"254.1 A little girl once asked me, “Are you going to speak this afternoon?” “No, not this afternoon,” I replied. “I am very sorry,” she said. “I thought you were going to speak, and I asked several of my companions to come. Will you please ask the minister to speak easy words that we can understand? Will you please tell him that we do not understand large words, like `justification’ and `sanctification’? We do not know what these words mean.” CT 254.2"
"So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air."
The EGW passage illustrates the importance of using language that is easily understood, especially when teaching spiritual concepts. This directly echoes the principle in 1 Corinthians 14:9, which emphasizes the need for clear and understandable communication. The connection is strong and relevant. Changed relation_type to thematic_parallel as it is not a direct principle but a parallel situation.
"The little girl's complaint contains a lesson worthy of consideration by teachers and ministers. Are there not many who would do well to heed the request, “Speak easy words, that we may know what you mean”? CT 254.3 Make your explanations clear, for I know that there are many who do not understand many of the things said to them. Let the Holy Spirit mold and fashion your speech, cleansing it from all dross. Speak as little children, remembering that there are many well advanced in years who are but little children in understanding. CT 254.4"
"So likewise ye, except ye utter by the tongue words easy to be understood, how shall it be known what is spoken? for ye shall speak into the air."
Both passages emphasize the importance of clear and easily understood communication. EGW's quote, "Speak easy words, that we may know what you mean" directly reflects the principle in 1 Corinthians 14:9 about speaking in a way that is understandable.
"By earnest prayer and diligent effort we are to obtain a fitness for speaking. This fitness includes uttering every syllable clearly, placing the force and emphasis where it belongs. Speak slowly. Many speak rapidly, hurrying one word after another so fast that the effect of what they say is lost. Into what you say put the spirit and life of Christ. CT 254.5"
"If any man speak, let him speak as the oracles of God; if any man minister, let him do it as of the ability which God giveth: that God in all things may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom be praise and dominion for ever and ever. Amen."
Both passages address the manner of speaking, emphasizing the importance of speaking with God's authority and with clarity. EGW focuses on clear articulation and emphasis, while 1 Peter 4:11 encourages speaking 'as the oracles of God.'