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。
Identify your assets. Christ is our biggest assets (Colossians 2:10).
Plan, but count on God to direct you (Proverbs 16:9 LB). Then act. Trust God, who is moved by your faith (Matthew 9:29).
Have fresh thoughts (Ephesians 4:23).
Accept your ignorance. Everything has its timing (Ecclesiastes 3:1, 8:5-7). Sometimes you are called to wait.
God specializes in fresh starts (Zechariah 10:6; Hosea 14:4-5; Psalms 145:13-14). Through Christ, you have a new heart, new thoughts and new desires (Psalms 51:10, 2Corinthians 5:17). Trust God. He will lovingly and firmly remake you for His glory and your good, like a caring potter starting over but with the same clay (Jeremiah 18:4-6). Summarized two sermons by Rick Warren. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M3EvJBEb0YU starting at 28 minutes. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NW8A46whrmY 当您需要重新开始的时候 首先,不要试图找藉口: 1. “没有所需的本事。” 依靠上帝 (士师记6:15-16)。 2. “以前许多的失败。” 不要让过去禁锢自己(以赛亚书53:18-19)。找出错误,痛改前非,依赖上帝的怜悯 (箴言28:13)。 3. “有些事情无法控制。” 控制可控制的事情, 尽力而为。 对于无法控制的事情, 信靠上帝。(箴言24:10)。 4. “不知道未来会怎样。” 如果等待尽善尽美,就将一事无成 (传道书11:4)。 第二,盘点所拥有的。基督是我们最大的财富 (歌罗西书2:10)。
第三,制定计划,信靠神的引导, 然后采取行动(箴言16:9)。对上帝要有信心,祂会被我们的信心推动(马太福音9:29)。
第四,想法和态度改换一新 (以弗所书4:23)。
第五,相信上帝。接受我们的无知。 第六, 凡事都有定期 (传道书 3:1, 8:5-7)。有时上帝的旨意就是要我们等候。
天父擅长重新开始。 看看以色列(撒迦利亚书10:6,何西阿书14:4-5,诗篇145:13-14)。 在基督里,我们是新的,拥有新的心、新的思想和新的愿望 (诗篇51:10,哥林多后书5:17)。 信靠上帝。 为了祂的荣耀和我们的益处,上帝将坚定不移地以慈爱之心来新造我们,就像一个充满爱心的陶匠,用同样的泥土重新开始制作他心中想要的器皿 (耶利米书18:4-6)。 仰望上帝,让我们有新的开始吧。 True spirituality is to love God with all our heart and with all our soul and with all our mind, and to love one another as ourselves. Matthew22:37-39. When we love God, we would love what He loves also.
Such love is more vital than to be a scholar of the Bible. Knowledge is valuable and indispensable in our life. We True spirituality is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love one another as ourselves (Matthew 22:37-39). When we love God, we will love what He loves also. Such love is more vital than to be a scholar of the Bible. Knowledge is valuable and indispensable in our life. We need to use our God-given mind to understand and love Him. But knowledge by itself does not bring life. Intelligence even can hinder us in following God if it leads to arrogance. God’s revelation goes to the humble (Matthew 11:25). Having such love is more valuable than serving as a missionary in a faraway land. Without love, even if we give all we have to the poor and suffer, we gain nothing. Without love, even if we have the faith that can achieve great things, we are nothing (Matthew 22:39, John 13:34-35, 1 John 4:20-21, 1 Corinthians 13:1-3). We need to love God more than our own ambitions or money. We cannot serve God and money simultaneously. Note that being wealthy and loving God can co-exist, and rarely do we see a beggar who does not love money (Luke 16:13). But why should we love God? We should love God because He first loves us (1 John 4:19). Meditate on the love of God. In the garden of Gethsemane, Christ was overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death (Matthew 26:38). He went through excruciating pain and was crucified on a cross. At one point, even God the Father forsook Him (Matthew 27:46). Christ went through hell so that we would not have to. Ask God to make us see clearly and comprehend deeply His love for us. We should love God because He has forgiven our sins. We have made lots of mistakes, alienating ourselves and hurting others. Our iniquities continue even after our commitment to follow Christ. Ask God to open our eyes to see the seriousness of our sins. The more we realize His mercy in forgiving our sins, the more we love Him because “whomever has been forgiven little loves little” (Luke 7:47). True spirituality is to love God and our neighbors. Summarized a sermon by Zac Poonen: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A3wTy8n4b9g 最重要的诫命 真正的属灵是尽心、尽性、尽意爱上帝,并且爱人如己(马太福音22:37)。一个爱上帝的人也会爱祂所爱。 拥有这样的爱比做圣经学者更为重要(马太福音13:52)。知识在我们的生活中是宝贵而不可缺的。我们需要使用上帝所赐的理智来理解祂,来热爱祂。但知识本身并不能带来生命。聪明才智如果带来骄傲自大,甚至会阻碍人跟随上帝。上帝的启示显明给那些谦卑的人(马太福音11:25)。 拥有这样的爱比在远方做宣教士更有价值。即使我们将所有的周济穷人而受苦,没有爱也是一无所得。即使我们的信念堅定得可以成就大事,但没有爱也是一无是处(马太福音22:39;约翰福音13:34-35;约翰壹书4:20-21;哥林多前书13:1)。 爱上帝需要胜过自己的野心勃勃,胜过对金钱的贪爱。不能同时服侍金钱和上帝。请注意富有和爱神可以共存。很少有不爱钱的乞丐(路加福音16:13)。 不过为什么要爱上帝呢? 应该爱上帝因为祂先爱我们(约翰壹书4:19)。让我们一起来默想上帝的爱。在客西马尼园里,基督被悲伤压碎,几乎要死(马太福音26:38)。祂经历了极度的痛苦,被钉在十字架上。在某一时刻,甚至父神也离弃了祂(马太福音27:46)。祈求上帝帮助我们,使我们可以清楚地看见和深入地领会祂对我们的无比大爱。 应该爱上帝因为祂赦免我们的罪。我们犯了很多错误,离开了祂,伤害自己和他人。即使立志跟随基督之后,我们的罪孽仍未曾停止。求神打开我们的眼睛,看到自己的罪何其严重。越能意识到祂赦免之怜悯,就越爱祂,因为“那赦免少的,他的愛就少”(路加福音7:47)。 真正的属灵是爱上帝和邻舍。 We have spirit, soul, and body (1 Thessalonians 5:23, Hebrews 4:12). Our soul includes our intellect.
Many believers focus on their intellect (Acts 17:21), but if our brain power alone is sufficient to know God, Pharisees with deep knowledge of the Bible would have accepted Christ (John 5:39). The intelligent can be misled by their knowledge and grow unwilling to seek God with humility. Intellect is important. For example, we need to love God with all our soul as well (Matthew 22:37), but our intellect by itself cannot transform us into the worshippers God seeks. Christ taught us how God seeks those who worship Him in the spirit and in truth (John 4:23-24). Let’s try to understand what this means. We worship God in the spirit because God is Spirit. And we need the Holy Spirit (the Spirit of truth) in us to guide and change us so we can know and worship Him (John 4:24). The Holy Spirit reveals to us our sins. Like Job, when we see our iniquities and inadequacies, we despise ourselves, repent, fall on our knees, and worship God (Job 42:6, 1 Corinthians 14:24-25). We should let the Holy Spirit flow from us like rivers of living water, glorifying the Heavenly Father (John 14:15-17, 7:38-39). Worshipping God in truth implies we should have honesty and integrity in our worship. The person who prays to God should be the same person during the rest of the day. Christians should follow God in their everyday life. This is more important and difficult than public ministry. So, do not be controlled by selfish desires or become jealous of one another and form cliques to fight with one another (1 Corinthians 3:1-3). Do not let transient worldly things take us over (Job 1:20-21). Learn from Abraham. He worshipped God such that he was willing to offer to God that which was most precious to him—his son Isaac. He desired nothing more than God (Genesis 22). In the garden of Gethsemane, Christ prayed. He admitted His preference but still followed His Father’s will, not His (John 6:38, Matthew 26:36-46). To worship God truthfully and honestly, we need to deny ourselves, take up our cross, and follow Him every day (Luke 9:23). In conclusion, let the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, guide you to worship God in your spirit. In your everyday life, follow Christ. That is how we live from the spirit and not the soul. Summarized a sermon by Zac Poonen: https://youtu.be/rsJs3F8VeGM 靠灵而不是魂而活 每个人都有灵、魂、体 (帖撒罗尼迦前书 5:23;希伯来书 4:12)。魂包括一个人的智力。 许多信徒都注重智力(使徒行传 17:21)。但如果仅仅靠智力便可以知道神,那么对圣经有深厚知识的法利赛人应该接受基督(约翰福音 5:39),然而他们却拒绝祂。聪明的人会被他们的知识误导,不愿意谦卑地寻求上帝。 智力很重要,例如需要尽意地爱上帝(马太福音 22:37)。 但智力本身并不能将人变成上帝所寻找的敬拜者。 主耶稣教导上帝寻找那些用心灵和真理敬拜祂的人(约翰福音 4:23-24)。这是什么意思呢? 因为上帝是灵,要用心灵敬拜祂。 人需要圣灵(真理的灵)在心中的带领和改变, 使自己能认识和敬拜上帝(约翰福音 4:24)。 圣灵显明人的罪。使我们如约伯一样,看到自己的罪孽和不足时就会鄙视自己,悔改跪地,敬拜上帝(约伯记42:6;哥林多前书 14:24-25)。 让圣灵像活水的江河一样,从我们身上流出,荣耀天父(约翰福音 14:15-17; 7:38-39)。 在真理中敬拜上帝意味着我们诚实正直地敬拜祂。向上帝祷告的人应该在其余时间里也是同一个人。基督徒应该在日常生活中跟随上帝, 这比公开的事工更重要,也更困难。 所以,不要被自私的欲望左右,不要互相嫉妒,不要结党争斗(哥林多前书 3:1-3),不要让短暂的世俗之物辖制我们(约伯记1:20-21)。 当向亚伯拉罕学习。他敬拜上帝,甚至把最宝贵的儿子以撒献给上帝。他最深的渴望是上帝祂自己(创世记 22)。 基督在客西马尼园祈祷。祂在祷告中承认自己的选择,但依然遵循天父的旨意(约翰福音 6:38;马太福音 26:39)。 如果要在真理中诚实地敬拜上帝,应该每天舍弃自己, 背起自己的十字架跟随基督(路加福音 9:23)。 总而言之,让圣灵(真理的灵)引导我们在灵里敬拜上帝,在我们的日常生活中跟随基督。 这就是靠灵而不是靠魂而活。 There can be three types of deserts or wilderness in our life:
(a) The heat and pressure in our life have turned way up. (b) Our hearts have turned cold, with our passions gone. (c) We have given out so much that we feel empty with nothing left to give. Deserts may be a training ground. In the Bible, God met many significant figures in the wilderness, such as Moses. For example, in the desert, David earnestly sought God, and he learnt and grew. Psalm63:1. So, if we are in the wilderness, try not to get out in a hurry. Try to learn from the experience. Then, at least we can reduce the chance of getting there again. Let the valley of pain, suffering and darkness become our door of hope. Hosea2:15. Trust Him that at the right time, He will lead us out. When we are in the wilderness, keep doing what is right. Gal6:9. Also, consider doing the following: (a) Prepare to meet God there. Isaiah40:3-5. Stay alert, make ourselves available, and wait for Him expectantly. Psalm 5:3. (b) Plant seeds for spiritual growth. Listen to God’s word, retain it in a good and honest heart, and persevere to produce a crop. Luke8:11,15. (c) Eliminate unnecessary distractions. Prepare a straight, smooth road for God—Raising up valleys, lowering mountains, straightening out crooked paths, and leveling rough spots. Isaiah40:3-4. Focus on important things and say no to unimportant ones. Set our minds on things above, not on earthly things. Colossians3:2. (d) Search and remove idols from our hearts. They can be false things our culture worships that we sacrifice our life for. Do not imitate the culture around us but remove those idols from our life and from our lips. Hosea2:17. If we follow worthless idols, we will become worthless. 2Kings17:15. If we cling to worthless things, we will forfeit God’s love. Jonah2:8. Instead, we should replace passions for idols with passions for God. (e) Praise God. Sing to Him because singing helps focus our attention. Psalms63:5,7. Hosea2:15. We can worship God with our songs, so keep songs in our hearts. That can be where God is going to meet us. To conclude, if we are in the wilderness, learn from the experience. Wait for God, prepare for Him, and praise Him so His glory can be revealed for everyone to see. Isaiah40:3-5. Summarized a sermon by Buddy Owens https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWoRWyxvpEk from 20:30 在心灵的沙漠中找到上帝 我们的生活可能有三种类型的荒漠或旷野: (a)当我们生活的压力变得很高的时候。 (b)当我们的心变得冷漠, 我们的热情冷卻消失的时候。 (c)当我们付出太多,以至于感到空虚, 再无任何东西可以付出的时候。 荒漠可以成为训练地。在圣经中,许多重要人物在旷野中遇见上帝,摩西就是其中的一位。 大卫也在荒野中恳切地寻求上帝, 在那里学习和成长 (诗篇63:1)。 所以如果我们在“旷野”当中, 应该抓住这学习的机会, 不要急着逃离去。这样至少能够减少重返那里的机会。 让痛苦,苦难和黑暗之谷成为我们希望之门 (何西阿书2:15)。信靠上帝会在适当的时候带领我们走出旷野。 当我们身处旷野时,考虑做以下的事: (a)准备在那里迎见上帝 (以赛亚书40:3-5)。 保持警惕, 随时准备好, 期待地等候祂 (诗篇5:3)。 (b)为属灵成长种下种子。聆听上帝的话,持守在誠實善良的心裏,并坚持不懈,結出果实 (路加福音8:11,15)。 (c)消除不必要的干扰。預備一条平直和平坦的道路给上帝--填满山谷, 平整山丘, 把弯曲的路弄直,凹凸不平的地方弄平 (以赛亚书40:3-4)。 专注于重要的事情。思念上面的事,不要思念地上的事 (歌罗西书3:2)。 (d)搜寻并消除心中的偶像。这些偶像可以是我们牺牲自己生命所追寻, 社會文化所崇拜的虚假事物。 不要效法周围的文化。要从生命中, 嘴唇上除去那些偶像 (何西阿书2:17)。如果我们跟随毫无价值的偶像,也将变得毫无价值 (列王紀下17:15)。如果我们信奉一文不值的偶像,就会丧失上帝的爱 (约拿书2:8)。 相反地,我们应该用对上帝的热爱代替对偶像的激情。 (e)赞美上帝。向祂高歌, 因为歌唱有助集中注意力 (诗篇63:5,7; 何西阿书2:15)。我们可以通过歌唱来敬拜上帝,我们心中当时歌声涌流,那里可能是上帝与我们相遇的地方。 总而言之,如果我们身处旷野,就应该以此为学习的时机。 等候神,预备迎见并高声赞美祂。 让祂的荣耀显现给每个人看见 (以赛亚书40:3-5)。 “I was afraid…so I hid” are among the first words in the Bible uttered by a human (Genesis 3:10). Fear drives many of our behaviors and can manifest as anxiety, worry, sleeplessness, and anger. We can be afraid of many things, including rejection, failure, inadequacy, loneliness, losing job, losing control, sickness, and death. Typically, such feelings—particularly when excessive—are unhealthy.
Let us learn how Christ’s resurrection can drive out fear (2Corinthians 5:15, Romans 8:15). Try to understand why “Don’t be afraid” is a command that has showed up 365 times in the Bible. First, because of Christ’s death, being buried for three days, and resurrection, we can trust His words (Romans 1:4). Second, His resurrection shows we also will be raised from the dead (Hebrews 2:14-15). Death is not the end and is not to be feared. So, even when we are deteriorating outwardly, we must not lose heart nor ever give up. Inwardly we can be renewed day by day (2Corinthians 4:14,16-17). Third, His resurrection demonstrates God’s immense love for us. He would rather suffer and die in our place than live without us (Romans 5:8). This love lasts forever, is everywhere, can handle all circumstances, and covers all our iniquities (Ephesians 3:18-19). We can even lose our minds but nothing can separate us from God’s love (Romans 8:38-39). Such love drives out all fear (1John 4:18). Fourth, through His resurrection, He has taken care of our greatest need: our salvation. Surely, our heavenly Father will take care of all our other smaller needs. Fifth, our living God has a plan for us. By His plan, our past mistakes are forgiven, our lives have purpose, and our future home in heaven is guaranteed (1Peter 1:3-4). In all things, God works for the good of those who love Him (Romans 8:28). Now Christ seating at Father’s right hand is praying for us (Romans 8:34). If we still worry, we act as orphans, and we make God look bad (Matthew 6:25-34). Therefore, we should not worry about our lives, but let God’s love fill our hearts and live fearless lives. “Because He lives, all fear is gone.” (From the song, “Because He lives.”) Summarized from a Rick Warren sermon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aFCkP3JBr0E 无所畏惧地生活 「我就害怕 … 我便藏了」是人类在圣经中所说的最初几句话 (创世记3:10)。 我们许多行为的根源都是恐惧,比如焦虑,担忧,失眠和愤怒。 我们可以害怕很多事情,就像被拒绝,失败,不足,孤独,失业, 失控, 生病和死亡。通常这样的感觉都是不健康的,特别是过度之时尤其如此。 让我们学习如何让基督的复活来驱除自己的恐惧 (哥林多前书5:15; 罗马书8:15)。 让我们尝试了解为什么“不要害怕”的命令在圣经中出现了365次。 首先,由于祂的受死,埋葬和复活,基督的话是可信的 (罗马书1:4)。 其次,祂的复活表明我们也会从死里复活 (希伯来书2:14-15)。 死亡不是终点,不需为之恐惧。因此,即使外面的肉體在不断退化,不要沮喪, 也不要放弃。 我们內心可以一天新似一天 (哥林多后书4:14,16-17)。 第三,祂的复活表明了上帝对我们的大爱。在我们还是祂仇敌的时候,祂就宁愿为我们受苦牺牲,也不愿我们沉沦 (罗马书5:8)。 祂的爱永远长存,无处不在, 能够应付所有的情况 ,遮掩我们所有的罪孽(以弗所书3:18-19)。 我们可以失去理智,但不会失去上帝的爱。没有什么能使我们与祂的爱隔绝 (罗马书8:38-39)。 如此的爱驱散所有恐惧 (约翰壹书4:18)。 第四,祂的复活解决了我们最大的需要--个人的救赎。当然,我们的天父也会解决我们所有其它相比较小的需求。 第五,永生的上帝为我们制定了美好的计划。在祂的计划中,我们过去的错误得到原谅,当前的生活有了目标,并且未来的天家得到保证 (彼得前书1:3-4)。 祂在万事上都为那些爱祂的人造福 (罗马书8:28)。现在,基督坐在天父的右边, 为我们祈祷 (罗马书8:34)。如果我们依然担忧,活起来好像孤儿,就会使上帝蒙羞(马太福音6:25-34)。 因此,不要为生命忧虑。让上帝的爱充满我们的心,无所畏惧地生活。 「因祂活着,不再惧怕」( 取自“因为祂活着”的歌词)。 |
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