If men who are engaged in presenting and defending the truth of the Bible, undertake to investigate and show the fallacy and inconsistency of men who dishonestly turn the truth of God into a lie, Satan will stir up opponents enough to keep their pens constantly employed, while other branches of the work will be left to suffer. We must have more of the spirit of those men who were engaged in building the walls of Jerusalem. We are doing a great work, and cannot come down. If Satan can keep men answering the objections of opponents, thus hindering them from doing the most important work for the present time, his object is accomplished. GW 376.4 Discussions not to be Sought [From a personal testimony.] Young preachers should avoid discussions, for these do not increase spirituality or humbleness of mind. In some cases, it may be necessary to meet a proud boaster against the truth of God in open debate; but generally these discussions, either oral or written, result in more harm than good.…
"And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?"
The EGW passage directly references the story of Nehemiah building the walls of Jerusalem and quotes the phrase "I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down." This is a clear and intentional allusion.
"Generally, the influence of discussions upon our ministers is to make them self-sufficient, exalted in their own estimation. This is not all. Those who love to debate are unfitted for being pastors to the flock. They have trained their minds to meet opponents, and to say sarcastic things; and they cannot come down to meet hearts that are sorrowing, and that need to be comforted.... GW 377.2"
"Now as touching things offered unto idols, we know that we all have knowledge. Knowledge puffeth up, but charity edifieth."
Both passages discuss the dangers of knowledge leading to pride and self-sufficiency. The EGW passage connects this to ministers who are overly focused on debate, while 1 Corinthians 8:1 speaks more generally about knowledge puffing up. The thematic parallel is clear and relevant.
"Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted."
Both passages address the importance of humility and gentleness in dealing with others, especially those who are struggling. EGW expands on the negative consequences of a lack of these qualities, particularly for ministers.
"In the presentation of unpopular truth, which involves a heavy cross, preachers should be careful that every word is as God would have it. Their words should never cut. They should present the truth in humility, with the deepest love for souls, and an earnest desire for their salvation, and let the truth cut.— Testimonies for the Church 3:213-218 . GW 377.3"
"But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:"
Both passages emphasize the importance of speaking the truth with love and care. EGW specifically applies this to the presentation of unpopular truths.
"For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
While EGW advises preachers to present truth carefully so their words 'never cut' but rather 'let the truth cut', Hebrews 4:12 describes the Word of God as a sharp, penetrating instrument. There's a parallel in the idea of truth having a powerful, even potentially painful, impact, but the EGW quote focuses on the *manner* of delivery, while Hebrews focuses on the inherent power of the Word.