"The words of Inspiration were verified: “The entrance of Thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple.” Psalm 119:130 . The study of the Scriptures was working a mighty change in the minds and hearts of the people. The papal rule had placed upon its subjects an iron yoke which held them in ignorance and degradation. A superstitious observance of forms had been scrupulously maintained; but in all their service the heart and intellect had had little part. The preaching of Luther, setting forth the plain truths of God's word, and then the word itself, placed in the hands of the common people, had aroused their dormant powers, not only purifying and ennobling the spiritual nature, but imparting new strength and vigor to the intellect. GC 195.1"
"The entrance of thy words giveth light; it giveth understanding unto the simple."
Ellen White directly references Psalms 119:130 in this passage.
"Persons of all ranks were to be seen with the Bible in their hands, defending the doctrines of the Reformation. The papists who had left the study of the Scriptures to the priests and monks now called upon them to come forward and refute the new teachings. But, ignorant alike of the Scriptures and of the power of God, priests and friars were totally defeated by those whom they had denounced as unlearned and heretical. “Unhappily,” said a Catholic writer, “Luther had persuaded his followers to put no faith in any other oracle than the Holy Scriptures.”—D'Aubigne, b. 9, ch. 11. Crowds would gather to hear the truth advocated by men of little education, and even discussed by them with learned and eloquent theologians. The shameful ignorance of these great men was made apparent as their arguments were met by the simple teachings of God's word. Laborers, soldiers, women, and even children, were better acquainted with the Bible teachings than were the priests and learned doctors. GC 195.2"
"These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so."
Both passages highlight the importance of individuals studying scripture for themselves and comparing it to teachings. The EGW quote describes people of all ranks defending Reformation doctrines with the Bible, while Acts 17:11 praises the Bereans for diligently examining the scriptures. Both emphasize the value of personal Bible study.
"Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus."
Both passages highlight the contrast between the learned religious authorities and ordinary people who, through faith and study of scripture, demonstrate a deeper understanding. The Acts passage describes the astonishment of the authorities at the boldness and understanding of Peter and John, despite their lack of formal education, while the EGW passage describes a similar phenomenon during the Reformation.
"The contrast between the disciples of the gospel and the upholders of popish superstition was no less manifest in the ranks of scholars than among the common people. “Opposed to the old champions of the hierarchy, who had neglected the study of languages and the cultivation of literature, ... were generous-minded youth, devoted to study, investigating Scripture, and familiarizing themselves with the masterpieces of antiquity. Possessing an active mind, an elevated soul, and intrepid heart, these young men soon acquired such knowledge that for a long period none could compete with them.... Accordingly, when these youthful defenders of the Reformation met the Romish doctors in any assembly, they attacked them with such ease and confidence that these ignorant men hesitated, became embarrassed, and fell into a contempt merited in the eyes of all.”— Ibid., b. 9, ch. 11. GC 195.3"
"But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;"
Both passages illustrate how those considered less knowledgeable or powerful can confound the wise and mighty through God's power. The EGW quote describes young, educated reformers challenging the ignorant hierarchy, while 1 Corinthians 1:27 states God's choice of the foolish to confound the wise.
"As for these four children, God gave them knowledge and skill in all learning and wisdom: and Daniel had understanding in all visions and dreams."
Both passages contrast those who are skilled in religious matters. Daniel 1:17 speaks of God giving knowledge and skill to Daniel and his companions, while the EGW passage speaks of the reformers being more knowledgeable than the 'old champions of the hierarchy.'