"went forth to strengthen and bless others. Behold the Son of God bowed in prayer to His Father! Though He is the Son of God, He strengthens His faith by prayer, and by communion with heaven gathers to Himself power to resist evil and to minister to the needs of men. As the Elder Brother of our race He knows the necessities of those who, compassed with infirmity and living in a world of sin and temptation, still desire to serve Him. He knows that the messengers whom He sees fit to send are weak, erring men; but to all who give themselves wholly to His service He promises divine aid. His own example is an assurance that earnest, persevering supplication to God in faith—faith that leads to entire dependence upon God, and unreserved consecration to His work—will avail to bring to men the Holy Spirit's aid in the battle against sin. AA 56.1"
"And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed."
Both passages highlight Jesus's practice of prayer, particularly early in the morning, and its importance for strength and ministry. The EGW passage expands on the purpose and significance of this practice, drawing a direct parallel to Mark 1:35.
"Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people."
The EGW passage speaks of Jesus as the 'Elder Brother' who understands our weaknesses, while Hebrews 2:17 emphasizes that Jesus was made like us to be a merciful high priest. Both passages connect to the idea of Jesus's shared humanity and his role as a mediator who understands our struggles.
"Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen."
The EGW passage speaks of divine aid being promised to those who give themselves wholly to God's service. Matthew 28:20 contains Jesus's promise to be with his followers always. The connection lies in the assurance of divine presence and support for those engaged in God's work.
"Every worker who follows the example of Christ will be prepared to receive and use the power that God has promised to His church for the ripening of earth's harvest. Morning by morning, as the heralds of the gospel kneel before the Lord and renew their vows of consecration to Him, He will grant them the presence of His Spirit, with its reviving, sanctifying power. As they go forth to the day's duties, they have the assurance that the unseen agency of the Holy Spirit enables them to be “laborers together with God.” AA 56.2"
"For we are labourers together with God: ye are God’s husbandry, ye are God’s building."
The EGW passage directly quotes the phrase 'laborers together with God' from 1 Corinthians 3:9, indicating a clear and intentional connection.
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
The EGW passage discusses receiving and using the power God has promised through the Holy Spirit. Acts 1:8 directly states that believers will receive power after the Holy Spirit comes upon them. The connection is the promise of power through the Holy Spirit for service.
"Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;"
Both passages emphasize prayer and the Holy Spirit's power in ministry. EGW connects this to the 'ripening of earth's harvest,' while Ephesians focuses on prayer for all saints. The connection is thematic, not a direct quote, but meaningful.