"The priests and rulers were called to be the representatives of God to the nation; they should have corrected the abuses of the temple court. They should have given to the people an example of integrity and compassion. Instead of studying their own profit, they should have considered the situation and needs of the worshipers, and should have been ready to assist those who were not able to buy the required sacrifices. But this they did not do. Avarice had hardened their hearts. DA 156.1"
"For the priest’s lips should keep knowledge, and they should seek the law at his mouth: for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts."
Malachi 2:7 states the duty of the priests to teach and guide the people. The EGW passage describes how the priests failed in this duty, thus violating the principle outlined in Malachi. The connection is direct and relevant.
"Son of man, prophesy against the shepherds of Israel, prophesy, and say unto them, Thus saith the Lord God unto the shepherds; Woe be to the shepherds of Israel that do feed themselves! should not the shepherds feed the flocks? Ye eat the fat, and ye clothe you with the wool, ye kill them that are fed: but ye feed not the flock. The diseased have ye not strengthened, neither have ye healed that which was sick, neither have ye bound up that which was broken, neither have ye brought again that which was driven away, neither have ye sought that which was lost; but with force and with cruelty have ye ruled them."
Ezekiel 34:2-4 condemns the shepherds (leaders) of Israel for neglecting and exploiting the flock. The EGW passage similarly criticizes the priests and rulers for prioritizing their own profit over the needs of the people. The themes of leadership failure and exploitation are strongly parallel.