"Again, Christ had truths to present which the people were unprepared to accept or even to understand. For this reason also He taught them in parables. By connecting His teaching with the scenes of life, experience, or nature, He secured their attention and impressed their hearts. Afterward, as they looked upon the objects that illustrated His lessons, they recalled the words of the divine Teacher. To minds that were open to the Holy Spirit, the significance of the Saviour's teaching unfolded more and more. Mysteries grew clear, and that which had been hard to grasp became evident. COL 21.1"
"And with many such parables spake he the word unto them, as they were able to hear it."
The EGW passage directly expands on the principle of Jesus teaching in parables so people could understand, as mentioned in Mark 4:33. It explains the *why* and *how* behind the verse.
"Jesus sought an avenue to every heart. By using a variety of illustrations, He not only presented truth in its different phases, but appealed to the different hearers. Their interest was aroused by figures drawn from the surroundings of their daily life. None who listened to the Saviour could feel that they were neglected or forgotten. The humblest, the most sinful, heard in His teaching a voice that spoke to them in sympathy and tenderness. COL 21.2"
"Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest."
The EGW passage describes Jesus's approach to teaching and reaching people, emphasizing his sympathy and tenderness. This echoes the invitation in Matthew 11:28, where Jesus offers rest to those who are weary and burdened. The connection lies in the shared theme of Jesus's compassion and accessibility to all, especially the marginalized.