"unlike the lordly priests of Rome, followed the example of their Master, who “came not to be ministered unto, but to minister.” They fed the flock of God, leading them to the green pastures and living fountains of His holy word. Far from the monuments of human pomp and pride the people assembled, not in magnificent churches or grand cathedrals, but beneath the shadow of the mountains, in the Alpine valleys, or, in time of danger, in some rocky stronghold, to listen to the words of truth from the servants of Christ. The pastors not only preached the gospel, but they visited the sick, catechized the children, admonished the erring, and labored to settle disputes and promote harmony and brotherly love. In times of peace they were sustained by the freewill offerings of the people; but, like Paul the tentmaker, each learned some trade or profession by which, if necessary, to provide for his own support. GC 68.1"
"Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many."
EGW directly quotes Matthew 20:28.
"I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep."
The passage in GC describes pastors as feeding the flock, which aligns with the shepherd imagery in John 10:11. The idea of sacrifice is also present, though not as directly stated as in John.
"Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which he hath purchased with his own blood."
Both passages discuss the responsibility of spiritual leaders to care for and 'feed' the flock of God. The EGW passage describes pastors ministering to the people, while Acts 20:28 instructs overseers to feed the church.
"From their pastors the youth received instruction. While attention was given to branches of general learning, the Bible was made the chief study. The Gospels of Matthew and John were committed to memory, with many of the Epistles. They were employed also in copying the Scriptures. Some manuscripts contained the whole Bible, others only brief selections, to which some simple explanations of the text were added by those who were able to expound the Scriptures. Thus were brought forth the treasures of truth so long concealed by those who sought to exalt themselves above God. GC 68.2"
"And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus."
2 Timothy 3:15 highlights the importance of knowing scripture from a young age. The EGW passage describes youth receiving instruction and studying the Bible, which aligns with the theme of early scriptural education.
"And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart:"
Deuteronomy 6:6 speaks of internalizing God's word. The EGW passage describes youth committing scripture to memory, reflecting a similar principle of internalizing and treasuring God's word. However, it's not a direct principle, but a thematic parallel.