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
Galatians 1:1
"Paul, an apostle, (not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father, who raised him from the dead;)"
"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"
The EGW passage directly quotes Galatians 1:1, making it a clear and explicit allusion.
"As he pondered these things in his heart, Paul understood more and more clearly the meaning of his call “to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:1 . His call had come, “not of men, neither by man, but by Jesus Christ, and God the Father.” Galatians 1:1 . The greatness of the work before him led him to give much study to the Holy Scriptures, in order that he might preach the gospel “not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect,” “but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power,” that the faith of all who heard “should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.” 1 Corinthians 1:17 ; 2:4, 5 . AA 127.1"
EGW directly quotes Galatians 1:1. This is a clear and direct allusion.
Galatians 1:3
"Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,"
“Grace to you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God, making mention of thee always in my prayers, hearing of thy love and faith, which thou hast toward the Lord Jesus, and toward all saints; that the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.” The apostle reminded Philemon that every good purpose and trait of character which he possessed was due to the grace of Christ; this alone made him different from the perverse and the sinful. The same grace could make the debased criminal a child of God and a useful laborer in the gospel. AA 457.1 Paul might have urged upon Philemon his duty as a Christian; but he chose rather the language of entreaty: “As Paul the aged, and now also a prisoner of Jesus Christ, I beseech thee for my son Onesimus, whom I have begotten in my bonds; which in time past was to thee unprofitable, but now profitable to thee and to me.” AA 457.2 The apostle …
The EGW passage directly quotes Galatians 1:3 as part of a larger quotation from Paul's writings.
"“Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father, and from the Lord Jesus Christ. I thank my God upon every remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making request with joy, for your fellowship in the gospel from the first day until now; being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ: even as it is meet for me to think this of you all, because I have you in my heart; inasmuch as both in my bonds, and in the defense and confirmation of the gospel, ye all are partakers of my grace. For God is my record, how greatly I long after you all.... And this I pray, that your love may abound yet more and more in knowledge and in all judgment; that ye may approve things that are excellent; that ye may be sincere and without offense till the day of Christ; being filled with the fruits of righteousness, which are by Jesus Christ, unto the glory and praise of God.” AA 480.1"
The EGW passage directly quotes Galatians 1:3, making it an explicit allusion.
Galatians 1:4
"Who gave himself for our sins, that he might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:"
"In some instances of healing, Jesus did not at once grant the blessing sought. But in the case of leprosy no sooner was the appeal made than it was granted. When we pray for earthly blessings, the answer to our prayer may be delayed, or God may give us something other than we ask; but not so when we ask for deliverance from sin. It is His will to cleanse us from sin, to make us His children, and to enable us to live a holy life. Christ “gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father.” Galatians 1:4 . “And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us: and if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.” 1 John 5:14, 15 . MH 70.2"
EGW directly quotes Galatians 1:4.
"In some instances of healing, Jesus did not at once grant the blessing sought. But in the case of leprosy, no sooner was the appeal made than it was granted. When we pray for earthly blessings, the answer to our prayer may be delayed, or God may give us something other than we ask, but not so when we ask for deliverance from sin. It is His will to cleanse us from sin, to make us His children, and to enable us to live a holy life. Christ “gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father.” Galatians 1:4 . And “this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us: and if we know that He hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of Him.” 1 John 5:14, 15 . “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” 1 John 1:9 . DA 266.2"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:4 in this passage.
"Thus the Galatians were taught the fundamental truths concerning “God the Father” and “our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father.” “By the hearing of faith” they received the Spirit of God and became “the children of God by faith in Christ.” Galatians 1:3, 4 ; 3:2, 26 . AA 208.1"
The EGW passage directly quotes Galatians 1:4, making it a clear explicit allusion.
Galatians 1:6
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel:"
"In the Galatian churches, open, unmasked error was supplanting the gospel message. Christ, the true foundation of the faith, was virtually renounced for the obsolete ceremonies of Judaism. The apostle saw that if the believers in Galatia were saved from the dangerous influences which threatened them, the most decisive measures must be taken, the sharpest warnings given. AA 385.2"
The EGW passage directly refers to the Galatians turning away from the gospel message and embracing obsolete Jewish ceremonies. The Galatians verse expresses Paul's astonishment that they are so quickly turning to another gospel. The connection is direct and explicit.
"It is not without reason that the claim has been put forth in Protestant countries that Catholicism differs less widely from Protestantism than in former times. There has been a change; but the change is not in the papacy. Catholicism indeed resembles much of the Protestantism that now exists, because Protestantism has so greatly degenerated since the days of the Reformers. GC 571.3"
EGW's statement about Protestantism degenerating and resembling Catholicism echoes the sentiment in Galatians 1:6 about believers turning away from the original gospel.
In all ages, philosophers and teachers have been presenting to the world theories by which to satisfy the soul's need. Every heathen nation has had its great teachers and religious systems offering some other means of redemption than Christ, turning the eyes of men away from the Father's face, and filling their hearts with fear of Him who has given them only blessing. The trend of their work is to rob God of that which is His own, both by creation and by redemption. And these false teachers rob man as well. Millions of human beings are bound down under false religions, in the bondage of slavish fear, of stolid indifference, toiling like beasts of burden, bereft of hope or joy or aspiration here, and with only a dull fear of the hereafter. It is the gospel of the grace of God alone that can uplift the soul. The contemplation of the love of God manifested in His Son will stir the heart and arouse the powers of the soul as nothing else can. Christ came that He might re-create the image of…
Both passages address the idea of being led away from the true gospel. Galatians 1:6 speaks of turning to 'another gospel,' while the EGW passage discusses false religious systems that offer alternative means of redemption. The connection lies in the shared theme of deviation from the true path of salvation.
"The situation was critical. The evils that had been introduced threatened speedily to destroy the Galatian churches. AA 383.2"
Both passages refer to problems within the Galatian churches. Galatians 1:6 expresses Paul's dismay at their turning away from the true gospel, while the EGW passage describes the situation as 'critical' due to introduced evils.
"Has not the same process been repeated in nearly every church calling itself Protestant? As the founders, those who possessed the true spirit of reform, pass away, their descendants come forward and “new-model the cause.” While blindly clinging to the creed of their fathers and refusing to accept any truth in advance of what they saw, the children of the reformers depart widely from their example of humility, self-denial, and renunciation of the world. Thus “the first simplicity disappears.” A worldly flood, flowing into the church, carries “with it its customs, practices, and idols.” GC 385.1"
Both passages discuss a departure from original principles and a turning away from a purer form of faith. However, the connection is not strong enough to warrant a higher confidence.
Galatians 1:6-7
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ."
"In every age Satan has sought to impair the efforts of God's servants by introducing into the church a spirit of fanaticism. Thus it was in Paul's day, and thus it was in later centuries during the time of the Reformation. Wycliffe, Luther, and many others who blessed the world by their influence and their faith, encountered the wiles by which the enemy seeks to lead into fanaticism overzealous, unbalanced, and unsanctified minds. Misguided souls have taught that the attainment of true holiness carries the mind above all earthly thoughts and leads men to refrain wholly from labor. Others, taking extreme views of certain texts of Scripture, have taught that it is a sin to work—that Christians should take no thought concerning the temporal welfare of themselves or their families, but should devote their lives wholly to spiritual things. The teaching and example of the apostle Paul are a rebuke to such extreme views. AA 348.1"
Both passages address the issue of false teachings and deviations from the true gospel. EGW expands on the specific types of fanaticism and extreme views that can arise, while Galatians 1:6-7 speaks more generally about the perversion of the gospel. The connection is thematic, as both address deviations from sound doctrine.
"Pages 116, 117, 122, 123, “The Messenger Party”—In the summer of 1854 there appeared among the Sabbathkeeping Adventists the first disaffection, or apostasy. Two men who had been preaching the message were reproved through the spirit of prophecy for a harsh, censorious spirit, for avarice, and for extravagance in the use of means placed in their hands. Becoming embittered instead of repentant, they joined with a few others in unjust recrimination against Elder and Mrs. White and other leaders, making false charges against them. Although continuing to advocate the Sabbath truth, they began the publication of a slanderous sheet which they called the Messenger of Truth . 1T 714.1"
The Galatians passage addresses those who are turning away from the true gospel, which is similar to the EGW passage's description of disaffection and apostasy.
"With fidelity and earnestness John bore testimony for his Lord upon every suitable occasion. He saw that the times were full of peril for the church. Satanic delusions were existing everywhere. The minds of the people were wandering through the mazes of skepticism and deceptive doctrines. Some who pretended to be true to the cause of God were deceivers. They denied Christ and His gospel and were bringing in damnable heresies and living in transgression of the divine law. SL 62.2"
Both passages address the issue of people being led astray from the true gospel. EGW speaks of people 'wandering through the mazes of skepticism and deceptive doctrines' and some 'denied Christ and His gospel.' Galatians 1:6-7 expresses Paul's marvel at believers being 'removed...unto another gospel' and the presence of those who 'pervert the gospel of Christ.'
"When the early church became corrupted by departing from the simplicity of the gospel and accepting heathen rites and customs, she lost the Spirit and power of God; and in order to control the consciences of the people, she sought the support of the secular power. The result was the papacy, a church that controlled the power of the state and employed it to further her own ends, especially for the punishment of “heresy.” In order for the United States to form an image of the beast, the religious power must so control the civil government that the authority of the state will also be employed by the church to accomplish her own ends. GC 443.2"
Both passages discuss the corruption of the church and its reliance on secular power, although Galatians 1:6-7 is a more general warning against perverting the gospel, while the EGW passage is a specific interpretation of historical events.
"Protestants have tampered with and patronized popery; they have made compromises and concessions which papists themselves are surprised to see and fail to understand. Men are closing their eyes to the real character of Romanism and the dangers to be apprehended from her supremacy. The people need to be aroused to resist the advances of this most dangerous foe to civil and religious liberty. GC 566.1"
Both passages address the issue of straying from the true gospel. EGW criticizes Protestants for compromising with Romanism, while Galatians 1:6-7 expresses astonishment at the quick abandonment of the true gospel for another.
"This strange fanaticism in Wisconsin grew out of the false theory of holiness, advocated by Brother K—a holiness not dependent upon the third angel's message, but outside of present truth. Sister G received this false theory from him, carried it out herself, and zealously taught it to others. This nearly destroyed her love for the sacred, important truths for this time, which, if she had loved and obeyed, would have proved an anchor to hold her upon the right foundation. But she, with many others, made this theory of holiness or consecration the one great thing, and the important truths of God's word were of but little consequence, “if the heart was only right.” And poor souls were left without an anchor, to be carried about by feeling, and Satan came in and controlled minds and gave impressions and feelings to suit himself. Reason and judgment were despised, and the cause of God was cruelly reproached. 1T 322.1"
Both passages deal with the issue of people being led astray from the true gospel or message. EGW describes a 'false theory of holiness' that deviates from the 'present truth,' while Galatians 1:6-7 addresses the perversion of the gospel of Christ.
As the years went by and the number of believers grew, John labored with increasing fidelity and earnestness for his brethren. The times were full of peril for the church. Satanic delusions existed everywhere. By misrepresentation and falsehood the emissaries of Satan sought to arouse opposition against the doctrines of Christ, and in consequence dissensions and heresies were imperiling the church. Some who professed Christ claimed that His love released them from obedience to the law of God. On the other hand, many taught that it was necessary to observe the Jewish customs and ceremonies; that a mere observance of the law, without faith in the blood of Christ, was sufficient for salvation. Some held that Christ was a good man, but denied His divinity. Some who pretended to be true to the cause of God were deceivers, and in practice they denied Christ and His gospel. Living themselves in transgression, they were bringing heresies into the church. Thus many were being led into the mazes…
Both passages discuss the presence of false teachings and the perversion of the gospel within the early church. EGW elaborates on the specific types of errors, while Galatians expresses concern about a shift towards a different gospel.
"The fruit of the new teaching soon became apparent. The people were led to neglect the Bible or to cast it wholly aside. The schools were thrown into confusion. Students, spurning all restraint, abandoned their studies and withdrew from the university. The men who thought themselves competent to revive and control the work of the Reformation succeeded only in bringing it to the verge of ruin. The Romanists now regained their confidence and exclaimed exultingly: “One last struggle, and all will be ours.”— Ibid., b. 9, ch. 7. GC 187.3"
Both passages discuss the perversion of the gospel and the turning away from true teachings. Galatians speaks of being moved to 'another gospel,' while EGW describes people neglecting the Bible due to new teachings. The connection is thematic, though not a direct quote or allusion.
Galatians 1:6-9
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed."
"I marvel that ye are so soon removed from Him that called you into the grace of Christ unto another gospel: which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed. Galatians 1:6-9 . EW 27.6"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:6-9 in this passage.
"Those who corrupt the word, handing out wheat and chaff, or anything that they may deem gospel, while they oppose the commandments of God, cannot appreciate the feelings of the apostle as he trembled under the weight of the solemn work, and of his responsibility as a minister of Christ, having the destiny of souls for whom Christ died resting upon him. In the estimation of self-made ministers it will take but a small pattern to fill the bill and make a minister. But the apostle placed a high estimate upon the qualifications necessary to make a minister. 2T 706.2"
Both passages address the issue of corrupting the gospel and preaching a false message. EGW's reference to 'wheat and chaff' and opposing God's commandments directly relates to the warning against perverting the gospel in Galatians.
"I am instructed to say that these theories are the production of minds unlearned in the first principles of the gospel. By such theories the enemy strives to eclipse the great truths for this time. GW 313.2"
Both passages address the issue of false teachings and deviations from the true gospel. Galatians 1:6-9 strongly condemns any alteration of the gospel, while the EGW passage warns against theories that obscure the great truths for this time.
"I beseech those who are laboring for God not to accept the spurious for the genuine. Let not human reasoning be placed where sanctifying truth should be. Christ is waiting to kindle faith and love in the hearts of His people. Let not erroneous theories receive countenance from the people who ought to be standing firm on the platform of eternal truth. God calls upon us to hold firmly to the fundamental principles that are based upon unquestionable authority. GW 308.2"
Both passages warn against accepting false gospels or doctrines and emphasize adherence to the true gospel/fundamental principles.
"The position that it is of no consequence what men believe is one of Satan's most successful deceptions. He knows that the truth, received in the love of it, sanctifies the soul of the receiver; therefore he is constantly seeking to substitute false theories, fables, another gospel. From the beginning the servants of God have contended against false teachers, not merely as vicious men, but as inculcators of falsehoods that were fatal to the soul. Elijah, Jeremiah, Paul, firmly and fearlessly opposed those who were turning men from the word of God. That liberality which regards a correct religious faith as unimportant found no favor with these holy defenders of the truth. GC 520.2"
Both passages address the danger of false gospels and the importance of adhering to the true gospel. Galatians 1:6-9 strongly condemns those who preach a different gospel, while EGW emphasizes that Satan seeks to substitute false theories for the truth.
"has been supposed, and that a little concession on our part will bring us into a better understanding with Rome. The time was when Protestants placed a high value upon the liberty of conscience which had been so dearly purchased. They taught their children to abhor popery and held that to seek harmony with Rome would be disloyalty to God. But how widely different are the sentiments now expressed! GC 563.1"
Both passages address the danger of straying from the true gospel/faith. Galatians warns against accepting a different gospel, while EGW warns against compromising with Roman Catholicism. The core theme of remaining true to the original faith is present in both.
"From this terrible persecution Paul was spared, for soon after his release he had left Rome. This last interval of freedom he diligently improved in laboring among the churches. He sought to establish a firmer union between the Greek and the Eastern churches and to fortify the minds of the believers against the false doctrines that were creeping in to corrupt the faith. AA 487.3"
Both passages address the issue of false doctrines corrupting the faith. The EGW passage mentions Paul's efforts to fortify believers against false doctrines, while the Galatians passage warns against those who would pervert the gospel of Christ.
"This appeal was rapidly circulated throughout Germany and exerted a powerful influence upon the people. The whole nation was stirred, and multitudes were roused to rally around the standard of reform. Luther's opponents, burning with a desire for revenge, urged the pope to take decisive measures against him. It was decreed that his doctrines should be immediately condemned. Sixty days were granted the Reformer and his adherents, after which, if they did not recant, they were all to be excommunicated. GC 141.1"
Both passages address the issue of deviation from established religious doctrine. The EGW passage describes the opposition to Luther's reforms, while Galatians 1:6-9 warns against preaching a different gospel. The connection lies in the concern over doctrinal purity and the condemnation of those who deviate.
Galatians 1:7
"Which is not another; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ."
"“This pest [the Bible] had taken such an extension that some people had appointed priests of their own, and even some evangelists who distorted and destroyed the truth of the gospel and made new gospels for their own purpose ... (They know that) the preaching and explanation of the Bible is absolutely forbidden to the lay members.”— Acts of Inquisition, Philip van Limborch, History of the Inquisition, chapter 8. GC 687.7"
Both passages address the perversion of the gospel. The EGW passage describes the creation of new gospels, while the verse speaks of those who trouble and pervert the gospel of Christ. The connection is a valid thematic parallel.
"The same influences are working today through those who try to explain the law of God in such a way as to make it conform to their practices. This class do not attack the law openly, but put forward speculative theories that undermine its principles. They explain it so as to destroy its force. DA 408.4"
Both passages address the issue of distorting or perverting religious teachings. Galatians 1:7 speaks of perverting the gospel, while the EGW passage speaks of explaining the law of God in a way that undermines its principles. The connection is thematic, focusing on the corruption of religious doctrine.
Here I think it my duty to state that as this work was in progress, unfortunately a wealthy brother from the State of New York visited Wright after calling at Battle Creek and there learning that we had started out contrary to the opinion and advice of the church and those standing at the head of the work at Battle Creek. He chose to represent my husband, even before those for whom we had the greatest labor, as being partially insane and his testimony consequently as of no weight. His influence in this matter, as stated to me by Brother Root, the elder of the church, set the work back at least two weeks. I state this that unconsecrated persons may beware how they in their blind, unfeeling state cast an influence in an hour which may take the worn servants of the Lord weeks to counteract. We were laboring for persons of wealth, and Satan saw that this wealthy brother was just the man for him to use. May the Lord bring him where he can see, and in humility of mind confess, his wrong. By …
The EGW passage describes someone who is troubling the work and potentially perverting the message, which aligns with the concern in Galatians 1:7 about those who trouble and pervert the gospel. The connection is thematic, focusing on the distortion of truth.
Galatians 1:8
"But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed."
"in the Bible in a clear and simple manner, so that all men may understand them. Christ said, “My doctrine is not Mine, but His that sent Me” ( John 7:16 ); and Paul declared that should he preach any other gospel than that which he had received, he would be accursed ( Galatians 1:8 ). “How, then,” said the Reformer, “shall others presume to enact dogmas at their pleasure, and impose them as things necessary to salvation?”—Wylie, b. 10, ch. 4. He showed that the decrees of the church are of no authority when in opposition to the commands of God, and maintained the great Protestant principle that “the Bible and the Bible only” is the rule of faith and practice. GC 243.2"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:8 in this passage.
“What! we ratify this edict! We assert that when Almighty God calls a man to His knowledge, this man nevertheless cannot receive the knowledge of God!” “There is no sure doctrine but such as is conformable to the word of God.... The Lord forbids the teaching of any other doctrine.... The Holy Scriptures ought to be explained by other and clearer texts; ... this Holy Book is, in all things necessary for the Christian, easy of understanding, and calculated to scatter the darkness. We are resolved, with the grace of God, to maintain the pure and exclusive preaching of His only word, such as it is contained in the biblical books of the Old and New Testaments, without adding anything thereto that may be contrary to it. This word is the only truth; it is the sure rule of all doctrine and of all life, and can never fail or deceive us. He who builds on this foundation shall stand against all the powers of hell, while all the human vanities that are set up against it shall fall before the face …
The EGW passage, quoting reformers, strongly echoes the sentiment of Galatians 1:8, condemning any deviation from the original gospel. Both emphasize adherence to the true word of God and reject alternative doctrines.
"Such are the warnings which God has given to guard men against changing in any manner that which He has revealed or commanded. These solemn denunciations apply to all who by their influence lead men to regard lightly the law of God. They should cause those to fear and tremble who flippantly declare it a matter of little consequence whether we obey God's law or not. All who exalt their own opinions above divine revelation, all who would change the plain meaning of Scripture to suit their own convenience, or for the sake of conforming to the world, are taking upon themselves a fearful responsibility. The written word, the law of God, will measure the character of every man and condemn all whom this unerring test shall declare wanting. GC 268.2"
Both passages warn against altering or contradicting the established divine message. Galatians 1:8 condemns preaching a different gospel, while EGW warns against changing God's revealed law or exalting personal opinions above divine revelation.
"Brother J received from Elder K a false theory of sanctification, which is outside of the third angel's message, and wherever received destroys the love for the message. I was shown that Elder K was upon dangerous ground. He is not in union with the third angel. He once enjoyed the blessing of God, but does not now, for he has not prized and cherished the light of truth which has shone upon his pathway. He has brought along with him a theory of Methodist sanctification, and presents that in front, making it of the highest importance. And the sacred truths applicable to this time are by him made of little consequence. He has followed his own light, and been growing darker and darker, and going further and further from the truth, until it has but little influence upon him. Satan has controlled his mind, and he has done great injury to the cause of truth in northern Wisconsin. 1T 334.1"
The EGW quote warns against a 'false theory' and someone preaching something outside the accepted message, which is similar to the warning in Galatians 1:8 against preaching a different gospel.
"of light and spreads his influence over the land by means of false reformations. The churches are elated, and consider that God is working marvelously for them, when it is the work of another spirit. The excitement will die away and leave the world and the church in a worse condition than before. EW 260.1"
Both passages warn against deceptive messages that appear to be from a divine source but are actually misleading. Galatians 1:8 warns against any gospel that deviates from the original, even if preached by an angel. EGW warns against false reformations that seem positive but lead to a worse state. The connection is thematic, focusing on deception and false teachings.
Galatians 1:9
"As we said before, so say I now again, If any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed."
"labors; therefore he warned his brethren not to listen to anything that contradicted the truths he had taught them. AA 384.1"
The EGW passage reflects the principle of not listening to anything that contradicts the truths already taught, which aligns with Galatians 1:9's warning against preaching a different gospel.
"Brother Lunt of Portland, Maine, has suffered much in his feelings. He has felt that the spirit which often ruled in their meetings was not in harmony with the message of the third angel. He has had an experience in the fanaticism which has left desolation in the East, and this leads him to look with suspicion upon everything which appears like fanaticism. He has the past before him as a warning and has felt like keeping aloof from, and speaking plainly with, those who had any degree of fanaticism, for he felt that both they and the cause of God were in danger. He has looked upon things in about the right light. 1T 412.2"
Both passages deal with the importance of adhering to the correct gospel or message and rejecting anything that deviates from it. The EGW passage discusses the need to ensure that the spirit of meetings is in harmony with the message of the third angel, while the Bible verse condemns preaching any other gospel.
Galatians 1:10
"For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ."
"I entreat you to carefully consider the instructions in Paul's Epistle to the Galatians: “For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ.” I fear that you are in great danger of making shipwreck of faith. You consider that you have sacrifices to make to obey the truth. We believe that you have made some sacrifices, but had you been more thorough in this work, your feet would not now be stumbling, your faith wavering. I do not refer now to sacrifice of means, but to what comes closer than this, to that which would cause you a more painful conflict than to give your means, to that which touches self especially. You have not yielded your pride, your love of the approbation of an unbelieving world. You love to have men speak well of you. 2T 492.2"
EGW directly quotes Galatians 1:10.
"Be not satisfied with superficial knowledge. Be not elated by flattery nor depressed by faultfinding. Satan will tempt you to pursue such a course that you may be admired and flattered, but you should turn away from his devices. You are servants of the living God. 4T 567.2"
Both passages address the danger of seeking to please men rather than God. Galatians 1:10 explicitly states that seeking to please men is incompatible with being a servant of Christ, while the EGW passage warns against being elated by flattery and pursuing a course that leads to admiration, emphasizing that one should be a servant of God.
"“Thou art the man.” 2 Samuel 12:7 . Words as unmistakably plain as these spoken by Nathan to David are seldom heard in the pulpits of today, seldom seen in the public press. If they were not so rare, we should see more of the power of God revealed among men. The Lord's messengers should not complain that their efforts are without fruit until they repent of their own love of approbation and their desire to please men, which leads them to suppress truth. PK 141.2"
Both passages address the importance of prioritizing God's will over the approval of men, particularly in the context of delivering a message. EGW's statement about the rarity of plain speaking echoes Paul's concern about pleasing men rather than God.
"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"
Both passages deal with the idea of pleasing God versus pleasing men, and the consequences thereof. Paul's statement in Galatians highlights the conflict between seeking God's approval and seeking human approval, while the EGW passage emphasizes the weight of Paul's words as having life-or-death implications, suggesting a focus on pleasing God rather than flattering men.
Some have said: “After I wear out this dress, I will make the next plainer.” Now, if conformity to the fashions of the world is right and pleasing to God, where is the need of making a change at all? But if it is wrong, is it best to continue in the wrong any longer than is positively necessary to make the change? Right here we would remind you of the zeal and earnestness, the skill and perseverance, you manifested in preparing your dress according to the fashion. Would it not be praiseworthy to manifest at least equal earnestness to make it conform to the Bible standard? Precious, God-given time and means were used in fashioning those garments; and now what are you willing to sacrifice to correct the wrong example you have been giving to others? 4T 640.3 It is a shame to our sisters to so forget their holy character and their duty to God as to imitate the fashions of the world. There is no excuse for us except the perversity of our own hearts. We do not extend our influence by such a …
EGW's argument against conforming to worldly fashions and her emphasis on pleasing God rather than men aligns with the principle expressed in Galatians 1:10. She challenges the reader to prioritize God's approval over societal expectations.
"The condition of the people in —— was also presented before me. They have the theory of truth, but are not sanctified through it. I saw that when the messengers enter a new place, their labor is worse than lost unless they bear a plain, pointed testimony. They should keep up the distinction between the church of Christ, and formal, dead professors. There was a failure in this respect in ——. Elder N was fearful of offending, fearful lest the peculiarities of our faith should appear; the standard was lowered to meet the people. It should have been urged upon them that we possess truths of vital importance, and that their eternal interest depended upon the decision they there made; that in order to be sanctified through the truth, their idols would have to be given up, their sins be confessed, and they bring forth fruit meet for repentance. 1T 248.1"
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of Galatians 1:10, that messengers should not seek to please men by watering down their message, but should faithfully deliver God's truth. Elder N's fear of offending directly relates to Paul's statement about pleasing men.
"When the Lord first gave me messages to deliver to His people, it was hard for me to declare them, and I often softened them down and made them as mild as possible for fear of grieving some. It was a great trial to declare the messages as the Lord gave them to me. I did not realize that I was so unfaithful and did not see the sin and danger of such a course until in vision I was taken into the presence of Jesus. He looked upon me with a frown and turned His face from me. It is not possible to describe the terror and agony I then felt. I fell upon my face before Him, but had no power to utter a word. Oh, how I longed to be covered and hid from that dreadful frown! Then could I realize, in some degree, what the feeling of the lost will be when they cry, “Mountains and rocks, fall on us, and hide us from the face of Him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb.” EW 76.2"
Both passages deal with the idea of pleasing God versus pleasing men. EGW's passage describes her struggle to deliver messages faithfully, even when it meant risking disapproval. Galatians 1:10 directly addresses the same conflict. The reference to Revelation is also valid, but the primary connection is to Galatians.
Had the Reformation, after attaining a degree of success, consented to temporize to secure favor with the world, it would have been untrue to God and to itself, and would thus have ensured its own destruction. The experience of these noble Reformers contains a lesson for all succeeding ages. Satan's manner of working against God and His word has not changed; he is still as much opposed to the Scriptures being made the guide of life as in the sixteenth century. In our time there is a wide departure from their doctrines and precepts, and there is need of a return to the great Protestant principle—the Bible, and the Bible only, as the rule of faith and duty. Satan is still working through every means which he can control to destroy religious liberty. The antichristian power which the protesters of Spires rejected is now with renewed vigor seeking to re-establish its lost supremacy. The same unswerving adherence to the word of God manifested at that crisis of the Reformation is the only ho…
Both passages address the principle of prioritizing God's will over the approval of men. The EGW passage applies this to the Reformation's need to remain true to God, while Galatians 1:10 expresses Paul's commitment to serving Christ rather than seeking human favor.
"pride, and love of the praise of men.” 2T 278.1"
Both passages address the conflict between seeking God's approval and seeking the approval of men. EGW mentions 'pride, and love of the praise of men,' while Galatians 1:10 questions whether Paul is trying to please men or God. The theme of prioritizing God over human approval connects the two.
"I adopted this plan of silence for a time, trying to convince myself that to repress my testimony would not hinder me from faithfully living out my religion. I often felt strongly impressed that it was my duty to speak in meeting, but refrained from doing so, and was sensible of having thereby grieved the Spirit of God. I even remained away from meetings sometimes because they were to be attended by those whom my testimony annoyed. I shrank from offending my brethren, and in this allowed the fear of man to break up that uninterrupted communion with God which had blessed my heart for so many months. 1T 44.2"
The EGW passage directly reflects the principle of prioritizing God's will over the approval of men, as highlighted in Galatians 1:10. She is struggling with pleasing men (her brethren) versus following what she believes is God's leading.
"The presidents of our conferences need to realize that it is high time they were placing themselves on the right side of this question. Ministers and teachers are to give to others the light they have received. Their work in every line is needed. God will help them; He will strengthen His servants who stand firm, and will not be swayed from truth and righteousness in order to accommodate self-indulgence.... GW 231.3"
Both passages address the importance of prioritizing God's will over the approval of others. EGW emphasizes standing firm on truth and righteousness, while Galatians speaks against seeking to please men rather than God.
"Many are the ways by which Satan works through human influence to bind his captives. He secures multitudes to himself by attaching them by the silken cords of affection to those who are enemies of the cross of Christ. Whatever this attachment may be, parental, filial, conjugal, or social, the effect is the same; the opposers of truth exert their power to control the conscience, and the souls held under their sway have not sufficient courage or independence to obey their own convictions of duty. GC 597.1"
Both passages address the danger of prioritizing human approval over obedience to God. Galatians 1:10 speaks to pleasing men versus pleasing God, while the EGW passage discusses how affection for those opposed to Christ can hinder one's obedience. The connection is thematic, not a direct quote or explicit allusion, but it is present.
Galatians 1:11-12
"But I certify you, brethren, that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man. For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."
"In his letter to the Galatian believers Paul briefly reviewed the leading incidents connected with his own conversion and early Christian experience. By this means he sought to show that it was through a special manifestation of divine power that he had been led to see and grasp the great truths of the gospel. It was through instruction received from God Himself that Paul was led to warn and admonish the Galatians in so solemn and positive a manner. He wrote, not in hesitancy and doubt, but with the assurance of settled conviction and absolute knowledge. He clearly outlined the difference between being taught by man and receiving instruction direct from Christ. AA 386.1"
The EGW passage directly refers to Paul's claim in Galatians 1:11-12 that he received his gospel not from man but through revelation from Jesus Christ. This is a clear and direct allusion.
"In his ministry, Paul was often compelled to stand alone. He was specially taught of God and dared make no concessions that would involve principle. At times the burden was heavy, but Paul stood firm for the right. He realized that the church must never be brought under the control of human power. The traditions and maxims of men must not take the place of revealed truth. The advance of the gospel message must not be hindered by the prejudices and preferences of men, whatever might be their position in the church. AA 199.3"
The EGW passage emphasizes Paul's direct teaching from God and his refusal to compromise on principle, which directly echoes the sentiment in Galatians 1:11-12 about the gospel not being received from man but from divine revelation.
"In the natural order of things, the son of Zacharias would have been educated for the priesthood. But the training of the rabbinical schools would have unfitted him for his work. God did not send him to the teachers of theology to learn how to interpret the Scriptures. He called him to the desert, that he might learn of nature and nature's God. DA 101.3"
Both passages discuss receiving knowledge/training directly from God rather than through human institutions. While the contexts differ (John the Baptist vs. Paul), the underlying principle is similar.
Galatians 1:12
"For I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ."
"Paul had dedicated himself and all his powers to the service of God. He had received the truths of the gospel direct from heaven, and throughout his ministry he maintained a vital connection with heavenly agencies. He had been taught by God regarding the binding of unnecessary burdens upon the Gentile Christians; thus when the Judaizing believers introduced into the Antioch church the question of circumcision, Paul knew the mind of the Spirit of God concerning such teaching and took a firm and unyielding position which brought to the churches freedom from Jewish rites and ceremonies. AA 200.1"
The EGW passage explicitly states that Paul received the truths of the gospel directly from heaven, which is a direct reference to the same idea expressed in Galatians 1:12.
"In his letter to the Galatian believers Paul briefly reviewed the leading incidents connected with his own conversion and early Christian experience. By this means he sought to show that it was through a special manifestation of divine power that he had been led to see and grasp the great truths of the gospel. It was through instruction received from God Himself that Paul was led to warn and admonish the Galatians in so solemn and positive a manner. He wrote, not in hesitancy and doubt, but with the assurance of settled conviction and absolute knowledge. He clearly outlined the difference between being taught by man and receiving instruction direct from Christ. AA 386.1"
The EGW passage directly explains and expands upon the principle stated in Galatians 1:12, that Paul's gospel was received not from man but by revelation from Jesus Christ. EGW uses the Galatian situation as an example of this principle.
Galatians 1:17
"Neither went I up to Jerusalem to them which were apostles before me; but I went into Arabia, and returned again unto Damascus."
"The opposition grew so fierce that Paul was not allowed to continue his labors at Damascus. A messenger from heaven bade him leave for a time, and he “went into Arabia” ( Galatians 1:17 ), where he found a safe retreat. AA 125.2"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:17 in this passage.
"From Arabia Paul “returned again unto Damascus” ( Galatians 1:17 ), and “preached boldly ... in the name of Jesus.” Unable to withstand the wisdom of his arguments, “the Jews took counsel to kill him.” The gates of the city were diligently guarded day and night to cut off his escape. This crisis led the disciples to seek God earnestly, and finally they “took him by night, and let him down through the wall, lowering him in a basket.” Acts 9:25 , R.V. AA 128.2"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:17 in this passage.
"At the gate of Damascus the vision of the Crucified One changed the whole current of his life. The persecutor became a disciple, the teacher a learner. The days of darkness spent in solitude at Damascus were as years in his experience. The Old Testament Scriptures stored in his memory were his study, and Christ his teacher. To him also nature's solitudes became a school. To the desert of Arabia he went, there to study the Scriptures and to learn of God. He emptied his soul of prejudices and traditions that had shaped his life, and received instruction from the Source of truth. Ed 65.3"
The EGW passage directly references Paul's journey to Arabia after his conversion, as described in Galatians 1:17. It expands on the purpose of this journey, stating it was for studying the Scriptures and learning of God.
"Here, in the solitude of the desert, Paul had ample opportunity for quiet study and meditation. He calmly reviewed his past experience and made sure work of repentance. He sought God with all his heart, resting not until he knew for a certainty that his repentance was accepted and his sin pardoned. He longed for the assurance that Jesus would be with him in his coming ministry. He emptied his soul of the prejudices and traditions that had hitherto shaped his life, and received instruction from the Source of truth. Jesus communed with him and established him in the faith, bestowing upon him a rich measure of wisdom and grace. AA 125.3"
Both passages refer to Paul's time in Arabia. Galatians 1:17 mentions his journey to Arabia after his conversion. AA 125.3 elaborates on what Paul did during that time, including study, meditation, repentance, and receiving instruction from Jesus. The EGW passage expands on the biblical account, providing details not explicitly stated in Galatians.
Galatians 1:18
"Then after three years I went up to Jerusalem to see Peter, and abode with him fifteen days."
"After his escape from Damascus, Paul went to Jerusalem, about three years having passed since his conversion. His chief object in making this visit, as he himself declared afterward, was “to see Peter.” Galatians 1:18 . Upon arriving in the city where he had once been well known as “Saul the persecutor,” “he assayed to join himself to the disciples: but they were all afraid of him, and believed not that he was a disciple.” It was difficult for them to believe that so bigoted a Pharisee, and one who had done so much to destroy the church, could become a sincere follower of Jesus. “But Barnabas took him, and brought him to the apostles, and declared unto them how he had seen the Lord in the way, and that He had spoken to him, and how he had preached boldly at Damascus in the name of Jesus.” AA 128.3"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:18 in this passage.
Galatians 1:24
"And they glorified God in me."
"***** How many of our young men will enter the service of God, not to be served, but to serve? In times past there were those who fastened their minds upon one soul after another, saying: “Lord, help me to save this soul.” But now such instances are rare. How many act as if they realized the peril of sinners? How many take those whom they know to be in peril, presenting them to God in prayer and supplicating Him to save them? 6T 412.3 The apostle Paul could say of the early church: “They glorified God in me.” Galatians 1:24 . Shall we not strive to live so that the same words can be said of us? The Lord will provide ways and means for those who will seek Him with the whole heart. He desires us to acknowledge the divine superintendence shown in preparing fields of labor and preparing the way for these fields to be occupied successfully. 6T 413.1"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:24 in this passage.
"The apostle Paul could say of the early church, “They glorified God in me.” [ Galatians 1:24 .] Shall we not strive to live so that the same words can be said of us? The Lord will provide ways and means for those who will seek Him with the whole heart. He desires us to acknowledge the divine superintendence shown in preparing fields of labor and in preparing the way for these fields to be occupied successfully. GW 65.3"
Ellen White directly references Galatians 1:24 in this passage.