"those early Christians were exiled to mountains and deserts, when left in dungeons to die with hunger, cold, and torture, when martyrdom seemed the only way out of their distress, they rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer for Christ, who was crucified for them. Their worthy example will be a comfort and encouragement to the people of God who will be brought into the time of trouble such as never was. 5T 213.1"
"And they departed from the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer shame for his name."
Both passages highlight the joy and willingness of early Christians to suffer for their faith. The EGW passage draws a parallel between their experiences and the trials faced by God's people in the future, echoing the sentiment in Acts 5:41 about being counted worthy to suffer for Christ's name.
"Not all who profess to keep the Sabbath will be sealed. There are many even among those who teach the truth to others who will not receive the seal of God in their foreheads. They had the light of truth, they knew their Master's will, they understood every point of our faith, but they had not corresponding works. These who were so familiar with prophecy and the treasures of divine wisdom should have acted their faith. They should have commanded their households after them, that by a well-ordered family they might present to the world the influence of the truth upon the human heart. 5T 213.2"
"Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven."
Both passages emphasize that profession of faith is insufficient without corresponding actions or obedience to God's will. EGW expands on this by applying it specifically to Sabbath keepers and those who teach the truth.