, which should receive our first attention, are neglected for the utterances of human wisdom. How can He, who is infinite in power and wisdom, bear thus with the presumption and effrontery of men!?{PH117 8.2}[19]
Through the medium of the press, knowledge of every kind is placed within the reach of all; and yet, how large a share of every community are depraved in morals, and superficial in mental attainments. If the people would but become Bible readers, Bible students, we would see a different state of things.?{PH117 8.3}[20]
In an age like ours, in which iniquity abounds, and God’s character and his law are alike regarded with contempt, special care must be taken to teach the youth to study, to reverence and obey the divine will as revealed to man. The fear of the Lord is fading from the minds of our youth, because of their neglect of Bible study.?{PH117 8.4}[21]
Principal and teachers should have a living connection with God, and should stand, firmly and fearlessly, as witnesses for him. Never from cowardice or worldly policy, let the word of God be placed in the background. Students will be profited intellectually, as well as morally and spiritually, by its study.?{PH117 8.5}[22]
【Object of the College】
Our College stands today in a position that God does not approve. I have been shown the dangers that threaten this important institution. If its responsible men seek to reach the world’s standard, if they copy the plans and methods of other colleges, the frown of God will be upon our school.?{PH117 9.1}[23]
The time has come for me to speak decidedly. The purpose of God in the establishment of our College has been plainly stated. There is an urgent demand for laborers in the gospel field. Young men who design to enter the ministry cannot spend a number of years in obtaining an education. Teachers should have been able to comprehend the situation and adapt their instruction to the wants of this class. Special advantages should have been given them for a brief yet comprehensive study of the branches most needed to fit them for their work. But I have been shown that this has not been accomplished.?{PH117 9.2}[24]
Bro. Bell could have done a much better work than he has done for those who were to be ministers. God is not pleased with his course in this matter. He has not adapted himself to the situation. Men who have left their fields of labor at a considerable sacrifice to learn what they could in a short time, have not always received that help and encouragement which they should have had. Men who have reached mature years, even the meridian of life, and who have families of their own, have been subjected to unnecessary embarrassment. Bro. Bell is himself extremely sensitive, but he does not realize that others can feel the sting of ridicule, sarcasm, or censure, as keenly as he. In this he has wounded his brethren and displeased God. Bro. Bell is naturally severe, critical, and exacting; and he should continually guard himself upon these points, with all his students both old and young.?{PH117 9.3}[25]
Bro. Bell has in time past given undue prominence to the study of Grammar, making it the all-important?subject, and not giving students proper encouragement and opportunity to pursue other studies equally important. For this he has been reproved; but, notwithstanding his efforts to correct this error, his usefulness has been greatly injured. While thoroughness is commendable, he has carried the matter to great extremes, and thereby given occasion for dissatisfaction.?{PH117 9.4}[26]
The same error has been committed in the tract and missionary work. The time and means given to perfecting and teaching so exact and complicated a system has been an injury to the cause of God. The tract and missionary work is a good work, and it was needful that the right way of working should be set before the people; but time, study, and taxing effort should not be given to this one branch to the neglect of other branches equally important. Matters have been carried to extremes. There has been too much mechanical working, and too little vital godliness; too much dependence upon human wisdom, and too little earnest seeking for divine aid.?{PH117 10.1}[27]
The Sabbath-school at Battle Creek runs like a well-regulated machine, but there is too little of the real heartwork which alone can make the school a success. More of God’s presence and less of merely human effort would be a great improvement. If a portion of the thought and time given to the mechanical workings, were devoted to the spiritual interests of teachers and pupils, a better effect would be produced. More piety and devotion, and more of the simplicity of godliness are essential. The same change is needful in the College—less of self, and more of the Spirit of God.?{PH117 10.2}[28]
Bro. Ramsey thinks he sees where Bro. Bell fails, but he himself makes more serious mistakes. He does not carry the burdens which Bro. Bell has carried. He does not labor as Bro. Bell has labored. He does not watch unto prayer. He is overbearing, dictatorial, self-important. Nothing but the grace of God can give him a correct view of himself, and?enable him to labor in humility. He has made some improvement; but, unless the spirit of Christ is continually abiding in him, he will fall into serious errors. His self-importance will repulse and disgust his students. In a young man this spirit is exceedingly unbecoming, as well as highly displeasing to God. Christ invites the self-important to learn of him meekness and lowliness of heart.?{PH117 10.3}[29]
【Teachers in the College】
There is a work to be done for every teacher in our College. Not one is free from selfishness. If the moral and religious character of the teachers were what it should be, a better influence would be exerted upon the students. The teachers do not seek individually to perform their own work, with an eye single to the glory of God. Instead of looking to Jesus, and copying his life and character, they look to self, and aim too much to meet a human standard. I wish I could impress upon every teacher a full sense of his responsibility for the influence which he exerts upon the young. Satan is untiring in his efforts to secure the service of our youth. With great care he is laying his snare for the inexperienced feet. The people of God should jealously guard against his devices.?{PH117 11.1}[30]
God is the embodiment of benevolence, mercy, and love. Those who are truly connected with him, cannot be at variance with one another. His Spirit ruling in the heart will create harmony, love, and unity. The opposite of this is seen among the children of Satan. It is his work to stir up envy, strife, and jealousy. In the name of my Master, I ask the professed followers of Christ, What fruit do you bear??{PH117 11.2}[31]
In the system of instruction used in the common schools, the most essential part of education is neglected, viz., the religion of the Bible. Education not only affects to a great degree the life of the student in this world, but its influence extends to?eternity. How important, then, that the teachers be persons capable of exerting a right influence. They should be men and women of religious experience, daily receiving divine light to impart to their pupils.?{PH117 11.3}[32]
But the teacher should not be expected to do the parent’s work. There has been, with many parents, a fearful neglect of duty. Like Eli, they fail to exercise proper restraint; and then they send their undisciplined children to College, to receive the training which the parents should have given them at home. The teachers have a task which but few appreciate. If they succeed in reforming these wayward youth, they receive but little credit. If the youth choose the society of the evil-disposed, and go on from bad to worse, then the teachers are censured, and the school denounced.?{PH117 12.1}[33]
In many cases, the censure justly belongs to the parents. They had the first and most favorable opportunity to control and train their children, when the spirit was teachable, and the mind and heart easily impressed. But through the slothfulness of the parents, the children are permitted to follow their own will, until they become hardened in an evil course.?{PH117 12.2}[34]
Let parents study less of the world, and more of Christ; let them put forth less effort to imitate the customs and fashions of the world, and devote more time and effort to molding the minds and character of their children according to the Divine Model. Then they could send forth their sons and daughters, fortified by pure morals and a noble purpose, to receive an education for positions of usefulness and trust. Teachers who are controlled by the love and fear of God, could lead such youth still onward and upward, training them to be a blessing to the world, and an honor to their Creator.?{PH117 12.3}[35]
Connected with God, every instructor will exert an influence to lead his pupils to study God’s word, and to obey his law. He will direct their minds to?the contemplation of eternal interests, opening before them vast fields for thought, grand and ennobling themes, which the most vigorous intellect may put forth all its powers to grasp, and yet feel that there is an infinity beyond.?{PH117 12.4}[36]
The evils of self-esteem, and an unsanctified independence, which most impair our usefulness, and which will prove our ruin, if not overcome, spring from selfishness. “Counsel together,” is the message which has been, again and again, repeated to me by the angel of God. By influencing one man’s judgment, Satan may endeavor to control matters to suit himself. He may succeed in misleading the minds of two persons; but, when several consult together, there is more safety. Every plan will be more closely criticised; every advance move more carefully studied. Hence, there will be less danger of precipitate, ill-advised moves, which would bring confusion, perplexity, and defeat. In union there is strength. In division, there is weakness and defeat.?{PH117 13.1}[37]
God is leading out a people, and preparing them for translation. Are we, who are acting a part in this work, standing as sentinels for God? Are we seeking to work unitedly? Are we willing to become servants of all? Are we following our great Exemplar??{PH117 13.2}[38]
Fellow-laborers, we are each sowing seed in the fields of life. As is the seed, so will be the harvest. If we sow distrust, envy, jealousy, self-love, bitterness of thought and feeling, we shall reap bitterness to our own souls. If we manifest kindness, love, tender thought for the feelings of others, we shall receive the same in return.?{PH117 13.3}[39]
The teacher who is severe, critical, over-bearing, heedless of others’ feelings, must expect the same spirit to be manifested toward himself. He who wishes to preserve his own dignity and self-respect, must be careful not to wound needlessly the self-respect of others. This rule should be sacredly observed toward the dullest, the youngest, the most?blundering scholars. What God intends to do with those apparently uninteresting youth, you do not know. He has, in the past, accepted persons no more promising or attractive, to do a great work for him. His Spirit, moving upon the heart, has aroused every faculty to vigorous action. The Lord saw in those rough, unhewn stones, precious material, that would stand the test of storm and heat and pressure. God seeth not as man sees. He judges not from appearance, but he searches the heart, and judges righteously.?{PH117 13.4}[40]
The teacher should ever conduct himself as a Christian gentleman. He should ever stand in the attitude of a friend and counselor to his pupils. If all our people—teachers, ministers, and lay members—would cultivate the spirit of Christian courtesy, they would far more readily find access to the hearts of the people; many more would be led to examine and receive the truth. When every teacher shall forget self, and feel a deep interest in the success and prosperity of his pupils, realizing that they are God’s property, and that he must render an account for his influence upon their minds and character, then we shall have a school in which angels will love to linger. Jesus will look approvingly upon the work of the teachers, and will send his grace into the hearts of the students.?{PH117 14.1}[41]
Our College at Battle Creek, is a place where the younger members of the Lord’s family are to be trained according to God’s plan of growth and development. They should be impressed with the idea that they are created in the image of their Maker, and that Christ is the pattern which they are to follow. Our brethren permit their minds to take too narrow and too low a range. They do not keep the divine plan ever in view, but are fixing their eyes upon worldly models. Look up, where Christ sitteth at the right hand of God, and then labor that your pupils may be conformed to that perfect character.?{PH117 14.2}[42]
If you lower the standard in order to secure?popularity and an increase of numbers, and then make this increase a cause of rejoicing, you show great blindness. If numbers were evidence of success, Satan might claim the pre-eminence; for, in this world, his followers are largely in the majority. It is the degree of moral power pervading the College, that is a test of its prosperity. It is the virtue, intelligence, and piety of the people composing our churches, not their numbers, that should be a source of joy and thankfulness.?{PH117 14.3}[43]
Without the influence of divine grace, education will prove no real advantage; the learner becomes proud, vain, and bigoted. But that education which is received under the ennobling, refining influence of the Great Teacher, will elevate man in the scale of moral value with God. It will enable him to subdue pride and passion, and to walk humbly before God, as dependent upon him for every capability, every opportunity, and every privilege.?{PH117 15.1}[44]
I speak to the workers in our College: You must not only profess to be Christians, but you must exemplify the character of Christ. Let the wisdom from above pervade all your instruction. In a world of moral darkness and corruption, let it be seen that the spirit by which you are moved to action is from above, not from beneath. While you rely wholly upon your own strength and wisdom, your best efforts will accomplish little. If you are prompted by love to God, his law being your foundation, your work will be enduring. While the hay, wood, and stubble are consumed, your work will stand the test. The youth placed under your care, you must meet again, around the great white throne. If you permit your uncultivated manners, or uncontrolled tempers, to bear sway, and thus fail to influence these youth for their eternal good, you must, at that day, meet the grave consequences of your work. By a knowledge of the divine law, and obedience to its precepts, men may become the sons of God. By violation of that law, they become servants of Satan.?On the one hand, they may rise to any height of moral excellence, or, on the other hand, they may descend to any depth of iniquity and degradation. The workers in our College should manifest a zeal and earnestness proportionate to the value of the prize at stake—the souls of their students, the approval of God, eternal life, and the joys of the redeemed.?{PH117 15.2}[45]
As co-laborers with Christ, with so favorable opportunities to impart the knowledge of God, our teachers should labor as if inspired from above. The hearts of the youth are not hardened, nor their ideas and opinions stereotyped, as are those of older persons. They may be won to Christ by your holy demeanor, your devotion, your Christ-like walk. It would be much better to crowd them less in the study of the sciences, and give them more time for religious privileges. Here a grave mistake has been made.?{PH117 16.1}[46]
The object of God in bringing the College into existence, has been lost sight of. Ministers of the gospel have so far shown their want of wisdom from above, as to unite a worldly element with the College; they have joined with the enemies of God and the truth, in providing entertainments for the students. In thus misleading the youth, they have done a work for Satan. That work, with all its results, they must meet again at the bar of God. Those who pursue such a course, show that they cannot be trusted. After the evil work has been done, they may confess their error; but can they as easily gather up the influence they have exerted? Will the well-done be spoken to those who have been false to their trust? These unfaithful men have not built upon the Eternal Rock. Their foundation will prove to be sliding sand. “Know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whoso will be a friend of the world, is the enemy of God.”?{PH117 16.2}[47]
No limit can be set to our influence. One thoughtless act may prove the ruin of many souls. The?course of every worker in our College is making impressions upon the minds of the young, and these are borne away to be reproduced in others. It should be the teacher’s aim to prepare every youth under his care to be a blessing to the world. This object should never be lost sight of. There are some who profess to be working for Christ, yet occasionally go over to the side of Satan and do his work. Can the Saviour pronounce these good and faithful servants? Are they as watchmen giving the trumpet a certain sound??{PH117 16.3}[48]
Every man will at the Judgment receive according to the deeds done in the body, whether they be good or evil. Our Saviour bids us, “Watch and pray, lest ye enter into temptation.” If we encounter difficulties, and in Christ’s strength overcome them; if we meet enemies, and in Christ’s strength put them to flight; if we accept responsibilities, and in Christ’s strength discharge them faithfully, we are gaining a precious experience. We learn, as we could not otherwise have learned, that our Saviour is a present help in every time of need.?{PH117 17.1}[49]
There is a great work to be done in our College, a work which demands the co-operation of every teacher; and it is displeasing to God for one to discourage another. But nearly all seem to forget that Satan is an accuser of the brethren, and they unite with the enemy in his work. While professed Christians are contending, Satan is laying his snares for the inexperienced feet of children and youth. Those who have had a religious experience should seek to shield the young from his devices. They should never forget that they themselves were once enchanted with the pleasures of sin. We need the mercy and forbearance of God every hour, and how unbecoming for us to be impatient with the errors of the inexperienced youth. So long as God bears with them, dare we, fellow-sinners, cast them off??{PH117 17.2}[50]
We should ever look upon the youth as the purchase of the blood of Christ. As such they have?demands upon our love, our patience, and our sympathy. If we would follow Jesus, we cannot restrict our interest and affection to ourselves and our own families; we cannot give our time and attention to temporal matters, and forget the eternal interests of those around us. I have been shown that it is the result of our own selfishness that there are not one hundred young men where now there is one engaged in earnest labor for the salvation of their fellow-men. “Love one another as I have loved you,” is the command of Jesus. Look at his self-denial; behold the manner of love he has bestowed upon us; and then seek to imitate the Pattern.{PH117 17.3}[51]
There have been many things displeasing to God in the young men and young women who have acted as teachers at our College. You have been so absorbed in yourselves, and so devoid of spirituality, that you could not lead the youth to holiness and Heaven. Many have returned to their home more decided in their impenitence because of your lack of love for God and Christ. Walking without the spirit of Jesus, you have encouraged irreligion, lightness, and unkindness, in that you have indulged these evils yourselves. The result of this course you do not realize—souls are lost, that might have been saved.?{PH117 18.1}[52]
Many have strong feelings against Bro. Bell. They accuse him of unkindness, harshness, and severity. But some of the very ones who would condemn him, are no less guilty themselves. “Let him that is without sin, cast the first stone.” Bro. Bell has not always moved wisely, and he has been hard to convince where he has not taken the best course. He has not been as willing to receive counsel, and to modify his methods of instruction, and his manner of dealing with his students, as he should have been. But those who would condemn him because of his defects, could in their turn be justly condemned. Every man has his peculiar defects of character. One may be free from the weakness which he sees in his brother, yet he may at the same?time have faults which are far more grievous in the sight of God.?{PH117 18.2}[53]
This unfeeling criticism of one another is wholly Satanic. I was shown Bro. Bell deserves respect for the good which he has done. Let him be dealt with tenderly. He has performed the labor which three men should have shared. Let those who are so eagerly searching for his faults, recount what they have done in comparison with him. He toiled when others were seeking rest and pleasure. He is worn; God would have him lay off some of these extra burdens for a while. He has so many things to divide his time and attention, he can do justice to none.?{PH117 19.1}[54]
Bro. Bell should not permit his combative spirit to be aroused and lead him to self-justification. He has given occasion for dissatisfaction. The Lord has presented this before him in testimony.?{PH117 19.2}[55]
Students should not be encouraged in their faultfinding. This complaining spirit will increase as it is encouraged, and students will feel at liberty to criticise the teachers who do not meet their liking, and a spirit of dissatisfaction and strife will rapidly increase. This must be frowned down, until it shall become extinct. Shall this evil be corrected? Will teachers put away their desire for the supremacy? Will they labor in humility, in love, and harmony? Time will tell.?{PH117 19.3}[56]
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