"God calls for men to give the warning to the world that is asleep, dead in trespasses and sins. He calls for freewill offerings from those whose hearts are in the work, who have a burden for souls, that they shall not perish, but have everlasting life. Satan is playing the game of life for the souls of men. He is seeking to secure means, that he may bind it up, so that it shall not be used in advancing the missionary enterprises. Shall we be ignorant of his devices? Shall we allow him to stupefy our senses? 6T 446.1"
The EGW passage asks, 'Shall we be ignorant of his devices?' which is a direct allusion to 2 Corinthians 2:11, which states, 'for we are not ignorant of his devices.'
"Our efforts to resist the attacks of Satan must be earnest and persevering. He employs his strength and skill in trying to turn us out of the right way. He watches our going out and our coming in, that he may find opportunity to hurt or destroy us. He works most successfully in darkness, injuring those who are ignorant of his devices. He could not gain advantage if his method of attack were understood. The instruments he employs to effect his purposes, and transmit his fiery darts, are often the members of our own families. 1T 308.1"
The EGW passage directly echoes the idea in 2 Corinthians 2:11 about Satan gaining an advantage and the importance of not being ignorant of his devices. The phrase 'ignorant of his devices' is a clear parallel.
"It is the work of Satan to deceive God's people and lead them from the right course. He will leave no means untried; he will come upon them where they are least guarded; hence the importance of fortifying every point. The Battle Creek church did not mean to turn against us, they are as good a church as lives; but there is much at stake at Battle Creek, and Satan will bring all his artillery against them if by so doing he can hinder the work. We deeply sympathize with this church in their present humbled condition and would say: Let not a spirit of triumph arise in any heart. God will heal all the wrongs of this dear people and yet make them a mighty defense of His truth if they walk humbly and watch and guard every point against the attacks of Satan. This people are kept continually under the fire of the enemy. No other church would probably stand it as well, therefore look with a pitying eye toward your brethren at Battle Creek and pray God to help them in keeping the fort. 1T 628.2"
Both passages address Satan's deceptive strategies. 2 Corinthians 2:11 warns against Satan gaining an advantage through his devices, and the EGW passage highlights Satan's work to deceive and lead people astray.
Some have given a willing ear to the tempter and have talked out their unbelief and wounded the cause. Satan has claims upon them, for they have not recovered themselves from his snare. They have conducted themselves like children who were wholly unacquainted with the wiles of the tempter. They have had sufficient experience and should have understood his workings. He has suggested doubts to their minds, and, instead of repelling them at once, they have reasoned and parleyed with the archdeceiver, and listened to his reasonings, as though charmed by the old serpent. A few texts which were not perfectly explainable to the satisfaction of their own minds have been sufficient to shake the whole structure of truth and to obscure the plainest facts of the word of God. These men are erring mortals. They have not perfect wisdom and knowledge in all the Scriptures. Some passages are placed beyond the reach of human minds until such a time as God chooses, in His own wisdom, to open them. Satan …
Both passages discuss Satan's devices and the importance of being aware of them. EGW expands on the specific ways Satan deceives, but the core idea aligns with 2 Corinthians 2:11.
"I was shown that Satan's power is especially exercised upon the people of God. Many were presented before me in a doubting, despairing condition. The infirmities of the body affect the mind. A cunning and powerful enemy attends our steps and employs his strength and skill in trying to turn us out of the right way. And it is too often the case that the people of God are not on their watch, therefore are ignorant of his devices. He works by means which will best conceal himself from view, and he often gains his object. 1T 304.2"
EGW references the idea of being ignorant of Satan's devices, which is directly stated in 2 Corinthians 2:11.
"144.4 These set notions have been humored and indulged altogether too long. There has been a picking at straws. And when there were no real difficulties in the church, trials have been manufactured. The minds of the church and the servants of the Lord are called from God, truth, and heaven to dwell upon darkness. Satan delights to have such things go on; it feasts him. But these are none of the trials which are to purify the church and that will in the end increase the strength of God's people. 1T 144.5"
Both passages address Satan's influence and the importance of being aware of his schemes. EGW speaks of Satan delighting in manufactured trials, while Paul warns against giving Satan an advantage by being ignorant of his devices. The connection is thematic, focusing on Satan's manipulative tactics.
Infirmities and disease especially affect women. The happiness of the family depends much upon the wife and mother. If she is weak and nervous, and is suffered to be overtaxed with labor, the mind becomes depressed, for it sympathizes with the weariness of the body; and then she too often meets with cold reserve from the husband. If everything does not move off just as pleasantly as he could wish, he blames the wife and mother. He is almost wholly unacquainted with her cares and burdens, and does not always know how to sympathize with her. He does not realize that he is aiding the great enemy in his work of tearing down. He should by faith in God lift up a standard against Satan; but he seems blinded to his own interest and hers. He treats her with indifference. He knows not what he is doing. He is working directly against his own happiness and is destroying the happiness of his family. The wife becomes desponding and discouraged. Hope and cheerfulness are gone. She goes her daily roun…
Both passages discuss Satan's devices. EGW speaks of not realizing one is aiding the enemy, while 2 Corinthians speaks of not being ignorant of his devices.
"***** The influence of your teaching would be tenfold greater if you were careful of your words. Words that should be a savor of life unto life may by the spirit which accompanies them be made a savor of death unto death. And remember that if by your spirit or your words you close the door to even one soul, that soul will confront you in the judgment. 6T 122.4"
EGW directly alludes to 2 Corinthians 2:16, using the phrase "savor of life unto life" and "savor of death unto death."
"Paul was now full of faith and hope. He felt that Satan was not to triumph over the work of God in Corinth, and in words of praise he poured forth the gratitude of his heart. He and his fellow laborers would celebrate their victory over the enemies of Christ and the truth, by going forth with new zeal to extend the knowledge of the Saviour. Like incense the fragrance of the gospel was to be diffused throughout the world. To those who should accept Christ, the message would be a savor of life unto life; but to those who should persist in unbelief, a savor of death unto death. AA 326.1"
EGW directly alludes to 2 Corinthians 2:16, expanding on the concept of the gospel being a savor of life or death depending on one's response.
"Realizing the overwhelming magnitude of the work, Paul exclaimed, “Who is sufficient for these things?” Who is able to preach Christ in such a way that His enemies shall have no just cause to despise the messenger or the message that he bears? Paul desired to impress upon believers the solemn responsibility of the gospel ministry. Faithfulness in preaching the word, united with a pure, consistent life, can alone make the efforts of ministers acceptable to God and profitable to souls. Ministers of our day, burdened with a sense of the greatness of the work, may well exclaim with the apostle, “Who is sufficient for these things?” AA 326.2"
EGW directly quotes 2 Corinthians 2:16 and uses it as a basis for her discussion.
"***** “Thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savor of His knowledge by us in every place. For we are unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish: to the one we are the savor of death unto death; and to the other the savor of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?” 2 Corinthians 2:14-16 . 6T 316.2"
EGW directly quotes 2 Corinthians 2:16.
"The deeper the sense of responsibility, and the more earnest the effort for self-improvement, the more clearly will the teacher perceive and the more keenly regret the defects that hinder his usefulness. As he beholds the magnitude of his work, its difficulties and possibilities, often will his heart cry out, “Who is sufficient for these things?” Ed 281.3"
EGW directly quotes the verse, indicating a clear and intentional connection.
Parents have a great and responsible work to do, and they may well inquire. “Who is sufficient for these things?” [ 2 Corinthians 2:16 .] But God has promised to give wisdom to those that ask in faith, and he will do just as he said he would. He is pleased with the faith that takes him at his word. The mother of Augustine prayed for her son's conversion. She saw no evidence that the Spirit of God was impressing his heart, but she was not discouraged. She laid her finger upon the texts, presenting before God his own words, and pleaded as only a mother can. Her deep humiliation, her earnest importunities, her unwavering faith, prevailed, and the Lord gave her the desire of her heart. Today he is just as ready to listen to the petitions of his people. His “hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear;” [ Isaiah 59:1 .] and if Christian parents seek him earnestly, he will fill their mouths with arguments, and, for his name's sake, will work mightil…
Ellen White directly references 2 Corinthians 2:16 in this passage.
But never should it be forgotten that influence is no less a power for evil. To lose one's own soul is a terrible thing; but to cause the loss of other souls is still more terrible. That our influence should be a savor of death unto death is a fearful thought; yet this is possible. Many who profess to gather with Christ are scattering from Him. This is why the church is so weak. Many indulge freely in criticism and accusing. By giving expression to suspicion, jealousy, and discontent, they yield themselves as instruments to Satan. Before they realize what they are doing, the adversary has through them accomplished his purpose. The impression of evil has been made, the shadow has been cast, the arrows of Satan have found their mark. Distrust, unbelief, and downright infidelity have fastened upon those who otherwise might have accepted Christ. Meanwhile the workers for Satan look complacently upon those whom they have driven to skepticism, and who are now hardened against reproof and ent…
EGW directly quotes and applies the phrase 'savor of death unto death' from 2 Corinthians 2:16 to the concept of negative influence.
"with praise or flattery. He knew that his words would be to them a savor of life or of death, and, forgetting all selfish considerations, he sought to arouse them to a sense of their peril. AA 422.3"
EGW directly uses the phrase 'savor of life or of death' which is a clear allusion to 2 Corinthians 2:16. The context is also similar, referring to the impact of one's message.
"***** Reporting . Let those who gain such an experience in working for the Lord write an account of it for our papers, that others may be encouraged. Let the canvasser tell of the joy and blessing he has received in his ministry as an evangelist. These reports should find a place in our papers, for they are far-reaching in their influence. They will be as sweet fragrance in the church, a savor of life unto life. Thus it is seen that God works with those who co-operate with Him. 6T 336.1"
The phrase "savor of life unto life" is a direct quote from 2 Corinthians 2:16, making this an explicit allusion, not just a thematic parallel. The context of encouraging positive reports also aligns with the idea of a 'savor of life'.
"In view of these grave responsibilities, the question will arise: “Who is sufficient for these things?” The heart of the laborer will almost faint as he considers the various arduous duties devolving upon him; but the words of Christ strengthen the soul with the comforting assurance: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.” The difficulties and dangers that threaten the safety of those he loves should make him cautious and circumspect in his manner of dealing with them, and watchful of them as one who must give an account. He should judiciously employ his influence in winning souls to Christ and impressing the truth upon inquiring minds. He should take care that the world, by its delusive attractions, does not lead them away from God and steel their hearts to the influence of His grace. 4T 267.2"
The EGW passage directly quotes and responds to the question posed in 2 Corinthians 2:16, 'Who is sufficient for these things?' This is a clear and explicit allusion, making the connection strong and undeniable.
Ministers of the gospel have a sacred work. They have a solemn message of warning to bear to the world—a message which will be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. They are God's messengers to man, and they should never lose sight of their mission or of their responsibilities. They are not like worldlings; they cannot be like them. If they would be true to God they must maintain their separate, holy character. If they cease to connect with heaven they are in greater danger than others and can exert a stronger influence in the wrong direction, for Satan has his eye constantly upon them, waiting for some weakness to be developed whereby he may make a successful attack. And how he triumphs when he succeeds; for when one who is an ambassador for Christ is off his watch, through him the great adversary may secure many souls to himself. 4T 524.3 Those who closely connect with God may not be prosperous in the things of this life; they may often be sorely tried and afflicted. Jose…
EGW directly quotes the phrase "a savor of life unto life or of death unto death," which is a clear and direct allusion to 2 Corinthians 2:16. The context in both passages relates to the impact of ministers/messengers.
"In deportment, words, and acts all in that office should be reserved, modest, humble, and disinterested, as was their Pattern, Jesus, the dear Saviour. They should seek God and obtain righteousness. The office is not the place for sport, for visiting, for idlers, for laughing or useless words. All should feel that they are doing a work for their Master. These truths which they read, which they act their part to prepare to send out to the people, are invitations of mercy, are reproofs, threatenings, warnings, or encouragements. These are doing their work as a savor of life unto life, or of death unto death. If rejected, the judgment must decide the matter. The prayer of all in the office should be: “O God, make these truths, which are of such vital importance, clear to the comprehension of the humblest minds! May angels accompany these silent preachers and bless their influence, that souls may be saved by this humble means!” 1T 591.2"
This is a duplicate of pair 1. EGW directly quotes and applies the concept of being a 'savor of life unto life, or of death unto death' from 2 Corinthians 2:16 to the work being done in the office.
"That our influence should be a savor of death unto death is a fearful thought, yet it is possible. One soul misled, forfeiting eternal bliss—who can estimate the loss! And yet one rash act, one thoughtless word, on our part may exert so deep an influence on the life of another that it will prove the ruin of his soul. One blemish on the character may turn many away from Christ. PK 86.1"
EGW uses the phrase "savor of death unto death" which is directly from 2 Corinthians 2:16. The context of influence is also similar.
"“The keys of the kingdom of heaven” are the words of Christ. All the words of Holy Scripture are His, and are here included. These words have power to open and to shut heaven. They declare the conditions upon which men are received or rejected. Thus the work of those who preach God's word is a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. Theirs is a mission weighted with eternal results. DA 413.6"
The EGW passage directly references the concept of being a 'savor of life unto life, or of death unto death' which is the core idea of 2 Corinthians 2:16. The context of preaching and its eternal consequences further strengthens the connection.
"In seeking to correct or reform others we should be careful of our words. They will be a savor of life unto life or of death unto death. In giving reproof or counsel, many indulge in sharp, severe speech, words not adapted to heal the wounded soul. By these ill-advised expressions the spirit is chafed, and often the erring ones are stirred to rebellion. All who would advocate the principles of truth need to receive the heavenly oil of love. Under all circumstances reproof should be spoken in love. Then our words will reform but not exasperate. Christ by His Holy Spirit will supply the force and the power. This is His work. COL 337.1"
EGW directly alludes to 2 Corinthians 2:16, using the phrase "savor of life unto life or of death unto death" in the context of the impact of our words.
"Canvassers need to be daily converted to God, that their words and deeds may be a savor of life unto life, that they may exert a saving influence. The reason why many have failed in the canvassing work is that they were not genuine Christians; they did not know the spirit of conversion. They had a theory as to how the work should be done, but they did not feel their dependence upon God. 6T 317.2"
EGW uses the phrase "savor of life unto life" directly from 2 Corinthians 2:16, indicating a clear connection.
Self-Sufficiency Some who contemplate becoming missionary workers may think themselves so far advanced that they do not need all this particular drill; but those who feel thus are the very ones who stand in the greatest need of thorough training. When they know much more in regard to the truth and the importance of the work, they will realize their ignorance and inefficiency. When they closely examine their own hearts, they will see themselves in such contrast to the pure character of Christ that they will cry out, “Who is sufficient for these things?” Then they will in deep humility strive daily to place themselves in close connection with Christ. While overcoming the selfish inclinations of the natural heart, they are placing their feet in the path where Christ leads the way. “The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” [ Psalm 119:130 ]. But those who have a high estimate of their own ability and acquisitions, are so full of self-importance that…
The EGW quote directly uses the phrase "Who is sufficient for these things?" and applies it to the realization of one's own inadequacy compared to Christ, which is a direct allusion to 2 Corinthians 2:16.
"These words present before the worker for Christ a high standard of attainment, yet this standard all can reach who, putting themselves under the control of the great Teacher, learn daily in the school of Christ. The power at God's command is limitless; and the minister who in his great need shuts himself in with the Lord, may be assured that he will receive that which will be to his hearers a savor of life unto life. GW 60.1"
EGW directly uses the phrase "savor of life unto life" from 2 Corinthians 2:16, indicating a clear and intentional connection. The context in both passages relates to the impact of a minister's work on their hearers.
"The teacher may bind these children to his or her heart by the love of Christ abiding in the soul-temple as a sweet fragrance, a savor of life unto life. The teachers may, through the grace of Christ imparted to them, be the living human agency—be laborers together with God—to enlighten, lift up, encourage, and help to purify the soul from its moral defilement; and the image of God shall be revealed in the soul of the child, and the character become transformed by the grace of Christ. CE 146.3"
The EGW passage directly uses the phrase 'savor of life unto life' from 2 Corinthians 2:16, indicating a clear connection. The broader context of the EGW passage also aligns with the idea of teachers being agents of spiritual transformation.
"saw him cheerful and even joyous in the prospect of death. To some who witnessed his martyrdom, his spirit of forgiveness toward his murderers and his unwavering confidence in Christ till the last, proved a savor of life unto life. More than one accepted the Saviour whom Paul preached, and erelong fearlessly sealed their faith with their blood. AA 509.2"
The EGW passage uses the phrase 'savor of life unto life' which is directly taken from 2 Corinthians 2:16. The context of Paul's martyrdom leading to conversions reinforces the connection.
"If the teacher has the love of Christ abiding in the heart as a sweet fragrance, a savor of life unto life, he may bind the children under his care to himself. Through the grace of Christ he may be an instrument in God's hands to enlighten, lift up, encourage, and help to purify the soul temple from its defilement, until the character shall be transformed by the grace of Christ, and the image of God be revealed in the soul. CT 197.2"
EGW uses the phrase "savor of life unto life," which is directly taken from 2 Corinthians 2:16. The surrounding context in EGW's writing also aligns with the idea of being a positive influence, making it a thematic parallel.