"Those who have a correct view of the character and work of Christ, will not become self-sufficient or self- exalted. The weakness and inefficiency of their own efforts, in contrast with those of the Son of God, will keep them humble, distrustful of self, and will lead them to rely on Christ for strength to do their work. Habitually dwelling upon Christ and His all-sufficient merits, increases faith, quickens the power of spiritual discernment, strengthens the desire to be like Him, and brings an earnestness into prayer that makes it efficacious. GW 166.1"
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
The EGW passage directly reflects the principle in Philippians 4:13. It speaks of relying on Christ for strength to do His work, which aligns with the idea of being able to do all things through Christ who strengthens us.
"Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God;"
The EGW passage directly echoes the sentiment of 2 Corinthians 3:5, emphasizing dependence on God rather than self-sufficiency. The concept of sufficiency coming from God is central to both.
"Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up."
Both passages connect humility with exaltation. The EGW passage states that a correct view of Christ leads to humility and reliance on Him, preventing self-exaltation. James 4:10 promises that humbling oneself before the Lord will result in being lifted up. The common theme is the inverse relationship between humility and divine favor.
"Irrelevant Anecdotes —Ministers should not make a practice of relating irrelevant anecdotes in connection with their sermons; for this detracts from the force of the truth presented. The relation of anecdotes or incidents that create a laugh or a light thought in the minds of the hearers is severely censurable. The truth should be clothed in chaste, dignified language; and the illustrations used should be of a like character. GW 166.2"
"Let all things be done decently and in order."
The EGW passage advocates for dignified and orderly presentation of truth, aligning with the principle of 1 Corinthians 14:40, 'Let all things be done decently and in order.' Both emphasize the importance of proper conduct and presentation.