"Brother R is not lacking in ability to clothe his ideas in words, but he is lacking in spirituality and true heart holiness. He has not drunk deeply himself at the fountain of truth. Had he improved his golden moments in studying the work of God he might now have been an able workman, but he is too indolent to make close application of the mind and to learn for himself the reasons of our hope. He is content to take material which other minds and other pens have labored to produce, and to use their thoughts, which are prepared to his hand, without effort or exertion of mind, careful thought, or prayerful meditation himself. 3T 559.1"
"But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life."
Both passages use the metaphor of drinking from a fountain or well to represent spiritual nourishment and understanding. The EGW passage contrasts Brother R's lack of personal study with the idea of drinking deeply from the "fountain of truth," echoing the imagery of John 4:14.
"Brother R does not love close application either in the study of the Scriptures or in physical labor. He prefers an easier way, and as yet knows nothing experimentally of the burden of the work of God. It is easier for him to repeat the thoughts of others than to diligently search for the truth himself. It is only by personal effort, close application of the mind, and thorough devotion to the work that men become competent for the ministry. 3T 559.2"
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
The EGW passage directly echoes the sentiment of 2 Timothy 2:15, emphasizing the importance of diligent study and personal effort in understanding and teaching the truth. The idea of being a "workman that needeth not to be ashamed" is clearly reflected in the EGW passage's call for personal effort and devotion.
"And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come."
Both passages relate to the idea of a final judgment and the need to warn the world. While the EGW passage is brief, it clearly alludes to the broader theme of end-times prophecy and the need to prepare for judgment, which is a central theme in Matthew 24:14 and other related scriptures.