Your influence in —— has been injurious. You were opposed to organization, and preached against it in an indefinite manner, not so boldly as some might have done, but you went just as far as you dared to go. In this way you have many times gratified your envious feelings, and created distrust and uncertainty in the minds of many, when if you had come out openly, you would have been plainly understood and could have done but little mischief. When charged with advocating sentiments contrary to the faith of the body, you would not acknowledge it, but mystified your position, and made it appear that the brethren misunderstood you, when you know that the charge was correct. As you now are, the church cannot depend on you. When you manifest the fruits of an entire reform, and give evidence that you are converted, and have overcome your jealousy, then God will again trust His flock to your care. But until you make thorough restitution, you will exert the best influence by staying at home, and…
"For where envying and strife is, there is confusion and every evil work."
Both passages connect envy and strife with negative consequences. James 3:16 speaks of 'confusion and every evil work,' while the EGW passage describes the injurious influence resulting from envy and opposition.
"And the other Jews dissembled likewise with him; insomuch that Barnabas also was carried away with their dissimulation."
Both passages deal with dissimulation and its negative impact. Galatians 2:13 describes how others were led astray by dissembling, while the EGW passage discusses how someone 'mystified' their position, creating distrust and uncertainty.
"the rays of the sun from the precious plants, until they grow sickly and die. 1T 317.3"
"And when the sun was up, they were scorched; and because they had no root, they withered away."
Both passages discuss plants withering under the sun due to lack of root/protection. The connection is valid.