"N ot to Stand First In no case are the publishing institutions to be devoted chiefly to commercial work. When this work is given the first place, those connected with the publishing houses lose sight of the purpose for which they were established, and their work deteriorates. 7T 162"
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
The EGW passage emphasizes the importance of not prioritizing commercial work over the primary purpose of the publishing institutions, which directly reflects the principle of seeking first the kingdom of God in Matthew 6:33.
"There is danger that managers whose spiritual perception is perverted will enter into contracts to publish questionable matter merely for the sake of gain. As the result of taking in this work, the purpose for which the offices of publication were established is lost sight of, and the institutions are regarded very much as any other commercial enterprise would be. In this God is dishonored. 7T 162.2"
"For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows."
Both passages address the dangers of prioritizing financial gain over spiritual principles. The EGW passage specifically warns against compromising the mission of publishing houses for profit, while the Bible verse warns against the love of money as the root of all evil. The connection is thematic and relevant.
"It is claimed that the commercial work is a financial benefit to the office. But One of authority has made a correct estimate of the cost of this work at our leading publishing houses. He presented the true balance, showing that the loss exceeds the gain. He showed that this work causes the workers to be driven with a constant rush. In the atmosphere of hurry and bustle and worldliness, true piety and devotion wither. 7T 162.4"
"For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?"
Both passages highlight the danger of prioritizing worldly gain over spiritual well-being. The EGW passage speaks of the loss of piety and devotion due to a focus on commercial work, while the Bible verse questions the profit of gaining the world but losing one's soul. The connection is thematic and relevant.