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 Timothy 3:1
"This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work."
"Now, feeling that he could never become a priest, he turned for a time to the study of law, but finally abandoned this purpose and determined to devote his life to the gospel. But he hesitated to become a public teacher. He was naturally timid, and was burdened with a sense of the weighty responsibility of the position, and he desired still to devote himself to study. The earnest entreaties of his friends, however, at last won his consent. “Wonderful it is,” he said, “that one of so lowly an origin should be exalted to so great a dignity.”— Wylie, b. 13, ch. 9. GC 221.3"
Both passages touch on the idea of being called to a religious office and feeling unworthy or hesitant. 1 Timothy 3:1 speaks of desiring the office of a bishop, while the EGW passage describes Calvin's reluctance to become a public teacher due to his timidity and sense of responsibility.
1 Timothy 3:1-7
"This is a true saying, If a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach; Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous; One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?) Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover he must have a good report of them which are without; lest he fall into reproach and the snare of the devil."
"Chapter 49—Industry in the Ministry I have been shown that there is danger of our young ministers entering the field and engaging in the work of teaching the truth to others when they are not fitted for the sacred work of God. They have no just sense of the sacredness of the work for this time. They feel a desire to be connected with the work, but they fail to bear the burdens lying directly in the pathway of duty. They do that which costs them but little taxation and inconvenience, and neglect to put their whole souls into the work. 3T 551"
Both passages discuss the qualifications and character of ministers. While 1 Timothy 3 provides a list of specific qualities, the EGW passage echoes the sentiment that ministers should be fitted for the sacred work and possess a sense of its importance. It's not a direct principle, but a thematic overlap.
1 Timothy 3:2
"A bishop then must be blameless, the husband of one wife, vigilant, sober, of good behaviour, given to hospitality, apt to teach;"
"Those who are thus appointed as overseers of the flock should be men of good repute; men who give evidence that they have not only a knowledge of the Scriptures, but an experience in faith, in patience, that in meekness they may instruct those who oppose the truth. They should be men of thorough integrity, not novices, but intelligent students of the Word, able to teach others also, bringing from the treasure-house things new and old; men who in character, in words, in deportment, will be an honor to the cause of Christ, teaching the truth, living the truth, growing up to the full stature in Christ Jesus. This means the development and strengthening of every faculty by exercise, that the workers may become qualified to bear larger responsibilities as the work increases. GW 413.2"
The EGW passage elaborates on the qualities of church leaders, mirroring the qualifications outlined in 1 Timothy 3:2. It expands on the biblical verse by specifying the need for experience, patience, meekness, integrity, and teaching ability.
"Our church schools need teachers who have high moral qualities; those who can be trusted; those who are sound in the faith and who have tact and patience; those who walk with God and abstain from the very appearance of evil.... CT 175.3"
Both passages discuss the qualities of leaders/teachers, emphasizing moral character and competence. While not a direct quote, the themes align strongly.
"Of all men in the world, the physician and the minister should have strictly temperate habits. The welfare of society demands total abstinence of them, for their influence is constantly telling for or against moral reform and the improvement of society. It is willful sin in them to be ignorant of the laws of health or indifferent to them, for they are looked up to as wise above other men. This is especially true of the physician, who is entrusted with human life. He is expected to indulge in no habit that will weaken the life forces. 5T 441.2"
Both passages emphasize the importance of sobriety and temperance, especially for leaders and those in positions of influence. EGW applies this specifically to physicians and ministers, while 1 Timothy 3:2 speaks of bishops. The principle of being 'sober' and 'blameless' is shared.
"Church Officers and Workers Great care should be exercised in selecting officers for the new churches. Let them be men and women who are thoroughly converted. Let those be chosen who are best qualified to give instruction, those who can minister both in word and in deed. There is a deep-seated necessity for work in every line. 6T 85"
Both passages discuss the qualifications of church leaders. EGW expands on the qualities mentioned in 1 Timothy 3:2, emphasizing conversion and the ability to teach and minister.
"Some ministers are deficient in the qualifications necessary to build up the churches, and they are not willing to wear in the cause of God. They should have a disposition to give themselves wholly to the work, with their interest undivided, their zeal unabated, their patience and perseverance untiring. With these qualifications in lively exercise, the churches would be kept in order. LS 195.1"
The EGW passage echoes the qualifications and dedication expected of ministers as outlined in 1 Timothy 3:2. Both emphasize the importance of being qualified, dedicated, and focused on the work of God.
"The teacher must have aptness for his work. He must have the wisdom and tact required in dealing with minds. However great his scientific knowledge, however excellent his qualifications in other lines, if he does not gain the respect and confidence of his pupils, his efforts will be in vain. Ed 278.6"
The EGW passage echoes the principle in 1 Timothy 3:2 that a leader (in this case, a teacher) must be 'apt to teach.' Both emphasize the importance of having the skills and qualities necessary to effectively instruct and guide others. EGW expands on this by highlighting the need for respect and confidence from pupils.
"The Lord God of heaven has chosen experienced men to bear responsibilities in His cause. These men are to have special influence. If all are accorded the power given to these chosen men, a halt will have to be called. Those who are chosen to bear burdens in the work of God are not to be rash or self-confident or selfish. Never is their example or influence to strengthen evil. The Lord has not given men or women liberty to advance ideas that will bring commonness into His work, removing the sacredness that should ever surround it. God's work is to become increasingly sacred to His people. In every way we are to magnify the exalted character of the truth. Those who have been set as guardians of the work of God in our institutions are ever to make the will and way of God prominent. The health of the general work depends upon the faithfulness of the men appointed to carry out the will of God in the churches. 9T 264.2"
The EGW passage discusses the qualities of leaders in God's work, emphasizing blamelessness and faithfulness. 1 Timothy 3:2 lists similar qualities for a bishop. The EGW passage amplifies the principle of choosing leaders with strong moral character and spiritual maturity, as outlined in 1 Timothy.
"If he does not observe the laws that govern his own being, if he chooses selfish gratification above soundness of mind and body, does he not thereby declare himself unfit to be entrusted with the responsibility of human lives? MH 134.3"
Both passages emphasize the importance of personal conduct and self-governance for those in leadership or responsible positions. The EGW passage focuses on a physician's fitness to care for lives, while 1 Timothy 3:2 outlines qualifications for a bishop, including being blameless and sober.
In selecting teachers, we should use every precaution, knowing that this is as solemn a matter as the selecting of persons for the ministry. Wise men who can discern character should make the selection; for the very best talent that can be secured is needed to educate and mold the minds of the young, and to carry on successfully the many lines of work that will need to be done by the teachers in our church schools. No person of an inferior or narrow cast of mind should be placed in charge of one of these schools. Do not place over the children young, inexperienced teachers who have no managing ability; for their efforts will tend to disorganization. Order is heaven's first law, and every school should in this respect be a model of heaven. CT 174.3 To place over young children, teachers who are proud and unloving is wicked. A teacher of this stamp will do great harm to those who are rapidly developing character. If teachers are not submissive to God, if they have no love for the childre…
Both passages discuss the qualities of leaders/teachers. 1 Timothy 3:2 outlines the characteristics of a bishop, while EGW describes the qualities needed in teachers.
"***** When a minister bearing the solemn message of warning to the world, receives the hospitable courtesies of friends and brethren, and neglects the duties of a shepherd of the flock, and is careless in his example and deportment, engaging with the young in trifling conversation, in jesting and joking, and in relating humorous anecdotes to create laughter, he is unworthy of being a gospel minister, and needs to be converted before he is entrusted with the care of the sheep and lambs. Ministers who are neglectful of the duties devolving on a faithful pastor, give evidence that they are not sanctified by the truths they present to others, and should not be sustained as laborers in the vineyard of the Lord till they have a high sense of the sacredness of the work of a minister.— Testimonies for the Church 3:233 . GW 131.3"
The EGW passage expands on the qualities of a minister, echoing the biblical requirement for a bishop to be 'blameless' and of 'good behaviour.' It provides specific examples of behaviors that would disqualify a minister, aligning with the general principle of godly conduct.
"Those who stand in positions of trust in the publishing house have weighty responsibilities to bear, and they are not fitted for these places unless they are day by day gaining a deeper and more reliable Christian experience. Eternal interests should be made the first consideration, and every influence which would help in the divine life should be welcomed. Men to whom the Lord has given the charge of business matters connected with His cause should be spiritually minded. They should not neglect to attend religious meetings nor consider it a task to speak often one to another of their religious life and experience. God will listen to their testimonies; they will be recorded in His book of remembrance; and He will favor His faithful ones and “will spare them, as a man spareth his own son that serveth him.” 5T 408.2"
The EGW passage discusses the responsibilities of those in positions of trust in the publishing house, emphasizing the need for spiritual-mindedness and a deep Christian experience. While 1 Timothy 3:2 outlines qualifications for a bishop, both passages address the importance of spiritual qualities for leadership roles within a religious context. The connection is thematic, focusing on the character and spiritual fitness required for leadership.
1 Timothy 3:3
"Not given to wine, no striker, not greedy of filthy lucre; but patient, not a brawler, not covetous;"
"Brother B, you are not as these men. We would not compare you to them, but we would say: Beware of walking in their footsteps and of having your conversation with covetousness. This desire on the part of ministers to obtain means for selfish purposes is a snare to them, which, if they continue in, will prove their overthrow. As they get their eyes upon self, their interest in the prosperity of God's cause, and their love for poor souls, become less and less. They do not lose their love for, and interest in, the truth at once. Their departure from the cause of right is so gradual and imperceptible that it is frequently difficult to tell the time when the change in them took place. 2T 626.1"
The EGW passage directly addresses the issue of covetousness in ministers, which aligns with the warning against being "greedy of filthy lucre" in 1 Timothy 3:3. The principle is the same: avoiding greed and prioritizing spiritual matters.
"The less we trust these persons, who are not few but many, the better will the work of present truth stand in the eyes of the world. Our brethren should show discretion in selecting canvassers and colporteurs, unless they have made up their minds to have the truth misapprehended and misrepresented. They should give all real workers good wages; but the sum should not be increased to buy canvassers, for this course hurts them. It makes them selfish and spendthrifts. Seek to impress them with the spirit of true missionary work and with the qualifications necessary to ensure success. The love of Jesus in the soul will lead the canvasser to feel it a privilege to labor to diffuse light. He will study, plan, and pray over the matter. 5T 403.1"
Both passages discuss the importance of avoiding greed and covetousness in religious work. While not a direct quote, the underlying principle of financial integrity and a focus on spiritual motives is shared.
1 Timothy 3:4
"One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity;"
"Ministers’ children are in some cases the most neglected children in the world, for the reason that the father is with them but little, and they are left to choose their own employment and amusement. If a minister has a family of boys, he should not leave them wholly to the care of the mother. This is too heavy a burden for her. He should make himself their companion and friend. He should exert himself to keep them from evil associates, and should see that they have useful work to do. It may be hard for the mother to exercise self-control. If the husband sees this, he should take more of the burden upon himself, doing all in his power to lead his boys to God. GW 206.1"
The EGW passage expands on the principle found in 1 Timothy 3:4, emphasizing the father's role in guiding and disciplining his children, not just the mother's. It directly applies the biblical principle to the specific context of a minister's family.
"those appointed as teachers of the people. When these fail to control their own households, they are, by their wrong example, misleading many. Their guilt is as much greater than that of others as their position is more responsible. PP 579.2"
Both passages emphasize the importance of leaders, particularly religious leaders, managing their households well. The EGW passage expands on the negative impact of a leader's poor example, directly relating it to the biblical principle.
1 Timothy 3:4-5
"One that ruleth well his own house, having his children in subjection with all gravity; (For if a man know not how to rule his own house, how shall he take care of the church of God?)"
The minister's duties lie around him, nigh and afar off; but his first duty is to his children. He should not become so engrossed with his outside duties as to neglect the instruction which his children need. He may look upon his home duties as of lesser importance; but in reality they lie at the very foundation of the well-being of individuals and of society. To a large degree the happiness of men and women and the success of the church depend upon home influence. Eternal interests are involved in the proper discharge of the every-day duties of life. The world is not so much in need of great minds, as of good men, who are a blessing in their homes. GW 204.2 Nothing can excuse the minister for neglecting the inner circle for the larger circle outside. The spiritual welfare of his family comes first. In the day of final reckoning, God will inquire what he did to win to Christ those whom he took the responsibility of bringing into the world. Great good done for others cannot cancel the d…
The EGW passage directly echoes the sentiment of 1 Timothy 3:4-5, emphasizing the importance of a minister's ability to manage his own household as a prerequisite for leading the church. The EGW passage expands on this principle, highlighting the eternal consequences of neglecting one's family.
"On the other hand, the minister who allows his children to grow up unruly and disobedient, will find that the influence of his labors in the pulpit is counteracted by the unlovely course of his children. He who cannot control the members of his own family, cannot properly minister to the church of God, or preserve it from strife and controversy. GW 205.1"
The EGW passage directly echoes the sentiment and principle of 1 Timothy 3:4-5 regarding the importance of a leader's ability to manage their own household as a prerequisite for leading the church.
"Special instruction has been given me in regard to our ministers. It is not God's will that they should seek to be rich. They should not engage in worldly enterprises; for this disqualifies them for giving their best powers to spiritual things. But they are to receive wages enough to support themselves and their families. They are not to have so many burdens laid upon them that they cannot give proper attention to the church in their own family; for it is their special duty to train their children for the Lord. GW 271"
EGW's statement about ministers needing to train their children and not being overburdened aligns directly with 1 Timothy 3:4-5, which emphasizes the importance of a leader managing his own household well as a prerequisite for leading the church. EGW is expanding on the principle outlined in Timothy.
1 Timothy 3:6
"Not a novice, lest being lifted up with pride he fall into the condemnation of the devil."
I have seen that those who have had but a few years’ experience in the cause of present truth, are not the ones to lead out in the work. Such should manifest a delicacy in taking positions which will conflict with the judgment and opinion of those who witnessed the rise of the cause of present truth, and whose lives are interwoven with its progress. God will not select men of but little experience to lead out in this work. He will not choose those who have had no experience in the sufferings, trials, opposition, and privation endured to bring this work up to the platform on which it now rests. It is now easy, compared with what it once was, to preach the third angel's message. Those who now engage in this work, and teach the truth to others, have things made ready at their hand. They cannot experience such privations as laborers in present truth have endured before them. The truth is brought out for them. Arguments are all prepared. Such should be careful how they become exalted, lest …
The EGW passage warns against inexperienced individuals taking leadership roles, echoing the sentiment in 1 Timothy 3:6 that a novice should not be appointed to leadership to avoid pride and potential downfall. Both passages emphasize the importance of experience and humility in leadership.
Men whose lives are not holy and who are unqualified to teach the present truth enter the field without being acknowledged by the church or the brethren generally, and confusion and disunion are the result. Some have a theory of the truth, and can present the argument, but lack spirituality, judgment, and experience; they fail in many things which it is very necessary for them to understand before they can teach the truth. Others have not the argument, but because a few brethren hear them pray well and give an exciting exhortation now and then, they are pressed into the field, to engage in a work for which God has not qualified them and for which they have not sufficient experience and judgment. Spiritual pride comes in, they are lifted up, and act under the deception of thinking that they are laborers. They do not know themselves. They lack sound judgment and patient reasoning, talk boastingly of themselves, and assert many things which they cannot prove from the Word. God knows this;…
The EGW passage directly addresses the danger of pride in those who teach, echoing the warning in 1 Timothy 3:6 about novices becoming prideful and falling into condemnation.
Pride in his own glory nourished the desire for supremacy. The high honors conferred upon Lucifer were not appreciated as the gift of God and called forth no gratitude to the Creator. He gloried in his brightness and exaltation, and aspired to be equal with God. He was beloved and reverenced by the heavenly host. Angels delighted to execute his commands, and he was clothed with wisdom and glory above them all. Yet the Son of God was the acknowledged Sovereign of heaven, one in power and authority with the Father. In all the counsels of God, Christ was a participant, while Lucifer was not permitted thus to enter into the divine purposes. “Why,” questioned this mighty angel, “should Christ have the supremacy? Why is He thus honored above Lucifer?” GC 495.1 Leaving his place in the immediate presence of God, Lucifer went forth to diffuse the spirit of discontent among the angels. Working with mysterious secrecy, and for a time concealing his real purpose under an appearance of reverence f…
Both passages connect pride with the downfall of Lucifer/the devil. EGW describes Lucifer's pride in his glory leading to a desire for supremacy, while 1 Timothy 3:6 warns against pride leading to the devil's condemnation.
"Young men who call themselves Sabbathkeepers attach “professor” to their names and abuse the community with that which they do not understand. Many thus pervert the light which God has seen fit to give them. They have not well-balanced minds. Elocution has become a byword. It has caught up men to engage in a work that they cannot do wisely, and spoiled them for doing a work which, had they been humbly and modestly seeking to accomplish it in the fear of God, they would have made a glorious success. These youth might have been fitting for usefulness in the missionary field as canvassers and colporteurs, or as licentiates proving themselves for ministerial labor, doing work for time and for eternity. But they have been crazed with the thought of becoming teachers of elocution, and Satan stands and laughs that he has caught them in the net which he has laid for them. 4T 605.3"
Both passages warn against pride and inexperience leading to downfall. EGW describes young men becoming conceited elocution teachers, while 1 Timothy 3:6 cautions against promoting novices to leadership positions.
1 Timothy 3:10
"And let these also first be proved; then let them use the office of a deacon, being found blameless."
"others ever before them. Never should one be exalted to a responsible position merely because he desires it. Those only should be chosen who are qualified for the position. Those who are to bear responsibilities should first be proved and give evidence that they are free from jealousy, that they will not take a dislike to this or that one, while they have a few favored friends and take no notice of others. God grant that all may move just right in that institution. 1T 566.3"
Both passages discuss the importance of proving individuals before placing them in positions of responsibility. The EGW passage expands on the qualities to look for, but the core principle is directly related to 1 Timothy 3:10.
"Silas, Paul's companion in labor, was a tried worker, gifted with the spirit of prophecy; but the work to be done was so great that there was need of training more laborers for active service. In Timothy Paul saw one who appreciated the sacredness of the work of a minister; who was not appalled at the prospect of suffering and persecution; and who was willing to be taught. Yet the apostle did not venture to take the responsibility of giving Timothy, an untried youth, a training in the gospel ministry, without first fully satisfying himself in regard to his character and his past life. AA 203.1"
The EGW passage discusses Paul's careful evaluation of Timothy before entrusting him with ministry, which reflects the principle of proving individuals before appointing them to positions of responsibility, as stated in 1 Timothy 3:10. The confidence is adjusted upwards because the connection is clear and relevant.
"God has repeatedly shown that persons should not be encouraged into the field without unmistakable evidence that He has called them. The Lord will not entrust the burden for his flock to unqualified individuals. Those whom God calls must be men of deep experience, tried and proved, men of sound judgment, men who will dare to reprove sin in the spirit of meekness, men who understand how to feed the flock. God knows the heart, and He knows whom to select. Brother and Sister A may decide in this matter, and be all wrong. Your judgment is imperfect, and can be no evidence in this matter. I saw that you were drawing off from the church, and if you continue to do so, you will have enough of it; for God will let you go, to suffer by following your own way. 1T 209.1"
Both passages discuss the importance of proving individuals before entrusting them with responsibilities in the church. EGW's statement about 'unmistakable evidence' and 'tried and proved' echoes the sentiment in 1 Timothy 3:10.
1 Timothy 3:15
"But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth."
"The people whom God had called to be the pillar and ground of the truth had become representatives of Satan. They were doing the work that he desired them to do, taking a course to misrepresent the character of God, and cause the world to look upon Him as a tyrant. The very priests who ministered in the temple had lost sight of the significance of the service they performed. They had ceased to look beyond the symbol to the thing signified. In presenting the sacrificial offerings they were as actors in a play. The ordinances which God Himself had appointed were made the means of blinding the mind and hardening the heart. God could do no more for man through these channels. The whole system must be swept away. DA 36.2"
The EGW passage directly references the concept of the 'pillar and ground of truth' and applies it to a corrupted religious system, mirroring the idea presented in 1 Timothy 3:15, although with a negative connotation. The connection is strong and relevant.
1 Timothy 3:16
"And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory."
“Who is this that cometh from Edom, with dyed garments from Bozrah? this that is glorious in His apparel, traveling in the greatness of His strength?” Isaiah 63:1 . With assurance comes the answer: “Without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” 1 Timothy 3:16 . “Being in the form of God,” He “thought it not robbery to be equal with God: but made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men: and being found in fashion as a man, He humbled Himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted Him, and given Him a name which is above every name: that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; and that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is L…
The EGW passage directly quotes 1 Timothy 3:16, making it an explicit allusion.
"By His humanity, Christ touched humanity; by His divinity, He lays hold upon the throne of God. As the Son of man, He gave us an example of obedience; as the Son of God, He gives us power to obey. It was Christ who from the bush on Mount Horeb spoke to Moses saying, “I AM THAT I AM.... Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.” Exodus 3:14 . This was the pledge of Israel's deliverance. So when He came “in the likeness of men,” He declared Himself the I AM. The Child of Bethlehem, the meek and lowly Saviour, is God “manifest in the flesh.” 1 Timothy 3:16 . And to us He says: “I AM the Good Shepherd.” “I AM the living Bread.” “I AM the Way, the Truth, and the Life.” “All power is given unto Me in heaven and in earth.” John 10:11 ; 6:51 ; 14:6 ; Matthew 28:18 . I AM the assurance of every promise. I AM; be not afraid. “God with us” is the surety of our deliverance from sin, the assurance of our power to obey the law of heaven. DA 24.3"
Ellen White directly references 1 Timothy 3:16 in this passage.
"As the worker studies the life of Christ, and the character of His mission is dwelt upon, each fresh search will reveal something more deeply interesting than has yet been unfolded. The subject is inexhaustible. The study of the incarnation of Christ, His atoning sacrifice and mediatorial work, will employ the mind of the diligent student as long as time shall last; and looking to heaven with its unnumbered years, he will exclaim, “Great is the mystery of godliness!” [ 1 Timothy 3:16 .] GW 251.1"
Ellen White directly references 1 Timothy 3:16 in this passage.
"The second temple was honored, not with the cloud of Jehovah's glory, but with the presence of the One in whom dwelt “all the fullness of the Godhead bodily”—God Himself “manifest in the flesh.” Colossians 2:9 ; 1 Timothy 3:16 . In being honored with the personal presence of Christ during His earthly ministry, and in this alone, did the second temple exceed the first in glory. The “Desire of all nations” had indeed come to His temple, when the Man of Nazareth taught and healed in the sacred courts. PK 597.2"
Ellen White directly references 1 Timothy 3:16 in this passage.
"The work for this time is to train students and workers to deal with subjects in a plain, serious, and solemn manner. There must be no time uselessly employed in this great work. We must not miss the mark. Time is too short for us to undertake to reveal all that might be opened to view. Eternity will be required for us to know all the length and breadth, the depth and height, of the Scriptures. There are some souls to whom certain truths are of more importance than other truths. Skill is needed in your education in Scriptural lines. Read and study Psalm 40:7, 8 ; John 1:14 ; 1 Timothy 3:16 ; Philippians 2:5-11 ; Colossians 1:14-17 ; Revelation 5:11-14 . 6T 58.4"
Ellen White directly references 1 Timothy 3:16 in this passage.
"Such is the character of Christ as revealed in His life. This is the character of God. It is from the Father's heart that the streams of divine compassion, manifest in Christ, flow out to the children of men. Jesus, the tender, pitying Saviour, was God “manifest in the flesh.” 1 Timothy 3:16 . SC 12.2"
Ellen White directly references 1 Timothy 3:16 in this passage.
"Look, O look to Jesus and live! You cannot but be charmed with the matchless attractions of the Son of God. Christ was God manifest in the flesh, the mystery hidden for ages, and in our acceptance or rejection of the Saviour of the world are involved eternal interests. CE 76.1"
EGW's phrase 'Christ was God manifest in the flesh' is a direct reference to 1 Timothy 3:16, which speaks of the mystery of godliness and God being manifested in the flesh.
"One of the great evils which has attended the quest of knowledge, the investigations of science, is that those who engage in these researches too often lose sight of the divine character of pure and unadulterated religion. The worldly-wise have attempted to explain upon scientific principles the influence of the Spirit of God upon the heart. The least advance in this direction will lead the soul into the mazes of skepticism. The religion of the Bible is simply the mystery of godliness; no human mind can fully understand it, and it is utterly incomprehensible to the unregenerate heart. 4T 585.2"
EGW directly references the 'mystery of godliness' and connects it to the incomprehensibility of true religion to the human mind, echoing the sentiment and language of 1 Timothy 3:16.
"The mystery of godliness, opened to the mind of the minister of Christ, will raise him above earthly and sensual enjoyments. He will be a partaker of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust. The communion opened between God and his soul will make him fruitful in the knowledge of God's will, and open before him treasures of practical subjects that he can present to the people, which will not cause levity or the semblance of a smile, but will solemnize the mind, touch the heart, and arouse the moral sensibilities to the sacred claims that God has upon the affections and life. Those who labor in word and doctrine should be men of God, pure in heart and life.— Testimonies for the Church 3:241 . GW 130.1"
Both passages refer to the 'mystery of godliness.' While 1 Timothy 3:16 describes the content of this mystery, EGW discusses its effect on a minister, raising him above earthly desires. There is a clear thematic connection.