John the Baptist’s martyrdom

14:1 那時候，加利利的希律王聽到了耶穌的事，14:2 就對臣下說：「這個人一定是施洗者約翰復活了，才會有能力行這些神蹟。」14:3 原來，希律為了他的兄弟腓力的妻子希羅底的緣故下令逮捕約翰，把他綁起來關在監獄裏。14:4 因為約翰屢次指責希律：「你不可佔有希羅底作妻子。」14:5 希律想殺他，但是怕人民，因為他們都認為約翰是先知。14:6 希律生日那一天，希羅底的女兒在賓客面前跳舞，很得希律的歡心。14:7 希律就對她發誓說：「無論你要求甚麼，我都願意給你。」14:8 女兒受母親的指使，要求說：「請立刻把施洗者約翰的頭放在盤子裏給我！」14:9 王感到非常為難，可是他已經在賓客面前發了誓，只好命令照她所求的給她。14:10 於是希律差人到監獄裏去，斬了約翰的頭，14:11 放在盤子裏，給了希羅底的女兒；女兒把它交給母親。14:12 約翰的門徒來，把屍體領去，埋葬了，然後把這件事告訴耶穌。

John the Baptist Beheaded

¹At that time Herod the tetrarch heard the reports about Jesus, ²and he said to his attendants, "This is John the Baptist; he has risen from the dead! That is why miraculous powers are at work in him."

³Now Herod had arrested John and bound him and put him in prison because of Herodias, his brother Philip's wife, ⁴for John had been saying to him: "It is not lawful for you to have her." ⁵Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid of the people, because they considered him a prophet.

⁶On Herod's birthday the daughter of Herodias danced for them and pleased Herod so much ⁷that he promised with an oath to give her whatever she asked. ⁸Prompted by her mother, she said, "Give me here on a platter the head of John the Baptist." ⁹The king was distressed, but because of his oaths and his dinner guests, he ordered that her request be granted ¹⁰and had John beheaded in the prison.¹¹His head was brought in on a platter and given to the girl, who carried it to her mother. ¹²John's disciples came and took his body and buried it. Then they went and told Jesus.

一、中心內容：Message

內容：Content
1>希律王聽到耶穌擁有行神蹟的能力，就誤認為是施洗約翰復活了。King Herod heard about the miraculous ability that Jesus possessed, he mistaken for John the Baptist’s resurrection. （v1-2）
2>希律王因為娶了兄弟的妻子為妻，遭受施洗約翰責備，因為惱羞成怒，而將施洗約翰下在監裏。John the Baptist told Herod it is not lawful for him to have his brother’s wife, so Herod furiously arrested him and put him in prison.（v3-4）
3>希律王企圖殺害施洗約翰，但是害怕人民，因為人民認為施洗約翰是先知。Herod wanted to kill John, but he was afraid because people considered John as a prophet.（v5）
4>描述施洗約翰遭希律王殺害的經過。Description about how Herod killed John.（v6-12）

主題：Theme
1>施洗約翰的殉道。John the Baptist’s martyrdom
2>重於泰山之死。Extreme tragic, death
3>權柄腐化與濫用。Degradation and misuse of authority

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

01>聲名遠播的耶穌基督。Jesus Christ whose name became widely known（v1）
02>能行各樣神蹟的耶穌基督。Jesus Christ who is capable of doing all kinds of miracles（v1-2）

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)?

這位「分封王希律」就是希律安提帕，當他的父親大希律，在主前四年去世之後，他就被羅馬皇帝任命為加利利與比利亞的分封王，直到主後三十九年遭放逐為止。
希律安提帕休了原配，另娶同父異母的兄弟---腓力的妻子希羅底為妻。這位希羅底又是他同父異母的兄弟亞里斯多布魯的女兒。
根據摩西律法的規定，娶兄弟的妻子是違法的。尤其當時腓力依然在世，這樣的行為更顯出其卑劣。施洗約翰就是因為指責這樁不法的婚姻，導致遭到囚禁，甚至因此喪命。

1>打殺不死的良心
人可能一時喪失天良，甚至較長時間良心麻痺，但是要使上帝所給予人的良心完全喪失作用，是絕對不可能的事。因此，當希律王殺害施洗約翰之後，內心深層裏的良知，其實是相當不安的，甚至不時遭受控訴，所以疑神疑鬼、忐忑不安。Everyone may feel the loss of conscience from time to time, sometimes even in a long-term period, but God will not let us lose our mind conscience completely. When Herod killed John the Baptist, deep down in Herod’s conscience, he felt quite disturbed. He also often felt the lack of security.
因此，當他一聽到主耶穌的名聲，尤其得知主耶穌擁有行神蹟的能力之後，立刻誤判就是他手中所殺害的施洗約翰復活了。So when Herod heard about Lord Jesus, that he had the ability to do miracles, he thought that John, whom he killed was resurrected. 由此可知，違背良心的事，絕對不能作，否則良心永遠會在心中控訴！
反省：我是否作出任何違背良心的事？內心還有任何控訴、不安嗎？Reflection: Have I done anything against what I know is right in my heart? Do I feel ill at ease when I do so?

2>上帝忠心的僕人
施洗約翰是上帝忠心的僕人，上帝揀選他為光（耶穌基督）作見證，他在母腹裏就被聖靈充滿，而且在曠野中成長，接受上帝的雕琢與磨練。他甚至到處傳揚悔改的信息，為了事先預備人心，以迎接耶穌基督的到來。John the Baptist was a faithful servant of God. God anointed him to be the light to testify, he was filled with spirit even before been born, he grew in the wilderness and accepted God’s tests. He spread about Jesus Christ all over the places and prepared people for Jesus Christ is to come.
他不僅忠於上帝，同時富有正義感。因此，當他看見不公不義、違法亂紀的事，並未因為對象是君王就畏懼退縮，他依然勇往直前、言所當言。甚至連犧牲性命都在所不惜。He was not only faithful to God, but he was full of justice as well. So when he encountered injustice, he still went ahead to make a statement even though he was facing a king. He was willing to make sacrifices for justice.

反省：比起施洗約翰的忠心與勇氣，在上帝面前，我的表現如何呢？Reflection: How loyal and courageous am I comparing to John the Baptist? How am I before God?

3>陰狠毒辣的女人
希羅底是一個陰狠毒辣的女人，她搶奪了別人的丈夫，干犯了違法、不倫之罪。當遭受施洗約翰責備之後，不僅不知羞恥，反而惱羞成怒，尤其懷恨在心，同時伺機報復。甚至利用自己年幼的女兒，達到遂行報復之目的。Herodias was a vicious woman, she stole other woman’s husband and broke the law. When John the Baptist accused her of offending the law, she was not only shameless but furious as well and was seeking opportunity for vengeance. She even used her own daughter to carry out the revenge.
反省：希羅底的作為，帶給我們什麼樣的警惕？Reflection: What can we learn to be vigilant through Herodias’act?

4>愚拙昏庸的君王
根據經文所記載，整個事件發生經過，我們發現希律是一個愚拙、懦弱、冷酷，尤其受到情慾綑綁的昏君。經文中至少點出下列幾點：According to the scripture, when the whole incident happened, Herod was foolish, coward, cruel and bundled by desires. The scripture pointed out the following points:
a.良心控訴：當他聽到主耶穌的名聲與事蹟之後，由於本身對真理的無知，以及殺害施洗約翰之後，良心上的不安，導致誤將主耶穌當作從死裏復活的施洗約翰。When he heard about the name and deed of Lord Jesus and the death of John the Baptist, his heart was not at rest, which mistakenly led him to believe that John resurrected by Lord Jesus’power.
b.情慾綑綁：由於受到情慾的綑綁，導致不顧法律與倫理，娶了同父異母兄弟腓力的妻子希羅底為妻。Due to the human flesh and the needs of desire, it led him to disregard laws and ethics. He married Herodias.
c.濫殺無辜：當本身違法亂紀的作為，遭受施洗約翰責備之後，不僅不肯聽勸告，甚至惱羞成怒，竟然將這位上帝的忠僕、勇敢的先知監禁起來，甚至鑄下殺害的大錯。After been blamed by John the Baptist, Herod refused to listen to advices, and he was even furious toward John, who was a servant of God. The courageous prophet was thrown into the prison and died.
d.處事莽撞：在眾人為他慶生的場合當中，再一次顯示出他非理性的一面。就是隨便答應希羅底女兒---一個搔頭弄姿女孩的要求，而殘害無辜、誤了大事。During the celebration of the birthday, it once again showed his non-rational side. He promised Herodias’daughter anything she wanted without really thinking about it, which was a huge mistake.
e.懦弱昏庸：希律王因為遭受責備而惱羞成怒，企圖殺害施洗約翰，但是又因畏懼怕百姓，導致不敢下手。Herod was furious after been blamed by John, he wanted to kill John, but was afraid of the crowd, so he did not do it.
f.是非不分：當希羅底唆使女兒，要求取施洗約翰的人頭時，希律頓時陷入兩難之中，但是海口已誇下，為了顧及面子，以致於是非不分，就這樣將施洗約翰給予殺害。When the daughter of Herodias asked for John the Baptist’s head, Herod was in a dilemma, but since he promised her and wanted to keep his words, he agreed to kill John the Baptist.
反省：有關希律安提帕的愚拙、懦弱、冷酷、昏庸，我得著什麼警惕？Reflection: Through the characters of Herod that were mentioned, what should I prevent?

5>為使命劃下句點
當施洗約翰遭受殺害之後，施洗約翰的門徒，冒著生命的危險，公然收取屍體，並給予合宜的安葬，表示他們對老師（施洗約翰）的忠誠。隨後，這群施洗約翰的門徒，前去告知並跟隨主耶穌。至此為止，為這位「開路先鋒」的使命，終於畫下了句點。When John the Baptist was killed, his disciples risked their lives and openly took the body and gave a decent burial, for they were loyal to their teacher. Subsequently, these disciples of John went to follow Lord Jesus.
反省：身為主耶穌門徒的我，是否做到忠於主耶穌的託付？Reflection: As a follower of Jesus, am I loyal to Him? Do I have faith in what He asked me to do?

6>無比價值的生命
或許有人會因為施洗約翰的死，而感到無限的惋惜。因為這樣一個正直、謙卑、忠心的人，竟然英年早逝，而且死得如此難堪、活得如此短暫。事實上，生命的價值，不能單以長短來衡量。Some people feel pity toward John the Baptist’s death, since he was a honest, humble, loyal but lived such a short life. In fact, the value of cannot be measured only by length. 根據四福音書的記載，以及主耶穌對施洗約翰的評價，我們可以肯定：他沒有浪費自己的生命，更沒有虧負上帝的託付。他乃是將自己的一生，完全交在上帝的手中，忠心完成上帝所託付的使命。According to the four books of Gospel and how Lord Jesus perceived John the Baptist, we are sure that John did not waste his life and he trusted God with all his heart. He put his life entirely into God’s hands and faithfully accomplished what God had planned for him.俗語說：死有重於泰山，也有輕於鴻毛。施洗約翰的死，絕對是重於泰山。他的生命不僅沒有浪費，反而活出無比的價值。As the Chinese saying goes: “Death is extremely heavy, but also lighter than a feather”. The death of John the Baptist was absolutely extremely tragic, but he did not waste it and lived it to its fullest.
反省：我的生命要如何運用呢？要擺在什麼樣的地方？是否白白浪費了？要是有那麼一天來臨，我的生命會是重於泰山？還是輕於鴻毛？Reflection: How am I going to live my life? Did I waste it? If one day, an incident similar to the story happened to me, how would I react?

7>權柄腐化與濫用
權柄在國家、教會、家庭十分重要，因為是上帝所託付的。但是權柄的運用，必須要十分小心，不僅不能腐化，同時不能濫用，否則會造成傷害，甚至帶來災難。根據這段經文所記載，我們發現有三種權柄，已遭腐化與濫用。Authority is important everywhere, in countries, in churches and in a family because God entrusted. However, the use of power must be carefully applied. It could be degraded or abused. It could cause harm and disasters. According to the Bible passages, we find three types of power which caused corruption and abuses.
a.治權：希律王擁有治理的權柄，這個權柄應該用來主持正義、為民申冤。但是，非常可惜，希律王的權柄，竟然徹底腐化，遭到濫用，甚至違法亂紀、欺壓善良。Herod had a governance authority. The authority should be used to uphold justice. However, Herod used his authority which led to a corruption because he was lawless and bullying those who didn’t have much power.
b.夫權：希律王身為丈夫，是妻子的頭，照理說，應該影響妻子，作正確的事。但，實際上，不僅沒有正面影響妻子，反而受邪惡妻子的影響，導致陷入罪中。Herod should be leading his wife into doing good things because he was the king and should be just. He did not only affect his wife into doing the right thing but he was himself affected by his wife into doing evil things.
c.母權：希羅底為人母，照理說，應當教導兒女正確的待人處事之道，引導兒女向善。但是非常可惜！她誤用了母權，因為私心自用，導致陷女兒入罪中。A daughter should be taught by the mother the correct way to deal with everything around, and the guidance through life. But Herodias was selfish and misused the authority by using her own daughter to do evil things.
反省：請比對一下，擁有權柄的我，是否因權柄而腐化？是善用呢？還是誤用？Reflection: How would I use my authority? Would I misuse it?

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

The Parable of the Weeds

Matthew 13:24-30 (New International Version)

The Parable of the Weeds

²⁴Jesus told them another parable: "The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field. ²⁵But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away. ²⁶When the wheat sprouted and formed heads, then the weeds also appeared.

²⁷"The owner's servants came to him and said, 'Sir, didn't you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from?'

²⁸" 'An enemy did this,' he replied.
"The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?'

²⁹" 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. ³⁰Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' "

I. Core Message

Content:

1. After the owner had sowed good seed in his field, his enemy secretly came and sowed weeds among the wheat while others are sleeping.
2. The wheat and the weeds grow together. When they formed heads, the weeds also appeared.
3. The servants are wondering about where does the weeds come from
4. The owner taught the servants how to deal with it and tell them to collect the weeds first than burn it when its harvest time.

Theme:

1. The Parable of the Weeds

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

1. Jesus Christ who is good at telling parables (v24)
2. Jesus Christ who sees through Satan’s work (v28)
3. Jesus Christ who judges at the end (v30)

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

When weeds first grow, they look similar to the wheat. However, as they grow taller, especially when the heads appear, we can easily tell one from the other. However, their roots are often tangle together. Thus, if we force to pull the weeds, we will also damage the wheat. We can only wait tell the harvest to separate them.

1. Deceiving

Jesus tells them the other parable, “The kingdom of heaven is like a man who sowed good seed in his field But while everyone was sleeping, his enemy came and sowed weeds among the wheat, and went away.” (v24-25)

Jesus continues to tell parables of heaven. Even though this parable is using weeds as its theme, the real message it tries to deliver is: When God is doing work in his people, Satan will also secretly followed at the back to deceive people and destroy God’s work. There are often people who are distracting others in fellowship or in church. This is a concrete example regarding to Jesus parable. We should be aware of it

Reflection: Have I experienced Satan’s destructions in church? How should I face it?

2. Deceivers Appear

When the wheat sprouted and formed head, then the weeds also appeared. The owner’s servants came to him and said, “Sir, didn’t you sow good seed in your field? Where then did the weeds come from? ‘An enemy did this.’ He replied.” (v26-28a)

Even though Satan is good at deceiving when he is destroying God’s work among his people, its real side will at the end still appear because no matter what they are still different.

Reflection: Could I recognize weeds and wheat in the church?

3. Keep the Weeds Temporarily

"The servants asked him, 'Do you want us to go and pull them up?' ²⁹" 'No,' he answered, 'because while you are pulling the weeds, you may root up the wheat with them. ³⁰Let both grow together until the harvest. (v28b-30a) While we are living, the bad would not be terminated completely. The separation comes when Lord arrives again. Thus, the bad will be influencing us.

Reflection: How do I face the bad?

4. Righteous Judgement Will Come

³⁰Let both grow together until the harvest. At that time I will tell the harvesters: First collect the weeds and tie them in bundles to be burned; then gather the wheat and bring it into my barn.' "

Harvest means the end of the world. This is also the time for God to judge us. At that time, Jesus will distinguish the wheat and weed by person, and burn the deceiving one. In other words, When the judgment comes, Satan will face severe punishment.

Reflection: Am I ready to face the judgement? How shall I face it?

5. Being Aware

There are false prophets and false Christ in every generation. Some even fake themselves as false angle and go into church. In some era, false information are being delivered abundantly. Thus, we should be aware, and always follow the truths in the bible and make our root in faith deep. Only when we have the wisdom to judge right from wrong is when we will not be lost.

Reflection: Do I read bible everyday? How much do I know about the truth? Can I distinguish the false from the right?

6. The Kingdom of Heaven Is Coming

Through this parable, we know that to form the kingdom of heaven is not easy. We will always face opponent forces and wars. The process is harsh. But we should face through all the hardships in order to be in the kingdom of heaven.

Reflection: Am I strong enough to win over all the temptations? And follow God wills?

The explanation of the parable of sowing seeds

Matthew 13:18-23

¹⁸"Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: ¹⁹When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in his heart. This is the seed sown along the path. ²⁰The one who received the seed that fell on rocky places is the man who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. ²¹But since he has no root, he lasts only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, he quickly falls away. ²²The one who received the seed that fell among the thorns is the man who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke it, making it unfruitful. ²³But the one who received the seed that fell on good soil is the man who hears the word and understands it. He produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown."

13:18 「所以，你們要明白這撒種比喻的意思。13:19 那聽了天國的信息卻不明白的人正像撒在路旁的種子，那邪惡者來到，把撒在他心田裏的信息都奪走了。13:20 那撒在石地上的種子是指人聽了信息，立刻樂意接受，13:21 只是扎根不深，不能持久，一旦為了信息而遭遇患難或迫害，立刻放棄。13:22 那撒在荊棘中的種子是指人聽了信息以後，生活的憂慮和財富的誘惑窒息了信息的生機，無法結出果實。13:23 那撒在好土壤裏的種子是指人聽了信息，並且領悟了；他結出果實，收成有一百倍的，有六十倍的，有三十倍的。」

一、中心內容：

內容：
1>解釋「種子撒在路旁」的意義。（v19）Verse 19 explains the meaning of the seed fallen along the path.
2>解釋「種子撒在石地」的意義。（v20-21）Verses 20-21 explains the meaning of the seed fallen in the rocky places.
3>解釋「種子撒在荊棘」的意義。（v22）Verse 22 explains the meaning of the seed fallen among the thorns.
4>解釋「種子撒在好土」的意義。（v22）Verse 22 explains the meaning of the seed fallen on good soil.

主題：
1>解釋撒種的比喻。 The explanation of the parable of sowing seeds
2>結實一百倍、六十倍、三十倍。A crop yielding 30, 60 and 100 times of what was sown.

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？

01>傳揚天國信息的耶穌基督。Jesus Christ proclaimed the message of the heavenly kingdom.
02>解釋比喻意義的耶穌基督。Jesus Christ explained the meaning of His parables.

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？

1>防備惡者來搶奪 Be on guard against the evil one who robs
那聽了天國的信息卻不明白的人，正像撒在路旁的種子，那邪惡者來到，把撒在他心田裏的信息都奪走了。（v19）
我 們都知道，聖靈會興起工作，撒旦同樣會積極工作。尤其撒旦總是作破壞性的工作，就是專門破壞人跟上帝之間的關係。所以當上帝真理、生命的道，落在人的心田 之後，撒旦就虎視眈眈的企圖破壞，甚至企圖搶奪，以免人因遵行上帝的道，而蒙恩得救。因此，我們應該警戒、應該防備，不讓撒旦有可乘之機。

See verse 19. While the Holy Spirit works, Satan works too. Its work is destructive; it destroys the relationship between God and human beings. Satan is lurking around attempting to destroy and to rob us of the truth and God’s word once it enters our heart. Satan wants to deter us from obeying God’s word and being saved by God’s grace. Therefore, we should stay alert and be vigilant to not give Satan any chance.
反省：當我讀聖經時，真正能夠明白嗎？當我聽講道時，真正能夠專注嗎？我真能明白嗎？還是過目（過耳）即忘？我是否曾經為了讀聖經能明白，聽講道能專注而禱告？
Reflection: Do I have true understanding of the Bible when I read it? Do I devotedly listen to the sermons? Do I really understand them? Do I forget about it right after listening to it? Have I ever prayed that I could understand the Bible and to stay focused while listening to the sermon?
2>扎根立基的信仰 A rooted faith
那撒在石地上的種子是指人聽了信息，立刻樂意接受，只是扎根不深，不能持久，一旦為了信息而遭遇患難或迫害，立刻放棄。（v20-21）
信而受洗非常重要，這當然毫無疑義。但是就一般基督徒來說，只有信跟受洗，其實還是不夠。應該進一步追求，甚至接受裝備，讓屬靈生命逐漸成長，以期邁向成熟。
例如：藉著讀聖經、禱告等靈修生活、參加聚會、過團契生活、閱讀屬靈書籍、接受裝備訓練、參加主日禮拜---等。
經過上述操練之後，信仰才能扎根，根基才能穩固。如此，不管遭遇任何患難或迫害，才不會動搖，甚至離棄真道。

See verses 20 and 21.

It is needless to doubt the importance of faith which results in baptism. It is not good enough for Christians to do just that. Christians should do more to make progress, to equip themselves and to make their spiritual life grow into maturity. It is to read the Bible, to pray, to meet together as a church, to fellowship with other believers, to read books of spirituality, to train and equip, to attend the Sunday services… etc.

反省：我的信仰狀況如何？是否有進深的追求與裝備？我的信仰根基穩固嗎？當迫害或患難來臨時，是否經得起考驗？

Reflection: How is my faith life? Do I pursue faith in depth and am I equipped? Is the foundation of my faith firm? Will it endure and stand the tests of persecution and tribulation?

3>防備世事的纏累 Preventing oneself from being entangled by worldly things
那撒在荊棘中的種子，是指人聽了信息以後，生活的憂慮和財富的誘惑窒息了信息的生機，無法結出果實。（v22）
生活上的憂慮，以及來自財富的誘惑，對現代人的影響非常大，就像荊棘窒息了正在生長的幼苗一樣，會擠壓、扭曲上帝的道，在人心中的成長。所以，我們不得不防備。
馬太福音五章八節，主耶穌也曾經說過：清心的人有福了，因為他們必得見上帝。所以，我們也要學習放空、學習安靜、保持清心，不要一直被憂慮和財富綑綁住。能夠這樣的話，上帝的道才不至於遭擠壓，才能在我們心中生長、結實。

See verse 22.

Worries of daily life and temptations of wealth greatly impact people of modern days; like thorns suffocate the growth of young shoots, they block and impede God’s word to grow in people’s heart. Thus, we need to stay alert.

In Matthew 5:8, Jesus said, “⁸Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.” Therefore, we need to empty ourselves and learn to be silent and keep a pure heart lest we get entangled by worries and wealth. God’s word will then grow and yield fruit in our hearts without being obstructed.
反省：我的心中是否有空間，讓上帝的道扎根、生長？還是都被世上的金錢憂慮困住？
Reflection: Is there any room for God’s word to take root and grow in my heart? Is my heart entangled by worldly wealth?
4>栽培優質好土壤 Cultivate good quality soil
那撒在好土壤裏的種子是指人聽了信息，並且領悟了；他結出果實，收成有一百倍的，有六十倍的，有三十倍的。（v23）
在 這個比喻當中，特別值得我們注意的一點，就是：對上帝的道是否能夠明白。根據第十九節的記載，如果聽了還不明白，就像撒在路旁的種子，那邪惡者來到，把撒 在他心田裏的信息都奪走了。但是，根據第廿三節的記載，如果聽了能夠明白，他結出果實，收成有一百倍的，有六十倍的，有三十倍的。
因此，聽了上帝的道之後，是否明白（領悟、瞭解、understand）是一個關鍵。所以，當我們讀聖經，或是聽講道的時候，不應一知半解，應該徹底瞭解，明白上帝的心意。

See verse 23.

We should take note and ask ourselves, do we really understand God’s word? If we listen and do not understand, we will end up like what verse 19 says. If we listen and understand, we will produce a crop yielding 30, 60 and 100 times of what is sown.

To understand God’s word after hearing it is crucial. We ought to seek the full understanding of God’s will when we read the Bible or listen to the sermons.

反省：當我讀聖經或聽講道的時候，大多數是一知半解呢？還是真正明白上帝的旨意？真正聽見上帝對我個人說話的聲音？我的心田如何？是否結出一百倍、六十倍、三十倍的果子，讓主來收成？讓主的心得滿足？讓主的名得榮耀？
Reflection: Do I get half or full understanding of God’s will when I read the Bible or listen to the sermons? Do I hear God’s voice speaking to me? How does my heart receive it? Is there a crop yielding 30, 60 and 100 times of what is sown? Is the harvest for and to the satisfaction and glory of the Lord?
四、我的禱告 / 實際應用

A wicked generation

Matthew 12:38-50
12:38 當時，有幾個經學教師和法利賽人來對耶穌說：「老師，我們希望你顯個神蹟給我們看。」耶穌說：12:39 「這時代的人多麼邪惡、多麼不忠！你們竟要求我顯神蹟！不，除了先知約拿的神蹟，再也沒有別的神蹟給你們看了。12:40 約拿曾經在大魚的肚子裏三天三夜，人子也要在地的深處三天三夜。12:41 在審判的日子，尼尼微人要站起來控告你們這一代的人，因為他們聽見約拿的宣道就棄邪歸正了。我告訴你們，這裏有比約拿更重大的事呢！12:42 在審判的日子，南方的女王要站起來控告你們這一代的人，因為她長途跋涉來聽所羅門王智慧的話。我告訴你們，這裏有比所羅門更重大的事呢！」 12:43 「邪靈離開了所附的人，走遍乾旱地區，尋找棲息的地方，都找不到，12:44 就說：『我要回原來的屋子去。』他回去後，發現屋子還空著，而且打掃得又乾淨又整齊。12:45 於是他又出去，帶回七個比他更邪惡的靈來，跟他住在一起。那個人後來的景況比從前更壞了。這邪惡時代的人的處境也是這樣。」 12:46 耶穌還在跟群眾說話的時候，他的母親和兄弟來了。他們站在外面，想要跟他說話。12:47 有人告訴耶穌：喂，你的母親和兄弟站在外面，要跟你說話呢！」12:48 耶穌回答：「誰是我的母親？誰是我的兄弟？」12:49 於是他指著他的門徒說：「你們看，這些人就是我的母親，我的兄弟！12:50 凡實行我天父旨意的，就是我的兄弟、姊妹，和母親。」
The Sign of Jonah
38Then some of the Pharisees and teachers of the law said to him, "Teacher, we want to see a miraculous sign from you."
39He answered, "A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a miraculous sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. 41The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now one[a] greater than Jonah is here. 42The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom, and now one greater than Solomon is here.
43"When an evil[b] spirit comes out of a man, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. 44Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. 45Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that man is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation."
Jesus' Mother and Brothers
46While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. 47Someone told him, "Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you."[c]
48He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" 49Pointing to his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. 50For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother."

一、中心內容
Message: 內容Content: 1>有幾位經學教師和法利賽人，向主耶穌要求看神蹟，主耶穌給予回絕。（v38-39）A few Pharisees and teachers of the law asked Jesus for a miraculous sign but he rejected them. (v.38-39) 2>主耶穌以約拿在大魚肚子裏三天三夜為例，預表自己將死而復活的神蹟。（v40）Jesus used the example of Jonah being in the belly of a fish for three days and three nights to explain the miracle that he would die and rise again. (v40) 3>主耶穌以「尼尼微城的悔改」與「南方女王渴慕所羅門的智慧」兩件事作為對比，指出當時宗教領袖「心剛硬、不悔改、不相信」的罪。（v41-42）Jesus used the two events of ‘the repentance of Nineveh’ and ‘the Queen of the South seeking for Solomon’s wisdom’ to illustrate that the leaders back then had a stubborn heart, not willing to repent and not believing. (v41-42) 4>有關靈界（邪靈）奧秘的事。（v43-45）Concerning the mystery of the world of evil spirits. (v43-45) 5>主耶穌強調在主裏（或：在靈裏）彼此關係的重要性。（v46-50）Jesus emphasized the importance of relationships in Christ. (v46-50)

主題 Theme: 1>邪惡的世代。A wicked generation. 2>最大的神蹟。The largest miracle. 3>靈界的奧秘。The mystery of evil spirits. 4>主裏的關係。The relationships in Christ. 二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？ Who is God, Jesus Christ, or Holy Spirit? 01>行神蹟的耶穌基督。（v38）Jesus Christ who performs miracles. (v38) 02>被釘十架、死而復活的耶穌基督。（v40）Jesus Christ who was crucified, died and resurrected from the dead. (v40) 03>施行審判的天父上帝。，（v41）God, the Heavenly Father, who judges. (v41) 04>人子耶穌基督。（v46）Jesus Christ, the son of man. (v46) 05>旨意美善的天父上帝。（v50）God, the Heavenly Father, whose will is good. (v50) 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>只求神蹟不悔改 Only asking for a miracle, without willing to repent 當時，有幾個經學教師和法利賽人，一同來要求主耶穌，行一個神蹟給他們看看。如此舉動，並非真心想要更深認識主耶穌，只是對異能感到好奇而已。 During that time, many teachers of the law and Pharisees asked Jesus together to show them a miraculous sign. From making such a move, they weren’t really interested in knowing more about Jesus but only were curious about miracles.
主 耶穌看透他們的心，知道他們早已見過足夠的神蹟，如果願意敞開自己的心，早就相信主耶穌是彌賽亞了，只是他們定意拒絕主耶穌，甚至企圖除滅主耶穌。在這種 狀況之下，即使行再多的神蹟，也無法改變他們的心，當然無法改變他們對主耶穌的態度。莫怪對他們說：這時代的人多麼邪惡、多麼不忠！你們竟要求我顯神蹟！ 不，除了先知約拿的神蹟，再也沒有別的神蹟給你們看了。
Jesus saw their hearts and knew that they had already seen enough miracles. If only they were willing to open their hearts, they would’ve believed that Jesus was the Messiah long ago. However, they were determined in rejecting Jesus even going as far as to try to destroy him. In such circumstances, even by performing more miracles, it wouldn’t be able to change their hearts and their attitudes towards Jesus. It is for that reason that Jesus told them that they were a wicked and unfaithful generation, asking him for a miracle. No, other than the sign of Jonah, there will not be anymore miraculous signs for them to see.
談到看神蹟，我們都知道：人的眼目，非常容易被一些稀奇、超然的事物所吸引。但是，這種對 「異能的好奇」與「真實的信心」卻截然不同。當時的宗教領袖就是如此，因為他們只喜歡看神蹟，卻不肯悔改相信主耶穌，也拒絕主耶穌所說的話。顯然，神蹟奇 事並不一定能使人產生真正的信心。
Speaking about miraculous signs, we all know that man can very easily be fascinated by miracles and transcendent things. However, ‘curiosity towards miracles’ and ‘a true faith’ are completely different things. During that time, the religious leaders were exactly that: they only liked to see miracles but were not willing to repent and believe in Jesus Christ, but rejected all that he said. This shows that miracles may not necessarily cause people to have a true faith.
反省：我的信仰立基於何處？神蹟奇事？還是對真理的認識？與主耶穌生命中的相遇？
Reflection: What is my faith based upon? Miracles? Or having the understanding about the truth? Meeting Jesus in my life? 2>死而復活的神蹟 The miracle of resurrecting from the dead 主耶穌對他們（經學教師與法利賽人）說：這時代的人多麼邪惡、多麼不忠！你們竟要求我顯神蹟！不，除了先知約拿的神蹟，再也沒有別的神蹟給你們看了。約拿曾經在大魚的肚子裏三天三夜，人子也要在地的深處三天三夜。（v39-40）
39He answered, "A wicked and adulterous generation asks for a miraculous sign! But none will be given it except the sign of the prophet Jonah. 40For as Jonah was three days and three nights in the belly of a huge fish, so the Son of Man will be three days and three nights in the heart of the earth. (v39-40) 主耶穌為何說，除了約拿的神蹟，再也沒有神蹟給那個時代的人看？因為當時代的人心靈已被罪惡轄制。在這種狀況之下，即便再多的神蹟，也無法讓他們認識真理。
Why did Jesus say that other than the sign of Jonah that there will not be anymore miracle for the people of that generation to see? The reason for that is because the minds of the people of that generation were already taken over by sin. In this circumstance, even if more miracles are performed, it will not allow them to understand the truth.
主 耶穌接著引用約拿「在大魚肚子裏三天三夜」的經歷，來預表自己將被釘死在十字架上，而且將「在墳墓裏度過三天三夜」的情境。並強調在十字架上的死，以及三 天之後的復活，將是當代最大、最奇妙的神蹟。倘若無法藉著「耶穌基督的死與復活」這個最大的神蹟，來認識上帝為人類所預備的救恩。那麼，即便再多的神蹟， 依然無法使人真正悔改，歸向上帝。 Jesus used the experience of Jonah being in the belly of a fish for three days and three nights to explain that he was to die on the cross, that he would be in a tomb for three days and three nights. He also emphasized that dying on the cross and rising from the dead three days later would be the largest, most amazing miracle. If one is unable to understand God’s salvation to the whole world through the largest miracle (Jesus dying and rising from the dead), even if more miracles are performed, people will not truly repent and turn towards God.
反省：針對主耶穌的死而復活，我是否全然相信？我是否確認這是最大的神蹟？耶穌基督的死與復活與我何干？ Reflection: Do I completely believe in Jesus’ death and resurrection? Do I confirm that this is the largest miracle? What does the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ have to do with me?
3>不悔改將受重刑 Not repenting will lead to serious penalties 主 耶穌說：在審判的日子，尼尼微人要站起來控告你們這一代的人，因為他們聽見約拿的宣道就棄邪歸正了。我告訴你們，這裏有比約拿更重大的事呢！在審判的日 子，南方的女王要站起來控告你們這一代的人，因為她長途跋涉來聽所羅門王智慧的話。我告訴你們，這裏有比所羅門更重大的事呢！（v41-42）
41The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now one[a] greater than Jonah is here. 42The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom, and now one greater than Solomon is here.
舊約時代，先知約拿向尼尼微城（兇殘無比的亞述帝國首都）的人傳福音，結果全城的人都悔改了。另外，南方的示巴女王，一聽到所羅門的智慧，竟然甘願長途跋涉，前來觀看所羅門的成就，並聆聽他智慧的話語。 During the time of the Old Testament, the prophet Jonah preached the gospel to the people of Nineveh (the capital of the Assyrian empire, extremely ferocious) and all of them repented. Also, the Queen of the South, once hearing the wisdom of Solomon, was willing to travel long distances to see Solomon’s achievements and to listen to his words of wisdom.
主 耶穌雖然比約拿（傳悔改信息給尼尼微城的人）偉大，也比所羅門（智慧的君王，傳講智慧的話語）偉大。但是非常可惜，也是令人感到遺憾的，就是猶太人的心竟 然是那樣的剛硬。雖然聽過主耶穌的教訓，甚至看過祂所行的神蹟，但是依然不肯悔改。因此，主耶穌表示：當審判的日子來臨時，他們將承受極重的刑罰。 Jesus was greater than both Jonah (who preached the news of repentance to the people of Nineveh) and Solomon (a wise king, who spoke words of wisdom). However, it is extremely unfortunate and pitiful, that the hearts of the Jews are that rigid. Despite hearing the lessons of Jesus and even seeing the miracles he performed, they were still unwilling to repent. Therefore, Jesus expressed that when the day of judgment was to come, they would receive very serious punishments.
反省：比起尼尼微城的人，我的心更柔軟嗎？比起南方的示巴女王，我的心更渴慕來自上帝所賜智慧言語嗎？ Reflection: Is my heart more soft compared to the people of Nineveh? Is my heart more seeking of the wisdom that is from God than the Queen of the South?
4>有關靈界的奧秘 The mystery of spirits 聖 經接著記載一則有關靈界奧秘之事，就是有人遭受邪靈依附、綑綁的事件。聖經描述說：邪靈離開了所附的人，走遍乾旱地區，尋找棲息的地方，都找不到，就說： 『我要回原來的屋子去。』他回去後，發現屋子還空著，而且打掃得又乾淨又整齊。於是他又出去，帶回七個比他更邪惡的靈來，跟他住在一起。那個人後來的景況 比從前更壞了。這邪惡時代的人的處境也是這樣。（v43-45）
43"When an evil[b] spirit comes out of a man, it goes through arid places seeking rest and does not find it. 44Then it says, 'I will return to the house I left.' When it arrives, it finds the house unoccupied, swept clean and put in order. 45Then it goes and takes with it seven other spirits more wicked than itself, and they go in and live there. And the final condition of that man is worse than the first. That is how it will be with this wicked generation." (v43-45)
從這個事件當中，我們發現幾件有關靈界的事，而且這些事跟我們的生活，甚至跟我們的生命，其實是息息相關的。 第一，魔鬼或邪靈，是一個靈界真實的存在者。 第二，魔鬼或邪靈，會到處遊走，甚至喜歡依附在人的身上。 第三，魔鬼或邪靈，並非單一存在，往往是成群結隊的。 第四，當邪靈從人的身上被驅趕出去之後，要是沒有立刻讓聖靈來居住與掌權，邪靈還是會再度回來依附。 第五，人的生命，受到邪靈綑綁的實況。 From this event, we realize many things concerning the world of spirits, things that are actually related to our everyday lives.
Firstly, ghosts or evil spirits do actually exist in the world of spirits.
Secondly, ghosts or evil spirits like to wander around and attach themselves to people.
Thirdly, ghosts or evil spirits are not usually alone but are often in groups.
Fourthly, when evil spirits comes out of a man, if the Holy Spirit is not immediately allowed to live and take control in the body, the evil spirits will come back again and reattach itself.
Fifthly, it is a fact that lives can be bound by evil spirits.
反省：我的心是否潔淨？是否迎接聖靈內住與掌權。是否還留有讓邪靈入侵的破口？ Reflection: Is my heart clean? Does it allow for the Holy Spirit to live and take control? Or are there are broken places where evil spirits can enter?
5>靈裏關係更親密 More intimate relationships in the Spirit 耶 穌還在跟群眾說話的時候，他的母親和兄弟來了。他們站在外面，想要跟他說話。有人告訴耶穌：「喂，你的母親和兄弟站在外面，要跟你說話呢！」耶穌回答： 「誰是我的母親？誰是我的兄弟？」於是他指著他的門徒說：「你們看，這些人就是我的母親，我的兄弟！凡實行我天父旨意的，就是我的兄弟、姊妹，和母 親。」（v46-50）
46While Jesus was still talking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside, wanting to speak to him. 47Someone told him, "Your mother and brothers are standing outside, wanting to speak to you."[c]
48He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" 49Pointing to his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. 50For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." (v46-50) 根據這段經文的記載，由於主耶穌世上肉身的母親與兄弟前來找祂，導致引出一段有關「地上親情與上帝國度」的議題。根據主耶 穌的回應，從表面上看起來，很容易使人誤以為主耶穌，在世上的生活，並沒有盡到該盡的責任，甚至忽略了親情的重要性。事實上並非如此。簡單舉例，首先，祂 曾經批評當時的宗教領袖，指出他們並沒有遵行舊約律法，有關孝敬父母的命令。其次，當祂被釘在十字架上的時候，仍不忘為母親的將來，作妥善的安排。 According to this part of the Scriptures, by Jesus’ worldly parents and brothers coming to see him, the subject of ‘the relationships in this world and God’s kingdom’ can be observed. From the surface of Jesus’ response, man can easily say that Jesus did not fulfill his responsibilities and even ignored the importance of family. This is however not the case. A simple example would be that Jesus once criticized religious leaders that they did not follow the laws of the Old Testament, specifically the one saying to honor their mothers and fathers. Also, when Jesus was crucified on the cross, he did not forget about his mother’s future and made proper arrangements.
然而，問題出在哪裏呢？因為從永恆的角度來看，主裏或靈裏的關係，應該比親情的關係更為重要。因為地上血肉親情關係是暫時的，而主裏屬靈關係卻是永恆的。 But, where is the problem? From an eternal perspective, the relationships within the Lord or within the spirit should be more important than the relationships in the family. This is because the relationships on earth are temporary but the relationships with God are eternal.
反省：我對屬世、肉體方面的親情關係，與在主裏、在靈裏，因同信仰，因耶穌基督救贖的緣故，所產生的新關係，有何體會？親密嗎？看重嗎？ Reflection: What kind of experience have I had concerning the flesh side of the family relationships and the relationships that are developed through being in Christ, in the Spirit and because of the salvation of Jesus Christ? Are they close? Are they valued?
6>遵行父旨偕弟兄 Following God’s will together with our brothers 耶穌回答：「誰是我的母親？誰是我的兄弟？」於是他指著他的門徒說：「你們看，這些人就是我的母親，我的兄弟！凡實行我天父旨意的，就是我的兄弟、姊妹，和母親。」
48He replied to him, "Who is my mother, and who are my brothers?" 49Pointing to his disciples, he said, "Here are my mother and my brothers. 50For whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother." 主耶穌重新定義所謂的弟兄姊妹，也就是說：凡實行我天父旨意的，就是我的兄弟、姊妹，和母親。今天我們這一群蒙恩得救、遵行父旨的人，也同樣以弟兄姊妹互稱。
Lord Jesus redefines the so-called brother and sister: whoever does the will of my Father in heaven is my brother and sister and mother. Today those who are saved by grace and does the will of God can call one another brother and sister.
反省：我以弟兄姊妹跟同信互稱，我真的配得嗎？我是否真正遵行天父旨意？ Reflection: Am I really worthy of calling those of the same faith, brother and sister? Do I really seek the will of our Heavenly Father?
四、我的禱告 / 實際應用My Prayer/Life application

Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven

Matthew 12:31-37 (New International Version)
31And so I tell you, every sin and blasphemy will be forgiven men, but the blasphemy against the Spirit will not be forgiven. 32Anyone who speaks a word against the Son of Man will be forgiven, but anyone who speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come.
33"Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. 35The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. 36But I tell you that men will have to give account on the Day of Judgment for every careless word they have spoken. 37For by your words you will be acquitted and by your words you will be condemned."
12:31 所以，我告訴你們，人所犯一切的罪和所說一切褻瀆的話都可得到赦免；但是褻瀆聖靈的人不能得到赦免。12:32 那說話冒犯人子的，可以得到赦免；但是褻瀆聖靈的，無論今世來世，都不能得到赦免。」 12:33 「果樹好，果子就好；果樹壞，果子也壞。從果子可以認出果樹的好壞。12:34 你們這些毒蛇，你們原是邪惡的，怎能說出好話來呢？因為心裏所充滿的，口就說了出來。12:35 好人從他積存的善發出善來；壞人從他積存的惡發出惡來。12:36 「我告訴你們，在審判的日子，每人所說的閒話句句都要交帳。12:37 因為，上帝要用你自己的話來宣告你有罪，也要用你自己的話來宣告你無罪。」 一、中心內容： 內容： 1>主耶穌指出：褻瀆聖靈的罪，無論今生、來世永不得赦免。（V31-32）
In verses 31-32, Jesus pointed out that whoever blasphemes against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven of the sin, either in this age or in the age to come. 2>主耶穌以「從果子可以認出果樹的好壞」作為比喻，來形容「可以從一個人口中所出的話語，得知這個人內心的善惡」。（v33-35）
Jesus used a metaphor of a tree being recognized by its fruit to describe that a man is recognized by his words. (v33-35) 3>主耶穌提醒話語當謹慎，因為當審判的日子，每個人所說的閒話，句句都要交帳。上帝甚至藉著我們自己的言語，作為審判的依據。（V36-37） Jesus reminds us that we need to be prudent in our speech, because God will judge us by the words of our mouth. Everyone will be taken in account for their careless words on Judgment Day. (v36-37)

主題：

1>褻瀆聖靈，不得赦免。Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven

2>從果子分辨樹的好壞。A tree is recognized by its fruit.

二、上帝、耶穌基督、聖靈是誰？

01>不容褻瀆的聖靈。（v31-32）The Holy Spirit does not tolerate blasphemy. (v31-32)

02>施行審判的上帝。（v36-37）God who judges. (v36-37)

三、給我的教訓（命令、應允、榜樣、責備、警告）是什麼？ 1>褻瀆聖靈不得赦 Blasphemy against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven 法利賽人目睹主耶穌教導與事奉的權柄，以及受群眾擁護的程度，由於心生嫉妒，蓄意抵擋，以致於故意將聖靈的工作，扭曲為撒旦的工作，這是睜眼說瞎話，也是蓄意污衊。如此言行，非常明顯，已經觸犯了「褻瀆聖靈」的罪。
The Pharisees resolutely resisted Jesus out of jealousy, because they saw the authority in Jesus’ teaching and ministry and the popularity He received from the crowd. Therefore, they deliberately distorted the Holy Spirit’s work into Satan’s. They lied to the people and maliciously defamed Jesus on purpose. They committed a sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit with their words and deeds. 談到「褻瀆聖靈」的罪，我們都知道，上帝之所以赦免人的罪，是基於人的悔改。因此，假如沒有悔改，罪就不得赦免，就要承擔罪的後果。然而，人之所以能夠悔改，在上帝面前徹底認罪，並不是出自他人的勸誡，或出自自己深省的功夫，乃是來自聖靈的光照。 因此，若有人褻瀆聖靈，這人當然抗拒聖靈的工作；既然抗拒聖靈的工作，當然無法因聖靈的感動而認罪悔改；既然無法因聖靈的感動而認罪悔改，那麼他的罪就永不得赦免。
We all know that God does forgive men’s sins if men do repent. It means that without repentance there will be no forgiveness of sins, thus men will bear the consequences of their own sins. It is not out of personal introspection or the exhortation from someone else, rather, it is the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit that a man comes to the repentance of his own sins. If a man blasphemes against the Holy Spirit, eventually, he would resist the work of the Holy Spirit. If he resists the Holy Spirit’s work in him, he would not repent. If he resists the enlightenment of the Holy Spirit, he will never be forgiven of his sins. 反省：我是否曾經消滅聖靈的感動？是否曾經抗拒聖靈的引導？我是否曾經褻瀆聖靈？ Reflection: Have I ever quenched the Holy Spirit’s enlightenment? Have I ever resisted the Holy Spirit’s guidance? Have I ever blasphemed against the Holy Spirit? 2>從果子認出果樹 Recognizing a tree by its fruit 主耶穌以「從樹的果子，可以判斷這棵樹的品質」為例子，來說明「從人口中所出的話語，就可以知道這人內心的善惡」。
Jesus used the metaphor “a tree is recognized by its fruit” to describe that a man is recognized by the words that come from his mouth. 當時的法利賽人，非常善於運用宗教當作幌子，來欺矇自己的同胞。因為法利賽人熟悉舊約律法，加上注重形式、儀文，尤其擅長表面功夫，甚至偽裝表演，讓猶太人誤以為他們是敬畏上帝的一群人。
然而，主耶穌因為洞察他們的動機，知道他們是假冒為善的一群。所以提醒當時的群眾，不要輕易遭矇騙，應該具有分辨的智慧。所以就引用「根據所結的果子，來判斷樹的好壞」為例，提醒他們應「透過口中所出的話語，來分辨內心的善惡」。 結論：根據法利賽人對主耶穌的污衊，正好反應他們內心的污穢與醜陋。
The Pharisees were good at fooling their compatriots on pretence of religion. They knew the Old Testament laws thoroughly and accentuated the formalities and rituals; they specialized in pretence and performance of religious practices. They made the Jewish think that they were pious people. However, Jesus saw their motives clearly and knew that they were hypocrites. He warned the people of His time of their hypocrisy. People should have the wisdom to discern. He used the example of a tree being recognized by its fruit to remind them to recognize a man by his words. The Pharisees’ distorted actions against Jesus reflected the uncleanness and ugliness of their hearts. 反省：從我口中所出的話語，顯示我是什麼樣的一個人呢？是污穢、醜陋、奸詐、惡毒呢？還是純潔、善良、誠實、寬容呢？ Reflection: What do my words tell about me? Am I a person that is unclean, ugly, scheming and vicious? Or am I a person that is pure, good, honest and forgiving? 3>言語受心思支配 Out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks 從我們口中所出的話語，其實跟內心的意念，有著密切的關係。換句話說：心裏怎麼想，口中就會怎麼說。主耶穌說：因為心裏所充滿的，口就說了出來。好人從他積存的善發出善來；壞人從他積存的惡發出惡來。 因此，要訓練一個人，說話能夠得體，說話的技巧、豐富的知識，還是其次。最重要的是：如何陶塑一顆純潔、善良的心，也就是培養高尚的品格。
There is a close relationship between our heart and words. We speak what is in our heart. Jesus said, “Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. 5The good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and the evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.” Therefore, it is not good enough just to be knowledgeable and skillful of speech. Most importantly, it is to cultivate a noble character which is with a heart of purity and goodness. 反省：主耶穌所說「好人從他積存的善發出善來；壞人從他積存的惡發出惡來」這句話對我有什麼啟示？對我個人來說，今後有哪些可以努力的功課？ Reflection: What do Jesus words mean to me? What personal improvement do I need to work on? 4>憑話語審判己罪 We are judged by our words 主耶穌說：我告訴你們，在審判的日子，每人所說的閒話，句句都要交帳。因為，上帝要用你自己的話來宣告你有罪，也要用你自己的話來宣告你無罪。（V36-37） 主耶穌明確的指出：我們所說過的每一句話，將來都要在上帝面前交帳，尤其上帝要藉著我們所說過的話，作為審判我們的依據。這是何等嚴肅，不得不慎重的事！ 顯然，說話是不能隨便的。因此，當我們說話的時候，應三思而後言。尤其不能隨性脫口，對自己所說的話，每一句都要負起責任來。
We should take heed of Jesus’ words in verses 36 and 37. God will judge us by every word proceeding from our mouth. We should not talk carelessly. We ought to think carefully before we let loose our tongue. We are held responsible for whatever we say.
反省：我是否常說話不經大腦？是否經常在他人背後說長道短？甚至搬弄是非？是否經常說出污穢不堪的話？或是隨時說造就人的好話，讓聽見的人得益處？
Reflection: Do I always talk without thinking beforehand? Do I gossip behind people and stir up dissension? Are my words unwholesome? Do I let the words of my mouth be helpful for building others up according to their needs, that they may benefit those who listen? 四、我的禱告 / 實際應用