EGW → Biblical Foundation
Select an Ellen White book from the sidebar to see each passage mapped to the Bible verses it amplifies, cites, or echoes.
Scripture Index
Ellen White & Bible Cross-Reference
1 Corinthians 11:1
"Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ."
"David's power had been given him by God, but to be exercised only in harmony with the divine law. When he commanded that which was contrary to God's law, it became sin to obey. “The powers that be are ordained of God” ( Romans 13:1 ), but we are not to obey them contrary to God's law. The apostle Paul, writing to the Corinthians, sets forth the principle by which we should be governed. He says, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” 1 Corinthians 11:1 . PP 719.3"
Ellen White directly references 1 Corinthians 11:1 in this passage.
"“No faithful man ought to follow either the pope himself or any of the holy men, but in such points as he hath followed the Lord Jesus Christ; for Peter and the sons of Zebedee, by desiring worldly honor, contrary to the following of Christ's steps, did offend, and therefore in those errors they are not to be followed.... GC 91.3"
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of following Christ's example, as does 1 Corinthians 11:1. Both emphasize that leaders and individuals should only be followed insofar as they follow Christ.
"“Brethren, we are now erelong to part asunder, and the Lord knoweth whether I shall live ever to see your faces more. But whether the Lord hath appointed it or not, I charge you before God and His blessed angels to follow me no farther than I have followed Christ. If God should reveal anything to you by any other instrument of His, be as ready to receive it as ever you were to receive any truth of my ministry; for I am very confident the Lord hath more truth and light yet to break forth out of His holy word.”—Martyn 5:70. GC 291.4"
The EGW passage (a quote from John Robinson) directly echoes the sentiment of 1 Corinthians 11:1, urging followers to imitate their leader only insofar as that leader imitates Christ. The connection is clear and intentional.
"and they should have that true Christian courtesy that wins confidence and respect. The teacher should be himself what he wishes his students to become. CT 65.1"
Both passages emphasize the importance of leading by example. 1 Corinthians 11:1 calls for imitation of Christ, while EGW applies this to the teacher-student relationship.
"The minister is not to rule imperiously over the flock entrusted to his care, but to be their ensample, and to show them the way to heaven. Following the example of Christ, he should intercede with God for the people of his care till he sees that his prayers are answered. Jesus exercised human and divine sympathy toward man. He is our example in all things. God is our Father and Governor, and the Christian minister is the representative of His Son on earth. The principles which rule in heaven should rule upon earth; the same love that animates the angels, the same purity and holiness that reign in heaven, should, as far as possible, be reproduced upon earth. God holds the minister responsible for the power he exercises, but does not justify His servants in perverting that power into despotism over the flock of their care. 4T 267.3"
EGW's call to follow Christ's example aligns with the principle in 1 Corinthians 11:1.
"Especially should the minister keep himself from every worldly entanglement and bind himself to the Source of all power, that he may represent correctly what it means to be a Christian. He should cut loose from everything that would in any way divert his mind from God and the great work for this time. Christ expects him, as His employed servant, to be like Himself in mind, in thought, in word, in action. He expects every man who opens the Scriptures to others to work carefully and intelligently, not exercising his powers unwisely, in a way to injure or overtask them, but so that he may be fitted to do good work for the Lord. Every soul is called into active labor in some one of the various departments of the work, and the Shepherd will lead and guide His flock. 5T 531.2"
Both passages encourage followers to emulate Christ's example in their lives.
***** Sabbath, June 6, 1863, I was shown some things in regard to the work of God and the spread of the truth. Preachers and people have too little faith, too little devotion and true godliness. The people imitate the preacher, and thus he has a very great influence upon them. Brother Hull, God wants you to come nearer to Him, where you can take hold of His strength, and by living faith claim His salvation, and be a strong man. If you were a devotional, godly man, in the pulpit and out, a mighty influence would attend your preaching. You do not closely search your own heart. You have studied many works to make your discourses thorough, able, and pleasing; but you have neglected the greatest and most necessary study, the study of yourself. A thorough knowledge of yourself, meditation and prayer, have come in as secondary things. Your success as a minister depends upon your keeping your own heart. You will receive more strength by spending one hour each day in meditation, and in mourning…
The EGW passage discusses how people imitate the preacher, giving him great influence. This echoes the sentiment in 1 Corinthians 11:1, where Paul encourages believers to follow his example as he follows Christ.
1 Corinthians 11:3
"But I would have you know, that the head of every man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and the head of Christ is God."
“The head of every man is Christ.” God, who put all things under the Saviour's feet, “gave Him to be the head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him that filleth all in all.” 1 Corinthians 11:3 ; Ephesians 1:22, 23 . The church is built upon Christ as its foundation; it is to obey Christ as its head. It is not to depend upon man, or be controlled by man. Many claim that a position of trust in the church gives them authority to dictate what other men shall believe and what they shall do. This claim God does not sanction. The Saviour declares, “All ye are brethren.” All are exposed to temptation, and are liable to error. Upon no finite being can we depend for guidance. The Rock of faith is the living presence of Christ in the church. Upon this the weakest may depend, and those who think themselves the strongest will prove to be the weakest, unless they make Christ their efficiency. “Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm.” The Lord…
Ellen White directly references 1 Corinthians 11:3 in this passage.
1 Corinthians 11:14-15
"Doth not even nature itself teach you, that, if a man have long hair, it is a shame unto him? But if a woman have long hair, it is a glory to her: for her hair is given her for a covering."
"“There is an increasing tendency to have women in their dress and appearance as near like the other sex as possible, and to fashion their dress very much like that of men, but God pronounces it abomination. ‘In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety.’ 1 Timothy 2:9 . 1T 457.2"
Both passages address gender distinctions in appearance. While 1 Corinthians 11:14-15 focuses on hair length, and EGW focuses on clothing styles, both relate to maintaining distinct gender roles in appearance.
1 Corinthians 11:19
"For there must be also heresies among you, that they which are approved may be made manifest among you."
"The disappointment also, though the result of their own misapprehension of the message which they gave, was to be overruled for good. It would test the hearts of those who had professed to receive the warning. In the face of their disappointment would they rashly give up their experience and cast away their confidence in God's word? or would they, in prayer and humility, seek to discern where they had failed to comprehend the significance of the prophecy? How many had moved from fear, or from impulse and excitement? How many were halfhearted and unbelieving? Multitudes professed to love the appearing of the Lord. When called to endure the scoffs and reproach of the world, and the test of delay and disappointment, would they renounce the faith? Because they did not immediately understand the dealings of God with them, would they cast aside truths sustained by the clearest testimony of His word? GC 353.2"
Both passages discuss how trials and disagreements can reveal the true character and faith of individuals within a religious community. 1 Cor 11:19 speaks of heresies revealing those who are approved, while the EGW passage speaks of disappointment testing the faith of believers.
1 Corinthians 11:21
"For in eating every one taketh before other his own supper: and one is hungry, and another is drunken."
"spirit she “prayed, ... and wept sore.” Yet she communed with God in silence, uttering no sound. In those evil times such scenes of worship were rarely witnessed. Irreverent feasting and even drunkenness were not uncommon, even at the religious festivals; and Eli the high priest, observing Hannah, supposed that she was overcome with wine. Thinking to administer a deserved rebuke, he said sternly, “How long wilt thou be drunken? put away thy wine from thee.” PP 570.1"
Both passages address the issue of inappropriate behavior, specifically drunkenness, occurring in the context of religious observances. While not a direct quote or allusion, the thematic similarity is strong enough to warrant confirmation.
1 Corinthians 11:23-26
"For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come."
"Chapter 72—“In Remembrance of Me” This chapter is based on Matthew 26:20-29 ; Mark 14:17-25 ; Luke 22:14-23 ; John 13:18-30 “The Lord Jesus the same night in which He was betrayed took bread: and when He had given thanks, He brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is My body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of Me. After the same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in My blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of Me. For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till He come.” 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 . DA 652"
Ellen White directly references 1 Corinthians 11:23-26 in this passage.
1 Corinthians 11:24
"And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me."
"As we receive the bread and wine symbolizing Christ's broken body and spilled blood, we in imagination join in the scene of Communion in the upper chamber. We seem to be passing through the garden consecrated by the agony of Him who bore the sins of the world. We witness the struggle by which our reconciliation with God was obtained. Christ is set forth crucified among us. DA 661.1"
The EGW passage directly refers to the bread and wine symbolizing Christ's broken body and spilled blood, which is a clear reference to 1 Corinthians 11:24 and the institution of the Lord's Supper.
"On the fourteenth day of the month, at even, the Passover was celebrated, its solemn, impressive ceremonies commemorating the deliverance from bondage in Egypt, and pointing forward to the sacrifice that should deliver from the bondage of sin. When the Saviour yielded up His life on Calvary, the significance of the Passover ceased, and the ordinance of the Lord's Supper was instituted as a memorial of the same event of which the Passover had been a type. PP 539.5"
Both passages relate to the Passover and Lord's Supper as memorials. EGW explicitly links the Lord's Supper as a replacement for the Passover, using the concept of remembrance, which is also present in 1 Corinthians 11:24.
1 Corinthians 11:26
"For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come."
The Communion service points to Christ's second coming. It was designed to keep this hope vivid in the minds of the disciples. Whenever they met together to commemorate His death, they recounted how “He took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; for this is My blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. But I say unto you, I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.” In their tribulation they found comfort in the hope of their Lord's return. Unspeakably precious to them was the thought, “As often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do show the Lord's death till He come.” 1 Corinthians 11:26 . DA 659.3 These are the things we are never to forget. The love of Jesus, with its constraining power, is to be kept fresh in our memory. Christ has instituted this service that it may speak to our senses of the love of God that has been expr…
The EGW passage directly quotes and references 1 Corinthians 11:26, connecting the Communion service with the remembrance of Christ's death and the anticipation of His second coming.
"At the first feast He attended with His disciples, Jesus gave them the cup that symbolized His work for their salvation. At the last supper He gave it again, in the institution of that sacred rite by which His death was to be shown forth “till He come.” 1 Corinthians 11:26 . And the sorrow of the disciples at parting from their Lord was comforted with the promise of reunion, as He said, “I will not drink henceforth of this fruit of the vine, until that day when I drink it new with you in My Father's kingdom.” Matthew 26:29 . DA 149.2"
Ellen White directly references 1 Corinthians 11:26 in this passage.
Both of these important events have their memorials. By partaking of the Lord's supper, the broken bread and the fruit of the vine, we show forth the Lord's death until He comes. The scenes of His sufferings and death are thus brought fresh to our minds. The resurrection of Christ is commemorated by our being buried with Him by baptism, and raised out of the watery grave, in likeness of His resurrection, to live in newness of life. EW 217.1 I was shown that the law of God would stand fast forever, and exist in the new earth to all eternity. At the creation, when the foundations of the earth were laid, the sons of God looked with admiration upon the work of the Creator, and all the heavenly host shouted for joy. It was then that the foundation of the Sabbath was laid. At the close of the six days of creation, God rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made; and He blessed the seventh day and sanctified it, because that in it He had rested from all His work. The Sabbath…
The EGW passage directly references and explains the Lord's Supper as a memorial of Christ's death, mirroring the sentiment in 1 Corinthians 11:26.
"The gift of Christ to the marriage feast was a symbol. The water represented baptism into His death; the wine, the shedding of His blood for the sins of the world. The water to fill the jars was brought by human hands, but the word of Christ alone could impart to it life-giving virtue. So with the rites which point to the Saviour's death. It is only by the power of Christ, working through faith, that they have efficacy to nourish the soul. DA 148.4 The word of Christ supplied ample provision for the feast. So abundant is the provision of His grace to blot out the iniquities of men, and to renew and sustain the soul. DA 149.1"
Both passages connect a ritual (the Lord's Supper/marriage feast) with Christ's death and its significance for salvation. EGW amplifies the symbolism of the elements involved.
1 Corinthians 11:27
"Wherefore whosoever shall eat this bread, and drink this cup of the Lord, unworthily, shall be guilty of the body and blood of the Lord."
"Judas the betrayer was present at the sacramental service. He received from Jesus the emblems of His broken body and His spilled blood. He heard the words, “This do in remembrance of Me.” And sitting there in the very presence of the Lamb of God, the betrayer brooded upon his own dark purposes, and cherished his sullen, revengeful thoughts. DA 653.4"
While not a direct quote, the EGW passage discusses Judas partaking of the Lord's Supper unworthily, which is the central theme of 1 Corinthians 11:27.
"None should exclude themselves from the Communion because some who are unworthy may be present. Every disciple is called upon to participate publicly, and thus bear witness that he accepts Christ as a personal Saviour. It is at these, His own appointments, that Christ meets His people, and energizes them by His presence. Hearts and hands that are unworthy may even administer the ordinance, yet Christ is there to minister to His children. All who come with their faith fixed upon Him will be greatly blessed. All who neglect these seasons of divine privilege will suffer loss. Of them it may appropriately be said, “Ye are not all clean.” DA 656.4"
The EGW passage discusses the importance of partaking in Communion even if unworthy individuals are present, and it alludes to the idea that not all are clean. This directly parallels the warning in 1 Corinthians 11:27 about partaking unworthily and the implication that some may not be spiritually prepared. The phrase 'Ye are not all clean' is a direct echo of John 13:10, but the context within the EGW passage relates it to the worthiness of partaking in communion, which is the theme of 1 Corinthians 11:27.
1 Corinthians 11:28
"But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup."
"Let ministers make the actions of each day a subject of careful thought and deliberate review, with the object of becoming better acquainted with their own habits of life. By a close scrutiny of every circumstance of the daily life, they would know better their own motives and the principles which govern them. This daily review of our acts, to see whether conscience approves or condemns, is necessary for all who wish to reach perfection of Christian character. Many acts which pass for good works, even deeds of benevolence, will, when closely investigated, be found to be prompted by wrong motives. GW 275.2"
The EGW passage directly reflects the principle of self-examination found in 1 Corinthians 11:28. Both passages encourage individuals to scrutinize their actions and motives, with the aim of identifying and correcting any shortcomings.
There is much in the conduct of a minister that he can improve. Many see and feel their lack, yet they seem to be ignorant of the influence they exert. They are conscious of their actions as they perform them, but suffer them to pass from their memory, and therefore do not reform. If ministers would make the actions of each day a subject of careful thought and deliberate review, with the object to become acquainted with their own habits of life, they would better know themselves. By a close scrutiny of their daily life under all circumstances they would know their own motives, the principles which actuate them. This daily review of our acts, to see whether conscience approves or condemns, is necessary for all who wish to arrive at the perfection of Christian character. Many acts which pass for good works, even deeds of benevolence, will, when closely investigated, be found to be prompted by wrong motives. Many receive applause for virtues which they do not possess. The Searcher of hear…
Both passages emphasize the importance of self-examination. The EGW quote expands on the idea of ministers carefully reviewing their actions and motives, while the Bible verse encourages individuals to examine themselves before partaking in communion. The core principle of self-reflection for spiritual growth is present in both.
1 Corinthians 11:30
"For this cause many are weak and sickly among you, and many sleep."
"I am gratified to see the progress that many have made in the health reform, yet am sorry to see so many behind. If any become sick upon our encampments, inquiry should be made as to the cause, and note should be taken of the case. I am not willing that the reputation of our camp meetings should suffer by their being reported as the cause of making people sick. If a proper course be pursued at these important gatherings, they can be made a blessing to the bodily health as well as to the health of the soul. 2T 603.2"
Both passages connect sickness with a cause. In 1 Corinthians, it's related to improper observance of the Lord's Supper. In EGW, it's related to neglecting health principles at camp meetings. Both suggest a link between spiritual/moral failings and physical health.
1 Corinthians 11:31
"For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged."
“Be not therefore anxious for the morrow.” Matthew 6:34 , R. V. We are to follow Christ day by day. God does not bestow help for tomorrow. He does not give His children all the directions for their life journey at once, lest they should become confused. He tells them just as much as they can remember and perform. The strength and wisdom imparted are for the present emergency. “If any of you lack wisdom,”—for today,—“let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” James 1:5 . DA 313.4 “Judge not, that ye be not judged.” Do not think yourself better than other men, and set yourself up as their judge. Since you cannot discern motive, you are incapable of judging another. In criticizing him, you are passing sentence upon yourself; for you show that you are a participant with Satan, the accuser of the brethren. The Lord says, “Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves.” This is our work. “If we would judge our…
Ellen White directly references 1 Corinthians 11:31 in this passage.