"Are any tempted to make their circumstances an excuse for failing to witness for Christ? Let them consider the situation of the disciples in Caesar's household—the depravity of the emperor, the profligacy of the court. We can hardly imagine circumstances more unfavorable to a religious life, and entailing greater sacrifice or opposition, than those in which these converts found themselves. Yet amidst difficulties and dangers they maintained their fidelity. Because of obstacles that seem insurmountable, the Christian may seek to excuse himself from obeying the truth as it is in Jesus; but he can offer no excuse that will bear investigation. Could he do this he would prove God unjust in that He had made for His children conditions of salvation with which they could not comply. AA 466.2"
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
The EGW passage uses the example of believers in Caesar's household to illustrate the principle of letting one's light shine even in difficult circumstances, echoing the sentiment of Matthew 5:16. The connection is thematic, focusing on witnessing for Christ regardless of external challenges.