"Chapter 49—Paul's Last Letter This chapter is based on the Second Epistle to Timothy . From the judgment hall of Caesar, Paul returned to his cell, realizing that he had gained for himself only a brief respite. He knew that his enemies would not rest until they had compassed his death. But he knew also that for a time truth had triumphed. To have proclaimed a crucified and risen Saviour before the vast crowd who had listened to him, was in itself a victory. That day a work had begun which would grow and strengthen, and which Nero and all other enemies of Christ would seek in vain to hinder or destroy. AA 498"
"Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me his prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;"
The EGW passage discusses Paul's imprisonment and the importance of not being ashamed of the gospel, which directly echoes the sentiment in 2 Timothy 1:8. The context of Paul's imprisonment and encouragement to Timothy to remain steadfast in faith despite suffering is a clear thematic parallel.
"So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed."
The EGW passage speaks of the truth triumphing and a work beginning that enemies cannot destroy, which aligns with the idea in Acts 19:20 that the word of God grew mightily and prevailed. Both passages highlight the unstoppable nature of the gospel's spread despite opposition.
"Sitting day after day in his gloomy cell, knowing that at a word or a nod from Nero his life might be sacrificed, Paul thought of Timothy and determined to send for him. To Timothy had been committed the care of the church at Ephesus, and he had therefore been left behind when Paul made his last journey to Rome. Paul and Timothy were bound together by an affection unusually deep and strong. Since his conversion, Timothy had shared Paul's labors and sufferings, and the friendship between the two had grown stronger, deeper, and more sacred, until all that a son could be to a loved and honored father, Timothy was to the aged, toilworn apostle. It is little wonder that in his loneliness and solitude, Paul longed to see him. AA 498.2"
"Greatly desiring to see thee, being mindful of thy tears, that I may be filled with joy;"
The EGW passage describes Paul's longing to see Timothy due to their deep affection and Timothy's role as a son-like figure. 2 Timothy 1:4 expresses Paul's great desire to see Timothy. The passages share a common theme of Paul's longing for Timothy's presence.
"For I have no man likeminded, who will naturally care for your state."
This verse speaks of Timothy's genuine care for Paul's state, reflecting the deep affection and shared ministry described in the passage.