"The true followers of Christ will not choose intimate friendship with those whose characters have serious defects, and whose example as a whole it would not be safe to follow, while it is their privilege to associate with persons who observe a conscientious regard for duty in business, and in religion. Those who lack principle and devotion generally exert a more positive influence to mold the minds of their intimate friends than is exerted by those who seem well balanced and able to control and influence the defective in character, those lacking spirituality and devotion. 3T 24.1"
"Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners."
The EGW passage warns against associating with those of flawed character, as their influence can be detrimental. This directly reflects the principle in 1 Corinthians 15:33, which states that evil communications corrupt good manners. Both passages emphasize the negative impact of bad company.
"He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed."
The EGW passage warns against choosing friends with serious defects, while Proverbs 13:20 states that walking with wise men leads to wisdom and associating with fools leads to destruction. Both passages convey the principle that the company one keeps significantly influences one's character and destiny.