When he first goes to a place, his prayers and exhortations have effect, and brethren receive the idea that he is a perfect Christian. He is favored because he is considered a minister. But as they become acquainted, how they are disappointed to witness his selfishness, fretfulness, harshness, and oddities. Almost every day some peculiar notion is seen. His mind is almost constantly occupied in fixing up something for his own advantage. Then he will dispose of it to someone to good advantage to himself, and fix again. His fixing and planning have had a withering, blighting influence upon the cause of God. His course is calculated to tear to pieces, and it has wounded almost everywhere. What an example to the flock! He has been very selfish in his deal, and has taken advantage of those with whom he has dealt. God's frown is upon him. A good tree is known by its fruits. 1T 228.2 ***** Chapter 46—Fanaticism in Wisconsin I saw that the Lord especially directed my husband in going west last…
"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."
The EGW passage describes a minister who appears righteous but is selfish and harmful, echoing the warning about false prophets in sheep's clothing.
"And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light."
The EGW passage describes a minister who initially appears to be a perfect Christian but is later revealed to be selfish and flawed. This aligns with the idea of Satan transforming into an angel of light, presenting a deceptive appearance.
"He has rejected the counsel and advice of his brethren, gone on in his own strength, followed his own will, and has rejected every means whereby he could be corrected. When he has been reproved, the manner or the person has not suited him, and the way for reform has been closed up. The Lord has not accepted his labors for some length of time. He has labored much more for his own interest than for the interest of the cause. 1T 228.1"
"The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise."
Both passages contrast the wisdom of heeding counsel with the foolishness of relying solely on one's own judgment. The EGW passage provides a specific example of someone exhibiting this foolishness.
"He that refuseth instruction despiseth his own soul: but he that heareth reproof getteth understanding."
Both passages address the consequences of rejecting instruction and reproof. The EGW passage elaborates on the practical implications of this rejection, aligning with the principle stated in Proverbs.