"Read 1 Timothy 2:9, 10 : “In like manner also, that women adorn themselves in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety; not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls, or costly array; but (which becometh women professing godliness) with good works.” Also 1 Peter 3:3-5 : “Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; but let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands.” 1T 278.1"
"Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price. For after this manner in the old time the holy women also, who trusted in God, adorned themselves, being in subjection unto their own husbands:"
Ellen White directly references 1 Peter 3:3-5 in this passage.
"The power of example is great. Sister A ventures to wear small hoops. Sister B says: It is no worse for me to wear hoops than for Sister A, and she wears them a little larger. Sister C imitates the example of Sisters A and B, and wears her hoops a little larger than A and B, but all contend that their hoops are small. 1T 278.2"
"But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak."
The EGW passage illustrates the principle of setting a bad example and causing others to stumble, which is the core message of 1 Corinthians 8:9.
"Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother’s way."
The EGW passage directly relates to the principle of not putting a stumbling block in another's way, as described in Romans 14:13. The 'hoops' example is a clear illustration of this.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
While not a direct quote or allusion, the EGW passage presents a negative example of how one's actions (wearing earrings) can influence others, contrasting with the positive influence encouraged in Matthew 5:16. The 'light' in Matthew is replaced by the 'example' in EGW.
can the parents say? They should set a right example before their children, and although the example of professed followers of Christ causes the children to think that their parents are too careful and severe in their restrictions, yet God will bless the efforts of these conscientious parents. If parents do not take a decided, firm course, their children will be borne down with the current, for Satan and his evil angels are working upon their minds, and the example of unconsecrated professors makes the work of overcoming far more laborious for them. Yet with faith in God and earnest prayer, believing parents should press on in the rugged path of duty. The way of the cross is an onward, upward way. And as we advance therein, seeking the things that are above, we must leave farther and farther in the distance the things which belong to the earth. While the world and carnal professors are rushing downward to death, those who climb the hill will have to put forth efforts or they will be ca…
"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."
Both passages acknowledge the spiritual battle against evil forces. Ephesians 6:12 explicitly mentions wrestling against spiritual wickedness, while EGW refers to Satan and his evil angels working on people's minds.
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Both passages highlight the importance of setting a good example and living a life that reflects God's values. Matthew 5:16 encourages believers to let their light shine, while EGW emphasizes the need for parents to set a right example for their children.