Exodus 出埃及记 34 — The LORD Your God 耶和华你的神
A Gracious God 满有恩典的神 (1–9).
Because He is gracious and long-suffering, God gave His people another opportunity, just as He does with us today (1 John 2:1–2). He gave a “second chance” to Abraham (Gen. 13:1ff.), Jonah (Jon. 3:1), and Peter (John 21:15ff.). The enemy accuses us and wants us to quit, but God is ready to forgive when we turn to Him (Ps. 103:10–14; 130:3–4).
因为神满有恩典、长久忍耐,所以祂赐予百姓另一次机会;神今日也如此对待我们(约一2:1-2)。祂也赐亚伯拉罕(创13:1)、约拿(拿3:1)及彼得(约21:15 )“第二次机会”。敌人控告我们,并要我们放弃,但只要我们愿意转向神,祂随时都肯赦免我们(诗103:3-4,10-14)。
A Jealous God 嫉妒的神 (10–29).
God works for us, but He expects us to walk with Him. He will keep His covenant, but we must beware not to compromise with evil. It is easy to get into sin gradually. First there is agreement in worship (vv. 12–13), then sacrifice (v. 15), then marriage (v. 16); and the result is the loss of our children to false gods. Note the emphasis on putting God first (vv. 19–22, 26).
神帮助我们,但也要求我们与祂同行。祂必遵守所立的约,但我们必须小心谨慎,不向罪恶妥协。我们很容易就会逐渐陷入罪中;首先是在敬拜上做出妥协(12-13节),接着是祭物(15节),然后婚姻(16节),而其结果就是孩子随从假神行邪淫。请在这里注意以神为先的强调(19-22,26节)。
A Glorious God 充满荣耀的神 (30–35).
Moses not only sought God’s glory and saw it on the mount, but he shared it as it reflected from his own face. However, this glory faded away, just like the glory of the Law. As we see Christ in the Word, and the Spirit makes us more like Him, we go “from glory to glory” (2 Cor. 3:12–18; see also Prov. 4:18; Matt. 17:1–8; Acts 6:15).
摩西不仅寻求神的荣耀并在山上得见了,现在他更是从自己的脸上向众人反映了这份荣耀。然而,这荣耀终究会消失,就像律法的荣耀一样。当我们在圣经里看到基督,而圣灵使我们越像基督时,我们也“荣上加荣”了(林后3:12-18;亦见箴4:18;太17:1-8;徒6:15)。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- Do you know God? Do you bear the image of God? The Bible says, “The LORD, a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.” (Ex 34:6) Let’s pray that we constantly remind ourselves who God is and what His characters are and bear His image in our daily lives.
你是否认识神?你是否拥有神的形象?圣经说:“耶和华,是有怜悯有恩典的神,不轻易发怒,并有丰盛的慈爱和诚实。”(出34:6)让我们祷告,叫我们不断提醒自己神是谁、祂的属性,并立志要在每日生命中活出祂的形象。
- The Lord made a covenant with his people that they shall not have any other gods except the LORD. He is a jealous God (Ex 34:14). So be sure that the LORD will destroy all your idols including anything, visible or invisible, that stand between you and the LORD. If you love anything more than Him, beware, He will destroy all of them because only He and He alone is your Creator and you belong to Him.
主与祂的子民立约,叫他们不可敬拜别神;祂是忌邪的神(出34:14)。所以你可以肯定,耶和华必把阻碍你与祂之间一切有形、无形的偶像一律拆毁。你对它物的爱若胜于神,请小心,祂必将之摧毁,因为唯独祂是你的创造者,而你完全属于祂。
- Can Christians marry non-Christians? No, the Lord God forbid such marriages (Ex 34:16). Deuteronomy is even clearer, “You shall not intermarry with them, giving your daughters to their sons or taking their daughters for your sons.” (Deu 7:3) New Testament gives us the same principle, “Do not be unequally yoked with unbelievers. For what partnership has righteousness with lawlessness? Or what fellowship has light with darkness? What accord has Christ with Belial? Or what portion does a believer share with an unbeliever? What agreement has the temple of God with idols? (2 Cor 6:14-16) Let’s pray that we obey God and His commandment. If a person insists in getting married with an unbeliever, the unbeliever clearly is his/her idol.
基督徒是否能与与非基督徒结婚?不,神禁止这等婚姻(出34:16)。申命记更是明确说道:“不可与他们结亲。不可将你的女儿嫁他们的儿子,也不可叫你的儿子娶他们的女儿。”(申7:3)新约也给予我们同样的原则:“不要同负一轭。义和不义有什么相交呢?光明和黑暗有什么相通呢?基督和彼列(彼列就是撒但的别名)有什么相和呢?信主的和不信主的有什么相干呢?神的殿和偶像有什么相同呢?”(林后6:14-16)让我们祷告,叫我们能顺服神和祂的诫命。如若一人坚持要与非信徒结婚,很显然的,那非信徒就是他/她的偶像。
Exodus 出埃及记 33 — God’s Friend 神之友
God’s Friendship 神的友谊
The tabernacle had not yet been built, so the structure referred to here was probably a tent where Moses met with God and over which the cloud rested. God spoke to Moses as with a friend because Moses obeyed God (Deut. 34:10; John 15:14–16). God could not dwell with a rebellious people, but He could fellowship with Moses (2 Cor. 6:14–18).
帐幕的建造尚未完成,所以这里指的可能是一个帐棚,而摩西就在那里与神见面,也是云柱降下的地方。因为摩西遵从神的话,所以神晓谕摩西,好像人与朋友说话一般(申34:10;约15:14-16)。神不与叛逆的人同行,但祂可以与摩西相通(林后6:14-18)。
God’s Presence 神的同在
The Jews watched things happen, but Moses made things happen. He knew God’s ways (Ps. 103:7) and prayed for God’s presence to go with them. Moses could not pray on the basis of Israel’s obedience to the Law, but he could plead the grace of God. Believers today are sure of God’s presence because He has promised to stay with us (Heb. 13:5–6).
犹太人围观看事,但摩西却出面行事。他晓得神的法则(诗103:7),并祈求神与百姓同行。摩西无法凭着以色列对律法的顺服向神祈求,但他可以寻求神的恩典。今天的信徒可以确信神与他们同在,因为祂已应许祂永不撇下,也不丢弃我们(来13:5-6)。
God’s Glory 神的荣耀
Many believers pray, “Show me Your way,” but not many pray, “Show me Your glory.” No man can see God in His fullness and live, but God can reveal some of His glory. He did that for Moses “in the secret place of the Most High” (Ps. 91:1–4). Our experience of glory today is explained in 2 Corinthians 3:18.
许多信徒常常祷告:“求你向我显示你的道路,”却很少说,“求你向我显出你的荣耀。”无人能见神全然的荣耀而活,但祂可以彰显自己一部分的荣耀,就如祂在“至高者隐密处”向摩西显现一样(诗91:1-4)。哥林多后书3:18便解释了今日信徒所能经历的荣耀。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- The LORD speaks to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. (Ex 33:11) All of us admired Moses but how many of us love God and His glory like Moses? How many of us come to God and pray for himself, his needs and his desire. How many of us truly love God and His glory. Let’s pray that we learn from Moses.
耶和华与摩西面对面说话,好像人与朋友说话一般(出33:11)。我们每一个人都欣赏摩西,但却有多少能像摩西一样爱神和祂的荣耀呢?有多少人来到神的面前,为的是自己、自己的需要,并自己的所愿祷告呢?有多少人是真心爱神,并渴望祂的荣耀?让我们祈祷,叫我们能向摩西学习。
- People abandoned God when God delayed or did not give them what they want or go where they wanted to go. But Moses is different. Moses will not proceed if God is not going with him (Ex 33:15). What about you? Will you proceed with your plan even if the Lord refuses to go with you? Are your goals and plans more important than the presence of God?
当神延迟或拒绝赐给百姓他们心里想要的东西或想去的地方时,百姓就抛弃了神。但摩西却不是这样;神若不与他同行,他就不愿前行(出33:15)。你呢?主若拒绝与你同行,你还会继续实施自己的计划吗?你的目标与计划是否比神的同在更为重要?
- No one can see God and live (Ex 33:20) yet God is gracious to grant the impossibility to Moses. Even it is impossible, the Lord find a way to accomplish Moses’ dream. God’s love and grace for Moses is so clearly demonstrated. Do you admire Moses? Pray that you not only admire Moses but also love God and His glory just like Moses.
无人能见神而活(出33:20),但恩慈的神却向摩西显现了。即使看似不可能,主仍然找到一个可行的方法实现摩西的愿望;神向摩西显出的大爱与恩典就在此显明了。你欣赏摩西吗?请祷告你不仅能欣赏,也渴望像摩西一样爱神和祂的荣耀。
Exodus 出埃及记 32 — The People Have Turned Corrupt 众百姓已败坏
Unbelief 不信
Despite all that God had said and done, and all that Israel had promised to do (19:8), the nation did not know how to live by faith. Moses had been gone forty days (Deut. 9:11ff.), and the people had become impatient. They still had the fire and cloud to assure them of God’s presence, but that was not enough. They wanted another visible representation of Jehovah to encourage them. It was unbelief: “Whoever believes will not act hastily” (Isa. 28:16).
尽管神过去所说所做的一切,以色列也曾承诺要遵行神的话(19:8),但他们仍不知如何凭信心生活。摩西才离开40天(申9:11),众百姓就变得不耐烦。他们依然有云柱火柱为神同在的凭据,但他们还觉不足,想要另一个可见的形象才感安心。这就是不信,“因信靠的人必不着急”(赛 28:16)。
Compromise 妥协
Aaron was supposed to be the spiritual leader in the absence of Moses, but instead he gave in and let the people have their way. When confronted with his sin, Aaron blamed the people, Moses, and the furnace (vv. 22–24), but he did not blame himself.
摩西不在的时候,亚伦应当担任众百姓的属灵领导,但他却妥协了,任由他们而行。而当摩西质问他的罪行时,亚伦反倒指责众百姓、摩西和火炉(22-24节),却没有责怪自己。
Intercession 代祷
Had Moses been a selfish man, he could have become the founder of a new nation, but he loved the people and prayed for their forgiveness. (See Luke 23:34; Rom. 9:1–3.) He reminded God of His covenant and of the glory He would lose if the nation were destroyed. When you pray, remind God of His promises and seek to magnify His glory.
如果摩西是自私的,他早已是一个新国的建国者了,可他爱百姓,并为他们求神饶恕(参见路23:34;罗9:1-3)。他提醒神自己所立的约;若以色列国若就此被毁灭,神也将失去祂的荣耀。当你祷告的时候,请提醒神祂所作的应许,并寻求能彰显祂的荣耀。
Discipline管教
We all should heed the psalmist’s wise words: “You who love the LORD, hate evil” (Ps. 97:10). God in His grace forgives the sinner, but in His government, He must punish the sin. This judgment may seem cruel to us, but the people had been warned against idolatry and had willfully disobeyed God. God had to teach them early not to act like the heathen nations around them. Israel had to remain a separated people, or God could not work out His great purposes through them.
我们都应该听从诗人明智的话:“你们爱耶和华的,都当恨恶罪恶”(诗97:10)。神因着恩典赦免了罪人,但仍必须惩罚罪恶。这里所行的审判或许看似残酷,但在充分告诫了众百姓敬拜偶像的后果之后,他们仍决议违背神。神必须今早管教他们不得如周边的异国一样行事。以色列必须分别为圣,否则神无法借着他们成就祂的大工。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- When the people saw that Moses delayed coming down from the mountain, the people started to turn away from God and worshipping other gods. (Ex 32:1) Impatience can kill (Ex 32:10). If God delayed, will you be so impatient that you turn away from Him and worship other gods who give you what you want immediately? Let’s pray that we humble ourselves and wait for Him because our God know the best timing for everything. Impatience is a sign of pride, arrogance and self-centeredness.
当百姓见摩西迟迟不下山时,他们就开始背离神,转向敬拜其它偶像(出32:1)。急躁的灵是致命的(出32:10)。如果神延迟祂的计划,你是否会感到不耐烦,叫你离弃神,转而敬拜能立马赐你心中所欲的偶像呢?让我们祈祷能谦卑自己,并耐心仰望神,因祂的时间是最好的。急躁是骄傲、傲慢和自我为中心的表现。
- The Lord is so furious with their rebellious and their hardened hearts. So the LORD said to Moses, “I have seen this people, and behold, it is a stiff-necked people. Now therefore let me alone, that my wrath may burn hot against them and I may consume them, in order that I may make a great nation of you.” (Ex 32:9-10) The Lord were so angry that he wanted to judge the Israelites and raise Moses up into a great nation. This is a fantastic news for Moses. Yet we see Moses is more concern about the glory of God and the promises of God rather than his personal gain and reputation. This is truly a great man of God.
耶和华因百姓的叛逆和刚硬的心感到及其愤怒。于是,耶和华对摩西说:“我看这百姓真是硬着颈项的百姓。你且由着我,我要向他们发烈怒,将他们灭绝,使你的后裔成为大国。”(出32:9-10)主如此生气,要审判以色列全国,并让摩西自成一个大国。这对摩西来说本该是一个好消息,但摩西在乎的不是个人的利益和声誉,而是神的荣耀和应许。这真是一位伟大的属灵人。
Exodus 出埃及记 31 — The Calling and the Work of God 神的工作与呼召
Work 工作.
When God wants to get a job done, He calls workers, equips them, and gives them the plan for the task. He also calls people to help them and to provide the needed resources. Bezalel and Aholiab were gifted artisans, but they needed God’s calling and enabling before they could do the work to please Him.
当神要做事,祂必呼召工人,装备他们,并给予工作模式与计划。神也会召其他人的协助,且供应一切所需的资源。比撒列和亚何利亚伯是极具天赋的工匠,但他们仍需要神的呼召与圣灵的充满才可行神所喜悦的工作。
Rest 安息.
Why did God mention the Sabbath at this point? Perhaps He wanted to remind His people that even the building of the sacred tabernacle was not a reason for breaking the Sabbath law. They needed a day of rest, and since the Sabbath was a sign between God and His people, they needed to honor Him. God wants us to be balanced: work, rest, worship.
神此时为何要提安息日呢?或许祂是在提醒祂的子民,即便是为了建造神圣的帐幕,他们也不可以此为借口,违反安息日的律例。众百姓需要在这日安息,况且这又是神与祂子民立约的记号,所以他们必须尊神为大。神要我们有一个平衡的生活:工作、休息和敬拜。
Law 律法.
Luke 11:20 suggests that “the finger of God” signifies the Holy Spirit, who wrote the Word of God (2 Tim. 3:16; 2 Pet. 1:21). He now writes it on the hearts of those who trust Christ and worship Him (2 Cor. 3:1ff.).
路加福音11:20暗示“神用指头”即指默示神话语的圣灵(提后3:16;彼后1:21)。如今,圣灵已将这话语刻在凡信靠并敬拜基督的人心中(参见林后3:1)。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- The Israelites were masons and bricklayers in Egypt, they were not qualified for quality and magnificent jobs. But the Holy Spirit miraculously gave Bezaleel and Aholiab the skill that was needed. Those whom God calls to any service, he will find or make fit for it. The Lord gives different gifts to different persons; let each mind his proper work, diligently remembering that whatever wisdom any one possesses, the Lord put it in the heart, to do His commandments.
在埃及,以色列人是石匠和瓦工,没有资格胜任高巧与壮丽的工作。然而圣灵却奇迹般地赐给了比撒列和亚何利亚伯所需要的技能。凡神所呼召来事奉的,祂必使其胜任。主赐给每人不同的恩赐,所以各人当行自己的本分,牢记心中的智慧皆是耶和华所赐,为遵行祂的旨意。
- Orders were now given that a tabernacle should be set up for the service of God. But they must not think that the nature of the work, and the haste that was required, would justify them in working at it on Sabbath days. The Hebrew word Sabbath signifies rest, or ceasing from labor. The thing signified by the Sabbath is that rest in glory which remains for the people of God. Does your work/career stop you from coming to worship God on Sunday?
神现在指示要搭建帐幕服事祂。可是,他们万不得认为工作的性质与须有的进度,是让他们仍能在安息日工作的理由。安息日的希伯来文表示休息,或停止劳动;而安息日所象征的,是神子民必在祂荣耀中的安息。你的工作或事业是否阻碍你在周日敬拜神呢?
Exodus 出埃及记 30 — The Altar 祭坛
Remember to Pray 要记得祷告.
The golden altar before the veil symbolized the ministry of prayer (Ps. 141:1–3; Rev. 5:8). God’s people today don’t stand before the veil: they enter the very presence of God. We need the “fire” of the Holy Spirit or our prayers are heartless (Rom. 8:23–27). Prayer is special, and we must not treat it as common (vv. 34–38).
幔子前的金坛象征祷告的事工(诗141:1-3;启5:8)。如今,神的子民无需站在幔子前:他们可以直接到神面前。我们需要圣灵的“火”,否则我们的祷告将是冷淡的(罗8:23-27)。祷告是特别的,而我们绝不能视它为平凡(第34-38节)。
Remember You are Ransomed 你要记得自己已蒙救赎.
They were not redeemed by paying money, nor are we (1 Pet. 1:18-19.); but paying the annual half-shekel reminded them of what God had done for them. The silver was used to make the sockets for the posts of the tabernacle (38:25–37). The foundation for everything is redemption.
以色列人不是用钱赎回的,而我们也不是(彼前1:18-19);但是,每年奉献半舍客勒是要提醒他们神为他们所做的一切。这银子后来也被铸造成带卯的座(38:25-37)。救赎是一切的根基。
Remember to Keep Clean 你要记得保持洁净.
Like the priests, we are washed once at redemption, but we must keep clean in our daily walk. If they became defiled even while serving the Lord in the holy tabernacle, what must happen to us as we serve in an evil world!
如同祭司一样,我们得蒙救赎时已被洁净,但也需在每日生活中持守圣洁。如果他们在神圣的帐幕侍奉时都会被玷污,那在这邪恶的世界里,我们将成什么样呢?
Remember to Honor the Holy Spirit 你要记得荣耀圣灵.
The holy anointing oil symbolizes the Spirit of God. We must beware trying to duplicate His work by human effort or treating Him in a common way (vv. 32–33). (See Eph. 4:30–32.)
圣膏油象征神的灵。我们必须谨记不能试图通过人的力量复制神的工作或轻待神(第32-33节)。(参见弗4:30-32)
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- The altar of incense (v. 1) represented the Son of God in his human nature, and the incense burned thereon typified his pleading for his people. The continual intercession of Christ was represented by the daily burning of incense thereon, morning and evening. Paul also said, “Christ Jesus is the one who died– more than that, who was raised– who is at the right hand of God, who indeed is interceding for us. (Rom 8:34) So if you are discouraged, remember that Jesus Christ is interceding for you even today. Let’s pray that we will not give up, but we’ll forget the past and strain forward to what lies ahead (Phi 3:13).
香坛(第1节)代表神儿子的人性,所以烧香就代表基督为自己子民的祈求。早晚不断的烧香就如基督不断地代求。保罗也说:“谁能定他们的罪呢?有基督耶稣已经死了,而且从死里复活,现今在神的右边,也替我们祈求。”(罗8:34)所以,如果你感到气馁,请记得耶稣基督今日也在为你祈求。让我们祈祷,叫我们不会放弃,忘记背后,努力面前(腓3:13)。
- The tribute was half a shekel (v.13). The rich were not to give more, nor the poor less (v.15); the souls of the rich and poor are alike precious, and God is no respecter of persons (Act 10:34; Job 34:19). In other offerings men were to give according to their worldly ability; but this, which was the ransom of the soul, must be alike for all. The souls of all are of equal value, equally in danger, and all equally need a ransom. The money raised was to be used in the service of the tabernacle. Those who have the benefit, must not grudge the necessary charges of God’s public worship. Money cannot make atonement for the soul, but it may be used for the honor of Him who has made the atonement, and for the maintenance of the gospel by which the atonement is applied. How was your giving? Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. (Gal 6:7)
每个人的赎价是半舍客勒(第13节)。富有的无需奉献更多,贫穷的也不得少给(第15节),因为穷人和富人的灵魂都一样珍贵,而神是不偏待人的(徒10:34;伯34:19)。在其它奉献上,人要根据自己世俗的能力和财富付出;但灵魂的赎价皆是等同的。所有灵魂都有着同等的价值,同样需要救恩,有着同样的赎价。所收集到的银子最后也用于帐幕的铸造。金钱是无法为灵魂赎罪,但它可用来荣耀那作了赎罪祭的,也可用于延续福音的工作。你是否奉献呢?不要自欺,神是轻慢不得的。人种的是什么,收的也是什么(加6:7)。
Exodus 出埃及记 29 — The Work of Salvation 救恩的工作
We dedicate, but God consecrates. We surrender, but God sanctifies. He sets us apart for His exclusive use. As God’s priesthood, His people have experienced spiritually what Aaron and his sons experienced physically.
我们献上,但神使之圣洁;我们降服,但神使之洁净。祂把我们分别出来为自己所用。身为神的祭司,祂的子民在属灵上经历了亚伦和他儿子在肉体上所经历的。
We have been washed 我们已得洁净.
The blood of Christ has cleansed us (Rev. 1:5–6), and our past is gone (1 Cor. 6:9–11). Sinful hearts are purified not by religious rites but by faith in Jesus Christ (Acts 15:9; Titus 3:5).
基督的宝血已洁净我们(启1:5-6),而我们的过去也不再复返(林前6:9-11)。败坏罪恶的心不是由宗教仪式洁净的,乃是因信耶稣基督得洁净(徒15:9;多3:5)。
We have been clothed 我们披上公义.
We stand in the very righteousness of Christ (Isa. 61:10; 2 Cor. 5:21) and wear the garments of God’s grace (Col. 3:1ff.).
我们已站在基督的公义里(赛61:10;林后5:21),并披上了神的恩典(参见西3:1)。
We have been anointed 我们是受膏的.
We have the Holy Spirit living within (2 Cor. 1:21; 1 John 2:27), and He enables us to minister.
我们有圣灵的内住(林后1:21;约一2:27),而祂使我们能参与服事。
We belong to God 我们是属神的.
The priests were “marked” by the blood on the ear (hear God), the hand (serve God), and the foot (walk with God). The “continual burnt offering” morning and evening was a reminder of their complete and constant devotion to God. Don’t forget your daily presentation of yourself to God (Rom. 12:1–2).
祭司的耳朵(听命于神)、手(事奉神)和脚(与神同行)已被血“抹上”。 早晨与黄昏“常献的燔祭”是要提醒他们要全心、不断地向着神。不要忘了你每日也需将自己献上给神(罗12:1-2)。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- Aaron and his sons were to be set apart for the priest’s office (vv. 1-37) with ceremony and solemnity. Our Lord Jesus is the great High Priest, called of God, anointed by the Spirit, clothed with glory and beauty; sanctified by his own blood; made perfect, or consecrated through sufferings (Heb. 2:10). All believers today are also spiritual priests. We are to offer spiritual sacrifices (1Pet 2:5), washed in the blood of Christ. We are also clothed with the beauty of holiness, and have received the anointing (1John 2:27). This consecration signifies the admission of a sinner into the spiritual priesthood, to offer spiritual sacrifices, acceptable to God through Jesus Christ. What a salvation that the Lord has achieved for us.
亚伦和他的儿子以庄重的仪式,将自己分别出来,担任祭司的职分(第1-37节)。我们的主耶稣是伟大的大祭司,由神呼召、圣灵受膏、披上荣耀和美丽,并以自己的宝血得洁净,因受苦难得以完全(来2:10)。今天,众信徒亦是属灵的祭司。我们需要献上被基督宝血洁净的灵祭(彼前2:5),也要披上圣洁的荣美,并有主的恩膏(约一2:27)。这样的奉献代表一个罪人得着属灵的祭司职分,可以藉着耶稣基督来献上神所悦纳的灵祭。主为我们成全了多么伟大的救恩啊!
- A lamb was to be offered upon the altar every morning, and a lamb every evening (vv38-46). This typified the continual intercession which Christ ever lives to make for his church. Though he offered himself but once for all, that one offering thus becomes a continual offering. This also teaches us to offer to God the spiritual sacrifices of prayer and praise every day, morning and evening. Our daily devotions are the most needful of our daily works, and the most pleasant of our daily comforts. How about you? Are you devoted to God on a daily basis? Let’s pray that we do that with a joyful hearts.
祭司每日早晨和黄昏都需献上一只羔羊(第38-46节)。这代表着基督不断地为祂的教会祈求。虽然祂将自己一次献上,但这祭已成为常献的燔祭。这也教导我们每天都要以祷告和赞美的灵祭献上给神,每天早晨和黄昏不住献上。每日的祈祷是我们一日工作中最需要,也是每日安慰中最悦心的。你呢?你是否每天都向神祷告、赞美?让我们祈祷,叫我们能以乐意的心把自己献上。
Exodus 出埃及记 28 — The Priesthood 祭司的职分
The priesthood was both a privilege and a responsibility. It was wonderful to wear the glorious garments and be in the holy courts, but being a priest also brought serious obligations.
祭司这职分是个特权,亦是责任。能在圣所中穿戴华丽圣袍的确是非常美妙,但他也同时背负重大的职责。
They Ministered First to the Lord 他们首先事奉主.
Four times in this chapter, God emphasized “to serve me as priests” (vv. 1, 3, 4, 41). God’s servants must seek to please Him alone (1 Cor. 4:1–7). We must be “bondservants for Jesus’ sake” (2 Cor. 4:5).
神在本章中四次强调“给我供祭司的职分”(第1,3,4,41节)。神的仆人必须单讨祂的喜悦(林前4:1-7)。我们因着耶稣的缘故必须成为主的仆人(林后4:5)。
They Ministered to the People 他们事奉百姓.
God’s people are like jewels to Him (Mal. 3:17). Our great High Priest carries us over His heart and on His shoulders. He represents us before the throne of God so that we are “accepted in the Beloved” (Eph. 1:6).
神视自己的子民如宝石一样(玛3:17)。我们伟大的大祭司将我们扛在祂的肩上,也放在祂的心里。祂在神的宝座前代表我们,使我们能“藉这爱子得蒙救赎”(弗1:6)。
They Ministered Together 他们一同事奉.
God supplied their needs as they served the people. There was no competition or confusion in the holy tabernacle because they served the same Lord and obeyed the same Word. God has a ministry for each of us, and He will equip us to do it.
在事工上,神提供了他们所需的一切。神圣的帐幕里没有竞争或混乱,因为他们服事同一位主,遵从同一个命令。神已为我们各人预备自己的事工,并将装备我们按部去行。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- The holy garments not only distinguished the priests from the people but were emblems of that holy conduct which should ever be the glory and beauty, the mark of the ministers, without which their persons and ministrations will be had in contempt. They also typified the glory of the Divine majesty and the beauty of complete holiness, which rendered Jesus Christ the great High Priest. But our adorning under the gospel is not to be of gold and costly array but the garments of salvation, the robe of righteousness. Today all believers are priests. Peter said, “You are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation. (1Pe 2:9) Let’s pray that we will glorify the Lord with our heart attitudes and righteous conducts.
圣衣不仅将祭司从百姓中分别出来,它也象征了圣洁行为,永远美丽、灿烂。这也当是牧者的标志,否则他们的人格和事工将遭人鄙视。圣衣亦代表了那位神圣尊荣之王的荣耀与全备圣洁的荣美,叫耶稣基督能作我们伟大的大祭司。但是,我们今日所披上的福音不当是黄金和昂贵的装饰,乃是以救恩为衣,以公义为袍的。如今,所有信徒皆是祭司。彼得说:“惟有你们是被拣选的族类,是有君尊的祭司,是圣洁的国度。”(彼前2:9)让我们祈祷,叫我们能以心里的态度和公义的行为荣耀主。
- The chief ornament of the high priest, was the breastplate, a rich piece of cloth. The name of each tribe was graven in a precious stone, fixed in the breastplate, to signify their preciousness in God’s sight. How honorable were these believers! Regardless of how small and poor the tribe was, it was as a precious stone in the breastplate of the high priest; thus all the saints are dear to Christ. The high priest had the names of the tribes, both on his shoulders and on his breast, which reminds us of the power and the love with which our Lord Jesus pleads for those that are his. He not only bears them up in his arms with almighty strength, but he carries them in his bosom with tender affection. What comfort is this to us in all our addresses to God! Let’s thank God for his love for us.
大祭司主要的装饰是胸牌和一块质地极佳的布。每个支派的名字都刻在宝石上并镶在胸牌上,象征着他们在神里面的珍贵。这些信徒是如此光荣啊!无论该支派有多贫穷或弱小,它都是大祭司胸牌上的一块珍贵宝石;众圣徒皆是基督的挚爱。在大祭司的双肩和胸前,有着十二个支派的名字,这提醒着我们主耶稣为凡属祂的人祈求,使我们得着力量和爱。祂不仅以全能的双臂将我们扛起,祂也以爱怜将我们拥入怀里。这对我们来说是莫大的安慰!让我们感谢神对我们如此的爱。
Exodus 出埃及记 27 — The Altar 祭坛
The tabernacle was not a gathering place for worship but a place for sacrifice and holy service.
帐幕不是敬拜的聚集地;它是献祭和神圣事工的场所。
Sacrifice 献祭.
The first thing one saw was the brazen altar, for no one can come into the presence of God until sin has been dealt with (Lev. 17:11).
人首先能看到的就是铜坛,因为一个尚未赎罪的人,是不可以来到神面前的(利17:11)。
Separation 分别.
The tent was surrounded by a fence of linen hangings, for only the priests and Levites could enter the sacred courts. The common people were kept out of the courts and the priests out of the Holy of Holies. God wanted all His people to be priests (Exod. 19:5–6), but that would not happen until the finished work of Christ on the cross (1 Pet. 2:5, 9). We today have open access to the presence of God through Jesus Christ (Heb. 10:19–25).
帐幕被细麻所做的帷子包围,因为只有祭司和利未人才可以进入神圣的院子。百姓不得踏进院子,而祭司也不得进入至圣所。神希望祂所有的子民都成为祭司(出19:5-6),但这需要等到基督在十字架上完成祂的工作后才得实践(彼前2:5,9)。如今,我们借着耶稣基督可以直接来到神面前了(来10:19-25)。
Shining 发光.
The lampstand stood in the holy place and helped the priests to see as they served. It did not illumine the camp; the glory of God did that (Exod. 40:38). God’s people (Phil. 2:15) and His churches (Rev. 1:12, 20) are lights in this dark world. Be sure you keep your lamp trimmed and your light shining (Matt. 5:16).
圣所里的灯台助祭司们看见自己在做什么,但照亮整个帐营的是神的荣耀,并不是灯台(出40:38)。在这个黑暗的世界里,神的子民(腓2:15)和祂的教会(启1:12,20)就是光。你要留心让自己的灯台和光一直照在人前(太5:16)。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- In the court before the tabernacle was an altar, to which they must bring their sacrifices, and on which their priests must offer them to God. It was of wood overlaid with brass. A grate of brass was let into the hollow of the altar, about the middle of which the fire was kept, and the sacrifice burnt. It was made of net – working like a sieve, and hung hollow, so that the ashes might fall through. This brazen altar was a type of Christ dying to make atonement for our sins. The wood had been consumed by the fire from heaven, if it had not been secured by the brass: nor could the human nature of Christ have borne the wrath of God if it had not been supported by Divine power. Do we confess our sins daily as the Lord has taught us (Matt 6:12)?
帐幕前的院子里有个祭坛;百姓必须把祭物带到祭坛上,而祭司也必须在祭坛上将祭物献于神。祭坛是皂荚木以铜包裹所制造的。铜网下达到空坛的半腰是献祭的地方,而底下的盆就是火的所在。这片铜网就像筛子一样,悬在中央,而坛上的灰就会掉入底下的盆。铜祭坛代表着基督为我们赎罪而舍命。皂荚木若没有铜的庇护,它早已被从天降下的火给烧尽了。同样的,如果没有神圣全能的守护,基督的人性绝对无法承受神的忿怒。我们是否按主所教导,每日承认自己的罪呢?(太6:12)
- The pure oil (v.21) signified the gifts and graces of the Spirit which all believers receive from Christ, the good Olive, without which our light cannot shine before men. The priests were to light the lamps, and tend them. It is the work of ministers, by preaching and expounding the Scriptures, which are as a lamp, to enlighten the church, God’s tabernacle upon earth. Blessed be God, this light is no longer confined to the Jewish tabernacle, but it’s a light to lighten the gentiles and for salvation unto the ends of the earth. Let’s continue to pray for our pulpit that the Lord will bless the preaching of His word and draw people to worship Him in truth and in spirit.
清橄榄油(第21节)象征所有信徒从基督(好橄榄)所得的恩赐和恩典;若不是,我们就无法照在人前了。祭司负责点灯并看管它们。这就是牧者的事工,而他们需要借着宣讲和解释圣经,将这灯台点起,教导教会;教会就是神至今的帐幕。神是应当被称颂的,因为这灯再也不仅限于犹太人的帐幕,也照耀世界各地的外邦人,成全救恩。让我们继续为我们的讲台祷告,求主祝福祂的话语并带领人以心灵和诚实敬拜祂。
Exodus 出埃及记 26 — The Veil 幔子
Ten curtains, fifty loops, fifty clasps, forty sockets, twenty boards, two veils—yet it was one sanctuary: “That it may be one tabernacle” (v. 6); “That it may be one” (v. 11). Diversity, yes; but unity in diversity. We are reminded in 1 Cor. 12:4-6 that there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit; and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord; and there are varieties of activities, but it is the same God who empowers them all in everyone.
十幅幔子(罩篷)、五十个钮扣、五十个金钩、四十个银座、二十块板、两幅幔子,齐制作为一个圣所,“成了一个帐幕”(6节)”,“使罩篷连成一个”(11节)。是的,结构很多,但多元一体。这让我们联想到了哥林多前书12:4-6:“恩赐原有分别,圣灵却是一位;事工也有分别,主却是一位;功用也有分别,但在各事上赐予每人力量的神,却是一位。”
There was only one plan for the tabernacle, and it came from God (v. 30). Man’s cleverness and wisdom may bring success in the things of the world (Luke 16:8), but they will destroy the work of the Lord (1 Cor. 3:16–23). Be sure you get your plans from heaven and not from the world.
制造帐幕的模式只有一个,而这源于神(第30节)。人的聪明与智慧或许能带来世俗上的成功(路16:8),但只会破坏主的工作(林前 3:16-23)。要确保你的计划来自天上而非世界。
There was one set of measurements for the building (v. 2). When we measure ministry by God’s standards, we will have unity, but if we use our own standards, there will be division.
整个制作过程只用了一套测量的标准(第2节)。当我们用神的标准来衡量事工时,我们必能团结一致,但如若我们用的是自己的标准,纷争必然掀起。
They used only the materials that God told them to use. In 1 Corinthians 3:10–16, read about building with the proper materials that will endure. Note the emphasis on gold in chapter 37, silver in chapter 38, and precious stones in chapter 39.
他们只用神所指定的材料。哥林多前书3:10-16说道,只有以适当材料建造的工程才能存得住。请注意第37章所强调的金、第38章的银及第39章的宝石。
The sanctuary was indwelt by one glory, the glory of God. When man brings in his glory, there is division. Jesus prayed that His people might be one (John 17:20–23). Are you helping to answer that prayer?
圣所内住一个荣耀,即神的荣耀。当人把自己的荣耀带进时,就会引起纷争。耶稣祈祷祂的子民都能合而为一(约17:20-23),而你是否在呼应这祷告呢?
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- God manifested his presence among the Israelites in a tabernacle. The curtains of the tabernacle were to be very rich. They were to be embroidered with cherubim, signifying that the angels of God and it should remind us how holy and sacred is our Lord. Do you fear Him? Let’s pray that we understand and fear Him.
神在帐幕中向以色列人显现了祂的同在。帐幕的幔子当是极为丰富的。它绣着基路伯,象征神的使者,也提醒我们主是何等地圣洁与神圣。你敬畏主吗?让我们祈祷,叫我们能晓得并敬畏祂。
- There was a veil that separated the holy place from the most holy place (v33). It was hung upon the pillars. This veil was a partition between the holy place and the most holy; which forbade any to look into the holiest of all. Today we have now boldness to enter into the holiest by the blood of Jesus. Are we grateful for the work of Jesus Christ on the cross? Let’s thank Jesus Christ for His precious provision for us to draw near to the throne of grace.
柱子上悬挂的一幅幔子,将圣所和至圣所隔开(第33节)。它划分两地,禁止人们直接看到至圣所。今日,借着耶稣的宝血,我们竟能坦然无惧地踏入至圣所。我们是否为耶稣基督在十字架上的工作感恩呢?让我们为耶稣基督所赐下的宝贵供应,叫我们得以亲近那施恩宝座而献上感恩。
Exodus 出埃及记 25 — The Tabernacle 帐幕
An Offering 奉献.
God could have made the whole tabernacle by Himself in an instant of creative power, but instead He asked the people to bring Him their offerings. The Israelites were privileged to make a sanctuary for God. Today, we are also helping to build His church, and we must use only the best materials (1 Cor. 3:9–23). Are you giving willingly to God what He has given to you?
神大可在瞬间为自己造一个帐幕,但祂却叫百姓向祂献礼。以色列民能为神搭建圣所,真是何等荣幸!我们今日也在建立神的教会,所以也必须使用最好的材料(林前3:9-23)。你是否甘心将神所赐予你的献给祂?
A Pattern 模式.
God gave Moses the pattern for the tabernacle just as He later gave David the pattern for the temple (1 Chron. 28:19). When God wants a work done on earth, He has a plan for His people to follow. It is dangerous to turn from God’s plan and follow the wisdom of this world (1 Cor. 3:18–20).
神给予摩西制造帐幕的模式,如同祂后来也给大卫建造圣殿的模式一样(代上28:19)。神若要在地上做事,祂必预备自己的子民设立计划。背离神的计划转向世俗的智慧是危险的(林前3:18-20)。
The ark was the throne of God in the Holy of Holies, and God’s glory dwelt between the cherubim on the mercy seat (Ps. 99:1). Our mercy seat is in heaven (Heb. 4:11–16), and the way is always open to God.
法柜是神至圣所的宝座,而祂的荣耀就坐落在二基路伯之间的施恩座(诗99:1)。我们的施恩宝座就在天上(希4:11-16),而向神敞开的门永远都在。
The table reminds us that God is the source of our sustenance (Matt. 6:11). The bread also speaks of the spiritual nourishment we have in His Word (Deut. 8:3; Matt. 4:4). The golden candlestick tells us that “God is light” (1 John 1:5) and that we are to be lights in this dark world (Matt. 5:14–16). Just as the lamps were fed by the oil, so we must have the power of the Spirit to be effective witnesses for the Lord (Acts 1:8).
桌子提醒我们神是我们的供应(太6:11)。饼也代表着我们在祂话语里面得着的属灵喂养(申8:3;太4:4)。金灯台告诉我们:“神就是光”(约一1:5),如同我们当成为这黑暗世界的光一样(太5:14-16)。正如灯台仰赖灯油燃烧,我们也必须依赖圣灵的能力为主作有效的见证(徒1:8)。
Praying the Scripture 用经文祷告
- God chose the people of Israel to be a special people to Himself, above all people, and He would be their King. He ordered a royal palace to be set up among them for Himself, called a sanctuary, or holy place. There He showed His presence among them. The people were to furnish Moses with all the materials by their own free will. The best use we can make of our worldly wealth is to honor God with it in works of piety and charity. Pray that we have cheerful, not grudging hearts, for God loves a cheerful giver (2 Cor. 9:7)
神在全地之上拣选了以色列人成为自己的特殊子民,并作他们的王。祂命令要在子民中间为自己建造王宫,称为圣所,或神圣之地。祂将在那里显现自己的同在。百姓们当向摩西自愿奉献所需的材料。至今,我们能在世俗的财富上荣耀神的最佳方式是敬虔与善行之举。让我们祷告,叫自己能有一颗乐意慷慨的心,因为捐得乐意的人是神所喜爱的(林后9:7)。
- The candlestick (vv. 31-40) represents the light of God’s Word and Spirit, in and through Christ Jesus, to direct their worship and obedience, and to offer them consolations. Exodus 25:40 is an expressed caution to Moses. Nothing was left to his own fancy, or to that of the workmen, or the people; but the will of God must be observed in every way. Christ’s instruction to his disciples (Matt 28:20) was also the same, “Observe All things whatsoever I have commanded you.” Do you obey all that Christ has commanded? Pray that we not only read through the entire Bible but also observe the commands of the Lord.
灯台(第31-40节)代表圣灵与话语借着并在基督耶稣里的光照,引导百姓敬拜与顺服神,也从中得到安慰。出埃及记25:40特别嘱咐摩西要谨慎行事。在这一切事工上,人都无需发挥自己的想象力,唯有在各方面遵行神的旨意。基督对众门徒的指示也一样:“凡我所吩咐你们的,都教训他们遵守”(太28:20)。你是否遵行基督所有的吩咐?请祷告,我们不仅要通读整本圣经,也更要遵守主的命令。