Storing up treasure in heaven

Matthew 6:16-34(NIV)

Fasting

¹⁶"When you fast, do not look somber as the hypocrites do, for they disfigure their faces to show men they are fasting. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. ¹⁷But when you fast, put oil on your head and wash your face, ¹⁸so that it will not be obvious to men that you are fasting, but only to your Father, who is unseen; and your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Treasures in Heaven

¹⁹"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. ²¹For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

²²"The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. ²³But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!

²⁴"No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

Do Not Worry

²⁵"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? ²⁶Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? ²⁷Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life^[b]?

²⁸"And why do you worry about clothes? See how the lilies of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. ²⁹Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. ³⁰If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? ³¹So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' ³²For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. ³³But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

6:16 「你們禁食的時候，不可像偽善的人；他們裝出一副苦相，故 意蓬頭垢面，好讓別人看出他們正在禁食。我告訴你們，他們這樣做已經得了所能得到的報償。 6:17 你禁食的時候，要梳頭洗臉，6:18 不要讓別人看出你是在禁食，只讓那位在隱密中的天父知道；看得見你在隱密中做事的天父一定會獎 賞你。」6:19 「不可為自己積聚財寶在地上，因為有蟲蛀，也會生銹，又有盜賊破門進來偷竊。6:20 要為自己積聚財寶在天上；那裏沒有蟲蛀，不會生銹，也沒有盜賊進來偷竊。6:21 你的財寶在哪裏，你的心也在那裏。」6:22 「眼睛好比身體的燈。如果你的眼睛好，全身就光明；6:23 如果你的眼睛壞，全身就黑暗。同樣，如果你裏頭的光變成黑暗，那黑暗該是多麼可怕呀！」
6:24 「沒有人能夠伺候兩個主人。他要不是厭惡這個，喜愛那個，就是看重這個，輕看那個。你們不可能同時作上帝的僕人，又作錢財 的奴隸。6:25 「所以我告訴你們，不要為了生活上所需的飲食，或者身上所穿的衣服操心。難道生命不比飲食重要，身體不比衣服重要嗎？6:26 你們看天空的飛鳥：牠們不種不收，也不存糧在倉裏，你們的天父尚且飼養牠們！你們豈不比鳥兒更貴重嗎？6:27 你們當中又有誰能夠藉著憂慮多活幾天呢？6:28 「為甚麼要為衣服操心呢？看看野地的百合花怎樣生長吧！它們既不工作又不縫衣；6:29 可是我告訴你們，甚至像所羅門王那樣的榮華顯赫，他的衣飾也比不上一朵野花那樣的美麗。6:30 野地的花草今朝出現，明天枯萎，給扔在火爐裏焚燒，上帝還這樣打扮它們，他豈不更要賜衣服給你們嗎？你們的信心太小了！6:31 所以，不要為我們吃甚麼、喝甚麼，或穿甚麼操心；6:32 這些事是不信的人所追逐的。你們的天父知道你們需要這一切東西。6:33 你們要先追求上帝主權的實現，遵行他的旨意，他就會把這一切都供給你們。6:34 因此，你們不要為明天憂慮，明天自有明天的憂慮；一天的難處一天擔當就夠了。」

一、中心內容：

內容：
1>談論禁食的態度與方式。（v16-18）The means and attitudes of fasting (v16-18)
2>當聚財寶在天上。（v19-21）Storing up treasure in heaven (v19-21)
3>論眼睛好比身體的光。（v22-23）The eye is the lamp of the body. (v22-23)
4>不要為世上的財物憂慮。（v24-34）Do not worry about worldly wealth (v24-34)

主題：
1>當聚財寶在天。Storing up treasure in heaven
2>勿為世上財物憂慮。Do not worry for the worldly stuff
3>先求祂的國和義。Seek first God’s kingdom and His righteousness

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？

1>在隱密中鑒察的上帝。（v18）God sees what we have done in secret. (v18)
2>祝福、獎賞我們的上帝。（v18）God blesses and rewards us. (v18)
3>掌管大地花草的上帝。（v30）God takes care of flowers and grass on the earth. (v30)
4>深知我們所需的上帝。（v32）God knows our needs. (v32)

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？

1>有關禁食的教導 Teaching about fasting
禁食就是為了專心禱告的緣故，而暫時放棄正常的進食。摩西律法明文規定，每年的贖罪日，以色列百姓都應禁食一次，以表示為罪憂傷、痛 悔。日後猶太人又增添了多次為了紀念國難的禁食。

Fasting is to temporarily stop eating to devote one’s heart to prayer. According to the Mosaic Law, people should fast on the day of Redemption to show their sorrow and contrite for their sins. Other than the Mosaic Law, many occasions of fasting have been added to commemorate national crises.
在主耶穌的時代，法利賽人為了型塑敬虔的形象，除了一般的禁食之外，每星期又加上兩次的禁食。尤其當他們禁食的時候，還刻意在站人多 的地方，故意披頭散髮，並露出倦容疲態，使人一看便知到他們是在禁食，並對他們產生稱羨、尊敬的心。

In Jesus’ day, the Pharisees fasted twice a week in addition to the regular fasting. When they fasted, they deliberately appeared in public to show their disfigured faces and fatigued spirit. They wanted everyone to see it and to respect them.
針 對這種刻意藉著外表裝扮，偽裝出來的敬虔，主耶穌予以譴責，同時教導正確的態度。因此，對門徒說：你們禁食的時候，不可像偽善的 人；他們裝出一副苦相，故 意蓬頭垢面，好讓人看出他們正在禁食。我告訴你們，他們這樣做，已經得了所能得到的報償。接著，又教導說：你禁食的時候，要梳頭洗 臉，不要讓別人看出你是 在禁食，只讓那位在隱密中的天父知道；看得見你在隱密中做事的天父，一定會獎賞你。根據以上教導我們可以得知：事實上，主耶穌並不反 對禁食，祂只是不贊成 如同法利賽人一般：表面、虛偽，為博得美名，那種偽君子的態度。

Jesus reprimanded such pretentious fasting. He taught the disciples the right kind of attitude they should have while fasting. Please refer to verses 16-18. As a matter of fact, Jesus did not hold anything against fasting. He was against the Pharisees’ way of fasting, because it was pretentious, superficial, a fame-oriented and hypocritical attitude.
反省：在我的生涯當中，是否曾經有過禁食操練？當禁食時，我的心態如何？為了刻苦己身？為了懺悔認罪？為了國家有難？為了靈性成長？ 或為了高舉自己、博得美名？
Reflection: Have I ever practiced fasting in my life? When I fast, what is my attitude? Is it for disciplining myself? Is it for confessing? Is it for national crises? Is it for personal spiritual growth? Is it for self-promotion and reputation?
2>當積財寶在天上 Storing up treasure in heaven
主耶穌藉著比喻來警戒門徒，吩咐他們不能以財利作為人生追求的目標。因此，教導他們說：不可為自己積聚財寶在地上，因為有蟲蛀，也會 生銹，又有盜賊破門進來偷竊。
要為自己積聚財寶在天上；那裏沒有蟲蛀，不會生銹，也沒有盜賊進來偷竊。
包 括：蟲咬、銹壞和賊偷---等，都在表明財物積蓄在地的不安全、不可靠、不長久。其實，不只財物本身會遭蟲咬，會銹壞，會被賊偷 而已，包括暫時管理錢財的 人，也無法長久於世。因此，基督徒正確的財物觀，就是將錢財積蓄在天上，也就是行上帝所喜悅的事，這樣就能夠為自己積存天上的賞賜。

Jesus taught the disciples through a parable and commanded them not to make pursuing wealth the sole goal in their life. Thus He said in verses 19 and 20, ¹⁹ “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”

Moth, rust and thieves indicate the fact that the treasure is being stored in an unsecure and unsafe place. In fact, not only will moth, rust and thieves destroy the treasure, but the person who is temporarily in charge of it is not immortal either. To store up treasure in heaven is to do what pleases God and it will store up the rewards in heaven for us. For Christians, this is the appropriate viewpoint concerning wealth.
另外，財物與我們的心，這兩者往往分不開。因為我們若過 於看重屬世的財富，我們的心思意念，自然漸漸傾向屬世的財富，同時逐漸以屬世的觀點去衡量每一件事，這樣的話，我們就很容易一步一步 的淪為物質與虛榮的奴隸。

Our heart clings to wealth, they are inseparable. The more we value worldly wealth, the more we are inclined to think of it; eventually we will view things from a worldly perspective. Step by step, we will fall into the trap of becoming a slave to materialism.
今天有多少基督徒，不能真心愛主，無法專心跟隨主，問題就出在裏。因此，我們應該遵行主的教訓，多多仰望天上的事，多多將財寶積蓄在 天。

Because of the above reason, many Christians cannot devote themselves to following and loving Jesus. We ought to follow Jesus’ teaching and think more about the things of heaven so that we can store up treasure in heaven.
反省：算算看，我在地上已經累積了多少財富？有幾筆土地？有幾棟房子？有多少存款？有多少股票？我覺得自己富有還是貧窮？另外，積蓄 在天上的財寶有多少？與地上帝積蓄成比例嗎？在往後的生命當中，我應該作哪些調整？
Reflection: How much worldly wealth have I hoarded? How many pieces of land and houses do I possess? How much money is there in my bank account? How many stocks do I own? Do I consider myself rich or poor? How much treasure do I store up in heaven? Is it in good proportion when compared to the earthly one? What are the adjustments that I should make in my life?
3>眼睛明暗的差別 The difference between a good eye and a bad one
主耶穌在這裏以人的眼睛與身體的關係，來比喻心靈的眼睛對人性的重要性。祂說：眼睛好比身體的燈。如果你的眼睛好，全身就光明；如果 你的眼睛壞，全身就黑暗。同樣，如果你裏頭的光變成黑暗，那黑暗該是多麼可怕呀！

Jesus referred to the relationship between the eyes and the body to illustrate the importance of spiritual eyes to human’s nature. He said, ^{22 “}The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light. ²³But if your eyes are bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!” (v22-23)

所謂壞（昏花）的眼睛，是指：被錢財迷惑，貪婪妒忌的心。所謂好（明亮）的眼睛是指：清心寡欲、有屬靈辨別力的心靈。

Bad (blurry) eye means a heart that is lured by money, greed and jealousy. Good eye (bright eye) means a heart that desires nothing and has spiritual discernment.
肉眼是否健全明亮，影響人的視野是光、是暗；同樣，人與上帝的關係，也就是靈裏是否的敏感，影響到他的生命是否豐富、有意義。

Good or bad eyes affect a person’s vision. A man’s spiritual sensitivity affects the meaning of his life. If a person has good relationship with God, he will have a meaningful and abundant life.
反省：根據我的心思意念，以及我的言行舉止，顯示我是一個什麼樣的人呢？是屬靈眼睛明亮的呢？或屬靈眼睛昏暗的？我明白生命的意義 嗎？我的生命豐盛嗎？
Reflection: What do my thoughts and deeds tell about me? Are my spiritual eyes bright or blurry? Do I understand the meaning of life? Do I live an abundant life?
4>不能侍候二主人 A man cannot serve two masters
瑪門是亞蘭語的一個名詞，指的是：物質上的利益。這個利益，非常容易取代「在人的生命中以上帝為首」的地位。

Money is an Aramaic term. It means materialistic profits and it subtly replaces God as the priority of our life.
因為上帝是獨一的真神，也是不容許祂的子女，同時事奉他神的上帝。正如：十誡的第一誡，開宗明義就說：除了我以外，你們不可有別的上 帝。

God is the only true God. He does not allow His children to worship other gods. As we read in the first of the Ten Commandments: You shall not have other gods before Me.
顯然，上帝要我們完全獻給祂、專一跟隨、全心事奉祂。祂不喜歡我們以模稜兩可的態度，來選擇事奉的對象（神）。

Apparently, God requires us to offer our whole being to Him, to devotedly follow Him and to serve Him wholeheartedly. He is not pleased with our vague attitude in our choice of whom we will serve.
因此，主耶穌就對門徒說：沒有人能夠伺候兩個主人。他要不是厭惡這個，喜愛那個，就是看重這個，輕看那個。你們不可能同時作上帝的僕 人，又作錢財的奴隸。

Therefore, Jesus said to His disciples, ^{24 “}No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.” (v24)
反省：我是否專心跟隨、事奉主？或是又要事奉上帝？又要事奉瑪門？
Reflection: Do I devotedly follow and serve the Lord? Or do I serve both God and money?
5>勿為生活而憂慮 Do not worry about life
主耶穌接著勸勉門徒，不要為生活上「吃什麼、穿什麼」而憂慮。因為人一旦為生活而憂慮之後，就非常容易為「貪財的誘惑」留地步。但是 要怎麼作，才能夠真正擺脫憂慮呢？答案非常簡單，就是全然信靠上帝，仰望祂的慈愛與眷顧。

Jesus encouraged the disciple not to worry about what to eat or wear. Once a man worries about life, soon he will give in to the temptation of greed. What should we do to completely get rid of worry? The answer is simple; it is to fully rely on God and to look up to His love and care.
在這段經文當中，特別提到信徒不該憂慮的四個原因：

This passage gives us four reasons not to worry:
a.上帝既然賜人生命與身體給我們，必然照顧衣食等小事。（v25）
b.連小鳥上帝都餵養了，連花草上帝都裝飾了，何況我們是祂的兒女。（v26、v28-29）
c.單單憂慮並不能解決問題。（v27）
d.憂慮就表示對上帝的小信。（v36）

1. It is God who gives us life and a body; certainly, He will take care of us. (v25)
2. God cares for the birds and adorns the flowers, not to mention that we are His children. (v26; 28-29)
3. Worry cannot solve problems. (v27)
4. Worry exposes our lack of faith. (v36)

反省：我的工作如何？我的收入如何？我的生活過得如何？我 的心中有喜樂嗎？我對未來有何盼望嗎？目前最令我憂慮的是什麼呢？
Reflection: How is my job and revenue? How is my life? Is there joy in my heart? What is the hope I hold for the future? What worries me the most at this moment?
6>先求祂的國和義 Seek first His kingdom and His righteousness
主耶穌說：你們要先追求上帝主權的實現，遵行祂的旨意，祂就會把這一切都供給你們。因此，你們不要為明天憂慮，明天自有明天的憂慮； 一天的難處一天擔當就夠了。

Jesus said, ^{33 “}But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. ³⁴Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” (v33-34)

在這段經文當中，主耶穌勸勉門徒，要看重上帝的事，過於看重自己的事。這是一個務必持守，不能錯亂的次序。因為當我們將更多的心思， 用在尋求上帝所喜悅的事上時，上帝也絕對不會忽略我們的需要。祂必會充充足足的供應我們。

Jesus encouraged the disciples to put more value on the things of God than they do their own. It is a rule that we should follow and we should not misplace the order. When we put more of our heart into the things of God and seek to please Him, He will not ignore our needs but will provide for us.

另外，我們只要盡今天當盡的本份就夠了，明天自有明天的憂慮。意 思就是說：應該將明天的難處交託給上帝。也就是學習仰望、交託、順服的功課。

We need to fulfill today’s share of obligation. Tomorrow will worry about itself. We should place whatever will come tomorrow in God’s hands. To rely on, to trust in and to summit to God is a lesson for us to learn.
反省：我是否懂得生命中的優先次序。是否善於安排生活上的優先次序？上帝的國度、上帝的旨意都排在第幾順位？是否先求祂的國和祂的 義？
Reflection: Do I know the priority in life? Am I good at placing the order of priority in life? Where do God’s kingdom and will stand in my life? Do I seek first His kingdom and His righteousness?
四、我的禱告 / 實際應用

The attitude toward giving to the needy

Matthew 6:1-15 (NIV)

Giving to the Needy

¹"Be careful not to do your 'acts of righteousness' before men, to be seen by them. If you do, you will have no reward from your Father in heaven.

²"So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. ³But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, ⁴so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Prayer

⁵"And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full. ⁶But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. ⁷And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. ⁸Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.

⁹"This, then, is how you should pray:
" 'Our Father in heaven,
hallowed be your name,
¹⁰your kingdom come,
your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
¹¹Give us today our daily bread.
¹²Forgive us our debts,
as we also have forgiven our debtors.
¹³And lead us not into temptation,
but deliver us from the evil one.^[a]' ¹⁴For if you forgive men when they sin against you, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. ¹⁵But if you do not forgive men their sins, your Father will not forgive your sins.

01你們要小心，不可在別人面前炫耀自己的虔誠，故意讓別人看見。這樣做 的話，你們
就不能從天父獲得獎賞。02所以，你施捨的時候，不可大吹大擂，像那些偽善的人在會堂或街道上所做的，為要得到別人的誇獎。我告訴你 們，他們這樣做已經得了所能得到的報償。03你施捨的時候，別讓左手知道右手所做的，04這應該是一件隱密的事。這樣，那 位看得見你在隱密中做事的天父一定會獎賞你。
05你們禱告的時候，不可像偽善的人，喜歡在會堂裏或十字路口站著禱告，故意讓別人
看見。我告訴你們，他們這樣做已經得了所能得到的報償。06你禱告的時候，要進你的內室，關上門，向在隱密中的天父禱告。那 位看得見你在隱密中做事的天父一定會獎賞你。
07你們禱告的時候，不可像異教徒那樣，重複沒有意義的話。他們以為只要長篇大論，
上帝就會垂聽。08不可像他們那樣。在你們祈求以前，你們的天父已經知道你們所需要的。09因此，你們要這樣禱告：我們在天上的父 親，願人都尊崇你的聖名；10願你在世上掌權，願你的旨意實現在地上，如同實現在天上。11賜給我們今天所需的飲食。12饒恕我們對 你的虧負，正如我們饒恕了虧負我們的人。13不要讓我們遭受承擔不起的考驗；要救我們脫離那邪惡者的手。14你們若饒恕別 人的過錯，你們的天父也會饒恕你們；15你們若不饒恕別人的過錯，你們的天父也不會饒恕你們的錯。

一、中心內容：

內容：
1>論施捨 Giving to the needy
施捨時，錯誤的態度。（v1-2）Wrong attitudes toward giving (v1-2)
施捨時，正確的態度。（v3-4）Right attitudes toward giving (v3-4)
2>論禱告 Prayer
禱告時，錯誤的態度。（v5、v7-8）Wrong attitudes toward prayer (v5, 7-8)
禱告時，正確的態度。（v6）Right attitudes toward prayer (v6)
3>禱告的內容。（v9-12）The contents of prayers. (v9-12)
4>當彼此饒恕。（v13-15）Forgiving each other (v13-15)

主題：
1>施捨的態度。The attitude toward giving to the needy
2>禱告的態度與內容。The content of prayer and the attitude toward it

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？

01>獎賞我們的天父上帝。（v1）God rewards us. (v1)
02>看得見隱密之事的上帝。（v6）God can see everything in the dark. (v6)
03>垂聽禱告的上帝。（v7）God listens to prayers. (v7)
04>全知的上帝。（v8）God is omniscient. (v9)
05>我們在天上的父上帝。（v9）God is in heaven. (v9)
06>聖名配得尊崇的上帝。（v9）God’s name is worthy of glory. (v9)
07>在世上掌權的上帝。（v10）God governs the world. (v10)
08>供應我們物質所需的上帝。（v11）God provides everything we need. (v11)
09>饒恕我們虧負的上帝。（v12、v14-15）God forgives our sins. (v12, 14-15)
10>保守我們免於災難的上帝。（v13）God protects us against disasters. (V13)
11>拯救我們脫離兇惡的上帝。（v13）God saves us from evil. (v13)

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？

1>不為利己的善行 Unselfish good deeds
自 古以來，多少人在善行的背後，都帶有自私的目的。例如：有人為了爭名，有人為了得利，有人為了政治資源的累積。當今台灣最為典 型，而且家喻戶曉的例子就是 慈濟功德會，他們行善非常主要的目的，就是為了替自己累積功德。另外，某些民間社團，或工商業界，捐個幾十萬的善款，就非得要上報、 上電視，背後動機，另 有他圖。

Since ancient times, there were selfish purposes behind every good deed. Some were for fame, some for personal profits and some for political gain. In Taiwan, Ci Ji Charity is a typical example. The purpose behind their good deeds is to accumulate religious merits. Social clubs and business organizations donate tens of thousands of dollars with hidden motives: they want to be seen through media such as the newspaper and TV.
然而，我們卻發現主耶穌的教導，跟這樣的觀念，全然背道而馳。因為祂吩咐門徒不可在別人面前炫耀自己的虔誠，不可故意讓別人看見自己 的善行。因此，捨的時候，不可大吹大擂，像那些偽善的人，在會堂或街道上所做的，為要得到別人的誇獎。
所以，當施捨的時候，正確的態度是：別讓左手知道右手所做的，因為施捨應該是一件隱密的事。如果這樣的話，那位看得見你在隱密中做事 的天父，一定會獎賞 你。根據主耶穌的教導，我們可以得知，基督徒的善行，不為名，也不為利，只為了愛，就是因為上帝愛我，所以我要愛人。

We find that Jesus’ teaching is quite the contrary. He taught His disciples to not make their piety and their good deeds a public show, nor to make giving to the poor a show like the hypocrites did on the streets or in the synagogue. Their purpose was to receive compliments from people. The right attitude concerning giving to the poor is to not let the left hand know anything that the right hand does. Giving to the poor is considered a secret deed. The Father in heaven will see what you have done in the secret and He will reward you. As we learn from Jesus’ teaching, Christians do good deeds neither for fame nor for profits but for the sake of love, because God loves us.
反省：我是否經常行善事？如果是的話，當我行善事的時候，帶著什麼樣的動機？是否為了博得好名聲？是否為了累積知名度？是否期待將來 能回報？
Reflection: Do I always do good? If yes, what is my motive? Is it for good reputation or fame? Do I expect something in return from others?
2>針對禱告的提醒 Reminder for prayer
針對祂的門徒所做的每一件事，主耶穌非常看重動機問題，為了檢視動機是否純正，主耶穌以「施捨、祈禱、禁食」這三個例子來作教導。主 耶穌所教導的原則是：這些行動都不應該以自己為中心，應該以上帝為中心；不該為了誇耀自己，應該為了榮耀上帝。

Jesus emphasized on motives when it came to everything His disciples did. He used three examples of giving to the poor, of prayer and of fasting to teach them the principles to verify their motives. It should not be self-centered but God-centered, not for personal-glorification but for God-glorification.
基於此，針對祈禱一事，主耶穌針對兩種情況來作提醒：
a.引人注目：藉著公開場合，裝著虔誠態度，刻意引人注目，以期博得敬虔的好名聲。
b.重複禱詞：由於過度重視外在，不斷重複華麗詞藻，導致失去真誠內心。
以上兩種情況，都是不適當的。因為這樣會失去祈禱時，跟上帝溝通的真正意義。

Jesus pinpointed two issues concerning prayer:

1. Drawing attention: Performing piety in public in order to draw attention and to receive compliments from people.
2. Repetition of prayer: Caring too much about the outward performance, forgetting the importance of inward piety, thus repeating their rhetoric words.

It is not appropriate to pray with such attitudes, because it defeats the purpose to pray and misses out on the true meaning of communication with God.

反省：我的禱告生活如何？我禱告的態度如何？尤其當我帶領公眾禱告時，我 的動機又是如何？是否非常在乎「人的感覺」，甚至十分在意「人的評價」？在乎的程度，甚至超過在乎「跟上帝溝通」的實質？
Reflection: How is my prayer life? What is my attitude toward it, in particular, when I lead the prayer in public? Do I care much about people’s feelings and their comments? Does it surpass the essence of communicating with God?
3>主禱文內容主題 The themes of the Lord’s Prayer
當主耶穌教導門徒有關禱告的方式與態度之後，緊接著教導他們禱告的內容，此內容我們通常都稱之為主禱文。主耶穌說：因此，你們要這樣 禱告：
我們在天上的父親，願人都尊崇你的聖名；願你在世上掌權，願你的旨意實現在地上，如同實現在天上。賜給我們今天所需的飲食。饒恕我們 對你的虧負，正如我們饒恕了虧負我們的人。不要讓我們遭受承擔不起的考驗；要救我們脫離那邪惡者的手。
根據這篇祈禱文，我們發現祈禱時，可以有各種不同的主題：
a.敬拜：我們在天上的父親，願人都尊崇你的聖名。（敬拜天父上帝）
b.忠心：願你在世上掌權。（忠於上帝的主權）
c.順服：願你的旨意實現在地上，如同實現在天上。（順服上帝的旨意）
d.祈求：賜給我們今天所需的飲食。（祈求祂的供應）
e.認罪：饒恕我們對你的虧負，正如我們饒恕了虧負我們的人。（認罪和赦罪）
f.拯救：不要讓我們遭受承擔不起的考驗；要救我們脫離那邪惡者的手。（儆醒和拯救）

After Jesus taught them about the means and attitudes toward prayer, He taught them how to pray. It is what we are familiar with--- “the Lord’s Prayer.” ⁹" 'Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, ¹⁰your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. ¹¹Give us today our daily bread. ¹²Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. ¹³And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. (v9-13)

It consists of the following themes:

1. Worship: Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name. (worshipping heavenly Father)
2. Loyalty: Y our kingdom come ( being loyal toward God’s authority)
3. Submission: Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. (submitting to God’s will )
4. Request: Give us today our daily bread. (asking for God’s provision)
5. Confession: Forgive us our debts, as we also have forgiven our debtors. (confession and forgiveness of sins)
6. Deliverance: And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from the evil one. (being alert to temptation and asking for deliverance from it)

反省：當我祈禱時，通常都涵蓋哪些主題？是否開口、閉口都只懂得祈求，卻 忽略了還要有敬拜、認罪、順服、拯救-----等主題？
Refection: What themes do my prayers cover? Do I request all the time and forget all the other themes?

4>主禱文內容意義 The meanings of the Lord’s Prayer
當 主耶穌教導他們有關祈禱的方式與態度之後，緊接著教導他們祈禱的內容，此內容我們通常都稱之為主禱文。主耶穌說：因此，你們要這 樣禱告：我們在天上的父 親，願人都尊崇你的聖名；願你在世上掌權，願你的旨意實現在地上，如同實現在天上。賜給我們今天所需的飲食。饒恕我們對你的虧負，正 如我們饒恕了虧負我們 的人。不要讓我們遭受承擔不起的考驗；要救我們脫離那邪惡者的手。

從這當中，我們發現主禱文的內容與意義如下：

a.關心上帝的國度：
禱告蒙喜悅、蒙垂聽的秘訣，就是照著上帝的心意來禱告。換句話說，就是以上帝的國度為念、以上帝旨意為依歸的禱告。諸如：願你的國 度、願你的聖名、願你的旨意。顯示：這禱告是以上帝國度為依歸。

b.父子親密的關係：祈禱文不是形式化、公式化的事工報告，而是在親密關 係之中的溝通，也就是在父子關係中，在靈裏一種生命交流的方式。

c. 基督裏的共同體:

禱告有兩種，一種是個人的禱告，另一種是共同體的禱告。因為祈禱文中， 都是 以「我們」來自稱，所以是一種共同體的禱告。

d. 維護和諧的關係：
祈禱文非常關心關係的和諧，包括：與上帝的關係，以及與人的關係。因此，祈求上帝饒恕我們對祂的虧負，正如我們饒恕了虧負我們的人。

The meanings of the Lord’s Prayer are as follows:

1. Concerns forGod’s kingdom:

To have our prayer answered is to pray according to God’s will. It is to have God’s kingdom in mind. It is a prayer centered on God’s kingdom. Such as “May Your kingdom come. Hollowed be Your name. May Your will be done as it is in heaven.”

2. An intimate father-son relationship:

A prayer is not a formulated report. It is a fellowship and communication of life through an intimate father-son relationship.

3. As one in Christ Jesus:

There are two types of prayer. One is private and personal, the other is public prayer. The Lord’s Prayer uses “our” to start the prayer and it includes everyone participating.

4. To keep harmonious relationships with others:

It emphasizes on harmonious relationships which includes relationships with God and with others. Therefore, we ask God to forgive our debts as we forgive others’.

反省：當我用祈禱文禱告的時候，心裏都想些什麼？是否關心上帝國 度的事？是否享受父子親密關係？是否感受基督裏的共同體？是否維護與上帝、與人的和諧關係？或視同求告有應公？或如同口唸咒語？
Reflection: What is on my mind when I pray the Lord’s Prayer? Do I care about the matters concerning God’s kingdom; do I enjoy the father-son relationship; do I sense the oneness with Him; do I keep harmonious relationships with God and with others; do I see God as a Genie; do I pray like casting a spell?
四、我的禱告 / 實際應用

Sermon on the Mont

天國八福

1 耶穌看見一大群人，就上山；坐了下來，他的門徒環繞在他左右。5:2 他開始教導他們。5:3 「承認自己靈性貧乏的人多麼有福啊；他們是天國的子民！5:4 「為罪惡悲傷的人多麼有福啊；上帝要安慰他 們！5:5 「謙和的人多麼有福啊；他們要承受上帝所應許的產業！5:6 「渴望實行上帝旨意的人多麼有福啊；上帝要充分地滿足他們！5:7 「以仁慈待人的人多麼有福啊；上 帝也要以仁慈待他們！5:8 「心地純潔的人多麼有福啊；他們要看見上帝！5:9 「促進和平的人多麼有 福啊；上帝要稱他們為兒女！5:10 「為了實行上帝的旨意而受迫害的人多麼有福啊；他們是天國的子民！5:11 「當別人因為你們跟從我而侮辱你們，迫害你們，說各樣壞話毀謗你們，你們多麼有福啊。5:12 要歡喜快樂，因為在天上將有豐富的獎賞為你們保存著；從前的先知也同樣受過人的迫害。」

The Beatitudes

1Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, 2and he began to teach them saying:

3"Blessed are the poor in spirit,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

4Blessed are those who mourn,

for they will be comforted.

5Blessed are the meek,

for they will inherit the earth.

6Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they will be filled.

7Blessed are the merciful,

for they will be shown mercy.

8Blessed are the pure in heart,

for they will see God.

9Blessed are the peacemakers,

for they will be called sons of God.

10Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness,

for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

11"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. 12Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.

一、中心內容：Core message

內容：主耶穌在山上教導門徒，上帝國的價值觀（品格）。

Content: Jesus began to preach and teach the value of the Kingdom of God to disciples on the mountain.

主題：Theme

1>登山寶訓。Sermon on the Mont

2>上帝國的大憲章。The commandments of the Kingdom of God

3>基督門徒的品格。The good character of Christ’s disciples

4>真正豐盛的生命。The truly abundant life

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？Who is God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit?

1>深入社區、接觸人群的耶穌基督。Jesus goes into world （v1）

2>善於教導的耶穌基督。（v1）Jesus is good at teaching people

3>安慰人的上帝。（v4）God comforts us

4>應許賜下產業的上帝。（v5）God grants property as promised

5>旨意美善的上帝。（v6）God’s will is good

6>以仁慈待人的上帝。（v7）God is kind

7>在天上預備豐富獎賞的耶穌基督。（v12）Jesus Christ grants great in reward in Heaven

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？What lessons (command, covenant, role modeling, rebuking and warning) are God teaching us?

1>接近人群的耶穌Jesus goes into world

當主耶穌在世上工作的年日，並非整天待在聖殿或會堂裏，而是主動出擊、 深入社區、進入人群、發覺需要。正如路加福音八章一節所記載：過了不多日，耶穌周遊各城各鄉傳道，宣講上帝國的福音。主耶穌周遊各城 各鄉！

本段經文所記載的情境也是一樣，就是主動出擊！主耶穌看見一大群人，就 上山；坐了下來，他的門徒環繞在他左右，祂開始教導他們。

When the Lord Jesus preached and taught in the world. He did not stay in the temple or synagogue all day long, but took the initiative into the community, into the crowd, to find where and who needed it. Luke chapter 8:1 is written: After this, Jesus traveled about from one town and village to another, proclaiming the good news of the kingdom of God. Matthew 5:1-2, Now when he saw the crowds, he went up on a mountainside and sat down. His disciples came to him, and he began to teach them

反省：針對福音事工，主耶穌所留下「主動出擊、深入社區」的榜樣，我們 是否發現到了？是否照這樣作？還是教會圍牆高築、與世（社區）隔絕？

Reflection: Have we ever realized and done as Jesus did to take initiative into the community for the great commission of gospel? Or we built up a high wall around the church to isolate with the world?

2>上帝國的大憲章The commandments of the Kingdom of God

當主耶穌展開「傳天國福音」的工作之後，便「走遍了加利利，在各會堂裏 教訓人，傳天國的福音，醫治百姓各樣的病症。」（4:23）也因著祂的工作，使得祂的名聲，傳遍了敘利亞一帶，有來自四面八方的人跟隨祂。

尤其第一批門徒，包括：西門（彼得）、安得烈、約翰、雅各等這四人到祂 跟前來，主耶穌就當場宣講了第一篇重要的講道。這篇講道篇有人稱為登山寶訓，有人稱為八福。但因為是一篇跟上帝國度的價值觀」有關的 講章，所以也可稱為上帝國的大憲章。

Jesus began to preach for the kingdom of heaven, “Jesus went throughout Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, preaching the good news of the kingdom, and healing every disease and sickness among the people.” (v.4:23) because of His preaching, news about him spread all over Syria, and the people followed him from all directions. Including the disciples Simon Peter, Andrew, John and James followed up Jesus to the Mont. He preached a very important sermon of the beatitudes, we called it “Sermon on the Mont” He preached the value of the Kingdom of God; it is also called “The commandments of the Kingdom of God”.

反省：這一篇上帝國的大憲章，我是否明白其內涵？是否奉為遵循的準則？

Reflection: Do I precisely understand and follow the principle of the commandments of the Kingdom of God

3>上帝國的價值觀 The value of the Kingdom of God

在這一篇講道篇當中，主耶穌揭示了上帝國的價值觀。因為上帝國的價值 觀，跟屬世界的價值觀，不僅互相抵觸，甚至背道而馳。也因為如此，上帝國的生活方式，與屬世界的生活方式，也應該有所不同。例如：當 別人在爭取時，我們應該學習捨棄；當別人在憎恨時，我們應該學習原諒；當別人製造紛爭時，我們應該促成合一。因此，我們既 然進入上帝的國度，既然願意委身為上帝而活，就應該有這樣的心理準備與生活方式。

Jesus disclosed the value of the kingdom of heaven in this sermon. It is a conflict and opposition value between kingdom of heaven and world. Therefore, the life of heaven kingdom should be differentiating from the life of world. For example: we should learn to let go when others intend to grab, we should learn to forgive when others get hatred, and we should learn to unite when others try to make troubles. When we make commitment

to enter God’s kingdom and live by God should prepare ourselves for this life style.

反省：上帝國的價值觀，是否落實在我的日常生活當中？或依然停留在抽象 的教條？跟實際生活毫不相干？

Reflection: Do I carry out the value of kingdom of God into my daily life or totally opposite? or still remain into the abstract doctrine.

4>門徒具備的品格The good character of Christ’s disciples

當主耶穌宣講這篇信息時，有兩種人在現場。第一種就是蜂擁而至的群眾， 第二種是主耶穌所呼召，那四位第一批的門徒。我們如仔細觀察聖經的脈絡，將發現這一篇講道篇所宣講的對象，其實不是蜂擁而至的群眾，而 是主耶穌所呼召那四位門徒。因此，有關登山寶訓，或八福的信息，嚴格來講並非說明蒙福的條件，而是揭示上帝國的價值觀，更是強調主工 人（作主門徒）應具備的生命特質（品格）。

When Jesus preached this message, there are two types of people at the scene. The first kind is the influx of people; the second kind is the people calling by the Lord Jesus, such as four of the first disciples. If we carefully read the biblical context, will find this sermon preached to the four of disciples calling by Jesus, not to the influx of people, Therefore, the Sermon on the Mount, or the Beatitudes message, not to explain the condition to be blessed, but revealed the values of the kingdom of God, it is strongly emphasized that the servant of God (Disciple) should have the characteristics of life (character).

反省：針對主耶穌所述這八項生命特質，我是否真正明白其意涵？

Reflection: Do I truly understand the meaning of the beatitudes that Jesus preached?

5>八種品格的意涵 The meaning of the Beatitudes

a.承認自己靈性貧乏的人多麼有福啊；他們是天國的子民！

Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven!

b.為罪惡悲傷的人多麼有福啊；上帝要安慰他們！

Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.

c.謙和的人多麼有福啊；他們要承受上帝所應許的產業！

Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.

d.渴望實行上帝旨意的人多麼有福啊；上帝要充分地滿足他們！

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.

e.以仁慈待人的人多麼有福啊；上帝也要以仁慈待他們！

Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.

f.心地純潔的人多麼有福啊；他們要看見上帝！

Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.

g.促進和平的人多麼有福啊；上帝要稱他們為兒女！

Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God.

h.為了實行上帝的旨意而受迫害的人多麼有福啊；他們是天國的子民！

Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

反省：針對主耶穌所述這八項生命特質，我具備了幾項？是否寥寥無幾？

Reflection: What do I have possess of the beatitudes? Or few?

6>永恆國度的獎賞 The reward from the eternal Kingdom

因為上帝國的子民所持守的價值標準，跟一般屬世的人所追求的價值標準不 同，所以在一般屬世社群當中，經常成為不受歡迎的人物，甚至要因為持守真理而受迫害。然而，主耶穌去卻吩咐，要為此而感到歡欣，因 為上帝已經為他們預備榮耀的獎賞。尤其會遭受迫害的人，就表示對上帝有忠誠的信心。所以，將與那些「得著後世所景仰」上帝忠心的僕人 （如：先知以賽亞、耶利米）並列。尤其將進到永恆的國度裏，一同享受上帝所預備屬天的福氣。

The people of the kingdom of God peruses the value is not the same as the people by the world’s value, therefore, they will usually become unpopular in the world community, they even will be persecuted when they try to keep the value. However, the Lord Jesus commanded to feel this joy, because God has prepared for them a glorious reward. In particular, the people will suffer by persecution; because it means they have loyal faith to God. So those who will be admired by later generations and will tie with " faithful servant of God (such as: the prophet Isaiah, Jeremiah). They all will enter into the eternal kingdom, enjoy a blessing had prepared by the heavenly God.

反省：我所在乎、所追求的，是眼前、屬世、短暫的福氣，或將來、屬天、 永恆的報償？

Reflection: What I really care and pursue are temporary fortune, worldly value, short prediction ahead or the reward of future, heavenly and eternity?

Translated into English by Teresa Yang

The baptism of Jesus

The Baptism of Jesus

13Then Jesus came from Galilee to the Jordan to be baptized by John. 14But John tried to deter him, saying, "I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?"15Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented. 16As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. 17And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased."

I. Message:

Content:

1. Jesus went to the Jordan, and asked John the Baptist to baptize him (v13)
2. John the Baptist attempted to change Jesus’ mind, because common sense dictates that Jesus should be the one baptizing him. Through this, John expressed his sense of unworthiness (v14)
3. Jesus insisted that John the Baptist baptize him in order to fulfill all righteousness, God’s command. John the Baptist complied to Jesus’ request. (v15)
4. The scene and surrounding circumstances at Jesus’ baptism (v16-17)

Theme:

1. The baptism of Jesus
2. Fulfilling God’s command

II. Who is God? Who is Jesus Christ? Who is Holy Spirit?

1. Jesus Christ fulfilling all righteousness (obeying God’s command. (v15)
2. Jesus who was baptized (v13)
3. The Spirit of God descending like a dove on Jesus Christ (16)
4. God with voice from Heaven (v17)
5. Jesus Christ is the beloved son of God (v17)

III. What is God teaching me (command, promise, model, rebuke, warning)?

1) John the Baptist

We know that God does not use people at random. A chosen servant is the result of meticulous selection. This person necessarily had many special characteristics, and John the Baptist is one such example. The notable characteristics include: a) clear about his mission: he knows his assigned role and his transitional mission. That is why he said to the crowd: “I baptized you with water for repentance. But after me will come one who is more powerful than I, whose sandals I am not fit to carry. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with Fire.”(Matthew 3:11)

b) Observed diligently the boundary of his role: John the Baptist was able to adhere to the boundary as defined by his role. When asked by Jesus to baptize him, he immediately tried to deter Jesus, and said: “I need to be baptized by you, and do you come to me?" (v14)

c) Obedient: after Jesus’ explanation, John the Baptist complied. The scripture says, “Jesus replied, "Let it be so now; it is proper for us to do this to fulfill all righteousness." Then John consented. (v15)

d) Resisted temptation: because John the Baptist’s work was effective, his followers were increasing. However, he was able to gradually take on a less prominent role, and even take joy in it. This proves that John the Baptist did not lose himself in the crowd. He even said: “You yourselves can testify that I said, 'I am not the Christ but am sent ahead of him.' The bride belongs to the bridegroom. The friend who attends the bridegroom waits and listens for him, and is full of joy when he hears the bridegroom's voice. That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less.” (John 3:28-30) He had indeed overcome the temptation of power!

Reflection: In my serving, am I clear about my mission or am I easily swayed by what others say? Do I know and observe the boundary as defined by my role? Am I obedient or subjective and arrogant? Can I resist temptation or do I get lost in power struggle? What have I learned from John the Baptist; what are the inspirations?

2) The baptism of Jesus Christ

Because Jesus Christ is God, he is perfect and without sin, hence he did not need to be baptized. However why did he asked to be baptized? The reasons are as follows:

1. Obedience to God: though without sin and did not need to be baptized, in obedience to God’s will, he received baptism.
2. To set a model: as Jesus preached repentance, he set the example through his own baptism for all to model after.
3. Substitution: because he was without sin, he suffered for the sin of mankind. Baptism exemplified his humility and identification with men. Just as Philippians 2:6-8 said: “Who, being in very nature God, did not consider equality with God something to be grasped, 
but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness. And being found in appearance as a man, he humbled himself and became obedient to death even death on a cross!”

Reflection: What did I learned from the example Jesus Christ? Obedience to God, setting example and identify with us?

3) Trinitarian God

When Jesus arrived at the Jordan to receive baptism form John the Baptist, unusual circumstances appeared: as soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him. And a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." According to the description of this passage, we discover God the Father, Jesus the Son, and the Holy Spirit appearing at the same time, testifying to the Trinitarian God. a) The Father: a voice from heaven said, "This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased.” (v17) b) The Son: Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. (v.16) c) the Holy Spirit: At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and lighting on him (v16)

The Trinity is a theological mystery. It cannot be understood through human rationality, but only through faith. However, we can try to explain it with two limited illustrations: 1) Sun, itself, its light and heat, three aspects different in function and effect yet belonging to one. 2) Water, as liquid, solid and gas, three states manifested differently yet the same.

Reflection: What is my understanding and experience of the Holy Trinity?

4) The declaration of Father God

God with his voice from heaven said: “This is my Son, whom I love; with him I am well pleased." From these two statements, we know: a) God’s beloved son: Although Jesus Christ was the only begotten and beloved son of God, for the sake of the salvation of humankind, was sacrificed. This proves that God’s love for men is deep and wide. b) “with him I am well pleased” : Jesus was without sin throughout his life. Furthermore, he fulfilled God’s will with everything he did, giving glory to God and pleasing Him.

Reflection: Before God, am I like Jesus that God would declare, “this is my beloved son, with whom I am well pleased”? Or do I disappoint and hurt the Lord, perhaps even angered Him?

IV. Prayer/ Life Application

God’s guidance

The Escape to Egypt

¹³When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." ¹⁴So he got up, took the child and his mother during the night and left for Egypt, ¹⁵where he stayed until the death of Herod. And so was fulfilled what the Lord had said through the prophet: "Out of Egypt I called my son."^[a]

¹⁶When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. ¹⁷Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled:
¹⁸"A voice is heard in Ramah,
weeping and great mourning,
Rachel weeping for her children
and refusing to be comforted,
because they are no more."^[b]

The Return to Nazareth

¹⁹After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt ²⁰and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead."

²¹So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. ²²But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, ²³and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: "He will be called a Nazarene."

I. Core Message

Content:

1. Joseph followed angel’s word, brought the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. (v13-15)
2. Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under. (v16-18)
3. Joseph followed the angel’s word, and went back to Israel after Herod died. (v19-21)
4. When Joseph heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, God sent angel to warn Joseph to withdrew to the district of Galilee, and live in Nazareth. (v22-23)

Theme:

1. God’s guidance
2. A model of obeying

II. Who are God, Jesus Christ, and Holy Spirit?

1. God who sends angels to speak to people (v13, v19)
2. God who reads people’s mind (v13)
3. God who talks to people through prophets (v15, v23)

III. What does the passage teach us (about commands, promises, examples, exhortations, and warnings?)

1. God who Takes Controls of Everything

In the process where Joseph brought his family escaping to Egypt, coming back to Israel from Egypt, and moving to Nazareth, we could see that non of the plans was coming out from human. They were all coming from God’s guidance. Is these events, we could see some characteristics of God:

1. Omniscient: He knows all plans of Herod: Herod’s anger, his mind, and his plan of killing boys under 2.
2. Omnipresent: Angel appears in Joseph’s dream when he is in Bethlehem (v13) Angel appears again in Egypt (v19).
3. A detailed plan: Fulfilling what the Lord had said through the prophet: “Out of Egypt I called my son.” (v15) What was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled: “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.” (v17-18) This was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: “He will be called a Nazarene.” (v23)
4. Clear Revelation: “Get up, take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him” (v13) “Get up, take the child and his mother and go to land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child’s life are dead.” (v20) He is again being told by God to leave for Galilee. (v22)
5. Better: God is always better than humans. Thus, Herod was out of plan since God is always better than humans.

Reflection: God is reliable. How much do I rely on him and trust him? Or do I always rely on myself or others?

2. God’s Servent (Joseph)

Joseph is God’s servent, we can see following characteristics on him:

1. A righteous man: Her husband was a righteous man and did not want to expose her to public disgrace, he had in mind to divorce her quietly. (Matthew1:19)
2. Obedience: When he heard what angel had told him, he did not argued with God, for example: the child is still young, they hadn’t brought luggage, unfamiliar with the environment, or inconveniency of traveling.
3. Act right way: Joseph got up and brought the child and his mother to Egypt in the night.
4. Learn to wait: Even though it was inconvenient for Joseph to live in Egypt, he still stay there and wait for God’s time.

Reflection: Do I have the qualities of becoming God’s servant? What qualities Joseph has do I possess?

3. God’s servant (Mary)

Mary is also God’s servant, from her, we see following characteristics:

1. Obedience: When angel told her that she is pregnant through the Holy Spirit to give birth to Christ, she replied right away, “I am the Lord’s servant, May it be to me as you have said.” (Luke 1:38)
2. Obey her husband: Angel talked to her husband at night in the dream. Mary obeys her husband of living at night.

Reflection: Do I have the qualities of becoming God’s servant? What qualities Mary has do I possess?

4. Cruel Herod

When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi. Then what was said through the prophet Jeremiah was fulfilled, “A voice is heard in Ramah, weeping and great mourning, Rachel weeping for her children and refusing to be comforted, because they are no more.” We can tell that Herod is cruel, lack of pity, and is obsess to the power.

Reflection: Do I learn from Herod and use his as a reminder?

5. Jesus Life is Full of Frustrations

When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream, “Get up,” he said, “take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him.” Thus, Joseph acted right away, brought the child and the mother and left for Egypt, stayed there till Herod died. According to the bible, we can see that: Christ’s life is full of frustration. Firstly, he was born in the manger, then, he faced a fatal disaster and forcing him to leave his home. When he was thirty-three he was being crucified on the cross. From our perspective, Jesus’ life is full of frustration. But all he had done were not for himself, it was for us.

Reflection: Jesus Christ had suffered a lot for us. Have I sacrificed for him?

The Magi worshiping Jesus

Matthew 2:1-12 (New International Version)

Matthew 2

The Visit of the Magi

¹After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi^[a] from the east came to Jerusalem ²and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east^[b] and have come to worship him."

³When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.⁴When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ^[c] was to be born. ⁵"In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written:
⁶" 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for out of you will come a ruler
who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.'^[d]"

⁷Then Herod called the Magi secretly and found out from them the exact time the star had appeared. ⁸He sent them to Bethlehem and said, "Go and make a careful search for the child. As soon as you find him, report to me, so that I too may go and worship him."

⁹After they had heard the king, they went on their way, and the star they had seen in the east^[e] went ahead of them until it stopped over the place where the child was. ¹⁰When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. ¹¹On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. ¹²And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route.

一、中心內容：Message

內容：Content
1>主耶穌在伯利恆降生，東方的博士為了朝拜祂，前來耶 路撒冷詢問。Jesus was born in Bethlehem, Magi from the east went to Jerusalem and asked about him.（v1-2）
2>希律王聽了大感驚慌，並召集祭司長和民間的教師，前 來探詢究竟。King Herod was disturbed, he asked for all the people’s chief priests and teachers of the law about Jesus.（v3-4）
3>祭司長和民間的教師，根據先知的預言來回答希律王。The chief priests and teachers of the law replied by what the prophet has written.（v5-6）
4>希律王以朝拜耶穌為藉口，企圖從東方博士口中得音訊，以 便將耶穌殺害。King Herod, by making an excuse to worship Jesus, found out the information he needed in order to kill Jesus.（v7-8）
5>東方博士在明星的指引之下，終於順利朝拜主耶穌，並 且獻上禮物 Under the guidance of the star, the Magi came to the house, worshiped Jesus and presented their gifts. （v9-11）
6>上帝在夢中指示他們從另一條路回家，不將消息傳給希律王。God instructed them to go home by another road, not to go back to Herod.（v12）

主題：Theme
1>東方博士拜耶穌。The Magi worshiping Jesus.
2>人算不如神算。

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？Who is God? Who is Jesus? Who is the Holy Spirit?

1>降世為人的耶穌基督。（v1）
2>將作猶太人的王的耶穌基督。Jesus who is to become the King of the Jews（v2）
3>配得朝拜敬奉的耶穌基督。Jesus who is worthy of worship（v2、v11）
4>將牧養以色列子民的耶穌基督 Jesus who will shepherd the people of the Israel（v6）
5>啟示人的上帝。God who reveals to His people（v12）

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？What is God teaching me (command, promise, model, rebuke, warning)?


1>一樣降生兩樣情
耶穌基督的降生是一個事實，但是這一個事實卻彰顯出截然不同的 兩樣情境。The birth of Jesus Christ is a fact, but it highlights two entirely different situations. 首先，有幾個星象家（博士）從東方來到耶路撒冷；他們問：「那出生要作猶太人的王的在 哪裏？我們在東方看見了他的星，特地來朝拜他。First of all, Magi came to Jerusalem and asked: “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” 因為那顆星在前面指 引，所以他們就歡欣快樂。They rejoiced because the star was there to guide them. 他們進了 屋子，看見小孩子和他的母親馬利亞，就俯伏朝拜這孩子，然後打開寶盒，拿出黃金、乳香、沒藥等禮物獻給他。以上是一樣情！Once they entered the room, they saw the infant and his mother Mary. They bowed down and worshipped him. Then they presented their gifts: gold, incense, myrrh.
但是另一方面，我們看到希律王，他的態度跟東方來的博士截然不 同。But on the other hand, we see that king Herod’s attitude toward this situation was completely different. 因為當他聽到耶穌基督降生的消息之後，就顯得著急 不安；整個耶路撒冷的人，也因為受影響而感到不安。Because when he heard about the birth of Jesus, he was disturbed, so was all Jerusalem. 希律王甚至以「朝拜耶穌」作為藉口，企圖從東方博士口中獲得音訊，以便將耶穌基督給予殺 害，以免影響他的權位。這又是另外一樣情！King Herod used the excuse of wanting to worship Jesus as a pretext in attempt to get the information he needed to get rid of Jesus in order to preserve his power.
俗語說：幾家歡樂幾家愁，耶穌基督的降生，也可稱為：有人歡樂、有 人不安。
反省：主耶穌的降生與我何干？我有什麼感受嗎？我是歡欣快樂呢？還 是無關痛癢？Reflection: How does the birth of Jesus Christ affect me? How do I feel? Am I joyful or not?

2>先知預言的實現
當希律王聽見耶穌基督降生的消息之後，心中著急不安；整個耶路 撒冷的人，也因為受影響而感到不安。希律王就召集了所有的祭司長和民間的經學教師來，詢問他們說：「基督該誕生在甚麼地方？」他們就 回答說：「在猶太的伯利恆，因為先知曾這樣寫著：猶大地區的伯利恆啊，你在猶大諸城邑中並不是最小的；因為有一位領袖要從你那裏出 來，他要牧養我的子民以色列。³When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.⁴When he had called together all the people's chief priests and teachers of the law, he asked them where the Christ^[c] was to be born. ⁵"In Bethlehem in Judea," they replied, "for this is what the prophet has written:
⁶" 'But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah,
are by no means least among the rulers of Judah;
for out of you will come a ruler
who will be the shepherd of my people Israel.'^[d]"
事實證明沒有錯！耶穌基督就如同先知所預言的，降生在伯利恆！It indeed happened. Jesus, was predicted, was born in Bethlehem. 顯然，耶穌基督的降生，不是一般平凡嬰孩出生的事件，乃是上帝獨生聖子的降世，是出自上帝永恆的計劃，也是舊約時代先知預言的實現! The birth of Jesus Christ is an extraordinary miracle. It is the plan of God and the recognition of Old Testament prophecy.
反省：針對聖經先知的話語，我是否真正相信？我是否竭力追？Reflection: Do I believe the prophecies in the Bible? Do I pursue them?

3>為耶穌獻上禮物
當東方來的博士，在耶路撒冷與希律王告辭之後，隨著明星的指引 繼續前行，果然來到耶穌基督降生之處。他們進了屋子，看見小孩子（耶穌基督）和他的母親馬利亞，就俯伏朝拜這孩子，然後打開寶盒，拿 出黃金、乳香、沒藥等禮物獻給他。¹¹On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh.
這些博士不僅有備而來，甚至是真心誠意的前來朝拜。The Magi were well-prepared and sincere as they went to worship Jesus. 因為當時黃金、乳香、沒藥，是極為貴重的禮物。And the gifts that they prepared were precious. 因此，他們為耶穌基督所做的，是十分美善的一件事。也是世世代代讓人紀念的一件事。Therefore, their behavior toward Jesus was a very gracious act.
反省：每一次前來朝見、敬拜、事奉耶穌，是否為祂帶來任何禮物？Reflection: Do I bring any gifts to offer as I go to worship Him weekly?

4>人算比不上神算
希律王雖然表面上聲稱要去朝見耶穌基督，但是心中所籌算的，其 實是要除掉耶穌基督，所以吩咐東方來的博士，將耶穌基督的降生地點告訴他。Even though King Herod pretended wanting to worship Jesus, he was contemplating in mind. He asked the Magi about the birth place of Jesus, so he could get rid of Jesus.
此舉，就人的角度來看，其實是十拿九穩的。因為東方來的博士，根 本不明就裏，因此不疑有他、甚至信以為真。The Magi were suspecting anything and in fact, they believed the King. 但是所謂人算不如天（上帝）算。因為上帝看透人心，祂非常清楚希律的動機，並非為朝拜耶穌基督，乃是為殺害耶穌基 督。But God sees through people and knows the motive of King Herod; he wanted to get rid of Jesus.
因此，上帝便藉著使者，在夢中啟示東方來的博士，指示他們從另 一條路回去。換句話說，就是吩咐他們千萬不能將主耶穌的處所告訴希律王。顯然，人算不如神算！Therefore, through angels, God instructed the Magi to return by another road. In other words, God did not want King Herod to know where Jesus was.
反省：我凡事都靠自己籌算？還是更多尋求上帝的旨意？多讓上帝 來帶領？Reflection: Do I seek God’s will? Do I let God lead the path?

四、我的禱告 / 實際應用Prayer / Life application