"Wherever the truths of the gospel are proclaimed, those who honestly desire to do right are led to a diligent searching of the Scriptures. If, in the closing scenes of this earth's history, those to whom testing truths are proclaimed would follow the example of the Bereans, searching the Scriptures daily, and comparing with God's word the messages brought them, there would today be a large number loyal to the precepts of God's law, where now there are comparatively few. But when unpopular Bible truths are presented, many refuse to make this investigation. Though unable to controvert the plain teachings of Scripture, they yet manifest the utmost reluctance to study the evidences offered. Some assume that even if these doctrines are indeed true, it matters little whether or not they accept the new light, and they cling to pleasing fables which the enemy uses to lead souls astray. Thus their minds are blinded by error, and they become separated from heaven. AA 232.1"
"Search the scriptures; for in them ye think ye have eternal life: and they are they which testify of me."
Both passages emphasize the importance of searching the scriptures. EGW directly references the example of the Bereans, who diligently searched the scriptures, and connects this practice to understanding and accepting truth. While John 5:39 is a general command, the EGW passage builds upon this theme in the context of receiving new light.
"The unbelieving Jews of Thessalonica, filled with jealousy and hatred of the apostles, and not content with having driven them from their own city, followed them to Berea and aroused against them the excitable passions of the lower class. Fearing that violence would be done to Paul if he remained there, the brethren sent him to Athens, accompanied by some of the Bereans who had newly accepted the faith. AA 232.3"
"But when the Jews of Thessalonica had knowledge that the word of God was preached of Paul at Berea, they came thither also, and stirred up the people."
The EGW passage directly elaborates on the events described in Acts 17:13, providing additional details and context. It's more than a thematic parallel; it's a direct expansion of the biblical narrative.
"But the Jews which believed not, moved with envy, took unto them certain lewd fellows of the baser sort, and gathered a company, and set all the city on an uproar, and assaulted the house of Jason, and sought to bring them out to the people."
The EGW passage recounts the events described in Acts 17:5, specifically the Jews' jealousy, stirring up the lower class, and pursuing Paul. While not a direct quote, the narrative aligns closely with the biblical account.