 Since John the Baptist, the good news of the kingdom of God has been preached, and many are “forcing their way into it” (Luke 16:16).
John the Baptist was the forerunner, paving the road and preparing the people for Christ (Matthew 4:17, 11:11; Luke 1:17) and for the disciples (Matthew 10:7). Then, like the morning star before the sun, John diminished (John 3:30), and many wanted to enter the kingdom of God, including Pharisees and Sadducees, tax collectors, and soldiers (Matthew 3:7, Luke 3:12-14). The kingdom of God has been forcefully advancing (Matthew 11:12). Many desire to enter the kingdom of God and run away from their misery and from hell (Luke 10:42, Psalm 27:4). Once the opportunity to enter is gone, those remaining will not be spared from God’s wrath. No one can comprehend the power of God’s anger, so press earnestly, firmly, and steadily to try to get in. The path to get in is difficult to find (Matthew 7:14, Luke 13:24). Like searching for the hidden treasure (Proverbs 2:1-5), we must use our utmost energy (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Such desires depend on God giving our hearts the resolution. “To press” implies there will be barriers, opposition, and difficulty along the way. And devils will continue to distract and discourage us. But with God’s given earnest spirit, we can press on (Philippians 3:10-11). Look up to God and repent. God’s mercy is sufficient to enable us to enter His kingdom (Acts 8:22, 2 Timothy 2:25, Jonah 3:8-9). Be willing to sacrifice everything for His kingdom. Crucify our possessions, pride, and worldly wishes for the sake of your soul and salvation (Galatians 5:24; Luke 3:19; Matthew 14:3, 19:16-22). Forget your accomplishments. If we want to reminisce, we should reflect on our past mistakes (Jeremiah 2:23). Forge ahead for our salvation (Philippians 3:13-14). Persevere to the end. Don’t arouse God’s anger (1 Corinthians 10:22, Ezekiel 22:14). Since no one knows when He will return, use this time to press on towards the kingdom of God. A summary of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ylcKyZwiUIo 努力进入神的国 自施洗约翰以来，神国的好消息一直在被传扬，许多人努力要进去（路加福音 16:16）。 施洗约翰是先锋. 他为基督（马太福音 4:17、11:11; 路加福音 1:17）和门徒（马太福音 10:7）铺平道路, 做好准备。然后，约翰就像太阳出来之前的晨星一样消失了（约翰福音 3:30），而许多人因为他的事工想要进入神的国，包括法利赛人、撒都该人、税吏和士兵（马太福音 3:7，路加福音 3:12-14）。上帝的国一直在大力地推进（马太福音 11:12）。 许多人迫切渴望进入上帝的国，逃离苦难和地狱（路加福音 10:42，诗篇 27:4）。因为一旦进去的机会消失，剩下的人不会免于上帝的忿怒。没有人理解上帝愤怒的力量。所以要认真、坚定、稳定地努力进去。 进上帝之国的路很难找（马太福音7:14，路加福音13:24）. 要用最大的力量去寻找（传道书 9:10）像在搜索隐藏的宝藏（箴言 2:1-5）一样。 只有上帝将决心赐下，才会有这样的渴望。 努力意味着一路上定会有障碍、反对和困难。魔鬼会继续阻碍和分散我们的注意力。但凭着上帝所赐的恳切精神，要奋力前行（腓立比书 3:10-11）。 仰望上帝并悔改，祂的怜悯足以使我们进入上帝的国（使徒行传 8:22、2 提摩太后书 2:25、约拿书 3:8-9）。 要愿意为上帝的国牺牲一切。为了灵魂和救恩，将个人的财产、今生的骄傲、世俗的愿望都钉在十字架上（加拉太书 5:24; 路加福音 3:19; 马太福音 14:3，19:16-22）。 忘记过去的成就。如果我们想回忆往事，请记住过去的错误（耶利米书 2:23）。为了救恩向前迈进（腓立比书 3:13-14）。 竭尽全力坚持到底。 不要惹怒上帝（哥林多前书 10:22，以西结书 22:14）。 无人知道主何时再来，那就趁着今天向上帝的国度奋进吧。  Let’s understand some of Christ’s diverse characteristics.
Christ obeys, yet is equal to, the Father. All things depend on Christ, yet Christ is reliant on the Father (Luke 22:41; John 14:21, 15:10, 10:18; Hebrews 5:8; Philippians 2:8; Matthew 27:43; 1 Peter 2:23). Christ has infinite glory, majesty, and absolute sovereignty; He is worthy to have all the good, yet He descended on earth to live humbly, gently, and calmly; to serve the weak, lowly, and despicable; to patiently endure terrible suffering and humiliation; and to die on the cross (Proverbs 30:4; Job 11:8; James 2:5; 1 Corinthians 1:28, 5:7; Colossians 1:16-18, 3:11; Matthew 19:14, 11:29, 21:4-5, 11:29, 8:3, 26:39, 42; Philippians 2:6; John 5:23; Hebrews 1:6, 8, 6:15; Psalm 45:3, 22:14; John 5:17; 1 Peter 2:20-24; and Isaiah 53:7). Christ was born in a manger to poor parents and submitted to them for 30 years. He was born via the Holy Spirit, with power over Satan, as our Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, and the bright Morning Star (Luke 2:24, 1:35; Leviticus 5:7; Isaiah 9:6; Numbers 24:17; Revelation 22:16). Christ had no place to sleep, with his livelihood supported by female followers, yet He had power over nature, walking on water, calming the sea, casting demons to pigs, curing sickness, and raising the dead, with a voice from heaven proclaiming Him to be the beloved Son of the Father (Luke 9:58, 8:3; John 2:11; Job 9:8; Psalm 65:7, 107:29, 89:8-9; Matthew 17:1-3, 5; 2 Peter 1:16-17). Christ was treated as a criminal, delivered to His enemies, and forsaken by the Father and everyone, yet He gained complete victory and was exalted in the highest, with His name above all names, and received praises and glory from millions of angels (John 19:15; Luke 22:53, 23:34; Isaiah 53:10; Acts 2:23, 3:17, 2:36-37; Revelation 14:1, 5:9-12; Philippians 2:8-9; Colossians 2:14-15). At the last judgment, our merciful Christ will appear as the bridegroom to the church, inheriting the Kingdom with them forever. Yet earth and heaven will tremble before our just Christ (Revelation 20:11, Psalm 85:10, Romans 3:25-26). We should desire no other savior than Christ, who gently and humbly knocks at our door, waiting to invite us into the Father’s house; uniting us with God; to be our friend; defending us; to give us joy, rest and water of life; and to be exalted with us in His glory (Revelation 3:20, 22:16-17; Proverbs 8:4, 9:1-6; Isaiah 55:1-3, 31:4; John 17:21-24, 17:13, 20:17, 17:26-27; Matthew 11:28-30, 26:29; Luke 22:30; Galatians 4:4-6). Summarized from a sermon by Jonathan Edwards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R12Tlkm0Xb0 至高无上的基督 让我们了解基督的一些不同性格。 基督顺服天父，却与父神同等。 凡事都靠基督, 但祂完全依赖父神（路加福音 22:41；约翰福音 14:21, 15:10, 10:18；希伯来书 5:8；腓立比书 2： 8；马太福音 27:43；彼得前书 2:23）。 基督拥有无限的荣耀、威严和绝对的主权，配得一切美好；祂却降临人间， 谦卑、温柔、平静地生活， 服侍软弱的、卑微的和被人鄙视的人，耐心地忍受可怕的痛苦和屈辱，最后死在十字架上（箴言 30:4；约伯记 11:8；雅各书 2:5；哥林多前书 1:28, 5:7；歌罗西书 1:16-18, 3:11；马太福音 19:14, 11:29, 21:4 -5, 11:29, 8:3, 26:39, 42；腓立比书 2:6；约翰福音 5:23；希伯来书 1:6, 8, 6:15；诗篇 45:3, 22:14；约翰福音 5： 17；彼得前书 2:20-24；以赛亚书 53:7）。 基督出身贫寒，生在马槽里，顺服在地上的父母三十年；然而，祂是从圣灵而生，有胜过撒旦的能力，是我们的策士、全能的神、永在的父和明亮的晨星（路加福音 2:24、1:35；利未记 5:7；以赛亚书 9 :6；民数记 24:17；启示录 22:16）。 在地上基督没有枕头的地方，依靠女信徒的支持维持生计；却拥有超自然的能力，在水面上行走，使大海平静，将鬼魔赶到猪身上，治愈疾病，使死人复活，天上有声音宣告祂是天父的爱子（路加福音 9:58, 8:3 ；约翰福音 2:11；约伯记 9:8；诗篇 65:7、107:29、89:8-9；马太福音 17:1-3、5；彼得后书 1:16-17）。 基督被视为罪犯，被交给仇敌，也被天父和所有人离弃；却获得完全的胜利，被尊为至高，赐给超乎万有的名，从千万的天使那里得到赞美和荣耀（约翰福音 19:15；路加福音 22:53, 23:34；以赛亚书 53:10；使徒行传 2:23 , 3:17, 2:36-37；启示录 14:1, 5:9-12；腓立比书 2:8-9；歌罗西书 2:14-15)。 在最后的审判中，完全慈悲的基督将以新郎的身份出现在教会面前，与教会一同承受国度直到永远。然而，天地都将在全然公义的基督面前颤抖（启示录 20:11，诗篇 85:10，罗马书 3:25-26）。 除了基督，不应该渴望任何别的救主。 祂温柔谦卑地敲我们的门，等待着邀请我们进入天父的家，使我们与上帝合而为一。祂要做我们的朋友，保护我们，赐下欢乐、安息和生命之水；祂要与我们一同在祂的荣耀中被高举（启示录 3:20, 22:16-17; 箴言 8:4, 9:1-6; 以赛亚书 55:1-3, 31:4; 约翰福音 17:21-24、17:13、20:17、17:26-27；马太福音 11:28-30、26:29；路加福音 22:30；加拉太书 4:4-6）。  Examine your faith. Have you cast off duties, particularly difficult ones (Job 27:10), been swallowed up by worldly interest, developed inordinate affection for money or sensual enjoyment (Luke 14:26, 1 John 3:9), or shifted off the responsibility of doing what is right?
Earnestly watch, pray, and strive to be in His grace and not to fall into temptation. In light of your weakness and your powerful enemies, ask God to help us stand firm, particularly in times of trial (Acts 14:22, 11:23, 13:43; Luke 21:34, 36; Ephesians 6:13-14). Seek deeper roots (Ephesians 3:16-17) and bear fruit (2 King 19:30, Joshua 13:5-7). But many of us are like uncultivated ground, full of seeds and roots of thorns (Matthew 13:7, 22) that have never been plowed. The thorns grow spontaneously. Our worldly hearts—inordinate affections towards worldly pleasure (lust of the flesh), profits (lust of the eyes), and honor (pride of life)—choke off the words of God, so fruit cannot grow (Jeremiah 4:3, 1 John 2:15, 1 John 2:16, Mark 4:18-19, Luke 8:14). After the fall, hearts bring forth such thorns (Genesis 3:17-18). Intense worldly concern, affection and pursuits naturally grow. We focus on being superior to others, greed over gain, and carnal pleasures. Not knowing any better happiness, we pursue worldly things above all else. They become the idol we worship. Unfortunately, such naturally and spontaneously growing thorns are useless (Psalm 4:6), bearing no fruit (Isaiah 55:2, Jeremiah 17:11, Job 20:15), and ending in death (Romans 6:21). Furthermore, such pernicious growth wounds the soul, brings no peace nor rest (Ecclesiastes 5:12), and causes intense conflicts and pain among people (James 4:1, Micah 7:4, 2 Samuel 23:6-7). Our uncultivated ground needs to be plowed to create good soil (Matthew 13:7, Jeremiah 4:3). Conviction of our sins and repentance can break up our hardened hearts. See the vile nature of sin against God’s glory. Be convinced of the vanity of the world to break us from them. Deny ourselves and renounce our self-righteousness to kill the thorns. Then the seed of the gospel can flourish and bear abundant fruits. Summary of sermons by Jonathan Edwards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=De_4qb15wQQ 荆棘窒息上帝的话 当察验我们的信仰，省察自己是否放弃了职责, 例如那些特别困难的职责（约伯记 27:10），是否被世俗兴趣所吞噬，是否对金钱或肉体上的享受过分依恋（路加福音 14:26，约翰壹书 3:9）或者逃避做正確事情的責任？ 真诚地儆醒, 祷告，努力进入上帝的恩典中，不要陷入迷惑。鉴于自己的软弱和强大的敌人，我们当祈求神帮助站立得稳，尤其是在受试炼的时候（使徒行传 14:22, 11:23, 13:43；路加福音 21:34, 36；以弗所书 6:13-14 ）。向下扎更深的根基（以弗所书 3:16-17），向上结出佳美的果实（列王纪下19:30，约书亚记 13:5-7）。 但许多人的心就像荒地，满了荆棘的种子和杂根（马太福音 13:7, 22），从来没有被翻耕过。 荆棘会自发地生长蔓延。我们属世的心钟情于世俗的享乐（肉体的情欲）、个人的利益（眼目的情欲）和自己的尊荣（生命的骄傲）。这些都是窒息上帝話语的荆棘，因此果实不能生长（耶利米书 4:3，约翰壹书 2:15-16，马可福音 4:18-19，路加福音 8:14）。 人心在堕落之后长出这样的荆棘（创世记3：17-18）。对世俗的忧虑,热恋和追求自然而然地增长。人热衷于超越他人、贪婪利益以及肉体的快乐。当不知道更好的幸福时，便追求世界和世界上的情欲高于一切，使之成为崇拜的偶像。 不幸的是这种自然生长的荆棘毫无用处（诗篇 4:6），不会结出任何果实（以赛亚书 55:2，耶利米书 17:11，约伯记 20:15），最后只有以死亡告终（罗马书 6:21）。此外，这种有害的生长伤害人的灵魂，使他没有平安，不得休息（传道书 5:12），并且在人与人之间造成激烈的冲突和痛苦（雅各书 4:1，弥迦书 7:4，撒母耳记 23:6-7）。 未开垦的土地需要靠耕种变成良好的土壤（马太福音 13:7，耶利米书 4:3）。类似的，只有通过认罪悔改才能粉碎我们刚硬的心。让我们为上帝所憎恨的罪深感内疚，看清它们敌对上帝荣耀的邪恶本质，识破世界的虚荣，摆脱它的辖制. 舍弃自己，弃绝自以为义，摧毁心里的荆棘，这样福音的种子才能发旺生长，结出丰硕的果实。  Many seek wisdom, but our wisdom cannot lead us to God. Our redemption depends entirely on Him, so that no one can boast (1 Corinthians 1:29-31). Instead, God is glorified in our dependence.
First, the redeemed absolutely depend on God; He is the source of all the good in the redeemed. Redemption is from God. The Father gave us Christ and has accepted Christ’s life for ours. God is not obligated to redeem us; He could have rejected us like He did the fallen angels. Our redemption is God’s grace, a gift that we cannot repay. Our faith in God is also from God (Ephesians 2:8). God gives us wisdom to know Him. We are considered good and holy before God because of God. (1 Corinthians 1:29-31). We are reborn, like being raised from the dead, through the redemption (Ephesians 1:19, 2:10, 5:24; 2 Corinthians 5:17). We are given the Holy Spirit, as promise by the Father, enabling Christ to be in us (1 Corinthians 1:29-31). With the Holy Spirit in us, rivers of living water will flow from us. The Holy Spirit also serves as a deposit, guaranteeing what is to come (Galatians 3:13-14; Luke 24:49; Ephesians 1:13; John 4:14, 7:38-39; Revelation 2:1; 2 Corinthians 1:22). We are preserved and protected by God (1 Peter 1:5). We are sufficient because of God (2 Corinthians 4:7). He is not just the source of all that is good, but the medium through whom we receive it. Through Christ, our mediator provided by Father, we receive our redemption (Hebrews 7:27, 9:26), and we are reborn, becoming good (2 Corinthians 5:21, 1 Corinthians 8:6). God is not just the purchaser, He also has paid the price with the ultimate sacrifice. Not just the source of all good and the medium to get them, God is the good itself. Everything good that sustains us and brings us joy—such as food, health, etc.—is in God. All that is good within us—the excellency of our soul, our divine nature, our holiness, and our happiness—comes from God, who resides in us as the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 1:4, Hebrews 12:10). Second, God is glorified in the work of our redemption. The more we depend on God, the more we see God and God’s glory. We see God’s greatness and our nothingness. So, we must rely on God alone for our redemption. Trust Him absolutely. Praise and exalt God alone. Ascribe all glory to God. Summary of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gbQQtpoIwMM 上帝从人的倚赖得荣耀 许多人寻求智慧，但人的智慧无法将他引到上帝那里。救赎完全取决于上帝， 因此没有人可以自夸。 相反地，上帝从我们的倚赖而得荣耀 (哥林多前书 1:29-31)。 首先，被救赎的人绝对倚赖上帝。 上帝是被赎者一切美好的源头。 救赎来自上帝。父神将基督赐给我们，以基督的生命代替我们的生命。上帝没有义务救赎我们，原本可以拒绝我们像拒绝堕落的天使一样。救赎是上帝的恩典，是我们无法偿还的礼物。 人对上帝的信心也来自祂（以弗所书2：8）。上帝赐人智慧来认识祂。因为上帝，我们在祂面前被认为是良善和圣洁的 (哥林多前书 1:29-31）。 我们籍着救赎得以重生，就像从死里复活一样（以弗所书 1:19、2:10、5:24；哥林多后书 5:17）。 我们被赐予圣灵，就是天父所应许的圣灵，使基督能在我们里面（哥林多前书 1:29-31）。有了圣灵在里面，活水的江河就会从中流出。圣灵也作为凭据，保证将要发生的事（加拉太书 3:13-14；路加福音 24:49；以弗所书 1:13；约翰福音 4:14,7:38-39；启示录 2:1；哥林多后书 1:22）。 上帝一直在托住我们，保护我们（彼得前书 1：5）。我们因为上帝而充充足足（哥林多后书4：7）。 上帝不只是一切美善的源头，还是获得美善的唯一渠道。 我们籍着父神所提供的中保基督得到救赎（希伯来书 7:27, 9:26），重生成为良善的人（哥林多后书 5:21, 哥林多前书 8:6）。上帝不只是买主，祂也付出最终的牺牲作为代价。 上帝不只是获得一切美善的源头和渠道，祂就是美善的本身。 在我们之外带来快乐的一切美好事物，例如食物、健康等，都在上帝里面。在我们内里所有的美好，灵魂的卓越、神圣的本性、圣洁和幸福，也都在上帝里面（彼得后书1：4，希伯来书12：10）。 其次，上帝在救赎我们的工作上得着荣耀。 我们越倚靠上帝，就越能看见上帝和祂的荣耀，看见上帝的伟大浩瀚以及自己的虚无渺小。 所以，必须单单倚靠上帝的救赎，完全绝对地相信上帝，唯独赞美和高举祂，将一切荣耀归于祂。  Our sovereign God decides to whom He wants to give mercy. For example, He picked Isaac over Ishmael. He hardened Pharaoh. He chose Jacob over Esau before the twins were born. God bestows or denies as He pleases (Romans 9:9-18).
His divine will and pleasure also determine the salvation of humans. For those rejected by God, He withholds His Spirit from them, leaving them in their own ways. Christ ignored the rich and intelligent, such as the knowledgeable and religious Pharisees. Though they had seen His miracles and heard His teachings, they hardened their hearts to Him. God was obligated to keep His word and condemn them. Those elected to be saved go to the Father through Christ. They may be wicked, but their salvation does not compromise His words, holiness, majesty, truth, justice, goodness, mercy, and faithfulness. Through Christ, Father can save the greatest sinners without approving their wickedness. Father bestows salvation to the poor and foolish, the corrupted tax collectors, the prostitutes, the criminal next to Christ on the cross, and some hearing Christ’s teachings only once (Romans 9:23, 1 Corinthians 1:26-31). God chose to give the Jews the opportunities of His grace, leaving to perish gentiles, like the Egyptians, Persians, Greeks, and Romans. But when the Jews rejected the Messiah, Father replaced them with other nations (Deuteronomy 7:7, Malachi 1:2-3). So, for those saved, be humble and praise God. Out of His sovereign pleasure, He chose them before they were born. One’s salvation and righteousness depend on His will and sovereignty (Deuteronomy 32:39, Psalm 115:3, Daniel 4:34-35, Matthew 11:25, 1 Corinthians 1:29-31, 6:9,11). But don’t count on God’s mercy and continue to sin. Beware that salvation is not under our control, though Father is bound by His word that anyone can go to Him through Christ (Hebrews6:13-20, 3:15). On the other hand, don’t be discouraged because of your wickedness. God can bestow salvation to the worst without compromising any of His attributes. God designs creation to glorify Himself and manifest His glory in all His characteristics, including His holiness, wisdom, mercy, justice, and sovereignty. It pleases God to exercise His sovereignty and bestow salvation. Glorifying Himself in our salvation pleases Him greatly. Summary of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lr5DfgaIe1I 神在救恩中的主权 至高无上的上帝决定祂要怜悯谁就怜悯谁。例如祂拣选以撒而不是以实玛利，祂使法老刚硬，在双胞胎出生之前祂拣选雅各而不是以扫。上帝随心所欲地赐予或拒绝（罗马书 9:9-18）。 祂的神圣意志和喜悦也决定了人的救恩。 对于那些被弃绝的人，祂保留祂的灵不给他们，让他们偏行己路。基督选择忽略富有和聪明人，例如那些知识渊博和虔诚的法利赛人。他们中的许多人虽然见过基督的神迹，听过祂的教导，却不理会祂，导致他们的心更加刚硬。上帝需要信守祂的话语, 定他们的罪。 那些被拣选得救的人藉着基督到父神那里去。虽然他们可能是邪恶的，但他们的救恩并没有妥协上帝的话语、祂的圣洁、威严、真理、公义、良善、怜悯和信实。藉着基督，天父可以拯救最大的罪人而无需认可他们的邪恶。天父将救恩赐给贫穷愚拙之人、腐败的税吏、被人蔑视的妓女、十字架上钉在基督旁边的罪犯以及有些只听过一次基督教导的人（罗马书 9：23，哥林多前书 1：26-31）。 神拣选犹太人，给他们施恩的机会，让外邦人灭亡，如埃及人、波斯人、希腊人和罗马人。但当犹太人拒绝弥赛亚时，天父便用其它国家代替犹太人（申命记7：7，玛拉基书1：2-3）。 所以，对于那些得救的人，要心存谦卑，敬拜赞美上帝。 上帝出于至高无上的喜悦，在出生之前已经选择了他们。 一个人的救恩和公义取决于祂的旨意和主宰。（申命记 32：39; 诗篇 115：3; 但以理书 4：34-35; 马太福音 11：25; 哥林多前书 1：29-31，6：9,11）。 但不要指望上帝的怜悯而继续犯罪。救恩不在我们的控制之下, 虽然天父受自己话语约束, 任何人都可以藉着基督进到祂那里（希伯来书 6:13-20, 3:15）。 另一方面，不要因为你的邪恶而气馁。上帝可以在不妥协祂任何属性的情况下将救恩赐给最坏的人。 上帝设计创造来荣耀祂自己，并在祂所有的特征中彰显祂的荣耀，包括祂的圣洁、智慧、怜悯、公义和主权。上帝喜欢行使祂的主权赐下救恩，祂也非常乐意在我们的救恩中荣耀自己。  Our God is truly mighty. Unlike impotent idols, He knows we are weak and needy, and He hears and answers our prayer requests (Psalms 65:2, 1 Corinthians 8:4). For example, God granted Jacob safety from Esau (Genesis 32:7-12) and Moses safety from Egypt; He gave Samson water and later strength after he was blinded (Judges 16:25-30); He empowered Joshua to stop the sun (Joshua 10:12-14); and He enabled Elijah to stop the rain (1 King 17-18).
Because of His infinite grace and mercy, we—the worthless—can boldly and confidently go to Him for everything we need. God likes to hear from us, particularly if we are righteous (Hebrew 4:16, Song of Solomon 2:14, James 5:16). Prayer acknowledges our dependance on His power and prepares us to give Him glory. God commands us to pray. He requires prayers to bestow mercy. Though He knows our needs, He wants to appear to be swayed by our prayers, acting in response to them (Proverbs 2:1-5, James 1:5, Acts 8:22). We are instructed to ask the Father through Christ, our mediator at His right hand. Christ’s obedience to Him has atoned for our sins and earned us His ears (Revelation 8:3-4, Luke 1:10). But God doesn’t answer requests with wrong motives, such as those born from pride or selfishness. These requests, if granted, can become our idols, later used to oppose Him. Insincere requests also are ineffective, such as asking God to purge our sins while indulging in them, or or asking humbly while being arrogant inside (James 4:3). And He won’t listen to requests not good for us. He knows what is best and will give much more than our requests (Isaiah 65:24, Habakkuk 2:3, James 1:5-6, Psalm 86:5, Romans 10:12, 1 King 3:10-13, Ephesians 3:20). Ask and it will be given to you. Don’t be anxious about anything. Give God no rest till He answers your requests, like Jacob not letting God go till getting His blessing, or the blind man shouting for Christ till Christ responded (Matthew 7:7; Luke 18:1-8, 35-43; Luke 11:5-8; Philippians 4:6-7). So, alertly, persistently, and earnestly pray at all times, without ceasing. Don’t give up. God answers prayers. Summary of a Jonathan Edwards’ sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzoKCj6r4Ig 聆听并应允祷告的神 上帝是全能的主，与一切无能的偶像不同。 祂知道我们的软弱和需要，聆听并应允我们的祈求 (诗篇 65:2, 哥林多前书 8:4)。祂聆听雅各的祷告, 保护他免受以扫的伤害（创世记 32:7-12）；祂聆听摩西的祷告, 保护他对抗埃及；祂聆听参孙的祷告, 赐给他泉水和失明后的力量（士师记 16:25-30）；祂聆听约书亚的祷告, 停止太阳的转动（约书亚记 10:12-14）；祂聆听以利亚的祷告, 使天停止下雨（列王纪上17-18）。 因为上帝无限的恩典和怜悯，我们这些毫无价值的人也可以坦然无惧，大有信心地为一切所需来祈求。上帝喜欢听到信徒祈求的声音，特别当我们行事公义的时候(希伯来书 4:16, 雅歌 2:14, 雅各书 5:16)。 祷告承认信徒依赖上帝的能力，预备将荣耀归给祂。 上帝命令我们祷告。祂要求信徒祈祷，好使自己赐下怜悯。虽然上帝知道人的需要，但祂希望看起来似乎被祈祷所影响，因祈祷而行动 (箴言 2:1-5, 雅各书 1:5, 使徒行传 8:22)。 此外，当籍着基督祈求天父。 基督在上帝的右边作中保。祂顺从天父为世人舍命赎罪，使天父的耳能垂听我们的祈祷 (启示录 8:3-4, 路加福音 1:10)。 但上帝不会应允怀着错误动机的祈求，例如那些出于骄傲和自私的祷告。如果祂满足这样的请求，这些蒙应允的事可以成为偶像，以后被用来敌对祂。 上帝也不听虚伪的祈求，例如在沉迷于罪中的同时祈求上帝清除自己的罪，或者虽然外面的祷告谦卑，内心是狂妄自大 (雅各书 4:3). 如果所求的对人不利，祂也不会应允。上帝知道什么是最好的，祂赐下的超过我们所求所想 (以赛亚书 65:24, 哈巴谷书 2:3, 雅各书 1:5-6, 诗篇 86:5, 罗马书 10:12, 列王纪上 3:10-13, 以弗所书 3:20)。 祈求就给你们。应当一无挂虑，不住地祷告，不让神休息，直到祂回达祈求，就像雅各不让神离开，直至得到祂的祝福；又好像那瞎子不断呼叫基督，直到祂回应自己 (马太福音 7:7; 路加福音 18:1-8,35-43; 路加福音 11:5-8, 腓立比书 4:6-7)。 总而言之，当时常警醒, 坚持不懈, 并认真恳切地不住祷告。 不要放弃，上帝是聆听并应允祷告的主。  Time is precious. Once gone, it can’t be recovered, and we are never guaranteed more of it. Though we see no signs of approaching death, today may be our last (Job 16:22, 9:25-26; James 4:14). Nothing is more precious than time, and yet we waste it like nothing else.
Don’t waste time because God is near (Isaiah 55:6, 2 Corinthians 6:2). Don’t waste time on meaningless or useless things. Don’t be lazy and merely talk, having nothing to share with those in need. (Proverbs 19:15, 23:21, 14:23, 18:9; Ephesians 4:28). Don’t spend time on evil things, hurting yourself and others, increasing eternal misery and damnation. Don’t spend time only in worldly pursuits, neglecting your soul and eternity. What do we really gain from pursuing the world? This time is for the eternity that follows it. Our welfare depends on how wisely we use our time. Have we filled our time with eternal good? We are accountable to God for our words, deeds, and how we have used our time, because we are God’s servants (Matthew 12:36). When God asks for an account of our time, what can we give? Have we made the best use of it for God and for our soul? So, hasten and don’t delay obeying God (Psalm 119:60). Make the most of our opportunities, particularly those more important for our eternal life. This includes Sunday public worship in communion with God and His words. We should use time not just for ourselves, but also to rescue others from their evil ways. So, God may defer anger, allowing such people to be redeemed from destruction. Work is good, but so is rest and recreation. Use them to refresh for the work you are called to do. In any case, we may have already wasted a lot of our time. As we get older, our opportunity, availability, and ability to do good diminish. It will be too late if our eyes are finally opened on our death beds. Even worse, if after death we end up in the fire of hell, then we will be left only with sorrow and regrets. Whether we are young or old, we should diligently redeem time. Make the most of every opportunity (Ephesians 5:16). Use time to prepare for our eternity. Beware that the day of judgment is coming soon (Revelation 10:5-6). Summary of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mt6XUf5ikfQ 赎回时间 时间宝贵，一去不复返。 无人能确定自己还有明天。虽然没有看到死亡濒临的迹象，但今天可能就是最后的一天 (约伯记 16:22, 9:25-26; 雅各书 4:14). 没有什么比时间更为宝贵，然而浪费最多的就是时间。 不要浪费现今的时光, 亲近上帝吧，因为我们能与祂相近 (以赛亚书 55:6, 哥林多后书 6:2)。 不要把时间浪费在无意义或无用之处。 不要懒惰，不要嘴上多言浪费时间，以致没有什么可以与有需要的人分享 (箴言 19:15, 23:21, 14:23, 18:9; 以弗所书 4:28)。 不要把时间花在邪恶的事情上：不要伤人害己为自己增加永恒的痛苦和诅咒。 不要只把时间花在世俗的追求上而忽视自己的灵魂和永恒。从世俗追求中真正得到什么呢？如今的时光当为以后的永恒来准备。 人的福祉取决于如何智慧地使用时间。将时间投资倾注在永恒的事物上了吗？ 每个人都要为自己的言行和如何利用时间向上帝负责，因为我们是祂的仆人 (马太福音 12:36)。当上帝要求对过去的时间交代时，如何回答呢？是否为了上帝和自己的灵魂充分地利用好时间呢? 所以要快快地遵守上帝的命令，不要再拖延 (诗篇 119:60)。充分利用现今宝贵的机会，尤其那些对自己永生更为重要的机会，包括与上帝和祂的话语相交的主日敬拜。 不仅将时间用于自己身上，还应该用时间将他人从邪恶中拯救出来。 这样上帝就可以延迟祂的忿怒，使这些人有机会从毁灭中得到救赎。 工作固然是一件美事，但也需要休息和娱乐。 让休息和娱乐使我们重新得力，去做蒙召要做的事。 可能已经浪费了很多时间. 随着年龄增长，每个人的机会、可用的时间和作善工的能力也不断地减少。 如果在临终前才睁开眼睛领会明白那就太晚了。更糟糕的是如果死后最终落入地狱之火中，剩下的只有永远的悲伤和遗憾了。 因此无论年轻还是年老，殷勤努力地赎回时间吧。 当爱惜光阴，利用尚存的时间为永恒作准备(以弗所书 5:16)。留心审判的日子即将来临 (启示录 10:5-6)。  Why do we need friends, and how do we make them?
We need friends because we are made in the image of God. Our God, the Trinity, includes three entities. From eternity, before the existence of the world, these three entities are the best of friends. God also said it was not good for Adam to be alone (Genesis 2:18). Adam needed someone suitable for him to be his helper, whom he could share, trust, and love. It is also not good for us to be alone. So, we need friends. What are the main attributes of a friend? First, a friend lets us in his inner life, willing to share with us his secrets. We should learn from Christ. He lets us in by sharing with us everything He learned from His Father (John 15:15). Christ lets us in by being with us. He doesn’t lay out our whole life before us and leave. Instead, through the Holy Spirit, He dwells in us, accompanying and guiding us along the way. Learn to open up to others but do it slowly. Don’t force others to get into your inner life by opening up too quickly. Second, a friend doesn’t let us down. Christ never lets us down. There is no greater love than laying down one’s life for one’s friends (John 15:3). That was what Christ did, and His sacrifice has given us life. Christ loves us not because we are good. We are far from it, but He still loves us. Christ treats us as His friend, yet we rebel against Him. We are not surprised if our enemies harm us, but it is difficult to endure insults from our close friends. Since Christ treats us as His friends, our rebellion hurts Him deeply. Learn from Christ regarding friendship. He lets us in by opening Himself to us and by being with us. Christ never lets us down. He even died for us. We should follow Him. Similarly, we need friends because we are made in God’s image. To build friendship, learn to let others in and not let them down. Summarized from a Tim Keller sermon: http://www.gospelinlife.com/free-sermon-resource https://gospelinlife.com/downloads/you-are-my-friends-5770/ 你是我的朋友 我们为什么需要朋友，又怎样交朋友呢？ 人都需要朋友，因为我们是按照上帝形象被造的。三位一体的上帝包括三个个体。在世界存在之前，自永恒以来，这三个个体就是最好的朋友。 上帝也说亚当独处不好（创世记 2:18）。亚当需要一个适合他的人来帮助他，一个他可以分享、信任和爱的人。 我们独处也不好，所以也需要朋友. 朋友的主要特点是什么呢？ 首先，朋友让我们进入他的内心。他愿意告诉我们他的秘密。 应该向基督学习。祂分享从天父那里学到的一切，让我们进入祂的内心（约翰福音 15:15）。 基督也通过与我们同在，让我们进入祂的内心。祂没有将我们的一生摆在我们面前然后离开。相反地，祂籍着圣灵住在我们里面，一路陪伴和引领。 要学会慢慢地敞开心扉。 不要太快强迫别人进入自己的内心。 其次，朋友不会让我们失望。基督从不让我们失望。没有比为朋友舍命更大的爱了 (约翰福音 15:3)。这就是基督所做的，祂的牺牲带给了我们生命。 基督爱我们不是因为我们良善。我们远非如此，但祂仍然爱我们。 神视我们为朋友，然而我们却悖逆他。如果被敌人伤害，我们并不会感到惊讶。但我们很难忍受亲密朋友的侮辱。基督把我们当作祂的朋友，我们的背叛深深地伤害了祂。 总而言之，向基督学习友谊。祂敞开心扉与我们一起，让我们进入祂的内心。基督也从不让我们失望，甚至为我们而死。我们应该跟随祂。 我们需要朋友，因为我们是按照上帝的形象被造。为了建立友谊，学习让人进入我们的内心，并且学习不要让人失望。  The Book of Isaiah is sometimes called the fifth Gospel, due to its extensive coverage on Christ. Chapter 35 describes glorious prophecies regarding the way of holiness and the way that excludes the wicked and the unclean (v8). Heaven does not welcome the unholy (Revelation 21:27).
What is holiness? Holiness leads one’s heart and life to conform to God and His will, including being just, excellent, and loving, and doing as He wills. Our life and words reflect our hearts. Our deeds reveal our faith. So, without deeds, there is no corresponding faith (James 1:26-27, 2:18-20). Holiness involves conforming to Christ, the Father’s expressed image (John 1:18). Christ is holy. He demands us to follow Him (Matthew 11:29). Imitating Christ leads to holiness. Holiness implies conforming to God’s laws and commands, such as those expressed in Psalm 119 and the Sermon on the Mount. These laws are written in our hearts (Jeremiah 31:31, 33; 2 Corinthians 3:3). Holiness is important because our just God must punish sins (Exodus 34:7, Numbers 14:18). God cannot unite with the unholy, so the unholy cannot enjoy the love of God or the happiness of heaven. The unholy will not be admitted into heaven. If heaven were filled with the unclean, heaven would become another hell. Only those born again can enter the Kingdom of God (John 3:3). Unless purified by the blood of Christ, our sins will not be forgiven and will remain with us. We need to be made new with new attributes, such as love. Without love, we are nothing (1 Corinthians 13:1-3). How can we determine if we are living lives of holiness? Meditate on God’s holiness. Do our souls conform to it? Do we find delight in the meditation? Do our souls agree with God’s words, which are written in our hearts? Do our souls love God’s commands? Does our life resemble in any way the life of Christ? Are there any similarities between us and the holy people, such as Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, and Paul? Holiness is a necessity. It makes our soul pure, divine, serene, delightful, bright, and excellent. Earnestly seek holiness. Summary of a sermon by Jonathan Edwards https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XkaSGwI8wVw 圣洁之路 以赛亚书里面记载了有关基督的广泛描述，因此有时被称为第五本福音书。35章谈论到一些关于圣洁之路满有荣光的预言。这圣洁之路恶人和不洁的人不得行走 (以赛亚书35：8)。 同样地，正如启示录 21:27 所断言，天堂不欢迎不圣洁的人。 什么是圣洁呢？ 圣洁使人的心和生活都符合上帝和祂的旨意，包括成为公义、卓越、有爱心、与顺服上帝的心意而行。人的生活和言语反映他的内心。他的行为反映他的信心。所以，没有行为等于没有信心 (雅各书 1:26-27, 2:18-20)。 圣洁意味着效法基督，祂是天父形象的彰显(约翰 1:18)。基督是圣洁的。祂要求我们跟从祂 (马太福音 11:29)。效法基督使人圣洁。 圣洁意味着遵守上帝的律法和命令，例如诗篇 119 篇和登山宝训。这些律法写在我们心里(耶利米书 31:31, 33; 哥林多前书 3:3)。 圣洁很重要，因为公义的上帝必须惩罚罪恶 (出埃及记 34:7, 民数记 14:18)。 上帝不能与不圣洁的人联合。 所以，不圣洁的人不能享受上帝的爱, 不能享受天堂的快乐。不圣洁的人不能进入天堂。如果天堂充满不洁的，天堂就会变成另外一个地狱。 只有重生的人才能进到神的国 (约翰 3:3)。 除非被基督的宝血洁净，否则罪就在我们里面不得到赦免。 我们要被更新拥有新的属性，例如爱。没有爱，我们就一无所是 (哥林多前书 13:1-3)。 如何测试我们是否行在圣洁之路上呢? 默想上帝的圣洁。我们的灵魂符合神的圣洁吗？我们在默想中找到快乐吗？ 我们的灵魂是否认同写在我们心中上帝的话语？我们的灵魂爱上帝的命令吗？ 我们的生命在哪些方面与基督的生命相似呢？ 我们是否与圣人 如以诺、挪亚、 亚伯拉罕、 摩西、 大卫和保罗, 有相似之处？ 圣洁是必须的。 它使我们的灵魂纯洁、神圣、宁静、愉悦、明亮和卓越。 所以，恳切地寻求圣洁吧。  The Ten Commandments primarily focus on behaviors, while the Sermon on the Mount focusses on desires.
According to the Sermon, our goodness needs to be better than that of the teachers of the law and Pharisees. They depended on their works, but actions can be deceiving. Do we refrain from committing crimes for moral reasons, or because we fear getting caught? Christ focuses on our hearts and desires. Actions arise from them. For example, envy compelled Cain killed Abel, committing the first murder in the Bible. Hate can lead to murder, so don’t even call someone a brainless idiot or a worthless fool (1 John 3:15, 1 John 2:9, Matthew 5:22). Lustful thoughts can lead to adultery, so we should guard our minds (Matthew 5:28). “An eye for an eye” should be the job of the government. Police and the court of law are established by God to administer justice, matching punishments to the offense so as to deter criminals and purge evil (Romans 13:1-2, Deuteronomy 19:18-21). Sometimes, force is necessary. For example, Christ administered justice with physical force in a temple (John 2:13-16). In time of danger, Christ told his disciples to get swords to defend themselves (Luke 22:36-38). Paul exercised his rights as a Roman citizen (Acts 16:35-40). But beware of the consequences. If one lives by the sword, he will die by the sword (John 18:10-11, Matthew 26:52). There are times to take the unreasonable hit, turn the other cheek, and go the extra mile. Note that insults are difficult to bear. Even Paul could flare up (Acts 23:1-5). But our endurance can turn enemies into friends or, better yet, into followers of Christ. Christ is our model. He loved His enemies, as shown by His crucifixion. Christ’s behavior even converted the hardcore criminal who was crucified next to Him (Luke 23:39-43). Christ focuses on our hearts. He wants us to be perfect like our heavenly Father. So, do whatever is necessary to maintain a pure heart (Matthew 5:29-30, 48). But more importantly, rely on our Father in heaven to do so (Hebrews 12:1). Summary of a sermon by Greg Laurie: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rlqNRq5hl1g 自我防卫和报复 十诫主要关注外在的行为，而登山宝训则关注内心的渴望。 根据登山宝训，我们的良善需要比律法师和法利赛人的更好。他们依赖于自己的行为，但行为可能具有欺骗性。不犯罪是出于道德的原因还是因为害怕犯罪被抓住？ 基督专注于我们的内心和渴望，行动从它们产生。例如嫉妒导致该隐杀死亚伯，这是圣经中的第一个谋杀案。 仇恨会导致谋杀，因此要避免称某人为没有头脑的白痴或一文不值的傻瓜 (约翰壹书 3:15, 2:9; 马太福音 5:22)。 淫荡的想法会导致通奸，因此要保守我们的心 (马太福音 5:28)。 “以眼还眼”应该是政府的职责。警察和法庭都是上帝为了执行正义而设立，量罪定刑使罪犯畏惧并清除邪恶 (罗马书 13:1-2;申命记 19:18-20)。 有时要使用武力和要行使自己的权利。例如，基督在圣殿中用武力施行公义 (约翰福音 2:13-16)。在危险的时候，基督告诉门徒要拿刀自卫 (路加福音 22:36-38)。保罗行使罗马公民的权利 (使徒行传 16:35-40)。但要注意使用这些方法的后果，“凡动刀的，必死于刀下 (约翰福音 18:10-11;马太福音 26:52)。” 有时要忍受无理的打击，转过另一边脸，再多走一里。侮辱是难以忍受的，就连保罗也会忍不住发火 (使徒行传 23:1-5)。但忍耐可以化敌为友，亦或更好的是把他们变成基督的追随者。 基督是我们的榜样。祂爱祂的仇敌，为罪人被钉十字架。基督的行为甚至感动了钉在身边的重罪犯，使他悔改归向祂 (路加福音 23:39-43). 基督关注我们的内心，要我们像天父一样完美。因此要尽力保持一颗纯洁的心 (马太福音 5:29-30, 48), 但更重要的是依靠天父才能如此 (希伯来书 12:1)。  This is a story of creation that does not ignore science.
According to the Bible, there has always been one God, the source and end of all things. This God is the Holy Trinity (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit), the Creator of our time and space. Out of nothing, God created the universe. As described in the Big Bang, a smaller-than-a-proton component exploded, expanding trillions and trillions of times, and gradually cooled into matter, all as hot gases. Then stars were formed. Some stars exploded and generated stardust, the basic elements of life. Around one of the stars (the sun), earth was formed. With the right amount of light and heat from the sun, earth gave birth to all kinds of plants and creatures. Based on God’s divine plan, one unique creature appeared. They were humans, with consciousness. God breathed into this creature, and they knew God. They could love and worship God, and they knew themselves. God considered this creature to be His image on earth, to rule over and take care of the earth. God saw all that He had made, and it was very good (Genesis 1:31). Over time, humans grew, accumulating knowledge and understanding. Unfortunately, this magnificent creature rebelled and wanted more. They envied and mistrusted their Creator, leading to alienation and destruction of all kinds. But the Creator loved them and would not let go. He wanted to be their God and dwell among them. God chose Abraham and his descendants to be light among nations. But sins continued to spread. To bring salvation to them, God the Son, Christ, came on earth. Through Christ, humans can be restored from decay and back into their true identity, as children of God and as image bearers of God (Romans 8:19-21, 2 Corinthians 3:18). Through Christ, one day, God’s creation will be restored, things made new, with humans shining in their full and true humanity. This is the wonderful news that gives salvation and hope to all who live in the light of God. Summary of a talk by Leonard J. Vander Zee: https://biologos.org/resources/the-big-story-from-stardust-to-the-new-creation 从星尘到新创造 这是一个没有忽视科学的创造故事。 圣经启示从永恒开始只有一位神，祂是万物的源头和终结。这是三位一体的神(圣父、圣子和圣灵), 祂是时间和空间的创造者。 上帝从无到有创造了宇宙。正如大爆炸中所描述那样，一个比质子还小的颗粒爆炸后，膨胀万亿又万亿次，接着冷却成热气的物质，然后逐渐形成了恒星。 一些恒星爆炸产生星尘，它们成为生命的基本要素。此后围绕着一颗恒星(太阳)的地球形成了。 地球从来自太阳适量的光热孕育出各种植物和生物。 基于神的计划，一个独特的生物出现了，就是有意识的人类。神将生气吹在他们鼻孔里，他们就知道神，可以热爱和敬拜神，而且他们认识自己。 神认为这生物是祂在地球上的形象，来让他们治理和管理地球。 “神看着一切所造的都甚好（创世记 1:31）。” 人类随着时间的推移不断成长，积累知识和理解力。 不幸的是这杰出的生物开始反叛并想索要更多，嫉妒和不信任自己的创造者，以至于与上帝疏离，带来各样的破坏。 但创造者爱他们, 不想放弃他们，祂想成为他们的神，住在他们中间。 神拣选亚伯拉罕和他的后裔成为列国的光。 但罪恶在地上继续蔓延。 为了给人类带来救恩，圣子基督来到世上。 藉着基督人类可以从腐朽中恢复过来，恢复上帝儿女的真实身份，作上帝形象的承载者 (罗马书 8:19-21; 哥林多后书 3:18)。 藉着基督有一天上帝的创造将被恢复,一切都会被更新,人类将闪耀着完整而真实人性的光辉。 这是大好的消息，为所有生活在上帝光中的人带来救恩和盼望。  According to Deuteronomy 32:35, the foot of the wicked unbelieving Israelites would slip; it is just a matter of time. Like one constantly walking in slippery places, they would fall by their own weight, and the fall would be sudden and would cast them down to ruin (Psalm 73:18-19).
The wicked are not yet in hell only because of God’s mercy and sovereignty. Without our Almighty God, nothing can keep the wicked out of destruction because:
God’s wrath is as much against them as it is against those damned in hell. Meanwhile, their sins are constantly increasing and offending God tremendously. An earthly king can only kill our bodies (Proverbs 20:2), but the fierceness of God’s wrath can cast us into hell forever (Luke 12:4-5, Isaiah 59:18, Isaiah 66:15, Revelation 19:15). Now God stands ready to have mercy on us. No matter how moral, strict, sober, or religious we are, unless we are born again, damnation will come swiftly, with suffering for all eternity in God’s merciless vengeance. Don’t wait till the day when He will only laugh and mock at our great suffering in hell (Proverbs 1:25-26, Isaiah 63:3, Romans 9:22). Now the door to salvation is open. He loves us and can wash us from our sins with His own blood. Our hearts can be filled with love to Him. We can rejoice in the hope of God’s glory. If we neglect this extraordinary opportunity, we are going to bear the dreadful wrath of God. Therefore, those not in Christ awake, run away from the coming wrath, and go to God. Do not look back, lest you be totally consumed by the fires of hell. Summarized from a sermon by Jonathan Edwards https://www.blueletterbible.org/Comm/edwards_jonathan/Sermons/Sinners.cfm https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TtHijgqceXo 罪人在愤怒的上帝手中 申命记 32:35描绘了一幅邪恶不信神的以色列人滑倒的图像。 就像人经常在湿滑的地方行走，他迟早失足而突然跌倒，掉在沉沦之中, 这只是时间的问题（诗篇 73:18-19）。 恶人尚未下地狱只是由于上帝的怜悯和主权。 除了全能的上帝，没有什么能使恶人免除被毁灭的命运，原因如下：
上帝对罪人的愤怒与对那些在地狱中被诅咒的一样。同时，他们的罪恶天天不断地加增，极大地冒犯了上帝。 地上的国王只能杀死肉体 (箴言20：2)， 但是上帝的忿怒可使我们永远陷入地狱的深渊(路加福音12：4-5；以赛亚书59:18 ， 66:15； 启示录19:15)。 现在，上帝准备着怜悯我们。无论看来多么道德、严谨、清醒或虔诚，除非我们重生，否则诅咒将迅速到来，我们将遭上帝无情的报复, 承受永恒的痛苦。不要等到祂只会嘲笑我们在地狱遭受巨大痛苦的那一天 (箴言1：25-26, 以赛亚书63：3, 罗马书9:22)。 现在救赎的门已经打开。基督深爱着我们，祂能用自己的宝血将我们从罪孽中洗净。我们的心可以充满对祂的爱, 让我们以盼望上帝的荣耀为乐。 如果忽略了这个难得的机会，将承受上帝可怕的忿怒。 因此，不在基督里的人们醒来吧，快快逃离即将来临的忿怒，奔向上帝不要回头，以免被地狱的火完全毁灭。  Typically, we go to God because we want things. That may be why Satan challenged God over Job: if God took away the lots of possessions He had given to Job, Job would curse God (Job 1:9-11). But after God allowed Satan to take from Job everything other than his wife (Job 1:12-13), Job still praised God because he knew he could not take anything with him when he died, and everything was in God’s hands (Job 1:21).
The Bible teaches us to rejoice in the Lord always—in health, sickness, wealth, or poverty (Philippians 4:4). For example, David glorified God in the desert of Judah and considered God’s love better than life (Psalm 63:3-5). When Habakkuk had nothing, not even food, he still was joyful in God and considered God his Savior (Habakkuk 3:17-18). Why should we still be joyful in God when externally we are in desperate shape? First, know that God is the Almighty and He loves us. God is the Almighty who created the universe, and He loves us. He sent us His beloved Son so we may live. Christ suffered not to bring us wealth or fame; He suffered to bring us back to God. Hence, we should focus on God, the Creator, not the things He created. All things we enjoy should point us to the Almighty. We should treasure and love God above everything. If we love Him, we should do what He wants us to do (John 14:15), though we know the essence of loving is not in performing tasks. If we love God, we should love our neighbors as fellow image-bearers of God. Paul described the Macedonian Christians as being very generous even when they were in severe trial and probably in poverty (2 Corinthians 8:1-2). Treasuring God over all things means considering Him as the most desirable, giving us the most satisfaction. When we are most satisfied in God, He is most glorified in us. Glorifying Him is the main reason of our existence (Isaiah 26:8, Philippians 1:20-21). Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to help you so that God is your ultimate delight and enjoyment. Summarized from a sermon by John Piper: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JkSAMTp5leQ 什么是以上帝为乐？ 通常人们向上帝祈祷是因为想要索取。这可能就是为什么撒旦挑战上帝：如果上帝拿走赐给约伯的一切所有,约伯就会诅咒祂(约伯记1：9-11)。但当上帝允许撒旦攻击约伯,使他除了妻子一无所剩之后(约伯记1：12-13),约伯仍然赞美上帝，因为明白自己死去之时将无法带走任何东西，也知道一切都掌管在上帝手中(约伯记1:21）。 圣经教导信徒总要因神而欢喜，或健康或疾病，或富裕或贫穷，都当以神为乐(腓立比书4：4)。大卫即使在犹大旷野中也荣耀上帝，认为上帝的慈爱胜过生命(诗篇63：3-5)。先知哈巴谷一无所有，甚至食物都没有的时候，仍然以上帝为乐，认神为救主(哈巴谷书3：17-18)。 一个人身处绝望之境的时候，为什么仍然能以神为乐呢？ 首先,应该知道上帝是全能的，而且祂爱我们。 创造宇宙的全能上帝爱我们，差派爱子来使我们得以存活。基督受苦不是为了给人带来财富或名望，而是为了将人带回到上帝面前。 因此，应该专注于上帝这位创造主,而不是任何的被造之物。人在地上的一切享受的都源于上帝的恩典，所以应该视上帝为珍贵，爱上帝超过万物以上。 如果爱上帝，就应该行祂所要我们行的,虽然知道爱的本质并非执行任务(约翰福音14:15)。 如果爱上帝，就应该爱邻舍，他们与我们同样是按上帝的形像被造。保罗形容马其顿基督徒在大试炼之季，很可能同时也在贫困之中，仍然慷慨乐捐(哥林多后书8：1-2)。 视上帝为至宝高于万物,就当以祂为心之最深渴慕和最大满足。 当上帝是信徒最大的满足时，祂就在我们里面得到最大的荣耀。荣耀上帝是人存在的主要原因(以赛亚书26：8;腓立比书1：20-21)。 祷告祈求圣灵帮助,使上帝成为你心中最大的喜乐和享受。  Life is full of challenges. Some look at such everyday trials pessimistically. To them, life is just a series of pain and suffering. But James had a different perspective (James 1:2-4).
James was Christ’s half-brother. During Christ’s ministry, James thought Jesus was out of His mind (John 7:5, Mark 3:21). Later, James became Christ’s follower. After Christ’s resurrection, He specifically appeared to James (1 Corinthians 15:7). During the time of James, his audience buried half of their children, and many of them were slaves. Many of our problems today seem trivial by comparison. James taught us not to be alarmed by unexpected and painful trials in life. Instead, we should learn to rejoice in them (James 1:2; and 1 Peter 4:12-13). When bad things happen to us, good things can happen in us. Whether small or big, evaluate these trials through the lens of faith. Learn to look through them and see God at work in them. Trials may help us see our weaknesses and correct our mistakes. The process can confirm God caring for us and help us experience His faithfulness and love. Beware that many of these challenges can take a long time to resolve. Be patient. Ask God to show you the direction you should go and give you the strength to get there. Learn to endure and persist in pursuing what is good, right, noble, and true. Trials can produce perseverance, which will help us develop a mature character and the ability to live with poise and confidence, regardless of our circumstances (James 1:2-4, Romans 5:3-5). Trials can give us hope for the future glory (Romans 8:18). Look at Christ. He went through unfair suffering and torture, but He persevered till death. Then, He experienced the joyful and glorious resurrection. So, when we face trials, persevere and do not quit. Don’t let them get the last word. Have faith in God. Learn from the process, and experience God’s presence, comfort, and care. Learn to rejoice in the midst of trials, for resurrection will come, and we will experience the glory. Summarized from a John Ortberg’s sermon https://menlo.church/series/the-way#/modal/message/5614/mlo 每日的試煉 生活充满了挑战和磨难。对有些悲观的人来说, 生命只是一系列的痛苦和苦难。雅各却有不同的看法 (雅各书1：2-4)。 雅各是基督同母异父的兄弟。在基督事奉期间，雅各曾以为耶稣癲狂了（约翰福音7：5, 马可福音3:21）。后来，雅各成了基督的跟随者。基督复活后曾特别向他显现 (哥林多前书15：7)。 在雅各的时代，有一半的儿女比父母先离开世界，其中许多人还是奴隶。我们今天的很多问题与他们面临的考验相比显得微不足道。 雅各教导不要为意想不到的苦难或试验惊慌, 反倒应该学会在苦难中喜乐(雅各书1：2，彼得前书4：12-13)。当坏事发生在我们身上时，好事可以在我们里面发生。 不管考验是大或小，要从信仰的角度来评估，从試煉中看到上帝在我们身上作工。 試煉可以让我们看到自己的弱点并纠正错误。这个过程可以证实上帝对我们的关爱，帮助我们体验祂的信实和慈爱。 留意许多挑战可能需要很长时间才能解决。 要有耐心。 祈求上帝显明应该走的方向并且赐下到达那里的力量。学会忍耐，坚持追求良善、公义、崇高和真实。 这些考验会产生毅力，帮助我们培养成熟的品格（雅各书 1：2-4，罗马书 5：3-5), 在任何环境都能沉着平静, 充满信心地生活, 对未来的荣耀充满盼望（罗马书 8:18）。 让我们来看一看基督。 祂受尽不公平的苦难和折磨，但坚持忍耐直到死在十字架上。 然后，祂经历了喜乐和荣耀的复活。 所以，面临考验时要坚持到底，不要放弃。对上帝要有信心。 从这个过程中学习，体验上帝的同在、安慰和关爱。 学习在試煉中喜樂， 因为复活将会来临，我们将会经历荣耀。  We desire and need respect. A good name is more desirable than great wealth (Proverbs 22:1).
One way to earn respect is from handling conflicts appropriately. Let us learn from Nehemiah 5. First, it lists four causes of conflicts:
Nehemiah chapter 5 lists five ways Nehemiah gained respect by resolving these conflicts:
Though Nehemiah was the governor, out of respect for God, he did not (a) eat or demand the food allotted to the governor; (b) place heavy burdens on the people he was governing; (c) allow his assistants to lord over the people; nor (d) take any land (Nehemiah 5:14-18). Instead, he was generous to the needy, putting the needs of others above his own. Every day, he provided food for 150 people because of their heavy burden (Nehemiah 5:17, Proverbs 29:23, Psalm 112:9). Furthermore, Nehemiah set good examples. He and his men were devoted to building the wall (Nehemiah 5:16, Proverbs 14:22). After we are dead, how will people remember us? Consider that and act accordingly (Proverbs 10:7). To conclude, if you want to earn others’ respect, empathize, think before speaking, appeal to the good sides of others, be humble and generous particularly to those in needs, and set good examples. Summarized from a sermon by Rick Warren: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yMpNGqau09Y starting from 17 minutes 如何赢得别人的尊重 我们渴望并需要尊重。良好的声誉甚至胜过巨大的财富(箴言22:1)。 赢得尊重的一种方法是适当地处理冲突。让我们从尼希米5章学习。 这里列出了四个发生冲突的原因：
尼希米记在此用了解决冲突中获得尊重的五种方法：
虽然尼希米是省长,但出于对上帝的尊重，（1）他没有吃或要求分配给省长的食物；（2）没有给他治理下的百姓带来沉重的负担；（3）没有让他的助手辖制百姓；也（4）没有置买任何田地(尼希米记5:14-18)。相反地,尼希米对有需要的人慷慨大方,将他人的需要置于自己之上。因为百姓的沉重负担,尼希米每天为150人提供食物(尼希米记5:17,箴言29:23,诗篇112:9)。 此外，尼希米还树立了很好的榜样。他和他的仆人恒心修造城墙(尼希米记5:16,箴言14:22)。 当我们离世以后，人们会如何记住我们呢？思想这个问题，然后采取相应的行动(箴言10:7)。 总而言之，如果您想赢得他人的尊重，请先有同理心，三思而后行，发挥他人的优点，谦卑虚己，慷慨大方，尤其是对有需要的人乐意捐助，和为他人树立好榜样。  (A sermon in January 2021)
Politically, we are paralyzed by bitter partisanship. Economically, millions are out of work. Internationally, our reputation is in shambles. Four hundred thousand people have died of COVID already. Our nation is broken and needs healing (Psalms 60:2-5). God promised Solomon: “if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” 2 Chronicles 7:14. This promise is also applicable to Christians today. First, as Christians we must humble ourselves. Our worst problem is often pride; we assume ourselves self-sufficient and fail to recognize our need for God (James 4:6). We should judge ourselves critically, lest we come under God’s judgment (1 Corinthians 11:31, 1 Peter 4:17). Also, we should not judge others because we are also sinful (James 4:12, Romans 2:3). Second, we must stop complaining, start praying (Hosea 7:14), and not give up (Luke 18:1). Be sincere in our prayer (Colossians 4:2, Ephesians 6:18). Be specific with our requests and keep track of God’s answers, so that our faith might grow. Third, we should seek God earnestly (Hebrews 11:6). We spend too much time and effort seeking other things than God (Psalms 14:2-3), when He should be our highest priority and our passion. When we seek Him first, everything we need will be given to us (Deuteronomy 4:29-31, Matthew 6:32-33). Lastly, turn from our mistakes and turn to God completely. We and our culture are loaded down by all sorts of sins (2 Timothy 3:2-5). We often see others’ mistakes as we remain blind to our own (1 John 1:8). We should repent, confess our sins to each other, and pray for each other, so that we may be healed and refreshed (James 5:16, Acts 3:19). If we do the above, God promises He will hear our prayer, forgive our sins, and heal our nation (2 Chronicles 7:14). Change starts in us. Be humble. Judge ourselves critically. Keep praying. Seek God earnestly and repent. Place our hope in our only Savior, Jesus Christ. Summary of the Rick Warren sermon. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hZpnMLFl-fY. 上帝如何医治破碎的国家 2021年1月的讲道 在政治上，党派之间苦毒的争斗使我们陷于瘫痪。 在经济上，数百万人加入了失业的大军。 在国际上，我们的声誉变得一团糟糕。此外，已有40万人死于新冠病毒。这个破碎的国家需要医治 (诗篇60：2-5)。 上帝曾应许所罗门： “這稱為我名下的子民，若是自卑,禱告，尋求我的面，轉離他們的惡行，我必從天上垂聽，赦免他們的罪，醫治他們的地。” （历代志下7:14） 这个应许也适用于今天的基督徒。 首先，谦卑自己。最严重的问题是骄傲，以为能自给自足，不需要上帝的供应(雅各书4：6)。应该严格地自我反省, 免受上帝的审判（哥林多前书11:31，彼得前书4:17）。也不要论断他人，因为自己也同样犯罪（雅各书4:12，罗马书2：3）。 第二，停止抱怨，开始祷告 (何西阿书7:14)。 不断禱告，不可灰心 (路加福音18：1)。祷告要真诚（歌罗西书4：2，以弗所书6:18），要具体，要逐一记下上帝的回答，让信心不断增长。 第三，诚恳地寻求上帝 (希伯来书11：6)。我们花费许多的时间和精力，去寻求其它事物，而不是上帝。祂本应是我们最高的优先，激情的所在 (诗篇14：2-3)。如果先寻求祂，所需的一切都会加给我们 (申命记4：29-31, 马太福音6:32-33)。 最后，完全转离错误, 转向上帝。我们和我们的文化被各种罪恶压倒 (提摩太后书3：2-5)。 我们常常只看到他人的错误，对自己的却视而无睹(约翰壹书1：8)。当悔改，互相认罪，彼此代祷，使我们可以得到医治, 焕然一新 (雅各书5:16, 使徒行传3:19)。 如果做到以上这些，上帝应许聆听我们的祷告，宽恕我们的罪过，治愈我们的国家 (历代志上7:14)。 改变从自己开始。要谦卑，严格地自我反省；不断祈祷；诚恳地寻求上帝并悔改；将盼望寄托在唯一的救主耶稣基督里。  Christians should be God’s witnesses to glorify their Father in heaven (Matthew 5:16). But it is much easier to witness to people than to Satan, who knows humans well. Day and night, such knowledge enables Satan to accuse us before God (Revelation 12:10).
God was proud of Job and presented Job as His witness to Satan (Job 1:8). But when calamity after calamity struck Job, even he grumbled. God’s witnesses, particularly God’s witnesses to Satan, need the Holy Spirit. God’s witnesses need the Holy Spirit to reveal truth to them. When Peter said Christ was the son of God, Christ attributed Peter’s insight to God’s revelation (Matthew 16:16-17). But the proud do not listen to the Holy Spirit. It is not in being clever or knowledgeable that one can understand the mystery of Christ. Some Bible scholars, such as the Pharisees, even called Christ the prince of demons (Matthew 12:24). Roman soldiers recognized Christ as the Son of God when numerous rulers didn’t (Matthew 27:54, Acts 13:27). The arrogance of the learned, rich, and powerful leads to their downfall, while the truth is revealed to children (Matthew 11:25, 18:3). To learn from the Holy Spirit requires humility. God’s witnesses to Satan need the power of the Holy Spirit to withstand Satan. These witnesses seek the interests of God and not their own, such as their honor, health, property, and comfort. God provides everything they need. Their prayers are effective (James 5:16). Even their children will not go hungry (Psalms 37:25). God’s witnesses do not love money but are content with what they have because God will never leave them (Hebrews 13:5). God’s witnesses do everything without grumbling or arguing (Philippians 2:14). They rejoice always, pray continually, and give thanks in all circumstances; for whatever happens to them is God’s will for them in Christ (1Thessalonians 5:16-18, Ephesians 5:20). To be God’s witnesses to Satan is difficult. They must have guidance and help from the Holy Spirit. For God’s glory, Christians, try to be God’s witnesses to Satan. Summarized from a sermon by Zac Poonen https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivt9nZGLdlY&feature=youtu.be 成为神在撒旦前的见证人 基督徒应该是上帝的见证人，荣耀在天上的父（马太福音 5:16）。 但在人前为上帝作见证要比在撒旦前容易得多，因为撒但很了解人。这知识使撒但能在上帝前昼夜控告他们(启示录 12:10)。 上帝为约伯感到骄傲，把约伯作为自己在撒旦前的见证人(约伯记 1：8)。 但当一场又一场的灾难不住地袭击约伯时，连他也开始抱怨了。 做神的见证人, 特别是在撒旦前的见证人, 需要圣灵。 神的见证人需要圣灵启示真理。 当彼得宣告基督是上帝的儿子时，祂将这见解归因于上帝的启示(马太福音 16:16-17)。 但骄傲的人不听从圣灵。不是聪明睿智、博学多才便能明白基督的奥秘。法利赛人是熟悉圣经的学者，但他们甚至以为基督是魔王(马太福音12:24)。 罗马士兵认识基督是上帝的儿子，但许多统治者却不认识祂 (马太福音 27:54，使徒行传13:27)。 博学、富足和有权力之人的自大可导致他们垮台, 然而真理却能向婴孩和小孩子显明 (马太福音11:25, 18：3)。向圣灵学习需要一颗谦卑的心。 作为神的见证人, 特别在撒旦前的见证人, 需要倚靠圣灵的力量去抵挡撒旦。 神的见证人寻求上帝的益处, 而不是自己的益处，就如个人的荣誉、健康、财富和舒适。 神供给他们一切的需要。他们的祈祷是有功效的 (雅各书5:16),甚至连他们的儿女也不会饥饿 (诗篇37:25)。 神的见证人不贪爱金钱，以所有的为满足，因为上帝永远不离开他们(希伯来书13：5)。 神的见证人在做一切事情时都不发 怨 言 ， 起 争 论 (腓立比书 2:14)。 他们常常喜乐，不住祷告，凡事感恩, 因为无论发生在身上的任何事情都是神在基督里对他们的旨意 (帖撒罗尼迦前书 5：16-18，以弗所书 5:20)。 成为神在撒但前的见证人不是一件容易的事，必须得到圣灵的引导和帮助。 基督徒们,为了神的荣耀，努力地去为祂作见证吧。  All four gospels teach us if we focus on ourselves, we will lose everything. But if we forget ourselves for Christ, we will have a real life (Luke 9:24-25).
Our culture encourages generosity up to a certain point. Because of the scarcity mindset, we are inclined to keep things primarily for ourselves. But Christ teaches us not to hoard for ourselves treasures on earth—including our time, ability, and wealth—for we will certainly lose them all one day (Matthew 6:19-21). As God’s children and as citizens of heaven, we should set our hearts and keep our focus on things above, with our feet down on earth (Colossians 3:1-3). Be generous with our things on earth to the needy. Be generous cheerfully. It is the antidote of anxiety. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed. Sow generously and we will reap generously (2 Corinthians 9:6-7, Proverbs 11:25). Our generosity includes spreading our faith, a natural outflow from a grateful heart for what God has given us freely. As ambassadors of Christ on earth, we are His witnesses. Though we naturally evangelize what we love, we should prepare to give the reason for our hope in a gentle and respectful manner (1 Peter 3:15). Don’t focus on outcomes. We don’t know if God will give us the outcome we want, and our joy shouldn’t depend on outcomes anyway. It is the path we walk, the journey we travel, that counts. God is rich in mercy and abundant in grace. He accepts and reassures us. He gives us a new citizenship and a new way to live. We give back because He will keep providing for us. Ask God to help you maintain a healthy regard for your earthly treasures—not just blessings for yourself, but a means to serve others. Summarized from a sermon by Nicole Unice: https://menlo.church/series/the-way#/modal/message/5648/mlo https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7YsFLP5Yu34 回报上帝的赐福 四福音书都教导如果人只专注自己，就将失去一切； 但如果为基督忘记自己，就将拥有真正的生命 （路加福音9：24-25）。 今天的文化在某程度上鼓励慷慨好施。 但由于害怕不足的心态, 我们往往专注于把东西留为己用。但主耶稣教导不要囤积财宝在地上, 包括时间、能力和财富，因为总有一天会失去这一切（马太福音6：19-21）。 作为上帝的儿女和天上的公民，信徒的心应该在基督里。 虽然我们脚踏在地上, 心却应专注上面的事（歌罗西书3：1-3）。 所以，要慷慨乐意地将地上的财宝与有需要的人分享。这是医治焦虑的良药。好施捨的必得豐裕，滋潤人的必得滋潤；少種的少收，多種的多收 （哥林多后书9：6-7，箴言11:25）。 慷慨待人包括宣扬自己的信仰。上帝白白地赐下救恩给我们，分享信仰是感恩之心的自然流露。我们作为基督在世上的使者是基督的见证。尽管我们自然地向人分享自己所爱的，仍应该准备如何以温柔恭敬的态度表达心中盼望的缘由（彼得前书3:15）。 此外, 不要专注结果。我们不知道上帝是否会赐下所盼望的。真正的喜乐并不取决于结果，重要的是走过的道路和行过的旅程。 上帝满有怜悯和恩典，祂接纳我们并让我们放心信靠交托。祂赐下新的公民身份和新的生活方式。我们可以不断地回报上帝帮助他人，因为祂会一直供应。 祈求上帝帮助我们对世俗的财富保持健康尊重的看法--那不仅是上帝对自己的赐福，也是祂要我们服务他人的方式之一。  Can believing in God as the creator of the universe imply having God’s saving grace?
No. Satan also knows God’s immense power (James 2:19). Before falling into wickedness, Satan was among the bright angels. He has extensive knowledge of God, heaven, hell, the Bible, and humans. The fall has not reduced his abilities nor eliminated his memory (John 8:44; 1 John 3:8; Matthew 13:19, 13:38; 1 John 2:13, 3:12, 5:18; Job 38:4-7; Ephesians 6:12; Genesis 3:1; 2 Corinthians 11:3; and Acts 13:10). But since Satan also knows God’s holiness, truthfulness, power, and wrath against sin, Satan trembles, anticipating his suffering (Luke 13:28, 29; Romans 9:22; Isaiah 2:10; and Revelation 1:7). Satan may feel convicted and tormented, with earnest desire to be delivered from misery. Again, such desire does not imply that he can receive God’s saving grace. Such desire is just self-love. Similarly, a man having such deep desires or biblical knowledge is no proof of salvation. Like Satan, seeing God’s glory or having more knowledge of God may only lead to more hate and fear. In distinct contrast, when God’s light shines in a person, enlightening the person through the Holy Spirit, the person will see God’s loveliness, beauty, and holiness, and the glory of the divine displayed through Christ (2 Corinthians 2:14, 4:6). Only God can give to humans what Christ has purchased. The opportunity to behold God’s beauty is God’s blessing to His dear children. As a result of such wonderful gifts, His children will see their ugly souls and humble themselves, making God bigger and themselves smaller. Then their guilty souls will rest. They will live in love and embrace their loving Savior. With God in them, they will have God’s divine nature. They will have the fruit of the Spirit. They will be joyful in God and have heavenly wisdom (2 Peter 1:4; 1 John 4:16, 17:6-8; Galatians 5:22-25; James 3:17). They will hate evil, love doing good deeds, and follow God’s command (James 2:20, 1 John 2:3-4). Such attributes are not based on self-love, but on seeing the love and beauty of God. The bearers of such wonderful gifts from God will go to heaven and enjoy eternal life. Summarized from a Jonathan Edwards’ sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0WHWnUj5YZY https://www.biblebb.com/files/edwards/truegrace.htm 有别于魔鬼之经历的真恩典 相信上帝是天地的创造者就意味着得到上帝的救恩吗？ 答案是否定的，因为撒旦也有这样的认识 （雅各书 2:19）。 撒旦堕入邪恶之前是光明的天使。他对上帝、天堂、地狱、 圣经和人有广泛的了解。坠落并没有降低他的能力，也没有消除他的记忆 （约翰福音 8:44；约翰壹书 3:8；马太福音 13:19，38；约翰壹书 2:13， 3:12, 5:18；约伯记 38:4-7；以弗所书 6:12；创世记 3:1；哥林多后书 11:3；使徒行传 13:10）。 因为撒但也知道神的圣洁、真实、权能和对罪的忿怒，就战战兢兢地期待受苦之日的来临（路加福音 13:28, 29；罗马书 9:22；以赛亚书 2:10；启示录 1:7）。 撒但也许会感到被定罪和受折磨，迫切地希望从悲惨痛苦中解脱出来。这种渴望只是自爱，并不表示因此可以得到上帝的救恩。 同样地，人拥有如此深刻渴望或深厚圣经知识，也不是得救的证据。就像撒旦一样，看到上帝的荣耀或者对祂有更多的认识，也许只会导致更多的仇恨和恐惧。 得到上帝的光照而被圣灵感动的人与此形成鲜明的对比。 他们看到上帝的可爱、美丽、圣洁以及籍着基督彰显的神圣荣耀 （哥林多后书 2:14，4:6）。 惟有上帝才能将基督宝血所购买的救恩给予人类。上帝赐福祂亲爱的儿女，使他们能看见自己的美。 祂的儿女目睹上帝的奇妙，就会看到自己灵魂的丑陋，感到自己个人的卑微。在他们眼里，上帝变更伟大，自己变更渺小。他们有罪的灵魂将得到安息。他们将活在爱中，拥抱慈爱的救主。有上帝在里面，他们将拥有上帝的性情, 结出圣灵的果子。 他们会因上帝而喜乐，拥有属天的智慧 （彼得后书 1:4；约翰壹书 4:16；约翰福音 17:6-8；加拉太书 5:22-25；雅各书 3:17）。 他们憎恨邪恶，喜行善事，遵守上帝的命令 （雅各书 2:20；约翰壹书 2:3-4）。这样的属性不是基于自爱，而是基于看见上帝的慈爱和美丽。 拥有这些上帝奇妙礼物的人将进入天堂, 得享永生。  Let’s learn from Matthew Chapter 5.
The Ten Commandments provide a list of do and don’ts. But the Beatitudes focus on the person we should become to be blessed and prosperous (7-9). True blessing is not from wealth, power, or obeying the Law. True blessing is based on who we are, such as being meek, hungry for righteousness, merciful, pure in heart, and peacemaking. As we become blessed, Christ told us we will impact the lives of others—bringing out the good in others, preserving the good, and introducing light to those in darkness, so that others may see our good deeds and glorify our Father in heaven (Matthew 5:13-16). Then Christ emphasized He came to bring the Law to its fullness (17-20). The endgame is not obeying the Law, but to become like God. Christ explained with a few examples. He started with murder and adultery. Christ intensified the Law by considering having evil thoughts to be the same as committing the corresponding acts. The key is not just obeying externally but becoming like our heavenly Father (21-30). Another example is an eye for an eye. Previously, the law included appropriate compensation. If a Jew had ruined a carpenter’s eyes, he had to support his family because the carpenter could not earn a living anymore. But Christ told us to turn the other cheek if one cheek was hit and go two miles if demanded to go for one mile. We not only don’t ask for compensation, but also give to our evil enemies more than they asked (38-42). The last example is to love our enemies (43-47). Perhaps nothing better demonstrates Christ’s character than this. He healed the wound of the soldier who came to arrest Him. On the cross suffering beyond comprehension, He forgave those who caused His intense pain. As we sin, He keeps forgiving, embracing, and helping us on our path of discipleship. Such perfection is impossible without our Savior’s grace. It is a journey to gradually become like our heavenly Father (48). Matthew 5 gives us a glimpse into eternity. As of now, we must keep trying to be a light to those around us; serve, lift them up, and love them. Through Christ’s perfection, we become complete. Summarized from a sermon at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4l1ABgBRjZ4 理解登山宝训 让我们一起学习马太福音5章。 十诫提供了一份该做和不该做的清单，天国八福聚焦于什么样的人才是蒙福和富足的人 (马太福音 5:7-9)。 真正的福份不是来自财富、权力或遵守法律，而是基于我们是谁，例如是否拥有温柔、饥渴慕义、怜恤、清心、使人和平的品格。 当我们得到祝福时，基督教导我们应该也影响他人—带出他们里面的美好，保存良善的一切，为黑暗中的人带来光明。如此，其他人看到我们的好行为，就会荣耀我们在天上的父 (马太福音 5:13-16)。 基督接着强调祂来是要成全律法（马太福音5:17-20）。最终的目标不是遵守律法，而是变得像上帝。基督用几个例子来解释祂的意思。 基督从杀人和奸淫的例子开始。祂强化了律法, 认为有恶念与做出相应的行为是一样的罪。关键不只是表面的遵循，而是里面的生命要变得像天父一样 （马太福音 5:21-30）。 另一个例子是“以眼还眼”。此前，其目标包括适当的补偿。如果一个犹太人毁了一个木匠的眼睛，这犹太人就需要养活木匠的家人，因为受伤的木匠再也无法谋生。但是基督告诉我们如果有人打我们的右脸，连左脸也转过来由他打； 有人强逼我们走一里路，我们便跟他走二里。不仅不要求赔偿，而且还给出比那邪恶的敌人要求的更多（马太福音 5：38-42）。 最后一个例子是爱我们的仇敌，也许没有什么比这个更能彰显基督的品格（马太福音 5：43-47）。祂医好了前来逮捕祂的兵丁的伤口。在忍受十字架上不能想象的苦难当中，基督宽恕了那些带给祂巨大痛苦的人。当我们继续犯罪低于基督的标准时，祂不断地原谅、拥抱并帮助我们行走在训练门徒的道路上。 如果没有救主的恩典，这样的完美是不可能实现的。这是一个让我们逐渐变得更像天父的旅程 （马太福音 5:48）。 马太福音5 章让我们可以瞥见永恒。现在我们必须不断尝试成为周围人的光，服事、鼓励和爱护他们。 藉着基督的完美，我们变得像祂一样完全。 |