"It was by personal contact and association that Jesus trained His disciples. Sometimes He taught them, sitting among them on the mountainside; sometimes beside the sea, or walking with them by the way, He revealed the mysteries of the kingdom of God. He did not sermonize as men do today. Wherever hearts were open to receive the divine message, He unfolded the truths of the way of salvation. He did not command His disciples to do this or that, but said, “Follow Me.” On His journeys through country and cities He took them with Him, that they might see how He taught the people. He linked their interest with His, and they united with Him in the work. DA 152.1"
"And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach,"
The EGW passage describes Jesus' method of training disciples through personal interaction and example, which aligns with Mark 3:14's statement that the disciples were to 'be with him.' While not a direct quote or explicit allusion, the underlying principle of learning through association is present in both.
"As disciples of Christ we shall not mingle with the world from a mere love of pleasure, to unite with them in folly. Such associations can result only in harm. We should never give sanction to sin by our words or our deeds, our silence or our presence. Wherever we go, we are to carry Jesus with us, and to reveal to others the preciousness of our Saviour. But those who try to preserve their religion by hiding it within stone walls lose precious opportunities of doing good. Through the social relations, Christianity comes in contact with the world. Everyone who has received the divine illumination is to brighten the pathway of those who know not the Light of life. DA 152.3"
"Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven."
Both passages emphasize the importance of Christians influencing the world through their actions and presence, allowing others to see the light of Christ. The EGW passage expands on how this 'light' should shine through social interactions.
"But now I have written unto you not to keep company, if any man that is called a brother be a fornicator, or covetous, or an idolater, or a railer, or a drunkard, or an extortioner; with such an one no not to eat."
Both passages address the issue of associating with those who engage in sinful behavior. While 1 Corinthians 5:11 specifically mentions avoiding certain types of individuals, the EGW passage speaks more broadly about not uniting with the world in folly and avoiding sanctioning sin. The underlying theme of separation from sin is present in both.
"We should all become witnesses for Jesus. Social power, sanctified by the grace of Christ, must be improved in winning souls to the Saviour. Let the world see that we are not selfishly absorbed in our own interests, but that we desire others to share our blessings and privileges. Let them see that our religion does not make us unsympathetic or exacting. Let all who profess to have found Christ, minister as He did for the benefit of men. DA 152.4"
"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 sentiment of Matthew 5:16, urging believers to let their actions reflect Christ's character and attract others to Him. Both emphasize the importance of good works as a testimony.
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
The EGW passage directly echoes the call to be witnesses for Jesus, empowered by the Holy Spirit, as described in Acts 1:8. It expands on the practical implications of being a witness in daily life.
"Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."
Both passages highlight the importance of service and ministry. Matthew 20:28 describes Jesus' own ministry as one of service, while the EGW passage encourages believers to minister to others as Christ did, demonstrating a similar spirit of selflessness and compassion.
"We should never give to the world the false impression that Christians are a gloomy, unhappy people. If our eyes are fixed on Jesus, we shall see a compassionate Redeemer, and shall catch light from His countenance. Wherever His Spirit reigns, there peace abides. And there will be joy also, for there is a calm, holy trust in God. DA 152.5"
"Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid."
The EGW passage emphasizes the peace and joy that should characterize Christians, contrasting it with a gloomy demeanor. This aligns with the peace that Jesus offers in John 14:27, which is distinct from worldly peace and dispels fear and trouble.
"Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice."
The EGW passage speaks against Christians appearing gloomy and unhappy, advocating for joy rooted in Christ. This resonates with Philippians 4:4, which commands believers to rejoice always in the Lord.