"It is frequently more essential than many realize, that early associations should be broken up in order that those who are to speak “in Christ's stead” may stand in a position where God can educate and qualify them for His great work. Kindred and friends often have an influence which God sees will greatly interfere with the instructions He designs to give His servants. Suggestions will be made by those who are not in close connection with heaven that will, if heeded, turn aside from their holy work those who should be light bearers to the world. 4T 523.2"
"Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God."
EGW uses the phrase "in Christ's stead" which is a direct reference to 2 Corinthians 5:20.
"Before God can use him, Abraham must be separated from his former associations, that he may not be controlled by human influence or rely upon human aid. Now that he has become connected with God, this man must henceforth dwell among strangers. His character must be peculiar, differing from all the world. He could not even explain his course of action so as to be understood by his friends, for they were idolaters. Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned; therefore his motives and his actions were beyond the comprehension of his kindred and friends. 4T 523.3"
"Now the Lord had said unto Abram, Get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will shew thee:"
Both passages discuss God's call for Abraham to separate from his family and country. EGW elaborates on the reasons for this separation, emphasizing the need to avoid human influence and rely on God.
"But the natural man receiveth not the things of the Spirit of God: for they are foolishness unto him: neither can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned."
EGW uses the phrase "Spiritual things must be spiritually discerned" which is a direct reference to 1 Corinthians 2:14. She applies this principle to Abraham's situation, explaining why his actions were misunderstood by his idolatrous friends.