"Throw a pebble into the lake, and a wave is formed, and another and another; and as they increase, the circle widens, until it reaches the very shore. So with our influence. Beyond our knowledge or control it tells upon others in blessing or in cursing. COL 340.1"
"Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth!"
Both passages use an analogy to illustrate how small things can have a large impact. The EGW passage uses the pebble in a lake, while James 3:5 uses the tongue and a small fire. The core idea of small beginnings leading to significant consequences is shared.
"Character is power. The silent witness of a true, unselfish, godly life carries an almost irresistible influence. By revealing in our own life the character of Christ we co-operate with Him in the work of saving souls. It is only by revealing in our life His character that we can co-operate with Him. And the wider the sphere of our influence, the more good we may do. When those who profess to serve God follow Christ's example, practicing the principles of the law in their daily life; when every act bears witness that they love God supremely and their neighbor as themselves, then will the church have power to move the world. COL 340.2"
"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 directly echoes the principle of Matthew 5:16, emphasizing that a godly life, reflecting the character of Christ, serves as a powerful witness and inspires others to glorify God. Both passages highlight the importance of good works as a means of revealing God's character to the world.
"Having your conversation honest among the Gentiles: that, whereas they speak against you as evildoers, they may by your good works, which they shall behold, glorify God in the day of visitation."
Both passages emphasize the importance of living a life that reflects Christian values so that others may see and glorify God. 1 Peter 2:12 speaks of 'good works' that cause others to 'glorify God,' while the EGW passage speaks of revealing the character of Christ in our lives to cooperate with Him in saving souls.
But never should it be forgotten that influence is no less a power for evil. To lose one's own soul is a terrible thing; but to cause the loss of other souls is still more terrible. That our influence should be a savor of death unto death is a fearful thought; yet this is possible. Many who profess to gather with Christ are scattering from Him. This is why the church is so weak. Many indulge freely in criticism and accusing. By giving expression to suspicion, jealousy, and discontent, they yield themselves as instruments to Satan. Before they realize what they are doing, the adversary has through them accomplished his purpose. The impression of evil has been made, the shadow has been cast, the arrows of Satan have found their mark. Distrust, unbelief, and downright infidelity have fastened upon those who otherwise might have accepted Christ. Meanwhile the workers for Satan look complacently upon those whom they have driven to skepticism, and who are now hardened against reproof and ent…
"To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?"
EGW directly quotes and applies the phrase 'savor of death unto death' from 2 Corinthians 2:16 to the concept of negative influence.
"He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad."
EGW uses the concept of 'gathering with Christ' versus 'scattering from Him' which is a clear parallel to Matthew 12:30. While not a direct quote, the idea is very similar.