"It is these great truths that old and young need to learn. We need to study the working out of God's purpose in the history of nations and in the revelation of things to come, that we may estimate at their true value things seen and things unseen; that we may learn what is the true aim of life; that, viewing the things of time in the light of eternity, we may put them to their truest and noblest use. Thus, learning here the principles of His kingdom and becoming its subjects and citizens, we may be prepared at His coming to enter with Him into its possession. Ed 184.1"
"While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal."
The EGW passage discusses valuing unseen, eternal things over temporal ones, which aligns with the principle in 2 Corinthians 4:18 about focusing on the unseen and eternal. It's a thematic parallel.
"But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:"
The EGW passage speaks of learning principles of God's kingdom to prepare for entering into its possession, which aligns with the principle of laying up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20) rather than focusing on earthly possessions. It's a direct principle.
"To an inheritance incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away, reserved in heaven for you,"
Both passages discuss an inheritance/kingdom to be obtained in the future, and the importance of understanding and valuing unseen things in light of eternity. EGW expands on the purpose of studying history and prophecy to prepare for this inheritance, which aligns with the idea of an inheritance 'reserved in heaven'.
"The day is at hand. For the lessons to be learned, the work to be done, the transformation of character to be effected, the time remaining is but too brief a span. Ed 184.2"
"But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer."
Both passages emphasize the imminence of the end and the need for preparation. EGW's statement about the brevity of time for learning, working, and transforming character directly echoes the sentiment of 1 Peter 4:7.
"The night is far spent, the day is at hand: let us therefore cast off the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light."
Both passages speak of the nearness of 'the day' and imply a need for action and change in light of its approach. EGW's call for transformation of character aligns with Romans 13:12's call to 'cast off the works of darkness and put on the armour of light'.
"Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanisheth away."
Both passages address the brevity of life and the limited time available. While James 4:14 focuses on the uncertainty of tomorrow, EGW uses the concept of a short span of time to emphasize the urgency of spiritual preparation. There is a clear thematic connection.