(1895年9月1日写于澳大利亚新南威尔士，库兰邦，埃文代尔)
亲爱的某弟兄和姐妹：
某弟兄把各地认识真理的人所要举行为期数周的会议计划告诉我。一些初信的人无疑会因而受益，但我知道你们没有走在正确的道路上。在所召集来的人中，有一些人无疑会在信心上得到加强和巩固;但这项工作并没有把警告的信息传给那些仍在黑暗和错误之中、不明白真理的人。时光正在流逝，末日的危险正逼近我们。在最后的大日，当每个人都要照自己的行为受报时，会有多少人对我们说：你为什么没警告我们呢?你没有把我们原本应该知道的事情告诉我们。{SpTA04 2.1}
基督说：“我来本不是召义人悔改，乃是召罪人悔改”(路5:32)。要让我们的传道人带着严肃的警告信息出去。当人们有充分的条件认识真理时，所制定的计划岂可不让我们的工人去拯救黑暗与错谬中的生灵呢?时间十分短促。要让警告的信息清楚明确地传出去。主快要来了，要在一切不听从福音之人的身上执行审判。{SpTA04 2.2}
以诺在他的时代宣告基督快要降临，并将在不义的人身上执行审判。现在我们看到了以诺所预言大罪泛滥的应验。上帝委派拥有亮光的人要不断地积极作战。当有人询问：“守望的啊，夜里如何?”时，要以忠实的信息来回答说：“早晨将到，黑夜也来”(赛21:11,12)。真理的感化力受到了太多的限制。要激励明白真理的人把真理传给黑暗中的人。许多人只满足于了解真理，却没有着手把他们所领受的传扬出去。上帝已使人感受到真理的能力，但他们没有都在做所指定的工作，去寻找拯救失丧的人。每个人都要穿上军装，准备好争取别人来顺从上帝的律法。我看到那些接受真理的人已拥有太多的亮光。为希望得到更多力量的人所举行的美妙聚会正剥夺了世人所应享有的服务。我们的传道人现在应从事拯救失丧之人。把人聚集起来预备参加工作的几周时间，最好花在到大路和篱笆那里去宣告说：“请来吧，样样都齐备了”(路14:17)。{SpTA04 2.3}
那些顺从已拥有之亮光的人，必得到天上的光照;因为天上的使者们正在等着与人合作，警告受欺骗的罪恶世界。当上帝的子民以心灵真实的生产之苦从事这项工作时，各城市和乡村就必发生根本的变化。只徘徊于各教会之间，对他们进行扶植，会使他们更加依赖人的努力。他们习惯于依靠同胞的经验，而不以上帝为他们的依靠和效能。现在正是向各地城市和乡村宣扬严肃警告信息的时候：“看哪，祂驾云降临;众目要看见祂”(启1:7)。要准备好，使你可以安然见祂。{SpTA04 3.1}
我恳劝你们已经蒙上帝惠赐真理知识的人，要出去作工。到处都有工作要做。庄稼已经发白，可以收割了。现在需要撒种和收割的人。你们花时间培养那些已经明白警告信息的人，使他们得到的力量，还不及让他们献身从事救灵工作所能得到的十分之一。天使们正等着要祝福献身的工人。迷羊的比喻应成为每一个已得救脱离撒但网罗之人的教训。我们不要在那九十九只羊中间徘徊，而要出去拯救那失丧的，在各大城市和乡镇的旷野里寻找他们。工人们在从事这项工作的时候，会感到自己的软弱，于是他们就会投奔那堡垒。上帝必与他们同在，赐给他们力量、勇气、信心和盼望。真诚的工人们必是与上帝同工的人。{SpTA04 4.1}
基督对耶路撒冷的警告，并没有随着耶路撒冷的毁灭而结束。临到耶路撒冷的审判，预表基督在末日降临施行审判时的种种事件。那时列国都要被召集在祂面前。“祂要差遣使者，用号筒的大声，将祂的选民，从四方，从天这边到天那边，都招聚了来”(太24:31)。{SpTA04 4.2}
每一位真正跟从基督的人都有一项工作要做。上帝已经给每个人布置了任务。一些人正指着迅速应验的预言宣告说：要作好准备，藉着遵守上帝的诫命来表明你对上帝的顺从。现在上帝的使者们不应停下来专门援助那些已经认识真理，拥有一切便利的人。他们应继续高举旗帜并发出警告说：“新郎来了，你们出来迎接祂”(太25:6)。极多听到这个信息的人不会相信严肃的警告。许多人不忠于品格的检验标准——上帝的诫命。主的仆人将被人称为狂热分子。传道人会警告人们不要听他们的话。当上帝的灵催促挪亚传信息，不管人们会听从还是会拒绝时，他受到过同样的待遇。{SpTA04 4.3}
对于那些宣扬“平安稳妥;”“万物与起初的时候仍是一样”的假教师来说，基督的降临是出乎意料的。圣经这样说：“灾祸忽然临到他们”(帖前5:3;彼后3:4)。上帝的日子要如同网罗临到一切住在地上的人。那日子要像潜行的贼一样临到他们。“家主若知道几更天有贼来，就必警醒，不容人挖透房屋”(太24:43)。保持警醒的习惯乃是我们唯一的保障。我们必须时刻准备，好使那日子可以不像贼一样临到我们。{SpTA04 5.1}
每一个爱上帝的人都应想到，现在要趁着白日赶紧作工，不要在羊圈里的羊群中作工，而要出去寻找失丧将亡的羊。这些羊需要特别的帮助才能带回羊圈。现在粗心疏忽的人应从他们的睡眠中醒来。现在应恳劝人们不仅要听从上帝的话，而且要毫不迟延地为他们的灯在器皿里预备油。这油就是基督的义。它代表品格，而品格是不能转让的。没有人能为另一个人获得品格。每一个人都必须为自己获得脱离罪的一切罪污的品格。{SpTA04 5.2}
主将要带着能力和大荣耀来临。那时祂的工作就是要将义人和恶人完全分开。但是油在那时不可能被转移到那些无油之人的器皿里。于是基督的话就要应验，“两个女人一同推磨，要取去一个，撇下一个。两个人在田里，要取去一个，撇下一个”(路17:35,36)。在人生的工作中，义人和恶人要掺杂在一起。上帝要查看人的品格。祂洞悉谁是顺从的儿女，谁尊敬并喜爱祂的诫命。{SpTA04 5.3}
旁观者可能看不出任何差别;但是主说过，不要用人手把稗子拔出来，免得麦子也被拔出来。让两样一起长，直到收割的时候。那时主要差遣祂的收割者去把稗子挑出来，捆成捆预备焚烧，而麦子要被收进天国的仓里。审判之时乃是非常严肃的时期。那时主要把属祂自己的麦子从稗子中收集里来。那些曾是同一个家庭的成员要被分开。有印记盖在义人的身上。“万军之耶和华说：‘在我所定的日子，他们必属我，特特归我。我必怜恤他们，如同人怜恤服事自己的儿子’”(玛3:17)。那些已经顺从上帝诫命的人将与那群在光中的圣徒们联合。他们可得权柄能到生命树那里，也能从门进城。“要取去一个。”他的名字要留在生命册上，而一些曾与他交往的人却要戴上永远与上帝分离的记号。{SpTA04 6.1}
稗子和麦子现在是混在一起的。但那时那只唯一能把它们分开的手要使每一个人处于其真实的地位。那些曾拥有真理的亮光，听过警告的信息，听过婚筵邀请的人——农夫、商人、律师、使人良心麻木的假牧人、没有发出警告或宣报夜间时辰的守望者——所有拒绝顺从上帝国律法的人，都没有权利留在那里。那些寻找藉口避免背十字架与世界分离的人，要与世人一起落在网罗之中。他们自愿与稗子同流合污，狼狈为奸。这种同化是十分可怕的。人们选择与第一个叛徒站在一起。他曾在伊甸园里试探亚当和夏娃违背上帝。他们播撒了稗子，稗子自必起来。他们与一切罪的根源——魔鬼有份。{SpTA04 6.2}
对那些持守上帝诫命的人所宣布的福气是：“那些遵守上帝诫命的人有福了，可得权柄能到生命树那里，也能从门进城”(启22:14钦定本)。他们是“被拣选的族类，是有君尊的祭司，是圣洁的国度，是属上帝的子民”(彼前2:9)，应该宣扬那召我们出黑暗入祂奇妙光明者的美德。顺从的人才被称为义人;他们被那神圣的磁体耶稣基督所吸引。圣洁是互相吸引的。不义的要叫他仍旧不义。那时品格再也无法改变了。恩典的油无法彼此借贷。愚拙的童女再也没有时间为自己去买油。义人乃是那些遵守上帝诫命的人。他们必永远与那些践踏上帝的律法、不顺从和不义的人分开。纯净的矿石和渣滓将不再混和。{SpTA04 7.1}
“谁是忠心有见识的仆人，为主人所派，管理家里的人呢”(太24:45)?我们能回答吗?我是不是忠于神圣委托的管家呢?每一个人都负有一份责任。守望者的特别任务是看清危险的临近并发出警告。基督十字架的精兵要有敏锐的耳朵。他们要在自己的岗位上吹出明确的号声，好使每一个人都穿好军装准备战斗。{SpTA04 7.2}
我们个人在为夫子做什么呢?谁在向黑暗和错误中的人展示真理呢?谁在宣扬生命之道呢?基督有许多仇敌。他们虽自称为义，却没有基督的义。他们把自己装成光明的天使，实际上却是罪的执事。这个事实足以警戒每一个人行动起来。谁是基督恩典的忠实管家呢?谁在聪明地分派工作，呼吁每一个认识真理的人积极地从事服务工作，并分配每一个人任务呢? {SpTA04 8.1}
前哨的阵地需要防守。要有人坚守堡垒，同时让先头部队积极投入战斗。要给每一个人分派任务。我们不要重复犯错之人的话语，而要谆谆教诲真理的观念。我们的工作是造福同胞。我们不要重蹈反对真理之人的覆辙，而要传扬第三位天使的信息。他正飞在空中发出警告的声音，就是上帝的诫命和耶稣基督的见证。{SpTA04 8.2}
那些“无用的人”身上将写着：“你被称在天平里，显出你的亏欠”(但5:27)。他们明知主的旨意，却没有遵行。他们曾拥有真理的亮光，和一切的便利，却选择了自私的利益，所以他们要被抛弃，与那些不想得救的人一道。“倘若那恶仆心里说：‘我的主人必来得迟’，就动手打他的同伴，又和酒醉的人一同吃喝。在想不到的日子，不知道的时辰，那仆人的主人要来，把他腰斩了，定他和假冒为善的人同罪;在那里必要哀哭切齿了”(太24:48-51)。{SpTA04 8.3}
要认真思考上面的话语。不要有人说：“这不是指我;我是基督徒。”谁有权利说这样的话呢?是你自己还是那监察人心的主呢?那不忠心的管家身负严肃的责任;他以基督仆人的身份出现在世人面前;但他和所有与他接触的人是多么不幸啊!他是一个恶仆人!他在危害他主人的产业。他教导人践踏上帝的律法。他称基督为“我的主人。”却说“我的主人必来得迟。”他没有说基督不会来，也没有嘲笑祂的复临，却告诉人们说祂的降临迟延了。他在打消别人心中对主必快来的信念。他的影响使人们自以为是、粗心疏忽而耽延。他们就这样放松了警惕，附和了不忠心守望者的话;邪灵和世俗麻木的人迷惑了他们。他们是往下走，而不是往上走。他们没有期待和催促上帝的日子，心中被俗世的情欲和败坏的思想所占据。{SpTA04 9.1}
恶仆人打击那些努力遵行主人旨意的同工，又和醉酒的人一同吃喝。这些人虽然自称信奉基督教，内心却是属肉体的。他们与基督和祂降世所做的工作为敌。基督来，要过与上帝的律法和谐的生活，作全人类的榜样。{SpTA04 9.2}
基督被祂的门徒所围绕;有一大群人在听祂讲话。祂说：“你们要谨慎，恐怕因贪食、醉酒，并今生的思虑累住你们的心，那日子就如同网罗忽然临到你们”(路21:34)。“自己以为站得稳的，须要谨慎，免得跌倒”(林前10:12)。{SpTA04 9.3}
疗养院教堂
我收到了某某的一封来信，询问为疗养院建一座教堂的事。我已写信告诉他，这个主张在我看来是一致的;多年前我就蒙指示看到应该建起这样的建筑。帐幕礼拜堂里的教导对婴孩来说往往太强了。这种先进的真理适合那些已经逐步前进的人，但却不适合那些还没有真理知识的人。教义性的讲道不具有融化和折服人心的性质。这些人需要受教认识耶稣基督和祂钉十字架、灵与魂与身子的成圣、上帝惊人的爱。要本着基督的简朴、柔和与谦卑讲解这道。追求真理的人会询问，想知道我们信仰的缘由;他们希望在安息日的问题上得到教训，这样，就可以在他们能够承受的时候逐渐将真理展现给他们。凡对真理有所认识的人都应该意识到自己的责任，并且要极其小心，为自己的脚把道路修直了，免得瘸子差路。{SpTA04 10.1}
疗养院有一座教堂这事本身就会给我们的工作增光添色。这会成为一个见证，证明我们正在寻求所有被带到我们影响范围内之人的永恒利益。疗养院提供了一个可以工作的葡萄园;它是上帝的葡萄园，需要神圣的能力。不要让法利赛主义盛行。要想赢得人心，有许多主题要深思，每一位教师都应该运用智慧。所有的人都应该记住，他们是在向那些不知道第三位天使的信息的人讲话。这对他们来说就像希腊语一样听不懂。那些参与疗养院工作的人说话行事都应谨慎。{SpTA04 10.2}
“你们要恒切祷告，在此警醒感恩。也要为我们祷告，求上帝给我们开传道的门，能以讲基督的奥秘(我为此被捆锁)，叫我按着所该说的话将这奥秘发明出来。你们要爱惜光阴，用智慧与外人交往。你们的言语要常常带着和气，好像用盐调和，就可知道该怎样回答各人”(西4:2-6)。{SpTA04 11.1}
多么宝贵的话语啊!你们的言语要常常带着和气，好像用盐调和，盐有保存的特性。信徒们应该谨慎自守，警醒祷告，并在凡事上代表基督，以便在审判的时候，他们可以面对曾经交往的人，说：这已为这些灵魂做了我所能做的一切。基督的爱住在心中会在精神和脾气上流露出来。属天的、成圣的能力确实可以成为一种活的香气叫人活，平息一切喧嚣的情欲，得人归于基督。{SpTA04 11.2}
那爱，耶稣的爱，可以在心灵中涌流，就像沙漠中的溪流，让所有的人都得安舒，并且赢得许多人归天髑髅地的十字架!“耶和华也必时常引导你，在干旱之地使你心满意足，骨头强壮。你必像浇灌的园子，又像水流不绝的泉源”(赛58:11)。那些花费资金为上帝建殿的人应该有相称的热心得人认识上帝和祂所差来的耶稣基督。{SpTA04 11.3}
某弟兄，我们应当为那些在基督之外的还没有真理的灵魂付出更多的努力。我们岂不可考虑，凡不忠于上帝，违背祂圣洁律法的人，在上帝的乐园里都没有立足之地吗?人应该多么认真地使真理本着其全部的纯正在各城镇乡村从江河到地极得到传扬啊。愿上帝帮助祂的子民觉醒并将号筒吹出确定的声音!{SpTA04 12.1}
*****
澳大利亚，新南威尔士州，库兰邦，埃文代尔
1895年8月28日
亲爱的弟兄：
你询问关于建造一个小礼拜堂来容纳那些希望参加宗教礼拜之人的事。 你支持建造礼拜堂的理由是合理的。 多年前，我就蒙指示看见这样的建筑会成为一大帮助。你的主顾大多不是我们信仰的人，如果能做点什么让他们对宗教感兴趣的话，那会很好。虽然在巴特尔克利克堆积如山的建筑太多了，这仅仅意味着抢劫其它地方，但我不反对建造教堂。一个有来自世界各地的人的疗养院，是最高意义上的传道园地，那里的敬拜会成为吸引一些灵魂的手段。我看不出为什么建造这样一栋建筑不会尊荣上帝，即使已经过了多年，多年前就应该这么做了。{SpTA04 12.2}
确实，已经有了帐幕礼拜堂，那里每个安息日都人满为患。有人会说，为什么呀，那不就够了吗?为什么不让人们出来在聚会的地方听道呢?我的回答是，许多人根本不会去那里，那些可能偶尔赴会的人也不会听到最适合非我们信仰之人听的东西;他们不明白所讲的教义。你们若有一个聚会的地方与疗养院相连，许多人就会走进去消磨时间，所讲的道应该适合那些还不认识真理的人。我很惊讶这样的建筑没有在多年前就建立起来。它实在是一项宣教事业。加利福尼亚州圣赫勒那疗养院的小教堂已经成为一大福气。{SpTA04 12.3}
但是我在你的信中读到这样的建筑只需要花费——。如果我们能在一些一无所有的城市有这样一座教堂，我们就会多么高兴啊!然而在我看来，疗养院的赞助会证明投资建一个敬拜上帝的殿合理的，病人不用离开疗养院就能得到安置。他们会从这种地方的礼拜得到更大的好处。我希望没有人会认为这些话与我以前所作的见证相矛盾，觉得有自由漠视上帝所赐的亮光。这个忠告与那个亮光是和谐一致的。那些访问疗养院的人会看到这是一个上帝受到尊荣和敬拜的地方，许多人会听到生命之道，上帝的宝贵真理，否则他们可能永远听不到真理。病人和受苦的人应该在宗教设施方面享有一切的有利条件，好争取他们摆脱撒但的吸引力，归于耶稣基督。在小教堂中，要讲真理的话语，要简明地向人们讲解圣经。要在人们所在之处用福音接触人。耶稣必与你同在，感动人们的心思意念。要不遗余力地解救这些受苦的灵魂，争取他们归于耶稣。{SpTA04 13.1}
正确的教育
(1895年8月27日写于澳大利亚库兰邦埃文代尔)
亲爱的某弟兄和姐妹：
我们在这里的手艺培训学校正在尽力遵行上帝所赐的亮光，把智力训练和适当使用脑筋与肌肉结合起来。迄今的效果超过了我们的期望。在试验性的第一个学期结束时，给了学生们安排假期的机会，可以去做他们自愿去做的工作。但每一个人都请求学校继续像以前那样开办下去，每天都有体力劳动与几个小时的学习相结合。学生们并不想放弃目前这个学会如何作工、如何学习的机会。这既是他们在最不利的条件下所作的选择，那么当校舍建造起来，学生们有了更好的环境时，它将会有多大的影响呢?{SpTA04 14.1}
他们现在只有一栋教学楼，是一个旧旅馆。我们把它租下来予以充分利用。我们在周围的场地里还搭起了四个帐蓬，也给学生们居住。每天早上六点钟，学校的师生被召集在一起进行早晨礼拜和圣经学习。这些活动证明是一个福气。……{SpTA04 14.2}
有八个早晨我给学生们讲话。主耶稣确实临格我们的聚会。与会者的年龄一般从二十六岁至三十岁。在最初的聚会中，代求的灵降到我身上。所有的人都感受到主垂听了我们的祷告。然后我讲了大约三十分钟。主把适合于会众的话赐给了我。这些活动非常有益;学生们事后的见证，证明了圣灵在使每一个人都瞥见上帝的事。在聚会的过程中，属灵的印象越来越明显。上帝与我们同在。在场的人大感同情与关爱之心。人心易受圣灵的感化，在思想品格上发生了根本的变化。上帝的灵正在藉着人作工。我赞美主以祂的灵鼓舞了我的心。我们都感到主在与我们合作，引导我们立志、下决心和行动。{SpTA04 14.3}
主并不想代替我们立志行事。这是我们自己的工作。我们一旦认真从事这项工作，上帝的恩典就会赐下，在我们里面运行，帮助我们立志行事，但决不代替我们的努力。我们的心灵要被唤醒与之配合。圣灵要帮助人做成自己得救的功夫。圣灵所设法教导我们的，乃是实际的教训。“因为你们立志行事，都是上帝在你们心里运行，为要成就祂的美意”(腓2:13)。{SpTA04 15.1}
我对宝贵的真理及其在人心上能力的认识，从未像在晨会上对学生讲话时那么深刻。一个早晨接着一个早晨，我感到身负上帝的信息。我还有特别的机会在安息日讲了两次。在每次聚会时，都有几个不信的人在场。当真理宣扬出来时，他们大受感动。我们如果有一个合适的聚会场所，就可以邀请邻居们前来参加了。我们狭长的餐厅挤满了人，不是一个合适的敬拜场所。在房间的角落里给了我一小块地方，紧挨着墙。然而主耶稣临格在聚会中。我们知道这一点。有些人正在认真思考真理的题目。我们都知道，人在下大决心将心中的信念付诸行动的时候，要经历最剧烈的思想斗争。把心灵献给上帝，乃是把它交给那用无限的代价买了其自由权的主，然后我们将继续认识主，知道祂出现确如晨光。“听命胜于献祭”(撒上15:22)。基督徒全部的工作都被包括在立志和行事里。{SpTA04 15.2}
合适的训练
学生们忠实努力地学习。他们肌肉的活力与他们的胆识和稳健度都在增加。这是适当的教育，会从我们的学校培养出既不软弱，也不低效的学生。他们所受的不是片面的教育，而是德、智、体的全面训练。建造品格的人不可忘记，要打下使教育获得最大价值的基础。这就要求而且必须做到自我牺牲。体育如适当地进行，就必为智育作好准备。二者缺一总是不完善的。体育和智育相结合，使人的思想品德处在更健康的状态，做出更好的工作。经过这样的训练，从我们学校教育出来的学生将能适应实际的生活，会充分利用他们的各种智能。我们若要正确地对待我们的学生，就必须把体育和智育结合起来。我们一直按这个计划操作，取得了非常满意的效果，尽管学生们是在很不方便的条件下劳动的。{SpTA04 16.1}
我来到这里，开始在自己的岗位上认真工作，用饱满的热诚激励大家。他们一直在努力作工，为自己拥有这个特权而欢喜快乐。我们彼此引发了热心和善行。学校的工人们担心我会抢先种树。现在他们和我都因这里有了第一个真正的果园而满意。我们的一些果树明年就会结果子。两年以后桃树也会有不少的收成。我们从某先生那里买下了树。他住在距这里约二十英里的地方，有一个又大又美丽的果园。他说我们这里很适于种植水果。{SpTA04 16.2}
学校有了一个极好的开始。学生们在学习如何种树、种草莓等，如何不挤压每一个根须，使他们有机会生长。这岂不是一种如何对待人的心灵和身体的极宝贵的教训吗?——不要妨碍身体的任何一个器官，而要给它们足够的空间做各自的工作。要唤醒人的心灵，运用他们的智力。我们需要圣灵所激励的人，在祂的引导下，做完美的工作。要培养和使用这些人，不使他们因不活动而变得懒散和发育不良。我们所需要的成人和青年，应能在田间劳动，运用智慧和技巧，不觉得自己是在做仆人，而是感到自己在做高尚的工作，像上帝在伊甸园中赐给亚当夏娃的工作一样，喜爱看那位神圣的农夫所施行的奇迹。人播撒了种子，上帝浇灌它，又使祂的太阳照耀它，使它长出小小的叶片。这里有上帝赐给我们的教训，是关于身体的复活和心灵的重生。我们要从属地事物的发育中认识到属灵的事。{SpTA04 17.1}
对耕地的正确态度
我们不要因表面上的失败而烦恼沮丧。我们应当怀着快乐、希望和感恩的心去耕种，相信大地蕴藏着丰富的资源，供忠心的人去收获，其宝藏比金银更富足。吝啬之徒对大地的指责乃是假见证。我们若是恰当而聪明地耕种，大地必献出其宝藏来造福人类。{SpTA04 18.1}
所要学习的属灵教训并不是低级的。撒在心田中的真理种子不会全部损失，却会发芽，先长苗，后长穗，再后穗上结出饱满的子粒。上帝从起初就说过：“地要发生青草和结种子的菜蔬，并结果子的树木”(创1:11)。上帝用祂的话语创造了大地，也创造了种子。在土地的耕作上，我们要运用思维的能力，相信上帝的话。祂的话已经创造了地上的果子供应人类。{SpTA04 18.2}
耕种土地需要运用我们的全部脑力和智慧。我们周围的土地证明了人的懒惰。我们希望能激活处于休眠状态的感官。我们希望看到聪明的农夫;他们殷勤的劳动会得到奖赏。手和心必须配合，在土地的耕作上实施明智的新计划。我们看到这里的大树被伐倒拔除，犁头深入土壤，翻出深深的犁沟，种植幼树，撒播种子。学生们正在学习耕作的意义。锄头，铲子和耙子，都是获利好产业的工具。我们往往会犯下错误。但谬误是紧挨着真理的。藉着失败会学到智慧;开创工作的活力会提供最终成功的希望。犹豫不决会阻止工作的进展，急躁仓促也会误事，但只要人愿意，这一切都可以成为教训。{SpTA04 18.3}
在库兰班这里所开办的学校里，我们指望看到农业和各门学科的学习相结合而取得真正的成功。我们希望这里成为一个中心，有亮光照射出去，传播宝贵的先进知识，将未开发的土地开垦出来，使丘陵和山谷都开花如玫瑰。对青少年和成年人来说，体力劳动和智力劳动相结合都会导致正确的全面教育。心智的培养会给土地的耕作带来智慧的新动力。{SpTA04 19.1}
将会有一种新人培养出来。他们作为养家糊口的人，受过教育和训练，能务农得利。他们的脑筋不会因功课的学习而过度疲劳和紧张。这样的人会打破一般人对于体力劳动的愚昧观念。他们会发挥一种影响力，无须大声喧嚷，却能起到潜移默化的作用。我们会看到这样的农民，他们不是粗鄙野蛮，消极懒惰，不修边幅的。家里也不会杂乱无章。他们反而会把品味带进农舍。房间阳光充足，舒服诱人。我们不会看到黑乎乎的天花板，上面贴着满是灰尘和污垢的布。科学、天赋与智慧将在家中表现出来。土地的耕作将被视为提拔人、使人高贵的。把大地当作上帝的宝库，会表现出纯正实际的宗教。人越有知识，就越能发挥宗教的影响。主希望我们把大地当作贵重的财宝，是祂所托付给我们的。{SpTA04 19.2}
*****
1895年9月13日写于澳大利亚新南威尔士州格兰维尔
在我们的传道人中，必须进行一番改变。在心灵和品格中必须多一点基督、少一点自我。我们应当作我们主的代表。那些拥有大光和宝贵机会的人是要向上帝交账的。祂已经把工作分配给每一个人。他们决不能辜负神圣的委托，而要真的成为世上的光。{SpTA04 20.1}
“不是我们爱上帝，乃是上帝爱我们，差祂的儿子为我们的罪作了挽回祭，这就是爱了”(约壹4:10)。下面这句话表达了祂对败坏拜偶像之人的心声：“以法莲哪，我怎能舍弃你?以色列啊，我怎能弃绝你?我怎能使你如押玛?怎能使你如洗扁?我回心转意，我的怜爱大大发动”(何11:8)。祂会放弃自己曾为之作出重大牺牲的子民吗?祂曾为他们牺牲了自己的独生子，就是祂本体的真像。上帝曾让自己的儿子为我们的过犯被交出去。祂以法官的严厉对待那位承担罪孽之主，向祂剥夺了慈父的爱意。{SpTA04 20.2}
在这里祂以最奇妙的方式向悖逆的人类展示了自己。众天使所看到的，是何等奇异的画面!“基督在我们还作罪人的时候为我们死”(罗5:8)。这是人类何等美好的盼望啊!义者为不义者受了苦;祂被挂在木头上亲身担当了我们的罪。“上帝既不爱惜自己的儿子，为我们众人舍了，岂不也把万物和祂一同白白地赐给我们吗”(罗8:32)?{SpTA04 20.3}
作为上帝所拣选的见证人，我们有没有珍视基督所买来的产业呢?我们有没有准备好在自己能力的范围之内作出任何牺牲，负基督的轭，与祂合作，成为上帝的同工呢?凡忍受上帝的考验，顺从祂的诫命的人，都会爱将亡的人类，就像基督爱他们一样。他们在最认真，最自我牺牲的工作中效法基督的榜样，到大路和篱笆那里去寻找贫富贵贱各等的人，把信息传给所有的人，这信息就是：他们是基督所特别爱护与关怀的对象。{SpTA04 21.1}
人生来对上帝和救主盲目而无知，所以每一个爱耶稣的人都可以找到工作去做。凡真爱基督的人，决不会冷淡懒散。顺从上帝一切诫命的人与不顺从的人，在生活和品格上有显著的差别。{SpTA04 21.2}
父母们未能抑制儿女的私心。自我放纵成了人们追求的目标。藉着侍奉自我，许多人为撒但所奴役。他们是自己冲动和欲望的奴隶，而冲动和欲望则是受那恶者支配的。上帝呼召他们为祂服务时，赐给他们自由。顺从上帝就不受罪所奴役，并摆脱人的欲望和冲动。{SpTA04 21.3}
但我们不得不面对和应付这种人。他们竭力诽谤忠于上帝的人。他们的才智和上帝所赐的思维能力，都用来使顺从上帝的诫命看起来像一种讨厌的侍奉。但是那些拥护上帝律法要求的人证实：“爱祢律法的人有大平安，什么都不能使他们绊脚。”“耶和华的律法全备，能苏醒人心”(诗119:165;诗19:7)。主显明了真理与谬误的区别，接受真理的必然结果，以及总是随着乐意顺从来到的经验。那就是平安与安息。{SpTA04 21.4}
上帝的仆人面前的任务，就是表现耶稣。基督执事的工作就是让自己无助的心灵依靠祂的功劳。那些转离顺从之路并以违犯上帝的律法为美德的人，乃是受那大骗子所怂恿。他们被他的能力弄瞎了心眼。需要有人告诉他们，人们受试探要变得专横和不耐烦时，真理会使人保持基督化的性情。真理的仇敌想要激怒那些教导上帝律法的要求的人。如果我们进行报复，撒但的军队就胜利了。他已经在我们的盔甲中找到了弱点。撒但的爪牙以其卑鄙的行径，设法引诱宣扬真理的人去说去做不值得表扬的事。{SpTA04 22.1}
应付反对
要珍惜优雅的悟性和灵魂的高贵;要让真理和公义的精神支配我们的举止、言语和笔。“属血气的人不领会上帝圣灵的事，反倒以为愚拙，并且不能知道，因为这些事惟有属灵的人才能看透”(林前2:14)。如果传道人在会众中看到反对者嘲笑的面孔，他要当作没有看见。如果有人冷嘲热讽，毫无礼貌，传道人不要以言语或态度表现同样的精神。要表明你不使用这种武器。我们的笔往往过于犀利;我们的弟兄们有时因重复了提倡谬误之人的话，反而散布了错误。这是不对的。要让你们的笔描绘现代的真理。{SpTA04 22.2}
圣灵并不与喜欢尖刻批评的人同工。在会中争论的人就抱着这种精神。有人养成了喜好争论的习惯。上帝因此而受到了羞辱。要抑止尖刻的攻击;不要在撒但的学校里学习他的作战方法。圣灵并没有感动人说责难的话。艰难时期就摆在我们前面。每一个迄今尚未得到真理亮光的诚实的人，那时将站在基督一边。相信真理的人每天都要重新悔改。这样他们才能成为尊贵的器皿。{SpTA04 23.1}
应付反对的正确方式
不要重复反对者的话语，也不要与他们争论。你所应付的不仅是人，而且是撒但和他的使者。基督并没有为摩西的尸体用毁谤的话罪责撒但。世界的救赎主深知撒但狡猾的骗术。祂没有用毁谤的话罪责他，而是以圣洁和谦卑的态度说：“撒但，主责备你吧”(犹9)。祂的仆人效法祂的榜样岂不是明智的吗?有限的人难道要采取一种基督所避免的做法吗?这种行径会给撒但机会来歪曲、误表和篡改真理。{SpTA04 23.2}
避免人身攻击
在世界历史的这个时期，我们有一项大工要做。这是一场新的战斗，要应付撒但超自然的势力。我们要把人身攻击放在一边，不管我们可能受到什么试探去利用言语或行动。我们必须常存忍耐，才能保全自己的灵魂。弟兄们，要表明你们是完全在主这一边的。要让上帝圣言的真理揭露过犯和罪恶，显明真理圣化人心的能力。不可让傲慢的精神进来损害上帝的工作。我们有理由每时每刻都对上帝抱感激之心，因为我们有特权与上帝联络。{SpTA04 23.3}
我们天天需要切心悔改。主宣布了每一个愿意谦卑己心并藏在耶稣里之人的巨大利益。“那至高至上、住在永远、名为圣者的如此说：我住在至高至圣的所在，也与心灵痛悔谦卑的人同居;要使谦卑人的灵苏醒，也使痛悔人的心苏醒。”“我所看顾的，就是贫穷痛悔、因我话而战兢的人。”“耶和华靠近伤心的人，拯救灵性痛悔的人。”“这困苦人呼求，耶和华便垂听，救他脱离一切患难。耶和华的使者在敬畏祂的人四围安营，搭救他们”(赛57:15;66:2;诗34:18,6,7)。{SpTA04 24.1}
让仇恨耶和华律法的人对那些有道义勇气接受和实行真理的人咒诅漫骂吧。主是我们的力量。我们不高举自己，而是让主在我们里面、使用我们并藉着我们实行祂的旨意，那就是安全的。我们应当保持主所要复兴的痛悔谦卑的精神。{SpTA04 24.2}
劝勉和忠告的价值
自高和自满定会使人对敢于质疑他人做法的人产生怨恨。劝告或建议遭到反感，被视为攻击和中伤。这种精神会导致无数弊端。当你犯错时，谁也不敢告诉你了，因为你会把忠心的人视为敌人。本应该存在于同道之间的仁慈友善就这样被扼杀了，因为敬畏上帝的忠告，遭到出于妒忌的解释。凭空想象，夸大其词导致了隔阂的形成。{SpTA04 24.3}
但我们不可容忍对弟兄的冤屈。要克服自负之心。要视喜爱称赞为网罗。为自己的智慧和资格而骄傲，叫是有酿成大错的危险。让这些资格显示出它们的真正价值吧。它们必受到赏识。{SpTA04 25.1}
工人中间团结平等的精神
上帝的灵敦促我劝勉弟兄们要在工作中互相团结，亲如弟兄，满怀怜悯，谦恭有礼，像钢铁般彼此忠诚，放弃你对于同工的优越感。这种感觉会使你不愿意与别人同工合作。任何人都不要觉得自己必须做全部的工作。他不论有多少经验或资格，都需要将自己的才干与别人的才干结合起来。不要错误地认为，在宗教事务上，一个人的思路会完成所有人的工作。需要有不同思维方式的人。要温柔地引导人从事救灵的工作。在撒播真理的种子和收割庄稼时，需要不同的工作方法。能力最差的人，往往能接触那些坚决抵制另一个人工作的人。需要大量的祈祷。若在祈祷中亲近上帝，上帝必亲近寻求祂的人。在侍奉上帝时，需要心灵和生活的更大奉献。{SpTA04 25.2}
(Avondale, Cooranbong, N. S. W., Australia,September 1, 1895.)
Dear Brother and Sister -----,Brother ----- laid out before me the plans for meetings to be held for weeks in different places among those who know the truth. Doubtless some who have newly come to the faith would be benefited, but I know you are not on the right track. Some of those called together will no doubt have their faith strengthened and confirmed; but this work is not bearing the message of warning to those who are still in darkness and error, who know not the truth. Time is passing, the perils of the last days are upon us, and how many will say to us in the last great day, when every man shall receive according to his works, Why have you not warned us? You have not told us those things that we should have known.{SpTA04 2.1}[1]
Christ says, “I came not to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance.” Let our ministers go forth weighted with the solemn message of warning. When men have had every advantage to obtain a knowledge of the truth, how shall plans be laid to keep our laborers from the work of saving souls in the darkness of error? The time is short. Let the message of warning be given clear and distinct. The Lord is coming to execute judgment upon all who obey not the gospel.{SpTA04 2.2}[2]
Enoch in his day sounded the proclamation of the coming of Christ, and the execution of judgment upon the unrighteous; and we now see the fulfilment of Enoch’s prophecy concerning the great wickedness that should abound. But these who have the light are?the very ones commissioned of God to make constantly aggressive warfare. As the inquiry shall be made, “Watchman, what of the night?” the faithful message is to be heard in response, “The morning cometh, and also the night.” The influence of truth is too much restricted. Let men who know the truth be urged to communicate truth to those who are in darkness. Many are satisfied with a view of truth, but they have not yet stepped into their place to communicate that which they have received. God has let men feel the power of truth, but they are not all doing their appointed work in seeking to save that which was lost. Every one is to have the armor on, prepared to win others to obedience to the law of God. I see so much given to those who already have; these wonderful meetings for those who wish to get more strength, are depriving the world of the very work that should be done. Our ministers should now be working for the saving of the lost. The weeks spent in gatherings to fit men for work might better, far better, be spent in going to the highways and hedges with the proclamation, “Come, for all things are now ready.”{SpTA04 2.3}[3]
To those who obey the light they have, illumination will come from on high; for the heavenly messengers are waiting to cooperate with men in warning a deceived, sinful world. When the people of God engage in this work with real travail of soul, there will be manifest a decided change in cities and villages. This hovering about churches to keep them propped up, makes them more dependent on human effort. They learn to lean on the experience of their fellow-men, and do not make God their dependence and their efficiency. It is time that cities and villages everywhere were hearing the solemn note of warning, “Behold, he cometh with clouds; and every eye shall see him.” Get ready, that you may be found of him in peace.{SpTA04 3.1}[4]
I entreat you whom God has favored with a knowledge of the truth, Go to work; there is work to do everywhere. The fields are all white unto the harvest. Sowers and reapers are needed just now. The time you devote to imparting constantly to those who understand the message of warning, will not give one tithe of the strength which they would receive in taking hold of the work to communicate life to save perishing souls. Angels are waiting to bless the consecrated workers. The parable of the lost sheep should be a lesson to every soul who has been rescued from the snare of Satan. We are not to hover over the ninety and nine, but to go forth to save the lost, hunting them up in the wilderness of the large cities and towns. In this work the laborers will be led to feel their weakness, and they will flee to the stronghold. The divine presence will be with them to give strength and courage and faith and hope. The true-hearted workers will be laborers together with God.{SpTA04 4.1}[5]
The warnings that Christ gave to Jerusalem were not to end with them. The judgments upon Jerusalem were a symbol of the events of Christ’s coming to judgment in the last day, when before him shall be gathered all nations. “He shall send forth his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect, from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.”{SpTA04 4.2}[6]
Every true follower of Christ has a work to do. God has given to every man his work. A few are now pointing to the roll of fast fulfilling prophecy, and proclaiming, Get ready, show your obedience to God by keeping his commandments. This is not time for the messengers of God to stop to prop up those who know the truth, and who have every advantage. Let them go on to lift the standard and give the warning, “Behold, the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him.” Many who?hear the message—by far the greatest number—will not credit the solemn warning. Many will be found disloyal to the commandments of God, which are a test of character. The Lord’s servants will be called enthusiasts. Ministers will warn the people not to listen to them. Noah received the same treatment while the Spirit of God was urging him to give the message, whether men would hear, or whether they would forbear.{SpTA04 4.3}[7]
Come when it may, the advent of Christ will surprise the false teachers, who are saying, Peace and safety; all things continue as they were from the beginning. Thus saith the Word of Inspiration, “Sudden destruction cometh upon them.” The day of God shall come as a snare upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. It comes to them as a prowling thief. “If the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.” Habitual watching is our only safety. We must be ever ready, that that day may not overtake us as a thief.{SpTA04 5.1}[8]
Let every one who loves God consider that now, while it is day, is the time to work, not among the sheep already in the fold, but to go out in search of the lost and perishing ones. These need to have special help to bring them back to the fold. Now is the time for the careless to arouse from their slumber. Now is the time to entreat that souls shall not only hear the word of God, but without delay secure oil in their vessels with their lamps. That oil is the righteousness of Christ. It represents character, and character is not transferable. No man can secure it for another. Each must obtain for himself a character purified from every stain of sin.{SpTA04 5.2}[9]
The Lord is coming in power and great glory. It will then be his work to make a complete separation between the righteous and the wicked. But the oil cannot then?be transferred to the vessels of those who have it not. Then shall be fulfilled the words of Christ, “Two women shall be grinding together; the one shall be taken, and the other left. Two men shall be in the field; the one shall be taken, and the other left.” The righteous and the wicked are to be associated together in the work of life. But the Lord reads the character, he discerns who are obedient children, who respect and love his commandments.{SpTA04 5.3}[10]
The looker-on may discern no difference, but there is One who said that the tares were not to be plucked up by human hands, lest the wheat be rooted up also. Let both grow together until the harvest. Then the Lord sends forth his reapers to gather out the tares, and binds them in bundles to burn, while the wheat is gathered into the heavenly garner. The time of the judgment is a most solemn period, when the Lord gathers his own from among the tares. Those who have been members of the same family are separated. A mark is placed upon the righteous. “They shall be mine, saith the Lord of hosts, in that day when I make up my jewels; and I will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” Those who have been obedient to God’s commandments, will unite with the company of the saints in light; they shall enter in through the gates into the city, and have right to the tree of life. The one shall be taken. His name shall stand in the Book of Life, while those with whom he associated shall have the mark of eternal separation from God.{SpTA04 6.1}[11]
The tares and wheat are now commingled, but then the one Hand that alone can separate them will give to every one his true position. Those who have had the light of truth, and heard the warning message, heard the invitation to the marriage supper,—farmer, merchant, lawyer, false shepherds who have quieted the convictions of the people, unfaithful watchmen who have not sounded the warning or known the time of night,—all who have refused obedience to the laws of the kingdom of God, will have no right therein. Those who have sought an excuse to avoid the cross of separation from the world, will, with the world, be taken in the snare. They mingled with the tares from choice. Like drew to like in transgression. It is a fearful assimilation. Men choose to stand with the first rebel, who tempted Adam and Eve in Eden to disobey God. The tares multiply themselves, for they sow tares, and they have their part with the root of all sin—the devil.{SpTA04 6.2}[12]
Upon those who keep the commandments of God the benediction is pronounced: “Blessed are they that do his commandments, that they may have right to the tree of life, and may enter in through the gates into the city.” They are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people;” that they should show forth the praises of him who hath called us out of darkness into his marvelous light. The obedient are called the just; they are drawn to the holy magnet, Jesus Christ; the holy attracts the holy. He that is unjust will be unjust still. Character cannot then be made or transformed. The oil of grace cannot be lent by one to another, neither have the foolish virgins time to buy oil for themselves. The righteous are those who keep the commandments of God, and they will be forever separated from the disobedient and unrighteous, who trampled under foot the law of God. The pure ore and the dross will no longer commingle.{SpTA04 7.1}[13]
“Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his Lord hath made ruler over his household?” Can we answer? Am I the steward, faithful to the sacred trust which is committed to me? To every man is given an individual responsibility. The watchmen have their specific work to discern the approach of danger, and sound the note of warning. The soldiers of the cross of Christ are to have ears keen to hear. In their position of responsibility they are to give the trumpet a certain sound, that every one may gird on the armor for action.{SpTA04 7.2}[14]
What work are we individually doing for the Master? Who are unfolding the truth to those who are in the darkness of error? Who are holding forth the words of life? The enemies of Christ are many, who, while they claim to be righteous, have not the righteousness of Christ. They disguise themselves as angels of light, but they are ministers of sin. This fact should be sufficient to stir every soul to action. Who are faithful stewards of the grace of Christ? Who are making wise division of labor, calling into active service every soul that has an intelligent knowledge of the truth, and giving to all a work to do?{SpTA04 8.1}[15]
The outposts are to be kept guarded. There are to be men to hold the fort, while the advancing forces are engaged in active warfare. To every man is given his work. We are not to echo the words of those in error, but to inculcate ideas of truth; our work is to benefit our fellow-men, we are not to travel over the track of opponents to the truth, but to sound the message of the third angel, who is flying in the midst of heaven, proclaiming the note of warning, the commandments of God, and the testimony of Jesus Christ.{SpTA04 8.2}[16]
Those who are “do-nothings” now, will have the superscription upon them, “Weighed in the balance, and found wanting.” They knew their Master’s will, but did it not. They had the light of truth, they had every advantage, but chose their own selfish interests, and they will be left with those whom they did not try to save. “But and if that evil servant shall say in his heart, My Lord delayeth his coming; and shall begin?to smite his fellow servants, and to eat and drink with the drunken; the Lord of that servant shall come in a day when he looketh not for him, and in an hour that he is not aware of, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint him his portion with the hypocrites: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”{SpTA04 8.3}[17]
Let there be an earnest consideration of these words. Let none say, “That does not mean me; I am a Christian.” Who says this, yourself, or he who reads the heart? The unfaithful steward had solemn responsibilities entrusted to him; before the world be appeared as a servant of Christ, but O, how deplorable for himself, and for all connected with him, he is an evil servant! He is imperiling his Lord’s goods. He is teaching souls to trample upon the holy law of God. He calls Christ, My Lord. But he says, “My Lord delayeth his coming.” He does not say that Christ will not come; he does not scoff at the idea of his second coming; but he tells the people that his coming is delayed. He is removing from the minds of others the conviction that the Lord is coming quickly. His influence leads men to presumptuous, careless delay. Thus they are off their watch and they echo the words of the unfaithful watcher; still others catch them up, and the evil spirit, and men are confirmed in their worldliness and stupor. Their course is downward, not upward; they are not looking for and hasting unto the day of God. Earthly passions, corrupt thoughts, take possession of the mind.{SpTA04 9.1}[18]
The evil servant smites his fellow-servants who are seeking to do the will of his Lord. He eats and drinks with the drunken, those who are carnally minded, notwithstanding their profession of Christianity. They are opposed to Christ and the work he came to our world to do, which was to live the law of God in humanity, to be an example to all humanity.{SpTA04 9.2}[19]
Christ was surrounded by his disciples, and a vast?congregation were listening to his words when he said, “Take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and the cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.” “Let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall.”{SpTA04 9.3}[20]
【A Sanitarium Chapel】
I have received from _____ a letter of inquiry in reference to the building of a chapel for the Sanitarium. I have written him that this proposition appears to me consistent; years ago I was shown that such a building should be erected. The teaching in the Tabernacle is often too strong for babes. It is such advanced truth as is appropriate for those who have progressed step by step, but is not suited to those who have not a knowledge of the truth. The doctrinal discourses are not of a character to melt and subdue the heart. These souls need to be taught of Jesus Christ and him crucified, of the sanctification of soul, body, and spirit, of the amazing love of God. In the simplicity and meekness and lowliness of Christ let the word be spoken. The seekers after truth will inquire to know the reasons of our faith; they will desire that lessons be given upon the Sabbath question, and then the truth can be unfolded to them gradually as they are able to bear it. All who have a knowledge of the truth should realize their responsibility, and be exceedingly careful to make straight paths for their own feet, lest the lame be turned out of the way.{SpTA04 10.1}[21]
The very fact of having a church in connection with the Sanitarium will give character to our work. It will be a testimony that we are seeking the eternal good of all who are brought within the sphere of our influence. The Sanitarium presents a vineyard to be worked; it?is God’s vineyard, and it needs consecrated ability. Let not pharisaism prevail. There are plenty of subjects to dwell upon to win hearts, and wisdom should be exercised by every teacher. All should remember that they are addressing people who have no knowledge of the third angel’s message. It is Greek to them. Let those who have any part in connection with the Sanitarium speak and act circumspectly.{SpTA04 10.2}[22]
“Continue in prayer, and watch in the same with thanksgiving; withal praying also for us, that God would open unto us a door of utterance, to speak the mystery of Christ, for which I am also in bonds: that I may make it manifest, as I ought to speak. Walk in wisdom toward them that are without, redeeming the time. Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.”{SpTA04 11.1}[23]
Precious, precious words! Let your speech be always with grace, seasoned with salt, which has preserving qualities. Let the believers be sober, and watch unto prayer, and in everything represent Christ, that in the Judgment they may meet the souls with whom they have been associated, and say, I have done for these souls all that I could do. The love of Christ dwelling in the heart will be revealed in the spirit and temper. The heavenly, sanctifying power can be indeed a savor of life unto life, quelling every tumultuous passion, and winning souls to Christ.{SpTA04 11.2}[24]
O that love, the love of Jesus, might well up in the soul like a stream in the desert, refreshing all, and winning many to the cross of Calvary! “And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shalt be like a watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fail not.” Let those who make the outlay of means to build a house for God have proportionate zeal?in winning souls to know God and Jesus Christ whom he hath sent.{SpTA04 11.3}[25]
Brother _____, we should give much more labor to the souls that are out of Christ, the souls that have not the truth. Can we not consider that all who are disloyal to God and transgressing his holy law, shall have no place in the paradise of God? How earnest should be the human agent that the truth in all its purity shall be proclaimed in cities, in villages, from the rivers to the ends of the earth God help his people to awake, and give the trumpet a certain sound!{SpTA04 12.1}[26]
(Avondale, Cooranbong, N.S.W., Australia,August 28, 1895.)
Dear Brother,You make inquiry in reference to building a chapel for the Sanitarium to accommodate, those who wish to attend religious services. The reasons you give in favor of building a chapel are sound. Years ago I was shown that such a building would be a great help. Your patrons are mostly those not of our faith, and if anything can be done to interest them in religious things, it will be well. While there have been altogether too many buildings piled up at Battle Creek, which has meant simply robbery of other localities, yet I would not discourage the building of a chapel. A Sanitarium, where people come from all parts of the world, is a missionary field in the highest sense, and a place of worship would be the means of drawing in some souls. I cannot see why the erection of such a building would not be to the honor of God, even though years have passed when it should have been done.{SpTA04 12.2}[27]
True, there is the Tabernacle, which is crowded every Sabbath. Why, some will say, will not that answer for all purposes? Why not let the people out and hear at the place of meeting? I answer that many?would not go there at all, and those who might attend occasionally would not hear the things most appropriate for persons who are not of our faith; they do not understand the doctrines presented. If you have a place of meeting connected with the Sanitarium, many will step in to while away the time, and discourses should be given appropriate for those who have not a knowledge of the truth. I have been surprised that such a building was not erected long ago. It is really a missionary enterprise. The chapel connected with the Sanitarium at St. Helena, Cal., has been a great blessing.{SpTA04 12.3}[28]
But I thought as I read in your letter that such a building would cost only $-----. O, if we could get such a house in some of our cities that have nothing, how glad we would be! But the patronage of the Sanitarium would, it appears to me, justify the investment of means in a house for God’s worship where invalids would be accommodated without having to leave the buildings. They would realize much greater good from the services in such a place. I hope that none will consider these words as contradictory to the former testimonies I have borne, and feel at liberty to disregard the light that God has given. This counsel is in harmony with that light. Those who visit the Sanitarium will see that it is a place where God is honored and worshiped, and many souls may hear the word of life, the precious truth of God, that otherwise might never hear the truth. The sick and suffering ones should have every advantage possible in religious facilities, to win them away from the attractions of Satan, to Jesus Christ. In the chapel let the words of truth be spoken, and the Scriptures be opened to the people in simplicity. Reach the people with the gospel where they are. Jesus will be with you to impress minds and hearts. Nothing should be left undone that can be done to relieve these afflicted souls, and win them to Jesus.{SpTA04 13.1}[29]
【Proper Education】
(Avondale, Cooranbong, N. S. W., Australia,Augst 27, 1895.)
Dear Brother and Sister,The students of our manual training school at this place are doing their best to follow the light God has given, to combine with mental training the proper use of brain and muscle. Thus far the results have exceeded our expectations. At the close of the first term, which was regarded as an experiment, opportunity was given for the students to have their vacation, and engage in whatever work they chose to do. But every one begged that the second might be continued as before, with manual labor each day, combined with certain hours of study. The students did not want to give up the present opportunity of learning how to labor and how to study. If this is their choice under the most disadvantageous circumstances, what influence will it have when the school buildings are up, and there are more favorable surroundings for the students?{SpTA04 14.1}[30]
The building they now occupy, the only one at all fit for the purpose, was an old hotel which we rented, and are using to its fullest capacity. Four tents pitched in an adjoining paddock are also occupied by students. Every morning at six o’clock the members of the school are called together for morning worship and Bible study. These occasions have proved a blessing....{SpTA04 14.2}[31]
I spoke to the students eight mornings. The Lord Jesus was indeed in our assembly. The congregation averaged from twenty-six to thirty. In the first meetings the spirit of intercession came upon me, and all were sensible that the Lord heard our prayers. Then I spoke about thirty minutes, and the Lord gave me words for those assembled. These seasons were most profitable; the testimonies of the students following?gave evidence that the Holy Spirit was giving to all glimpses of the things of God. The spiritual impressions became more marked as the meetings progressed. The divine presence was with us. The sympathies and sentiments of those present became inspired with power and favor. Hearts were susceptible to the influence of the Holy Spirit, and decided changes were wrought in minds and character. The Spirit of God was working upon human agents. I praise the Lord for the encouraging influence of his Spirit upon my own heart. We all felt that the Lord was cooperating with us to lead us to will, to resolve, and act.{SpTA04 14.3}[32]
The Lord does not propose to perform for us either the willing or the doing. This is our proper work. As soon as we earnestly enter upon the work, God’s grace is given to work in us to will and to do, but never as a substitute for our effort. Our souls are to be aroused to cooperate. The Holy Spirit works the human agent, to work out our own salvation. This is the practical lesson the Holy Spirit is striving to teach us. For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.{SpTA04 15.1}[33]
I never had a deeper sense of the precious truth and its power upon human minds than when addressing those students in the early meeting. Morning after morning I felt charged with a message from God. I also had special freedom in speaking twice upon the Sabbath. At every meeting several unbelievers were present, and they were much affected as the truth was presented. If we had a suitable place for meeting, we could invite the neighbors to come in. But our long, narrow dining-room crowded as closely as if packed, is not a very suitable place for worship. I am assigned a little space in the corner of the room, and am packed up close to the wall. Nevertheless, the Lord Jesus is in the assembly. We know it. Some souls are thinking?very seriously now upon the subject of the truth. We all know that the most severe and intense soul-struggles belong to the hour of the great resolve to act out the convictions upon the human heart. The consecration of the soul to God is committing the keeping of the soul to one who has purchased its freedom at an infinite price, and then we are to follow on to know the Lord, that we may know his goings forth are prepared as the morning. To obey is better than sacrifice. The whole work of the Christian is comprised in willing and doing.{SpTA04 15.2}[34]
【Proper Training】
The students work hard and faithfully. They are gaining in strength of nerve and in solidity as well as activity of muscles. This is the proper education, which will bring forth from our schools young men who are not weak and inefficient, who have not a one-sided education, but an all-round physical, mental, and moral training. The builders of character must not forget to lay the foundation which will make education of the greatest value. This will require self-sacrifice, but it must be done. The physical training will, if properly conducted, prepare for mental taxation. But the one alone always makes a deficient man. The physical taxation, combined with mental effort, keeps the mind and morals in a more healthful condition, and far better work is done. Under this training, students will come forth from our schools educated for practical life, able to put their intellectual capabilities to the best use. Physical and mental exercise must be combined if we would do justice to our students. We have been working on this plan here with complete satisfaction, notwithstanding the inconvenience under which students have to labor.{SpTA04 16.1}[35]
I came here and began work on my place so earnestly that it inspired all with fresh zeal, and they have been?working with a will, rejoicing that they have the privilege. We have provoked one another to zeal and good works. The school workers were afraid I would plant the first trees, and now both they and I have the satisfaction of having the first genuine orchards in this vicinity. Some of our trees will yield fruit next year, and the peaches will bear quite a crop in two years. Mr.-----, from whom we bought our trees, lives about twenty miles from here. He has an extensive and beautiful orchard. He says that we have splendid fruit land.{SpTA04 16.2}[36]
Well, the school has made an excellent beginning. The students are learning how to plant trees, strawberries, etc.; how they must keep every sprangle and fiber of the roots uncramped in order to give them a chance to grow. Is not this a most precious lesson as to how to treat the human mind, and the body as well? not to cramp any of the organs of the body, but give them ample room to do their work? The mind must be called out, its energies taxed. We want men and women who can be energized by the Spirit of God, to do a complete work under the Spirit’s guidance. But these minds must be cultivated, employed, not lazy and dwarfed by inaction. Just so men and women and children are wanted who will work the land, and use their tact and skill, not with a feeling that they are menials, but that they are doing just such noble work as God gave to Adam and Eve in Eden, who loved to see the miracles wrought by the divine husbandman. The human agent plants the seed, and God waters it, and causes his sun to shine upon it, and up springs the tiny blade. Here is the lesson God gives to us concerning the resurrection of the body, and the renewing of the heart. We are to learn of spiritual things from the development of the earthly.{SpTA04 17.1}[37]
【Proper Attitude Toward the Tilling of the Soil】
We are not to be put about and discouraged about temporal things because of apparent failures, nor should we be disheartened by delay. We should work the soil cheerfully, hopefully, gratefully, believing that the earth holds in her bosom rich stores for the faithful worker to garner, richer than gold or silver. The niggardliness laid to her charge is false witness. With proper, intelligent cultivation, the earth will yield its treasures for the benefit of man.{SpTA04 18.1}[38]
The Spiritual lessons to be learned are of no mean order. The seeds of truth sown in the soil of the heart will not all be lost, but will spring up, first the blade, then the ear, and then the corn in the ear. God said in the beginning, “Let the earth bring forth grass, the herb yielding seed, and the fruit-tree yielding fruit.” God created the seed as he did the earth, by the divine word. We are to exercise our reasoning powers in the cultivation of the earth, and to have faith in the word of God that has created the fruit of the earth for the service of man.{SpTA04 18.2}[39]
The cultivation of our lands requires the exercise of all the brain power and tact we possess. The lands around us testify to the indolence of men. We hope to arouse to action the dormant senses. We hope to see intelligent farmers, who will be rewarded for their earnest labor. The hand and heart must cooperate, bringing new and sensible plans into operation in the cultivation of the soil. We have here seen the giant trees felled and uprooted, we have seen the plowshare pressed into the earth, turning deep furrows for the planting of young trees and the sowing of the seed. The students are learning what plowing means, and that the hoe and the shovel, the rake and the harrow, are all implements of honorable and profitable industry. Mistakes will often?be made, but error lies close beside truth. Wisdom will be learned by failures, and the energy that will make a beginning, gives hope of success in the end. Hesitation will keep things back, precipitancy will alike retard, but all will serve as lessons if the human agents will have it so.{SpTA04 18.3}[40]
In the school that is started here in Cooranbong, we look to see real success in agricultural lines, combined with a study of the sciences. We mean for this place to be a center, from which shall irradiate light, precious advanced knowledge that shall result in the working of unimproved lands, so that hills and valleys shall blossom like the rose. For both children and men, labor combined with mental taxation will give the right kind of all-round education. The cultivation of the mind will bring tact and fresh incentives to the cultivation of the soil.{SpTA04 19.1}[41]
There will be a new presentation of men as breadwinners, possessing educated, trained ability to work the soil to advantage. Their minds will not be overtaxed and strained to the uttermost with the study of the sciences. Such men will break down the foolish sentiments that have prevailed in regard to manual labor. An influence will go forth, not in loud-voiced oratory, but in real inculcation of ideas. We shall see farmers who are not coarse and rough and slack, careless of their apparel and of the appearance of their homes; but they will bring taste into farmhouses. Rooms will be sunny and inviting. We shall not see blackened ceilings, covered with cloth full of dust and dirt. Science, genius, intelligence, will be manifest in the home. The cultivation of the soil will be regarded as elevating and ennobling. Pure, practical religion will be manifested in treating the earth as God’s treasure house. The more intelligent a man becomes, the more should religious influence be radiating from him. And?the Lord would have us treat the earth as a precious treasure, lent us in trust.{SpTA04 19.2}[42]
(Granville, N. S. W., Australia,September 13, 1895.)
There must certainly be a change in our ministers. In heart and character there must be more of Christ, and less of self. We are to be representatives of our Lord. Those who have had great light and precious opportunities are accountable to God, who has given to every man his work. They are never to betray the sacred trust, but are to be indeed the light of the world.{SpTA04 20.1}[43]
“Herein is love, not that we loved God, but that he loved us, and sent his Son to be the propitiation for our sins.” Here is language that expresses his mind toward a corrupt and idolatrous people: “How shall I give thee up, Ephraim? how shall I deliver thee, Israel? how shall I make thee as Admah? how shall I set thee as Zeboim? Mine heart is turned in me, my repentings are kindled together.” Must he give up the people for whom such a provision had been made, even his only begotten Son, the express image of himself? God permits his Son to be delivered up for our offenses. He himself assumes toward the Sin-bearer the character of a judge, divesting himself of the endearing qualities of a father.{SpTA04 20.2}[44]
Herein his love commends itself in the most marvelous manner to the rebellious race. What a sight for angels to behold! What a hope for man, “that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us”! The just suffered for the unjust; he bore our sins in his own body on the tree. “He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things?”{SpTA04 20.3}[45]
As witnesses chosen of God, do we value Christ’s purchased possession? Are we ready to make any and every sacrifice within our power, to place ourselves under Christ’s yoke, to cooperate with him, and to be laborers together with God? All who are bearing the test of God, obeying his commandments, love the perishing human race as Christ loved them. They follow the example of Christ in most earnest, self-sacrificing labor, to seek out in the highways and hedges the high and the low, the rich and the poor, and to bear to all the message that they are the objects of Christ’s special love and guardian care.{SpTA04 21.1}[46]
So great is the natural blindness and ignorance of men in regard to God and to the Saviour, that every one who loves Jesus may find work to do. Not one who has true love for Christ will remain indifferent and indolent. There is a marked difference between the character and life of those who are obedient to all the commandments of God, and of those who are disobedient.{SpTA04 21.2}[47]
Parents have not restrained the selfishness of their children. Self-indulgence has been the object of pursuit. Through self-serving, multitudes are bound in servitude to Satan. They are the slaves of their own impulses and passions, which are under the control of the wicked one. In calling them to his service, God offers them freedom. Obedience to God is liberty from the thraldom of sin, deliverance from human passion and impulse.{SpTA04 21.3}[48]
But we have to meet and contend with men who employ all their power in slandering those who are loyal to God. Their wit and their God-given reason are devoted to making it appear that obedience to the commandments of God is an irksome service. But those who advocate the claims of the law of God testify, “Great peace have they that love thy law, and nothing?shall offend them.” “The law of the Lord is perfect, converting the soul.” The Lord presents truth in contrast with error, and presents also the sure result of accepting truth, the experience that always follows willing obedience. It is peace and rest.{SpTA04 21.4}[49]
The work before the servants of God is to present Jesus. The work for the ministers of Christ is to hang their helpless souls upon his merit. Men who turn away from the path of obedience and make transgression of the law of God a virtue, are under the inspiration of the arch-deceiver. They are blinded by his power. They need to have before them a representation of what the truth can do in enabling men to preserve a Christlike temper when tempted to become imperious and impatient. The enemies of the truth want to provoke those who teach the binding claims of the law of God. If there is retaliation on our part, Satan’s hosts triumph. He has found a weak place in the armor. By their mean course of action, the agents of Satan try to tempt the advocates of truth to say and do things that will not be commendable.{SpTA04 22.1}[50]
【Treatment of Opposition】
Fine perceptions, nobility of soul, are to be cherished; the spirit of truth and righteousness is to control our deportment, our words, and our pens. “The natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” If the minister, when before his congregation, sees a disbelieving smile upon the faces of opponents, let him be as one who sees not. If any should be so impolite as to laugh and sneer, let not the minister, by voice or attitude, reflect the same spirit. Show that you handle no such weapons. The pen so often traces words that are sharp, and by repeating the statements of the advocates of error, our brethren sometimes give currency to the error. This is a mistake. Let your pen trace advanced truth.{SpTA04 22.2}[51]
The Holy Spirit does not work with men who love to be sharp and critical. That Spirit has been cherished in meeting debaters, and some have formed the habit of squaring for a combat. God is dishonored in this. Keep back the sharp thrusts; do not learn in Satan’s school his methods of warfare. The Holy Spirit does not inspire the words of censure. A time of trouble is before us, and every honest soul, who has not had the light of truth, will then take a stand for Christ. Those who believe the truth are to be newly converted every day. Then they will be vessels unto honor.{SpTA04 23.1}[52]
【Proper Manner of Meeting Opponents】
Do not repeat the words of your opponents, or enter into controversy with them. You meet not merely the men, but Satan and his angels. Christ did not bring against Satan a railing accusation concerning the body of Moses. If the world’s Redeemer, who understood the crooked, deceptive arts of Satan, durst not bring against him a railing accusation, but in holiness and humility said, “The Lord rebuke thee, O Satan,” is it not wise for his servants to follow his example? Will finite human beings take a course that Christ shunned because it would afford Satan occasion to pervert, misrepresent, and falsify the truth?{SpTA04 23.2}[53]
【Personalities to be Avoided】
In this period of the world’s history we have altogether too great a work, to begin a new kind of warfare in meeting the supernatural power of Satanic agencies. We must put aside personalities, however we may be tempted to take advantage of words or actions. In patience we must possess our souls. Brethren, make it manifest that you are wholly on the Lord’s side. Let?the truth of God’s holy word reveal transgression and sin, and manifest the sanctifying power of truth upon human hearts. A haughty spirit must not come in to mar the work of God. We have reason for gratitude to God every moment that we have the privilege of connecting with God.{SpTA04 23.3}[54]
There is need of contrition of soul every day, and the Lord declares the great advantages of every one who will humble his heart and hide in Jesus. “Thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in the high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones.” “To this man will I look, even to him that is poor and of a contrite spirit, and trembleth at my word. “The Lord is nigh unto them that are of a broken heart; and saveth such as be of a contrite spirit.” “This poor man cried, and the Lord heard him, and saved him out of all his troubles.” “The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.”{SpTA04 24.1}[55]
Let those who hate the law of the Lord rave and pour out their anathemas against such as have moral courage to receive and live the truth. The Lord is our strength. It is safe for us not to build up self, but to let the Lord work his will in and by and through us. Let us preserve a contrite, humble spirit, which the Lord will revive.{SpTA04 24.2}[56]
【Value of Counsel and Advice】
Self-esteem and self-flattery will be sure to stir up in the heart resentment against any who venture to question one’s course of action. Everything like counsel or advice is resented with indignation as a design to bruise and wound. This spirit cherished will lead to numerous evils. None will venture to tell you when you?err, because the faithful one would be regarded as an enemy. Thus the kindness that should exist between brethren in the faith, is killed, because of the jealous interpretation put upon the God-fearing cautions given. Undue stress is laid upon words, imagination exaggerates the matter and creates alienation.{SpTA04 24.3}[57]
Nevertheless we must not suffer wrong upon a brother. Self-sufficiency must be overcome. Love of applause must be seen as a snare. There is always danger of making grave blunders through conceit of our own wisdom and qualifications. Let these qualifications reveal their true value, and they will be appreciated.{SpTA04 25.1}[58]
【Spirit of Union and Equality Among the Laborers】
I am urged by the Spirit of God to counsel my brethren to unite with one another in labor. Love as brethren, be pitiful, be courteous, be true as steel to one another, but crush that feeling of superiority over your brother ministers which leads one to feel that he cannot link up with others in labor. No one man should feel that he must do the whole work. However experienced or well qualified he may be, there is need of other talents to unite with his. It is a mistake to think that one man’s train of thought will accomplish the work for all hearts in a religious effort. Men of different minds are needed, men whose hearts are tenderly led out to win souls. Different methods of labor are really essential in sowing the seeds of truth and gathering in the harvest. It is often the case that men of the humblest ability will reach hearts that have been steeled against another man’s labors. Much praying is essential. The soul’s drawing nigh to God in communion, means God’s drawing nigh to the soul that is seeking him. There needs to be greater devotion of heart and life in service to God.{SpTA04 25.2}[59]
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