"Some desired that their children should be trained to become laborers in the cause. But how could this be accomplished? The colonies were passing through a severe financial depression; and many of the Sabbath keepers, with thousands of others, were greatly perplexed and overtaxed with the work of supplying their families with the necessities of life. Then how could they, at such a time, enter upon the expensive enterprise of establishing and supporting a denominational training school? LS 334.1"
"But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."
The EGW passage describes a situation where financial constraints make it difficult to pursue a spiritual goal (establishing a training school). This parallels the principle in Matthew 6:33, which encourages prioritizing the kingdom of God with the promise that material needs will be met.
"The canvassers pleaded that the school be organized without delay. Many of them had been thrown upon their own resources in early life, with but little school education; and their work among the people had led them to feel that they must have opportunity to fit themselves for more efficient service. These urged that if a school was not established soon in Australia, they would be obliged to bear the great expense of going to America to get the education necessary for the best success in their work. They also said that while a few of them might be able to do this, there were scores who might attend a school in Australia, but who could not go to the schools across the sea. LS 334.2"
"Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
The EGW passage highlights the need for individuals to equip themselves for more effective service through education. This aligns with the principle in 2 Timothy 2:15, which encourages diligent study to become approved workers.
"The Conference appointed a committee to outline plans, and another committee to study the question of location; and it authorized the holding of a worker's training school while waiting for the selection of a site and the erection of buildings. LS 334.3"
"Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business."
Both passages describe the appointment of committees to handle specific tasks within a religious community. While the specific tasks differ, the underlying principle of delegating responsibilities to qualified individuals is present in both passages.