"A servant of Christ, in any department of the Christian service, will by precept and by example have a saving influence upon others. The good seed sown may lie some time in a cold, worldly, selfish heart without evidencing that it has taken root; but frequently the Spirit of God operates upon that heart and waters it with the dew of heaven, and the long-hidden seed springs up and finally bears fruit to the glory of God. We know not in our lifework which shall prosper, this or that. These are not questions for us poor mortals to settle. We are to do our work, leaving the result with God. If you were in darkness and ignorance, you would not be as guilty. But you have had great light, you have heard much truth; but you are not a doer of the word. 3T 248.1"
"I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase."
Both passages discuss the process of spiritual growth and the role of God in bringing about results. EGW speaks of sowing good seed and the Spirit of God watering the heart, while 1 Corinthians 3:6 uses the analogy of planting and watering, with God giving the increase. The connection is in the idea that human effort is important, but ultimately, God is the one who brings about spiritual fruit.
Christ's life is the pattern for us all. His example of self-denial, self-sacrifice, and disinterested benevolence is for us to follow. His entire life is an infinite demonstration of His great love and condescension to save sinful man. “Love one another, as I have loved you,” says Christ. How will our life of self-denial, sacrifice, and benevolence bear comparison with the life of Christ? “Ye are,” says Christ, addressing His disciples, “the light of the world.” “Ye are the salt of the earth.” If this is our privilege and also our duty, and we are bodies of darkness and of unbelief, what a fearful responsibility we assume! We may be channels of light or of darkness. If we have neglected to improve the light that God had given us, and have failed to advance in knowledge and true holiness as the light has directed the way, we are guilty and in darkness according to the light and truth we have neglected to improve. In these days of iniquity and peril the characters and works of professed…
"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another."
EGW directly quotes John 13:34 ('Love one another, as I have loved you') and uses it as a basis for discussing the importance of self-denial, self-sacrifice, and benevolence in the Christian life. This is a clear and intentional reference.