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
Romans 6:1
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound?"
"“Why, mother!” cried I, in astonishment, “this is strange talk for you! If you believe this strange theory, do not let anyone know of it; for I fear that sinners would gather security from this belief, and never desire to seek the Lord.” 1T 39.5"
Both passages address the potential for misunderstanding grace and using it as an excuse to continue sinning. EGW's passage expresses concern that a particular belief might lead sinners to feel secure and not seek God, while Romans 6:1 directly asks if grace should lead to continued sin.
Romans 6:1-2
"What shall we say then? Shall we continue in sin, that grace may abound? God forbid. How shall we, that are dead to sin, live any longer therein?"
"The opposite and no less dangerous error is that belief in Christ releases men from keeping the law of God; that since by faith alone we become partakers of the grace of Christ, our works have nothing to do with our redemption. SC 60.1"
Both passages address the relationship between grace and obedience. Romans 6:1-2 argues against continuing in sin under the pretense of grace, while EGW warns against the error of believing that works are irrelevant to redemption because of grace. Both emphasize that grace should not be an excuse for lawlessness.
Romans 6:4
"Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life."
"Finally the time was appointed for us to receive this solemn ordinance. It was a windy day when we, twelve in number, went down into the sea to be baptized. The waves ran high and dashed upon the shore; but as I took up this heavy cross, my peace was like a river. When I arose from the water, my strength was nearly gone, for the power of the Lord rested upon me. I felt that henceforth I was not of this world, but had risen from the watery grave into a newness of life. 1T 20.1"
EGW's statement 'risen from the watery grave into a newness of life' is a direct and clear allusion to Romans 6:4, which speaks of being buried with Christ in baptism and rising to new life.
"Finally the time was appointed for us to receive this solemn ordinance. It was a windy day when we, twelve in number, went down into the sea to be baptized. The waves ran high and dashed upon the shore, but as I took up this heavy cross, my peace was like a river. When I arose from the water, my strength was nearly gone, for the power of the Lord rested upon me. I felt that henceforth I was not of this world, but had risen from the watery grave into a newness of life. LS 25.3"
The EGW passage explicitly alludes to the concept of being 'buried with him by baptism into death' and rising to 'newness of life' as described in Romans 6:4. The phrase 'watery grave' and the feeling of entering 'a newness of life' are direct echoes of the biblical text.
"But the influence of a gospel hope will not lead the sinner to look upon the salvation of Christ as a matter of free grace, while he continues to live in transgression of the law of God. When the light of truth dawns upon his mind and he fully understands the requirements of God and realizes the extent of his transgressions, he will reform his ways, become loyal to God through the strength obtained from his Saviour, and lead a new and purer life. 4T 295.1"
Both passages discuss the idea of a transformed life following conversion. Romans 6:4 speaks of 'newness of life' after baptism, while EGW speaks of reforming ways and leading a 'new and purer life.' The theme of transformation is present in both.
"Soon after our return from the camp meeting, I, with several others, was taken into the church on probation. My mind was very much exercised on the subject of baptism. Young as I was, I could see but one mode of baptism authorized by the Scriptures, and that was immersion. Some of my Methodist sisters tried in vain to convince me that sprinkling was Bible baptism. The Methodist minister consented to immerse the candidates if they conscientiously preferred that method, although he intimated that sprinkling would be equally acceptable with God. 1T 19.5"
The EGW passage discusses the importance of immersion as a form of baptism, contrasting it with sprinkling. While Romans 6:4 doesn't explicitly argue for immersion, the imagery of being 'buried' with Christ in baptism strongly supports the idea of immersion. The EGW passage amplifies the understanding of baptism as a symbolic burial and resurrection, aligning with the theme in Romans 6:4.
Romans 6:6
"Knowing this, that our old man is crucified with him, that the body of sin might be destroyed, that henceforth we should not serve sin."
"Sanctification is not the work of a moment, an hour, a day, but of a lifetime. It is not gained by a happy flight of feeling, but is the result of constantly dying to sin, and constantly living for Christ. Wrongs cannot be righted nor reformations wrought in the character by feeble, intermittent efforts. It is only by long, persevering effort, sore discipline, and stern conflict, that we shall overcome. We know not one day how strong will be our conflict the next. So long as Satan reigns, we shall have self to subdue, besetting sins to overcome; so long as life shall last, there will be no stopping place, no point which we can reach and say, I have fully attained. Sanctification is the result of lifelong obedience. AA 560.3"
Both passages discuss the idea of putting to death the 'old man' or sinful nature. EGW expands on the lifelong process of this 'dying to sin' which aligns with the concept of crucifying the old man.
Romans 6:12
"Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof."
"Again the apostle says: “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.” He also urges his brethren to earnest diligence and steady perseverance in their efforts for purity and holiness of life, in these words: “And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible.” 4T 33.2"
The EGW passage directly quotes Romans 6:12, making it a clear and explicit allusion.
"In many cases the Testimonies are fully received, the sin and indulgence broken off, and reformation at once commences in harmony with the light God has given. In other instances sinful indulgences are cherished, the Testimonies are rejected, and many excuses which are untrue are offered to others as the reason for refusing to receive them. The true reason is not given. It is a lack of moral courage—a will, strengthened and controlled by the Spirit of God, to renounce hurtful habits. 4T 32.1"
Both passages address the principle of not letting sin control one's actions. EGW speaks of renouncing hurtful habits, while Romans 6:12 urges not letting sin reign in the mortal body. The core principle of resisting sin is shared.
"Every true Christian will have control of his appetites and passions. Unless he is free from the bondage of appetite, he cannot be a true, obedient servant of Christ. The indulgence of appetite and passion blunts the effect of truth upon the heart. It is impossible for the spirit and power of the truth to sanctify a man, soul, body, and spirit, when he is controlled by sensual desires.— Christian Temperance and Bible Hygiene, 75-80 . CE 181.2"
Both passages warn against allowing the body's desires (lusts/appetites and passions) to control one's actions. EGW's statement directly echoes the sentiment of Romans 6:12.
Romans 6:12-13
"Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God."
"I was referred to this scripture: “Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.” Professed Christians, if no further light is given you than that contained in this text, you will be without excuse if you suffer yourselves to be controlled by base passions. 2T 454.3"
The EGW passage directly quotes Romans 6:12-13, making it an explicit allusion.
Romans 6:12-14
"Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof. Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God. For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace."
"***** Christ is the sympathetic, compassionate Redeemer. In His sustaining power, men and women become strong to resist evil. As the convicted sinner looks at sin, it becomes to him exceeding sinful. He wonders that he did not come to Christ before. He sees that his faults must be overcome and that his appetites and passions must be subjected to God's will, that he must be a partaker of the divine nature, having overcome the corruption that is in the world through lust. Having repented of his transgression of God's law, he strives earnestly to overcome sin. He seeks to reveal the power of Christ's grace, and he is brought into personal touch with the Saviour. Constantly he keeps Christ before him. Praying, believing, receiving the blessings he needs, he comes nearer and nearer to God's standard for him. 9T 151.2"
Both passages discuss overcoming sin and not letting it reign in our lives. The EGW passage speaks of subjecting appetites and passions to God's will, while Romans 6:12-14 urges believers not to yield to lusts and to yield themselves to God instead. The theme of overcoming sin through God's grace is present in both.
Romans 6:13
"Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God."
"You have become wayward, bold, and daring. The grace of God has no place in your heart. In the strength of God alone can you bring yourself where you can be a recipient of His grace, an instrument of righteousness. Not only does God require you to control your thoughts, but also your passions and affections. Your salvation depends upon your governing yourself in these things. Passion and affection are powerful agents. If misapplied, if set in operation through wrong motives, if misplaced, they are powerful to accomplish your ruin and leave you a miserable wreck, without God and without hope. 2T 561.2"
The EGW passage speaks of becoming an 'instrument of righteousness' and the danger of misapplied passions leading to ruin. This aligns with Romans 6:13, which urges believers to yield their members as instruments of righteousness to God rather than instruments of unrighteousness to sin. The thematic parallel is clear, though not a direct quote or explicit allusion.
"And what a blessing would reward the workers. To many who are now indolent, selfish, and self-centered, it would be as life from the dead. There would be among us a revival of heavenly charity and wisdom and zeal. 6T 285.1"
The phrase 'life from the dead' is a clear parallel between the two passages. Romans 6:13 speaks of yielding oneself to God as those alive from the dead, while the EGW passage uses the same imagery to describe the transformative effect of selfless service.
"In order for us to reach this high ideal, that which causes the soul to stumble must be sacrificed. It is through the will that sin retains its hold upon us. The surrender of the will is represented as plucking out the eye or cutting off the hand. Often it seems to us that to surrender the will to God is to consent to go through life maimed or crippled. But it is better, says Christ, for self to be maimed, wounded, crippled, if thus you may enter into life. That which you look upon as disaster is the door to highest benefit. MB 61.1"
Both passages discuss yielding oneself/members to God, but the connection is not direct or explicit. It's a thematic parallel.
Romans 6:14
"For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace."
"Those who put their trust in Christ are not to be enslaved by any hereditary or cultivated habit or tendency. Instead of being held in bondage to the lower nature, they are to rule every appetite and passion. God has not left us to battle with evil in our own finite strength. Whatever may be our inherited or cultivated tendencies to wrong, we can overcome through the power that He is ready to impart. MH 175.1"
The EGW passage speaks about not being enslaved by sin, which directly reflects the principle in Romans 6:14 that sin shall not have dominion over believers.
Romans 6:16
"Know ye not, that to whom ye yield yourselves servants to obey, his servants ye are to whom ye obey; whether of sin unto death, or of obedience unto righteousness?"
"“His servants ye are to whom ye obey” ( Romans 6:16 ). If we indulge anger, lust, covetousness, hatred, selfishness, or any other sin, we become servants of sin. “No man can serve two masters” ( Matthew 6:24 ). If we serve sin, we cannot serve Christ. The Christian will feel the promptings of sin, for the flesh lusteth against the Spirit; but the Spirit striveth against the flesh, keeping up a constant warfare. Here is where Christ's help is needed. Human weakness becomes united to divine strength, and faith exclaims, “Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” ( 1 Corinthians 15:57 )! SL 92.2"
Ellen White directly references Romans 6:16 in this passage.
"Beware of procrastination. Do not put off the work of forsaking your sins and seeking purity of heart through Jesus. Here is where thousands upon thousands have erred to their eternal loss. I will not here dwell upon the shortness and uncertainty of life; but there is a terrible danger—a danger not sufficiently understood— in delaying to yield to the pleading voice of God's Holy Spirit, in choosing to live in sin; for such this delay really is. Sin, however small it may be esteemed, can be indulged in only at the peril of infinite loss. What we do not overcome, will overcome us and work out our destruction. SC 32.2"
The EGW passage's statement, 'What we do not overcome, will overcome us and work out our destruction,' directly reflects the principle in Romans 6:16 that yielding to sin leads to death. Both passages highlight the consequences of choosing to serve sin.
"The cause of this man's affliction also was in his own life. He had been fascinated with the pleasures of sin and had thought to make life a grand carnival. Intemperance and frivolity perverted the noble attributes of his nature, and Satan took entire control of him. Remorse came too late. When he would have sacrificed wealth and pleasure to regain his lost manhood he had become helpless in the grasp of the evil one. MH 91.4"
The EGW passage illustrates the principle of Romans 6:16, that yielding to sin leads to bondage. The connection is clear and directly applicable.
A profession of Christianity without corresponding faith and works will avail nothing. No man can serve two masters. The children of the wicked one are their own master's servants; to whom they yield themselves servants to obey, his servants they are, and they cannot be the servants of God until they renounce the devil and all his works. It cannot be harmless for servants of the heavenly King to engage in the pleasures and amusements which Satan's servants engage in, even though they often repeat that such amusements are harmless. God has revealed sacred and holy truths to separate His people from the ungodly and purify them unto Himself. Seventh-day Adventists should live out their faith. Those who obey the Ten Commandments view the state of the world and religious things from a standpoint altogether different from that of professors who are lovers of pleasure, who shun the cross, and live in violation of the fourth commandment. In the present state of things in society it is no easy …
EGW's statement about being servants to whom we obey directly reflects the principle outlined in Romans 6:16.
"What if Daniel and his companions had made a compromise with those heathen officers and had yielded to the pressure of the occasion by eating and drinking as was customary with the Babylonians? That single instance of departure from principle would have weakened their sense of right and their abhorrence of wrong. Indulgence of appetite would have involved the sacrifice of physical vigor, clearness of intellect, and spiritual power. One wrong step would probably have led to others, until, their connection with Heaven being severed, they would have been swept away by temptation. SL 23.2"
The EGW passage illustrates the principle of Romans 6:16, that yielding to a particular course of action makes one a servant to it. Daniel's potential compromise would have made him a servant to Babylonian customs, weakening his spiritual resolve. The connection is strong and meaningful.
"Those who accustom themselves to a rich, stimulating diet, find after a time that the stomach is not satisfied with simple food. It demands that which is more and more highly seasoned, pungent, and stimulating. As the nerves become disordered and the system weakened, the will seems powerless to resist the unnatural craving. The delicate coating of the stomach becomes irritated and inflamed until the most stimulating food fails of giving relief. A thirst is created that nothing but strong drink will quench. Ed 203.2"
Both passages discuss the concept of being enslaved to something. EGW discusses being enslaved to unhealthy cravings, while Paul speaks of being enslaved to sin or obedience.
"The defenses of the soul are broken down. He has no barrier against sin. When once the restraints of God's word and His Spirit are rejected, no man knows to what depths of degradation he may sink. Secret sin or master passion may hold him a captive as helpless as was the demoniac of Capernaum. Yet his condition is not hopeless. DA 258.4"
Both passages highlight the principle that yielding to sin leads to bondage. Romans 6:16 explicitly states that we become servants to whom we obey, whether sin or righteousness. The EGW passage echoes this by stating that rejecting God's restraints can lead to being held captive by sin.
"that chosen by one who has persisted in having his own way, resisting the holy influences of the Spirit of God! What bondage so terrible as that of him who is given over to the control of the worst of tyrants—himself! Trust in God and obedience to His will were the only conditions upon which Saul could be king of Israel. Had he complied with these conditions throughout his reign, his kingdom would have been secure; God would have been his guide, the Omnipotent his shield. God had borne long with Saul; and although his rebellion and obstinacy had well-nigh silenced the divine voice in the soul, there was still opportunity for repentance. But when in his peril he turned from God to obtain light from a confederate of Satan, he had cut the last tie that bound him to his Maker; he had placed himself fully under the control of that demoniac power which for years had been exercised upon him, and which had brought him to the verge of destruction. PP 676.3"
EGW's statement about being controlled by oneself echoes the principle in Romans 6:16 about yielding oneself as a servant to obey, whether to sin or righteousness. The connection is thematic, focusing on the consequences of obedience and disobedience.
"the worst kind of bondage,—ruled by the spirit of evil. DA 466.2"
Both passages discuss the concept of being a servant to sin. Romans 6:16 explicitly states that yielding to sin makes one a servant of sin, leading to death. The EGW passage speaks of being ruled by the spirit of evil, which is a similar concept of servitude to a negative force.
"What say the testimonies concerning these things? Even one wrong trait of character, one sinful desire cherished, will eventually neutralize all the power of the gospel. The prevalence of a sinful desire shows the delusion of the soul. Every indulgence of that desire strengthens the soul's aversion to God. The pains of duty and the pleasures of sin are the cords with which Satan binds men in his snares. Those who would rather die than perform a wrong act are the only ones who will be found faithful. 5T 53.2"
Both passages discuss the idea of yielding to sin and its consequences, although EGW elaborates on the specific mechanisms of how sin binds individuals.
"The controlling power of appetite will prove the ruin of thousands, when, if they had conquered on this point, they would have had moral power to gain the victory over every other temptation of Satan. But those who are slaves to appetite will fail in perfecting Christian character. The continual transgression of man for six thousand years has brought sickness, pain, and death as its fruits. And as we near the close of time, Satan's temptation to indulge appetite will be more powerful and more difficult to overcome. 3T 491.3"
Both passages discuss the concept of being a servant to what one obeys. Romans 6:16 speaks of being servants to sin or righteousness, while the EGW passage speaks of being slaves to appetite. The connection is thematic and relevant.
The standard of piety is so low among professed Christians generally that those who wish to follow Christ in sincerity find the work much more laborious and trying than they otherwise would. The influence of worldly professors is injurious to the young. The mass of professed Christians have removed the line of distinction between Christians and the world, and while they profess to be living for Christ, they are living for the world. Their faith has but little restraining influence upon their pleasures; while they profess to be children of the light, they walk in darkness and are children of the night and of darkness. Those who walk in darkness cannot love God and sincerely desire to glorify Him. They are not enlightened to discern the excellence of heavenly things, and therefore cannot truly love them. They profess to be Christians because it is considered honorable, and there is no cross for them to bear. Their motives are often selfish. Some such professors can enter the ballroom and…
The EGW passage discusses serving the world instead of Christ, which aligns with the principle of Romans 6:16 about being servants to whom we obey. The connection is more than just thematic; it's about the fundamental choice of allegiance.
"And let none flatter themselves that sins cherished for a time can easily be given up by and by. This is not so. Every sin cherished weakens the character and strengthens habit; and physical, mental, and moral depravity is the result. You may repent of the wrong you have done, and set your feet in right paths; but the mold of your mind and your familiarity with evil will make it difficult for you to distinguish between right and wrong. Through the wrong habits formed, Satan will assail you again and again. COL 281.1"
Romans 6:16 teaches that yielding to sin makes one a servant of sin. The EGW passage echoes this principle by stating that cherished sins weaken character and strengthen habit, ultimately leading to depravity. Both passages highlight the enslaving nature of sin.
I saw that the family of Brother G need a great work done for them. H and I have gone to great lengths in this crime of self-abuse; especially is this true of H, who has gone so far in the practice of this sin that his intellect is affected, his eye-sight is weakened, and disease is fastening itself upon him. Satan has almost full control of this poor boy's mind, but his parents are not awake to see the evil and its results. His mind is debased, his conscience hardened, his moral sensibilities benumbed, and he will be a ready victim for evil associates to lead into sin and crime. Brother and Sister G, arouse yourselves, I beg of you. You have not received the light of health reform and acted upon it. If you had restricted your appetites you would have been saved much extra labor and expense; and, what is of vastly more consequence, you would have preserved to yourselves a better condition of physical health and a greater degree of intellectual strength to appreciate eternal truths; you…
The verse speaks about yielding oneself as a servant to sin or obedience. The EGW passage discusses self-abuse leading to mental and physical degradation, effectively making one a servant to sin. This is more than a thematic parallel; it's a direct application of the principle.
"captivity to the obedience of Christ. With the apostle Paul they will be able to say: MH 460.4"
Both passages discuss obedience and servitude, although EGW's focus is specifically on obedience to Christ, while Romans 6:16 presents a broader choice between sin and righteousness.
"There is everywhere a work to be done for those who through intemperance have fallen. In the midst of churches, religious institutions, and professedly Christian homes, many of the youth are choosing the path to destruction. Through intemperate habits they bring upon themselves disease, and through greed to obtain money for sinful indulgence they fall into dishonest practices. Health and character are ruined. Aliens from God, outcasts from society, these poor souls feel that they are without hope either for this life or for the life to come. The hearts of the parents are broken. Men speak of these erring ones as hopeless; but not so does God regard them. He understands all the circumstances that have made them what they are, and He looks upon them with pity. This is a class that demand help. Never give them occasion to say, “No man cares for my soul.” MH 171.2"
The EGW passage describes individuals enslaved by intemperance, leading to destructive habits. Romans 6:16 directly addresses the principle of being a servant to whom you obey, whether sin or righteousness. The connection is that intemperance leads to being a servant of sin, aligning with the principle in Romans.
Many are inquiring, “ How am I to make the surrender of myself to God?” You desire to give yourself to Him, but you are weak in moral power, in slavery to doubt, and controlled by the habits of your life of sin. Your promises and resolutions are like ropes of sand. You cannot control your thoughts, your impulses, your affections. The knowledge of your broken promises and forfeited pledges weakens your confidence in your own sincerity, and causes you to feel that God cannot accept you; but you need not despair. What you need to understand is the true force of the will. This is the governing power in the nature of man, the power of decision, or of choice. Everything depends on the right action of the will. The power of choice God has given to men; it is theirs to exercise. You cannot change your heart, you cannot of yourself give to God its affections; but you can choose to serve Him. You can give Him your will; He will then work in you to will and to do according to His good pleasure. T…
Both passages discuss yielding oneself as a servant, either to sin or to obedience/righteousness. The EGW passage speaks of surrendering the will, which aligns with the concept of yielding oneself as a servant.
Romans 6:18
"Being then made free from sin, ye became the servants of righteousness."
"from sin to righteousness. GW 465.1"
The EGW passage directly reflects the core idea of Romans 6:18, which is the transition from a life of sin to a life of righteousness. While brief, the EGW quote encapsulates the essence of the verse.
Romans 6:22
"But now being made free from sin, and become servants to God, ye have your fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life."
"In the renewed heart there will be a fixed principle to obey the will of God, because there is a love for what is just, and good, and holy. There will be no hesitating, conferring with the taste, or studying of convenience, or moving in a certain course because others do so. Everyone should live for himself. The minds of all who are renewed by grace will be an open medium, continually receiving light, grace, and truth from above, and transmitting the same to others. Their works are fruitful. Their fruit is unto holiness, and the end everlasting life. 2T 488.1"
The EGW passage directly echoes the language of Romans 6:22, particularly the phrase 'fruit unto holiness, and the end everlasting life.' The context of a renewed heart producing holy fruit strongly suggests a deliberate connection.
"principles of heaven. Therefore as long as they thus remain they cannot possess the spirit of freedom and holiness. 1T 533.3"
Both passages connect freedom from sin with holiness. EGW's statement that those who don't follow heavenly principles cannot possess the spirit of freedom and holiness echoes the idea in Romans 6:22 that being freed from sin leads to holiness.
"the lesson of pardon of sin, and power through the Saviour for obedience unto life. Ed 36.1"
Romans 6:22 speaks of being freed from sin and having everlasting life, which aligns with EGW's statement about pardon of sin and obedience unto life. The connection is thematic, focusing on the result of salvation.
"influence of their disapprobation. When I had ceased speaking, Elder B. asked me if it would not be more pleasant to live a long life of usefulness, doing others good, than to have Jesus come speedily and destroy poor sinners. I replied that I longed for the coming of Jesus. Then sin would have an end, and we would enjoy sanctification forever, with no devil to tempt and lead us astray. 1T 35.2"
The EGW passage speaks of the end of sin and enjoying 'sanctification forever,' which aligns with the concept of being 'made free from sin' and having 'fruit unto holiness' in Romans 6:22. The connection is thematic, focusing on freedom from sin and a life of holiness, even if the specific wording differs.
Romans 6:23
"For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
“And Absalom and all the men of Israel said, The counsel of Hushai the Archite is better than the counsel of Ahithophel.” But there was one who was not deceived—one who clearly foresaw the result of this fatal mistake of Absalom's. Ahithophel knew that the cause of the rebels was lost. And he knew that whatever might be the fate of the prince, there was no hope for the counselor who had instigated his greatest crimes. Ahithophel had encouraged Absalom in rebellion; he had counseled him to the most abominable wickedness, to the dishonor of his father; he had advised the slaying of David and had planned its accomplishment; he had cut off the last possibility of his own reconciliation with the king; and now another was preferred before him, even by Absalom. Jealous, angry, and desperate, Ahithophel “gat him home to his house, to his city, and put his household in order, and hanged himself, and died.” Such was the result of the wisdom of one, who, with all his high endowments, did not make…
Ellen White directly references Romans 6:23 in this passage.
"Many who teach that the law of God is not binding upon man, urge that it is impossible for him to obey its precepts. But if this were true, why did Adam suffer the penalty of transgression? The sin of our first parents brought guilt and sorrow upon the world, and had it not been for the goodness and mercy of God, would have plunged the race into hopeless despair. Let none deceive themselves. “The wages of sin is death.” Romans 6:23 . The law of God can no more be transgressed with impunity now than when sentence was pronounced upon the father of mankind. PP 61.3"
Ellen White directly references Romans 6:23 in this passage.
"Had silver and gold been sufficient to purchase the salvation of men, how easily might it have been accomplished by Him who says, “The silver is Mine, and the gold is Mine.” Haggai 2:8 . But only by the precious blood of the Son of God could the transgressor be redeemed. The plan of salvation was laid in sacrifice. The apostle Paul wrote, “Ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, that ye through His poverty might be rich.” 2 Corinthians 8:9 . Christ gave Himself for us that He might redeem us from all iniquity. And as the crowning blessing of salvation, “the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 . AA 519.2"
Ellen White directly references Romans 6:23 in this passage.
"“The wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” Romans 6:23 . While life is the inheritance of the righteous, death is the portion of the wicked. Moses declared to Israel: “I have set before thee this day life and good, and death and evil.” Deuteronomy 30:15 . The death referred to in these scriptures is not that pronounced upon Adam, for all mankind suffer the penalty of his transgression. It is “the second death” that is placed in contrast with everlasting life. GC 544.1"
Ellen White directly references Romans 6:23 in this passage.
"And, on the other hand, the judgments of God pronounced against sin, the inevitable retribution, the degradation of our character, and the final destruction, are presented in God's word to warn us against the service of Satan. SC 21.4"
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of Romans 6:23, contrasting the consequences of sin with God's provision for salvation. The 'wages of sin is death' aligns with 'inevitable retribution' and 'final destruction,' while the 'gift of God' contrasts with the 'service of Satan.'
"Then it will be seen that Satan's rebellion against God has resulted in ruin to himself and to all that chose to become his subjects. He has represented that great good would result from transgression; but it will be seen that “the wages of sin is death.” “For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.” Malachi 4:1 . Satan, the root of every sin, and all evil workers, who are his branches, shall be utterly cut off. An end will be made of sin, with all the woe and ruin that have resulted from it. Says the psalmist, “Thou hast destroyed the wicked, thou hast put out their name forever and ever. O thou enemy, destructions are come to a perpetual end.” Psalm 9:5, 6 . PP 341.1"
EGW directly quotes Romans 6:23.
"Your labor in this direction will bring no profit, but great loss. The wages of sin is death. Life and heaven are before you, but you seem not to know their value. You have not meditated upon the precious things of heaven. If the inestimable love of Christ be turned from, if heaven and glory and everlasting life be considered of little value, what motive can we present to move? what inducement to charm? Will foolish sports and a round of exciting pleasures attract the mind, and separate from God, and deaden the heart to His fear? 2T 289.3"
EGW directly quotes "the wages of sin is death" from Romans 6:23.
"Satan deceives many with the plausible theory that God's love for His people is so great that He will excuse sin in them; he represents that while the threatenings of God's word are to serve a certain purpose in His moral government, they are never to be literally fulfilled. But in all His dealings with His creatures God has maintained the principles of righteousness by revealing sin in its true character—by demonstrating that its sure result is misery and death. The unconditional pardon of sin never has been, and never will be. Such pardon would show the abandonment of the principles of righteousness, which are the very foundation of the government of God. It would fill the unfallen universe with consternation. God has faithfully pointed out the results of sin, and if these warnings were not true, how could we be sure that His promises would be fulfilled? That so-called benevolence which would set aside justice is not benevolence but weakness. PP 522.2"
The EGW passage discusses the consequences of sin, specifically death, which is the central point of Romans 6:23. The connection is a direct reflection of the biblical principle.
"God is the life-giver. From the beginning all His laws were ordained to life. But sin broke in upon the order that God had established, and discord followed. So long as sin exists, suffering and death are inevitable. It is only because the Redeemer has borne the curse of sin in our behalf that man can hope to escape, in his own person, its dire results. PP 522.3"
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle that sin leads to death, which is the core message of Romans 6:23. It also highlights the role of the Redeemer in escaping this fate, further strengthening the connection.
"gift of eternal life. 1T 432.2"
Both passages explicitly state that eternal life is a gift from God, contrasting it with the wages of sin.
"It is now evident to all that the wages of sin is not noble independence and eternal life, but slavery, ruin, and death. The wicked see what they have forfeited by their life of rebellion. The far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory was despised when offered them; but how desirable it now appears. “All this,” cries the lost soul, “I might have had; but I chose to put these things far from me. Oh, strange infatuation! I have exchanged peace, happiness, and honor for wretchedness, infamy, and despair.” All see that their exclusion from heaven is just. By their lives they have declared: “We will not have this Man [Jesus] to reign over us.” GC 668.3"
The EGW passage directly references and expands upon the principle stated in Romans 6:23, elaborating on the consequences of sin and the contrast with eternal life.
"If the law could be changed, man might have been saved without the sacrifice of Christ; but the fact that it was necessary for Christ to give His life for the fallen race, proves that the law of God will not release the sinner from its claims upon him. It is demonstrated that the wages of sin is death. When Christ died, the destruction of Satan was made certain. But if the law was abolished at the cross, as many claim, then the agony and death of God's dear Son were endured only to give to Satan just what he asked; then the prince of evil triumphed, his charges against the divine government were sustained. The very fact that Christ bore the penalty of man's transgression is a mighty argument to all created intelligences that the law is changeless; that God is righteous, merciful, and self-denying; and that infinite justice and mercy unite in the administration of His government. PP 70.1"
EGW uses the principle that 'the wages of sin is death' to argue for the immutability of God's law and the necessity of Christ's sacrifice. The passage directly reflects the core concept of Romans 6:23.
"Had the church remained pure and steadfast, Satan could not have deceived them, and led them to trample on the law of God. In this bold plan, Satan strikes directly against the foundation of God's government in heaven and on earth. His rebellion caused him to be expelled from heaven. After he rebelled, in order to save himself he wished God to change His law, but was told before the whole heavenly host that God's law was unalterable. Satan knows that if he can cause others to violate God's law, he has gained them to his cause; for every transgressor of that law must die. EW 215.3"
EGW directly states that transgressing God's law leads to death, which is the core principle articulated in Romans 6:23. The connection is clear and fundamental to both passages.
"Sad will be the retrospect in that day when men stand face to face with eternity. The whole life will present itself just as it has been. The world's pleasures, riches, and honors will not then seem so important. Men will then see that the righteousness they despised is alone of value. They will see that they have fashioned their characters under the deceptive allurements of Satan. The garments they have chosen are the badge of their allegiance to the first great apostate. Then they will see the results of their choice. They will have a knowledge of what it means to transgress the commandments of God. COL 318.3"
Romans 6:23 states the fundamental principle that the wages of sin is death. EGW's passage describes the consequences of choosing sin and transgressing God's commandments, which directly aligns with the principle stated in Romans 6:23. The connection is strong and meaningful.
"God has given in His word decisive evidence that He will punish the transgressors of His law. Those who flatter themselves that He is too merciful to execute justice upon the sinner, have only to look to the cross of Calvary. The death of the spotless Son of God testifies that “the wages of sin is death,” that every violation of God's law must receive its just retribution. Christ the sinless became sin for man. He bore the guilt of transgression, and the hiding of His Father's face, until His heart was broken and His life crushed out. All this sacrifice was made that sinners might be redeemed. In no other way could man be freed from the penalty of sin. And every soul that refuses to become a partaker of the atonement provided at such a cost must bear in his own person the guilt and punishment of transgression. GC 539.3"
The EGW passage directly quotes Romans 6:23, making it an explicit allusion.
"But let none deceive themselves with the thought that God, in His great love and mercy, will yet save even the rejecters of His grace. The exceeding sinfulness of sin can be estimated only in the light of the cross. When men urge that God is too good to cast off the sinner, let them look to Calvary. It was because there was no other way in which man could be saved, because without this sacrifice it was impossible for the human race to escape from the defiling power of sin, and be restored to communion with holy beings,—impossible for them again to become partakers of spiritual life,—it was because of this that Christ took upon Himself the guilt of the disobedient and suffered in the sinner's stead. The love and suffering and death of the Son of God all testify to the terrible enormity of sin and declare that there is no escape from its power, no hope of the higher life, but through the submission of the soul to Christ. SC 31.2"
The EGW passage elaborates on the principle that sin leads to death, and salvation is only through Christ's sacrifice, which is the core message of Romans 6:23.
"your ruin. SC 35.1"
The EGW passage speaks of 'ruin' which is a direct consequence of sin, as stated in Romans 6:23. The verse explicitly states that the 'wages of sin is death,' which leads to ruin.
"will have a heavy and fearful toll to pay. 1T 427.2"
Both passages relate to the consequences of sin. EGW uses the phrase 'heavy and fearful toll to pay,' which aligns with the concept of 'wages of sin is death' in Romans 6:23. The connection is thematic, focusing on the negative outcome of wrongdoing.
"For a whole year after his fall David lived in apparent security; there was no outward evidence of God's displeasure. But the divine sentence was hanging over him. Swiftly and surely a day of judgment and retribution was approaching, which no repentance could avert, agony and shame that would darken his whole earthly life. Those who, by pointing to the example of David, try to lessen the guilt of their own sins, should learn from the Bible record that the way of transgression is hard. Though like David they should turn from their evil course, the results of sin, even in this life, will be found bitter and hard to bear. PP 723.4"
The EGW passage illustrates the principle that sin has consequences, even if there is a delay before they are manifested. This aligns with the idea that the wages of sin is death (or negative consequences).
"There are those who will question God's love and His justice in visiting so severe punishment for words spoken in the heat of passion. But both love and justice require it to be shown that utterances prompted by malice against God are a great sin. The retribution visited upon the first offender would be a warning to others, that God's name is to be held in reverence. But had this man's sin been permitted to pass unpunished, others would have been demoralized; and as the result many lives must eventually have been sacrificed. PP 408.2"
The EGW passage discusses the consequences of sin, specifically blasphemy, and the need for punishment to deter others. This aligns with the principle in Romans 6:23 that sin leads to death.
The sacrificial offerings were ordained by God to be to man a perpetual reminder and a penitential acknowledgment of his sin and a confession of his faith in the promised Redeemer. They were intended to impress upon the fallen race the solemn truth that it was sin that caused death. To Adam, the offering of the first sacrifice was a most painful ceremony. His hand must be raised to take life, which only God could give. It was the first time he had ever witnessed death, and he knew that had he been obedient to God, there would have been no death of man or beast. As he slew the innocent victim, he trembled at the thought that his sin must shed the blood of the spotless Lamb of God. This scene gave him a deeper and more vivid sense of the greatness of his transgression, which nothing but the death of God's dear Son could expiate. And he marveled at the infinite goodness that would give such a ransom to save the guilty. A star of hope illumined the dark and terrible future and relieved it …
The EGW passage describes the significance of sacrifice and the realization of sin's consequences, including death, stemming from Adam's transgression. Romans 6:23 directly states that the wages of sin is death. While the EGW passage doesn't explicitly quote Romans 6:23, it echoes the same fundamental principle. Confidence adjusted down slightly because the connection is thematic rather than a direct quote or allusion.