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
Acts 15:1-35
"And certain men which came down from Judea taught the brethren, and said, Except ye be circumcised after the manner of Moses, ye cannot be saved. When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question. And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren. And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them. But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses. And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter. And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe. And God, which knoweth the hearts, bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faith. Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear? But we believe that through the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ we shall be saved, even as they. Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them. And after they had held their peace, James answered, saying, Men and brethren, hearken unto me: Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name. And to this agree the words of the prophets; as it is written, After this I will return, and will build again the tabernacle of David, which is fallen down; and I will build again the ruins thereof, and I will set it up: That the residue of men might seek after the Lord, and all the Gentiles, upon whom my name is called, saith the Lord, who doeth all these things. Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world. Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God: But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood."
"Chapter 19—Jew and Gentile This chapter is based on Acts 15:1-35 . On reaching Antioch in Syria, from which place they had been sent forth on their mission, Paul and Barnabas took advantage of an early opportunity to assemble the believers and rehearse “all that God had done with them, and how He had opened the door of faith unto the Gentiles.” Acts 14:27 . The church at Antioch was a large and growing one. A center of missionary activity, it was one of the most important of the groups of Christian believers. Its membership was made up of many classes of people from among both Jews and Gentiles. AA 188"
Ellen White directly references Acts 15:1-35 in this passage.
Acts 15:2
"When therefore Paul and Barnabas had no small dissension and disputation with them, they determined that Paul and Barnabas, and certain other of them, should go up to Jerusalem unto the apostles and elders about this question."
"In his effort to regain the confidence of his brethren in Galatia, Paul ably vindicated his position as an apostle of Christ. He declared himself to be an apostle, “not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised Him from the dead.” Not from men, but from the highest Authority in heaven, had he received his commission. And his position had been acknowledged by a general council at Jerusalem, with the decisions of which Paul had complied in all his labors among the Gentiles. AA 387.2"
Both passages refer to Paul's journey to Jerusalem and the council there. The EGW passage references the council's acknowledgement of Paul's position, which stems from the events described in Acts 15.
"Paul and Barnabas met this false doctrine with promptness and opposed the introduction of the subject to the Gentiles. On the other hand, many of the believing Jews of Antioch favored the position of the brethren recently come from Judea. AA 189.1"
Both passages describe the disagreement between Paul and Barnabas and certain Jewish believers regarding doctrine (circumcision of Gentiles). Acts 15:2 describes the dissension and the decision to go to Jerusalem, while the EGW passage describes the initial conflict in Antioch. The thematic parallel is clear and direct.
Acts 15:3
"And being brought on their way by the church, they passed through Phenice and Samaria, declaring the conversion of the Gentiles: and they caused great joy unto all the brethren."
"“I felt very deeply,” Mrs. White said publicly, after enjoying one of these occasions, “when our brethren who had come from foreign fields told me a little of their experiences and of what the Lord is doing in bringing souls to the truth.” The General Conference Bulletin, May 21, 1909 . And at another time, addressing them especially while speaking before the Conference, she said: LS 420.2"
Both passages describe the sharing of experiences from foreign fields and the joy it brings to the community. Acts 15:3 mentions the declaration of the conversion of Gentiles and the resulting joy, while the EGW passage speaks of being deeply moved by the experiences shared by brethren from foreign fields. The connection is thematic and meaningful.
"From October 21, 1867 to December 22, 1867 Our labor with the Battle Creek church had just closed, and, notwithstanding we were much worn, we had been so refreshed in spirit as we witnessed the good result that we cheerfully joined Brother J. N. Andrews in the long journey to Maine. On the way we held a meeting at Roosevelt, New York. Testimony No. 13 was doing its work, and those brethren who had taken part in the general disaffection were beginning to see things in their true light. This meeting was one of hard labor, in which pointed testimonies were given. Confessions were made, followed by a general turning to the Lord on the part of backsliders and sinners. 1T 643"
Both passages describe journeys undertaken to minister to others and the positive impact of their ministry. Acts 15:3 describes Paul and Barnabas's journey and the joy it brought, while the EGW passage describes a journey to Maine and the positive results of their testimonies. The connection is thematic, focusing on the journey and its positive impact.
Acts 15:4
"And when they were come to Jerusalem, they were received of the church, and of the apostles and elders, and they declared all things that God had done with them."
"On the way to Jerusalem the apostles visited the believers in the cities through which they passed, and encouraged them by relating their experience in the work of God and the conversion of the Gentiles. AA 190.3"
Both passages describe the apostles visiting believers and sharing their experiences, particularly regarding the conversion of Gentiles. The connection is clear and relevant.
Acts 15:5
"But there rose up certain of the sect of the Pharisees which believed, saying, That it was needful to circumcise them, and to command them to keep the law of Moses."
"At Jerusalem the delegates from Antioch met the brethren of the various churches, who had gathered for a general meeting, and to them they related the success that had attended their ministry among the Gentiles. They then gave a clear outline of the confusion that had resulted because certain converted Pharisees had gone to Antioch declaring that, in order to be saved, the Gentile converts must be circumcised and keep the law of Moses. AA 191.1"
Both passages describe the controversy caused by converted Pharisees insisting that Gentile converts must be circumcised and keep the law of Moses. The connection is direct and significant.
"The Jewish converts generally were not inclined to move as rapidly as the providence of God opened the way. From the result of the apostles’ labors among the Gentiles it was evident that the converts among the latter people would far exceed the Jewish converts in number. The Jews feared that if the restrictions and ceremonies of their law were not made obligatory upon the Gentiles as a condition of church fellowship, the national peculiarities of the Jews, which had hitherto kept them distinct from all other people, would finally disappear from among those who received the gospel message. AA 189.2"
The EGW passage describes the tension between Jewish and Gentile converts regarding the observance of Jewish laws and customs. Acts 15:5 directly addresses this issue, with believing Pharisees insisting on the necessity of circumcising Gentile converts and requiring them to keep the law of Moses. The EGW passage provides context and expands on the underlying concerns of the Jewish converts.
Acts 15:6
"And the apostles and elders came together for to consider of this matter."
"The council which decided this case was composed of apostles and teachers who had been prominent in raising up the Jewish and Gentile Christian churches, with chosen delegates from various places. Elders from Jerusalem and deputies from Antioch were present, and the most influential churches were represented. The council moved in accordance with the dictates of enlightened judgment, and with the dignity of a church established by the divine will. As a result of their deliberations they all saw that God Himself had answered the question at issue by bestowing upon the Gentiles the Holy Ghost; and they realized that it was their part to follow the guidance of the Spirit. AA 196.1"
The EGW passage directly refers to the council in Acts 15, and verse 6 is a key part of that narrative. The passage amplifies the details of the council, but is clearly based on the biblical account.
"Matters of grave import come up for settlement by the church. God's ministers, ordained by Him as guides of His people, after doing their part are to submit the whole matter to the church, that there may be unity in the decision made. 7T 263.4"
Both passages discuss the importance of church leaders and members coming together to make decisions. The EGW passage amplifies the principle of unity in decision-making within the church, echoing the example set in Acts 15:6.
At times, when a small group of men entrusted with the general management of the work have, in the name of the General Conference, sought to carry out unwise plans and to restrict God's work, I have said that I could no longer regard the voice of the General Conference, represented by these few men, as the voice of God. But this is not saying that the decisions of a General Conference composed of an assembly of duly appointed, representative men from all parts of the field, should not be respected. God has ordained that the representatives of His church from all parts of the earth, when assembled in a General Conference, shall have authority. The error that some are in danger of committing, is in giving to the mind and judgment of one man, or of a small group of men, the full measure of authority and influence that God has vested in His church, in the judgment and voice of the General Conference assembled to plan for the prosperity and advancement of His work. GW 490.1 When this power,…
The EGW quote describes a General Conference making decisions, which parallels the council of apostles and elders in Acts 15. While not a direct quote or explicit allusion, the thematic similarity of a representative body making decisions for the church is present.
"The Australian Conference Meeting It was only a week till the time of the opening of the Australian Conference, which was to be held in Federal Hall, North Fitzroy, Melbourne, beginning December 24. There were in regular attendance about one hundred representatives from the companies of Sabbath keepers in Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and New South Wales. LS 333"
Both passages describe gatherings of religious leaders to discuss important matters. While the context and specific purpose differ, the general theme of religious assembly connects them.
"was to cease until a final decision should be given in general council. This decision was then to be universally accepted by the different churches throughout the country. AA 190.2"
Both passages refer to a council or meeting to make a decision. EGW elaborates on the expected acceptance of the decision, which is implied but not explicitly stated in Acts 15:6. The connection is valid.
"As time passed and the message spread, an increasing number of Sabbathkeepers questioned the practice and advocated the sunset time for reckoning the beginning of the Sabbath. A thorough Bible investigation of the question was made by Elder J. N. Andrews, who wrote a paper setting forth the Biblical reasons in favor of the sunset time. This paper was introduced and discussed on Sabbath, November 17, 1855, at the Conference in Battle Creek, Michigan, with the result that nearly, but not quite, all present were convinced that Elder Andrew's conclusion was correct. The presentation of the subject to Mrs. White in this vision, given two days later, answered the questions lingering in some minds and effected unity among the believers. Commenting on this experience, as illustrating the office of the visions to confirm conclusions based on Biblical study rather than to introduce new teachings, Elder James White wrote later: 1T 713.3"
Both passages describe a group of leaders coming together to discuss and resolve a doctrinal issue. Acts 15:6 describes the apostles and elders meeting in Jerusalem, while the EGW passage describes a conference in Battle Creek. The parallel lies in the process of deliberation and seeking unity on a matter of faith.
"After a while I fell asleep again. This time I seemed to be in a council meeting where our book work was being discussed. There were a number of our brethren present, leaders in our work, and Elder Haskell and his wife were there consulting together and with the brethren about the circulation of our books, tracts, and periodicals. 9T 66.5"
Both passages describe a meeting of leaders to discuss important matters. While the specific context differs (book work vs. doctrinal issues), the general idea of a council or meeting for deliberation is present in both texts. The parallel is in the act of leaders coming together to make decisions.
"A Special Committee Council Early in the meeting an effort had been made by the officers of the National Religious Liberty Association and the representatives of the American Sentinel , to come to an agreement regarding policies and plans. To this end a joint council was arranged to be held Saturday night, March 7, after the regular meeting in the Tabernacle. LS 313"
Both passages describe leaders coming together to discuss important matters. While Acts 15:6 is a pivotal event in early church history, and the EGW passage describes a committee council, the core idea of leaders meeting for deliberation connects them.
"Two months earlier, in September of 1868, a camp meeting was held in Wright, Michigan. This gathering, the first of its kind, proved such a great blessing to those who attended that the following years witnessed the establishment of camp meetings as a regular part of the program for the state conferences. Elder and Mrs. White's presence was called for, and so it came that the summer months in succeeding years were largely spent by them in these annual gatherings. In the latter part of volume 2 may be found counsel regarding such “convocations.” 2T 6.2"
Both passages refer to gatherings of religious leaders and members for discussion and counsel. While Acts 15:6 describes a specific council of apostles and elders, the EGW passage discusses camp meetings. The connection lies in the shared theme of religious convocations for deliberation and spiritual growth.
"The Conference was held at Rocky Hill, in the large, unfinished chamber of Brother Belden's house. The brethren came in until we numbered about fifty; but these were not all fully in the truth. Our meeting was interesting. Brother Bates presented the commandments in a clear light, and their importance was urged home by powerful testimonies. The word had effect to establish those already in the truth, and to awaken those who were not fully decided. 1T 85.1"
Both passages describe gatherings of religious leaders/believers to discuss and consider matters of faith. The EGW passage describes a conference, while Acts 15:6 describes a meeting of apostles and elders. The thematic parallel is the act of coming together for deliberation.
"At Battle Creek The General Conference was held at Battle Creek, October 2-14, 1878. More than forty ministers were present. We were all happy to meet here Elders Andrews and Bourdeau from Europe, and Elder Loughborough from California. At this meeting was represented the cause in Europe, California, Texas, Alabama, Virginia, Dakota, Colorado, and in all of the Northern States from Maine to Nebraska. LS 238"
Both passages describe gatherings of religious leaders to discuss important matters. However, the EGW passage is simply a description of a meeting, while Acts 15:6 describes a pivotal council. The connection is thematic, but not strong.
"Conference at Volney Our first general meeting in western New York, beginning August 18, was held at Volney, in Brother David Arnold's barn. About thirty-five were present,—all the friends that could be collected in that part of the State. But of this number there were hardly two agreed. Some were holding serious errors, and each strenuously urged his own views, declaring that they were according to the Scriptures. LS 110"
Both passages describe a meeting or conference to discuss religious matters. The EGW passage describes disagreement and debate, while Acts 15:6 simply states the apostles and elders came together to consider a matter. The connection is weak but present.
"Meeting at Port Gibson The meeting at Port Gibson was held in Brother Hiram Edson's barn. There were those present who loved the truth, but were listening to and cherishing error. Before the close of this meeting, however, the Lord wrought for us with power. I was again shown in vision the importance of the brethren laying aside their differences, and uniting upon Bible truth. LS 112"
Similar to pair 1, both passages describe a meeting to discuss religious matters. The EGW passage describes disagreement and the need for unity, while Acts 15:6 simply states the apostles and elders came together to consider a matter. The connection is weak but present.
Acts 15:7
"And when there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe."
"“When there had been much disputing, Peter rose up, and said unto them, Men and brethren, ye know how that a good while ago God made choice among us, that the Gentiles by my mouth should hear the word of the gospel, and believe.” He reasoned that the Holy Spirit had decided the matter under dispute by descending with equal power upon the uncircumcised Gentiles and the circumcised Jews. He recounted his vision, in which God had presented before him a sheet filled with all manner of four-footed beasts and had bidden him kill and eat. When he refused, affirming that he had never eaten that which was common or unclean, the answer had been, “What God hath cleansed, that call not thou common.” Acts 10:15 . AA 192.4"
EGW directly quotes Acts 15:7 and uses it as a basis for her commentary. This is a clear and explicit allusion.
"Among those present at this meeting, were some who had severely criticized the methods of labor followed by the apostles upon whom rested the chief burden of carrying the gospel to the Gentile world. But during the council their views of God's purpose had broadened, and they had united with their brethren in making wise decisions which made possible the unification of the entire body of believers. AA 401.1"
Both passages discuss the disputing and eventual agreement at the Jerusalem council regarding the Gentiles. The EGW passage elaborates on the differing views and the eventual unification.
"The various points involved in the settlement of the main question at issue seemed to present before the council insurmountable difficulties. But the Holy Spirit had, in reality, already settled this question, upon the decision of which seemed to depend the prosperity, if not the very existence, of the Christian church. AA 192.3"
Both passages discuss the Jerusalem council and the difficulties faced in resolving the issue of Gentile inclusion. The EGW passage speaks of the Holy Spirit settling the question, while Acts 15:7 describes the disputing that occurred before Peter spoke. The connection is thematic, but not a strong allusion.
"As time passed and the message spread, an increasing number of Sabbathkeepers questioned the practice and advocated the sunset time for reckoning the beginning of the Sabbath. A thorough Bible investigation of the question was made by Elder J. N. Andrews, who wrote a paper setting forth the Biblical reasons in favor of the sunset time. This paper was introduced and discussed on Sabbath, November 17, 1855, at the Conference in Battle Creek, Michigan, with the result that nearly, but not quite, all present were convinced that Elder Andrew's conclusion was correct. The presentation of the subject to Mrs. White in this vision, given two days later, answered the questions lingering in some minds and effected unity among the believers. Commenting on this experience, as illustrating the office of the visions to confirm conclusions based on Biblical study rather than to introduce new teachings, Elder James White wrote later: 1T 713.3"
Both passages describe a situation where there is much disputing before a resolution is reached. In Acts 15:7, Peter rises to speak after much disputing. In the EGW passage, the vision is given after a conference where not everyone was convinced. The parallel is the presence of disagreement and debate before a decision is made.
"Our first Conference in New York was held at Volney, in a brother's barn. About thirty-five were present— all that could be collected in that part of the state. But of this number, hardly two were agreed. Some were holding serious errors, and each strenuously urged his own views, declaring that they were according to the Scriptures. 1T 86.2"
Both passages describe disputing among believers. While Acts 15:7 is specifically about the issue of Gentiles, the general theme of disagreement and debate is present in both.
Acts 15:10
"Now therefore why tempt ye God, to put a yoke upon the neck of the disciples, which neither our fathers nor we were able to bear?"
"With all their minute and burdensome injunctions, it was an impossibility to keep the law. Those who desired to serve God, and who tried to observe the rabbinical precepts, toiled under a heavy burden. They could find no rest from the accusings of a troubled conscience. Thus Satan worked to discourage the people, to lower their conception of the character of God, and to bring the faith of Israel into contempt. He hoped to establish the claim put forth when he rebelled in heaven,—that the requirements of God were unjust, and could not be obeyed. Even Israel, he declared, did not keep the law. DA 29.3"
Both passages discuss the unbearable burden of legalistic requirements. Acts 15:10 speaks against imposing such a yoke on new believers, while the EGW passage describes the effect of rabbinical precepts on those who tried to follow them. The EGW passage provides a specific historical example of the principle discussed in Acts.
Acts 15:12
"Then all the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them."
"Peter's address brought the assembly to a point where they could listen with patience to Paul and Barnabas, who related their experience in working for the Gentiles. “All the multitude kept silence, and gave audience to Barnabas and Paul, declaring what miracles and wonders God had wrought among the Gentiles by them.” AA 194.1 James also bore his testimony with decision, declaring that it was God's purpose to bestow upon the Gentiles the same privileges and blessings that had been granted to the Jews. AA 194.2"
The EGW passage directly quotes Acts 15:12.
Acts 15:14
"Simeon hath declared how God at the first did visit the Gentiles, to take out of them a people for his name."
"And in this last generation the parable of the mustard seed is to reach a signal and triumphant fulfillment. The little seed will become a tree. The last message of warning and mercy is to go to “every nation and kindred and tongue” ( Revelation 14:6-14 ), “to take out of them a people for His name” ( Acts 15:14 ; Revelation 18:1 ). And the earth shall be lightened with His glory. COL 79.3"
Ellen White directly references Acts 15:14 in this passage.
Acts 15:18
"Known unto God are all his works from the beginning of the world."
"“Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world.” “Who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been His counselor? Or who hath first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory forever.” Acts 15:18 ; Romans 11:34-36 . MH 433.7"
Ellen White directly references Acts 15:18 in this passage.
"“Known unto God are all His works from the beginning of the world.” “Who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been His counselor? or who hath first given to Him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again? For of Him, and through Him, and to Him, are all things: to whom be glory forever.” Acts 15:18 ; Romans 11:34-36 . 8T 282.4"
Ellen White directly references Acts 15:18 in this passage.
Acts 15:19
"Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God:"
"The Holy Spirit saw good not to impose the ceremonial law on the Gentile converts, and the mind of the apostles regarding this matter was as the mind of the Spirit of God. James presided at the council, and his final decision was, “Wherefore my sentence is, that we trouble not them, which from among the Gentiles are turned to God.” AA 194.3"
The EGW passage directly quotes Acts 15:19.
"In this instance James seems to have been chosen as the one to announce the decision arrived at by the council. It was his sentence that the ceremonial law, and especially the ordinance of circumcision, should not be urged upon the Gentiles, or even recommended to them. James sought to impress the minds of his brethren with the fact that, in turning to God, the Gentiles had made a great change in their lives and that much caution should be used not to trouble them with perplexing and doubtful questions of minor importance, lest they be discouraged in following Christ. AA 195.1"
The EGW passage directly quotes Acts 15:19.
Acts 15:20
"But that we write unto them, that they abstain from pollutions of idols, and from fornication, and from things strangled, and from blood."
"This question was warmly discussed in the assembly. Intimately connected with the question of circumcision were several others demanding careful study. One was the problem as to what attitude should be taken toward the use of meats offered to idols. Many of the Gentile converts were living among ignorant and superstitious people who made frequent sacrifices and offerings to idols. The priests of this heathen worship carried on an extensive merchandise with the offerings brought to them, and the Jews feared that the Gentile converts would bring Christianity into disrepute by purchasing that which had been offered to idols, thereby sanctioning, in some measure, idolatrous customs. AA 191.2"
EGW's passage directly addresses the issue of eating meats offered to idols, which is explicitly mentioned as something the Gentiles should abstain from in Acts 15:20. EGW provides historical context and reasoning behind this decree.
"The Gentile converts, however, were to give up the customs that were inconsistent with the principles of Christianity. The apostles and elders therefore agreed to instruct the Gentiles by letter to abstain from meats offered to idols, from fornication, from things strangled, and from blood. They were to be urged to keep the commandments and to lead holy lives. They were also to be assured that the men who had declared circumcision to be binding were not authorized to do so by the apostles. AA 195.2"
The EGW passage directly references and summarizes the content of Acts 15:20.
"The Gentiles, on the contrary, practiced catching the blood that flowed from the sacrificial victim and using it in the preparation of food. The Jews could not believe that they ought to change the customs they had adopted under the special direction of God. Therefore, as things then stood, if Jew and Gentile should attempt to eat at the same table, the former would be shocked and outraged by the latter. AA 192.1"
EGW elaborates on the Gentile practice of consuming blood and the Jewish aversion to it, which is the very issue addressed in Acts 15:20 where abstaining from blood is mandated. EGW provides a cultural context for the biblical command.
Acts 15:21
"For Moses of old time hath in every city them that preach him, being read in the synagogues every sabbath day."
"When the church is without a minister, someone should be appointed as leader of the meeting. But it is not necessary for him to preach a sermon or to occupy a large part of the time of service. A short, interesting Bible reading will often be of greater benefit than a sermon. And this can be followed by a meeting for prayer and testimony. 6T 361.2"
Both passages address the practice of reading scripture in religious gatherings. Acts 15:21 mentions the reading of Moses in synagogues every Sabbath, while EGW suggests a short, interesting Bible reading as a beneficial alternative to a sermon.
Acts 15:25
"It seemed good unto us, being assembled with one accord, to send chosen men unto you with our beloved Barnabas and Paul,"
"Several years had passed since the brethren in Jerusalem, with representatives from other leading churches, gave careful consideration to the perplexing questions that had arisen over methods followed by those who were laboring for the Gentiles. As a result of this council, the brethren had united in making definite recommendations to the churches concerning certain rites and customs, including circumcision. It was at this general council that the brethren had also united in commending to the Christian churches Barnabas and Paul as laborers worthy of the full confidence of every believer. AA 400.2"
Both passages refer to the Jerusalem council and the sending of Barnabas and Paul. The EGW passage provides context and interpretation of the events described in Acts 15.
Acts 15:28
"For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;"
"The rules governing the schoolroom should, so far as possible, represent the voice of the school. Every principle involved in them should be so placed before the student that he may be convinced of its justice. Thus he will feel a responsibility to see that the rules which he himself has helped to frame are obeyed. Ed 290.2"
Both passages highlight the importance of involving those affected in the decision-making process. The EGW quote discusses involving students in framing school rules, while Acts 15:28 describes the apostles' decision-making process, emphasizing that their decision seemed good to both the Holy Spirit and themselves. The connection lies in the principle of shared responsibility and agreement.
Acts 15:32
"And Judas and Silas, being prophets also themselves, exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them."
"The broad and far-reaching decisions of the general council brought confidence into the ranks of the Gentile believers, and the cause of God prospered. In Antioch the church was favored with the presence of Judas and Silas, the special messengers who had returned with the apostles from the meeting in Jerusalem. “Being prophets also themselves,” Judas and Silas, “exhorted the brethren with many words, and confirmed them.” These godly men tarried in Antioch for a time. “Paul also and Barnabas continued in Antioch, teaching and preaching the word of the Lord, with many others also.” AA 197.2"
The EGW passage directly quotes Acts 15:32, making it an explicit allusion.
Acts 15:36
"And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do."
"Chapter 20—Exalting the Cross This chapter is based on Acts 15:36-41 ; 16:1-6 . After spending some time in ministry at Antioch, Paul proposed to his fellow worker that they set forth on another missionary journey. “Let us go again,” he said to Barnabas, “and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.” AA 201"
EGW directly quotes Acts 15:36, making this a clear and explicit allusion.
"With the beginning of this work of publishing, we did not cease our labors in preaching the truth, but traveled from place to place, proclaiming the doctrines which had brought so great light and joy to us, encouraging the believers, correcting errors, and setting things in order in the church. In order to carry forward the publishing enterprise, and at the same time continue our labors in different parts of the field, the paper was from time to time moved to different places. 1T 88.2"
Both passages describe traveling to visit and encourage believers. The EGW passage speaks of traveling to encourage believers and correct errors, while Acts 15:36 describes Paul wanting to visit brethren in every city where they preached. The parallel is present, though not a direct quote or allusion.
Acts 15:36-41
"And some days after Paul said unto Barnabas, Let us go again and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do. And Barnabas determined to take with them John, whose surname was Mark. But Paul thought not good to take him with them, who departed from them from Pamphylia, and went not with them to the work. And the contention was so sharp between them, that they departed asunder one from the other: and so Barnabas took Mark, and sailed unto Cyprus; And Paul chose Silas, and departed, being recommended by the brethren unto the grace of God. And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches."
"Chapter 20—Exalting the Cross This chapter is based on Acts 15:36-41 ; 16:1-6 . After spending some time in ministry at Antioch, Paul proposed to his fellow worker that they set forth on another missionary journey. “Let us go again,” he said to Barnabas, “and visit our brethren in every city where we have preached the word of the Lord, and see how they do.” AA 201"
Ellen White directly references Acts 15:36-41 in this passage.
Acts 15:41
"And he went through Syria and Cilicia, confirming the churches."
When we received the light upon the fourth commandment, there were about twenty-five Adventists in Maine who observed the Sabbath; but these were so diverse in sentiment upon other points of doctrine, and so scattered in location, that their influence was very small. There was about the same number, in similar condition, in other parts of New England. It seemed to be our duty to visit these frequently at their homes, and strengthen them in the Lord and in His truth, and as they were so much scattered, it was necessary for us to be on the road much of the time. For want of means we took the cheapest private conveyance, second-class cars, and lower-deck passage on steamers. In my feeble condition I found traveling by private conveyance most comfortable. When on second-class cars, we were usually enveloped in tobacco smoke, from the effects of which I often fainted. When on steamers, on lower deck, we suffered the same from the smoke of tobacco, besides the swearing and vulgar conversatio…
Both passages describe traveling to strengthen believers. Acts 15:41 describes Paul confirming the churches, while the EGW passage describes traveling to strengthen Sabbath-keepers. The parallel lies in the act of traveling to support and encourage believers.