"Historical and Theological Lore As a preparation for Christian work many think it essential to acquire an extensive knowledge of historical and theological writings. They suppose that this knowledge will be an aid to them in teaching the gospel. But their laborious study of the opinions of men tends to the enfeebling of their ministry rather than to its strengthening. As I see libraries filled with ponderous volumes of historical and theological lore, I think, Why spend money for that which is not bread? The sixth chapter of John tells us more than can be found in such works. Christ says: “I am the bread of life: he that cometh to Me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on Me shall never thirst.” “I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live forever.” “He that believeth on Me hath everlasting life.” “The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” John 6:35, 51, 47, 63 . CT 379"
"It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life."
EGW directly quotes John 6:63 and uses it to emphasize the spiritual nature of Christ's words, contrasting it with the perceived value of historical and theological lore.
"Wherefore do ye spend money for that which is not bread? and your labour for that which satisfieth not? hearken diligently unto me, and eat ye that which is good, and let your soul delight itself in fatness."
EGW directly quotes and alludes to Isaiah 55:2, using the phrase 'spend money for that which is not bread' in the same context of seeking true spiritual nourishment.
"If the time and effort spent in seeking to grasp the bright ideas of infidels were given to studying the precious things of the word of God, thousands who now sit in darkness and in the shadow of death would be rejoicing in the glory of the Light of life. CT 379.1"
"The people which sat in darkness saw great light; and to them which sat in the region and shadow of death light is sprung up."
Both passages use the imagery of darkness and light to represent spiritual ignorance and enlightenment. EGW's phrase 'shadow of death' and 'Light of life' directly echoes the language of Matthew 4:16.
"There is a study of history that is not to be condemned. Sacred history was one of the studies in the schools of the prophets. In the record of His dealings with the nations were traced the footsteps of Jehovah. So today we are to consider the dealings of God with the nations of the earth. We are to see in history the fulfillment of prophecy, to study the workings of Providence in the great reformatory movements, and to understand the progress of events in the marshaling of the nations for the final conflict of the great controversy. CT 379.3"
"I will remember the works of the Lord: surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, and talk of thy doings."
Both passages encourage reflection on God's actions in the past. The Psalm focuses on remembering God's wonders, while EGW applies this to studying sacred history and God's dealings with nations. The connection is thematic and supports the idea of learning from the past.
"Now all these things happened unto them for ensamples: and they are written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the world are come."
Both passages suggest that historical events serve as examples or lessons for those living later. Paul states that past events were written for admonition, while EGW argues that studying history helps us understand God's dealings and the fulfillment of prophecy. The connection is thematic and supports the idea of learning from the past.