"The work of the gospel minister is “to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God.” Ephesians 3:9 . If one entering upon this work chooses the least self-sacrificing part, contenting himself with preaching, and leaving the work of personal ministry for someone else, his labors will not be acceptable to God. Souls for whom Christ died are perishing for want of well-directed, personal labor; and he has mistaken his calling who, entering upon the ministry, is unwilling to do the personal work that the care of the flock demands. AA 527.1"
"And to make all men see what is the fellowship of the mystery, which from the beginning of the world hath been hid in God, who created all things by Jesus Christ:"
Ellen White directly references Ephesians 3:9 in this passage.
"The spirit of the true shepherd is one of self-forgetfulness. He loses sight of self in order that he may work the works of God. By the preaching of the word and by personal ministry in the homes of the people, he learns their needs, their sorrows, their trials; and, co-operating with the great Burden Bearer, he shares their afflictions, comforts their distresses, relieves their soul hunger, and wins their hearts to God. In this work the minister is attended by the angels of heaven, and he himself is instructed and enlightened in the truth that maketh wise unto salvation. AA 527.2"
"I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."
Both passages describe the role of a shepherd. John 10:11 speaks of the good shepherd giving his life for the sheep, while the EGW quote describes the self-forgetfulness and personal ministry of a true shepherd. The connection lies in the shared theme of selfless service and care for others, characteristic of a good shepherd.
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
Both passages offer comfort and relief to those burdened. Matthew 11:28 invites the weary to find rest in Jesus, while the EGW quote describes the minister as 'co-operating with the great Burden Bearer' to relieve soul hunger and distress. The connection is thematic, focusing on providing solace and support to those in need.
"For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building."
Both passages highlight the idea of working together with God. 1 Corinthians 3:9 states 'we are labourers together with God,' while the EGW quote describes the minister as 'co-operating with the great Burden Bearer.' The connection lies in the shared theme of partnership with God in His work.
"under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time: casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you. Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist steadfast in the faith.” AA 527.3"
"Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that he may exalt you in due time: Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you."
The EGW passage directly quotes and alludes to 1 Peter 5:6-7, including phrases like 'under the mighty hand of God,' 'exalt you in due time,' 'casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you,' and 'your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour.' This is a clear and explicit allusion.
"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:"
The EGW passage directly quotes and alludes to 1 Peter 5:8, making the connection explicit.