"On the same principle it is better to request than to command; the one thus addressed has opportunity to prove himself loyal to right principles. His obedience is the result of choice rather than compulsion. Ed 290.1"
"And if it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."
Both passages emphasize the importance of choice and free will in serving or obeying. Joshua 24:15 presents the Israelites with a choice, and EGW discusses the value of obedience resulting from choice rather than compulsion. This is a valid thematic parallel.
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
Romans 12:1 beseeches rather than commands, appealing to the will. EGW echoes this principle in the context of education, suggesting that requesting is better than commanding to foster willing obedience. The connection is valid, though not overwhelmingly strong, hence the slight confidence adjustment.
"The rules governing the schoolroom should, so far as possible, represent the voice of the school. Every principle involved in them should be so placed before the student that he may be convinced of its justice. Thus he will feel a responsibility to see that the rules which he himself has helped to frame are obeyed. Ed 290.2"
"For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost, and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things;"
Both passages highlight the importance of involving those affected in the decision-making process. The EGW quote discusses involving students in framing school rules, while Acts 15:28 describes the apostles' decision-making process, emphasizing that their decision seemed good to both the Holy Spirit and themselves. The connection lies in the principle of shared responsibility and agreement.
"Rules should be few and well considered; and when once made, they should be enforced. Whatever it is found impossible to change, the mind learns to recognize and adapt itself to; but the possibility of indulgence induces desire, hope, and uncertainty, and the results are restlessness, irritably, and insubordination. Ed 290.3"
"Let all things be done decently and in order."
The EGW quote emphasizes the importance of consistent and well-considered rules, which aligns with the principle of orderliness expressed in 1 Corinthians 14:40. Both passages advocate for a structured and predictable environment.