"In order that the earthly tabernacle might represent the heavenly, it must be perfect in all its parts, and it must be, in every smallest detail, like the pattern in the heavens. So it is with the characters of those who are finally accepted in the sight of heaven. CT 60.1"
"Who serve unto the example and shadow of heavenly things, as Moses was admonished of God when he was about to make the tabernacle: for, See, saith he, that thou make all things according to the pattern shewed to thee in the mount."
Both passages emphasize the importance of a perfect pattern or representation. Hebrews 8:5 speaks of the earthly tabernacle being made according to a heavenly pattern, while the EGW quote extends this concept to the characters of those accepted by God. The connection is strong and meaningful.
"The Son of God came down to this earth that in Him men and women might have a representation of the perfect characters which alone God could accept. Through the grace of Christ every provision has been made for the salvation of the human family. It is possible for every transaction entered into by those who claim to be Christians to be as pure as the deeds of Christ. And the soul who accepts the virtues of Christ's character and appropriates the merits of His life is as precious in the sight of God as is His own beloved Son. Sincere and uncorrupted faith is to Him as gold and frankincense and myrrh—the gifts of the Wise Men to the Child of Bethlehem, and the evidence of their faith in Him as the promised Messiah. CT 60.2"
"For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him."
The EGW passage discusses Christ's role in providing a representation of perfect character and the possibility of Christians embodying Christ's virtues. This aligns with 2 Corinthians 5:21, which speaks of Christ becoming sin for us so that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. Both passages highlight the transformative power of Christ in shaping character.
"***** Let the child and the youth be taught that every mistake, every fault, every difficulty, conquered, becomes a steppingstone to better and higher things. It is through such experiences that all who have ever made life worth the living have achieved success.— Education, 296 . CT 60.3"
"And not only so, but we glory in tribulations also: knowing that tribulation worketh patience; And patience, experience; and experience, hope: And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us."
The EGW passage describes how overcoming difficulties leads to growth and success, acting as stepping stones. Romans 5:3-5 presents a similar idea, stating that tribulation leads to patience, experience, and hope. The thematic parallel is clear: both passages emphasize the positive role of challenges in personal development.