"Love must be the principle of action. Love is the underlying principle of God's government in heaven and earth, and it must be the foundation of the Christian's character. This alone can make and keep him steadfast. This alone can enable him to withstand trial and temptation. COL 49.1"
"And now abideth faith, hope, charity, these three; but the greatest of these is charity."
Both passages highlight the importance of love (charity) as a foundational principle. EGW elaborates on love as the basis of God's government and Christian character, which aligns with the sentiment in 1 Corinthians 13:13.
"By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another."
The EGW passage directly expands on the principle of love being the identifying mark of discipleship, as stated in John 13:35. It's more than just a thematic parallel; it's a direct application of the verse's core idea.
"And love will be revealed in sacrifice. The plan of redemption was laid in sacrifice—a sacrifice so broad and deep and high that it is immeasurable. Christ gave all for us, and those who receive Christ will be ready to sacrifice all for the sake of their Redeemer. The thought of His honor and glory will come before anything else. COL 49.2"
"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
The EGW passage directly references the sacrificial love of God demonstrated in giving His Son, as described in John 3:16. While not a direct quote, it's a clear and central principle derived from the verse.
"But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
The EGW passage echoes the sentiment of Romans 5:8, highlighting the sacrificial love of Christ demonstrated through His death for sinners. It's a direct principle derived from the verse.
"If we love Jesus, we shall love to live for Him, to present our thank offerings to Him, to labor for Him. The very labor will be light. For His sake we shall covet pain and toil and sacrifice. We shall sympathize with His longing for the salvation of men. We shall feel the same tender craving for souls that He has felt. COL 49.3"
"If ye love me, keep my commandments."
The EGW passage directly expands on the idea that love for Jesus manifests in obedience and service, which is the core message of John 14:15.
"For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:"
The EGW passage reflects the idea that the love of Christ motivates and compels believers, mirroring the sentiment expressed in 2 Corinthians 5:14. It's a direct principle derived from the verse.