"Meeting at Brother Collier's In the afternoon we went to the house of Brother Collier, where we proposed to hold a meeting that evening. We asked Brother Collier some questions regarding these men, but he gave us no information. “If the Lord sent you here,” he said, “you will ascertain what spirit governs them, and will solve the mystery for us.” LS 81"
"Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world."
The EGW passage directly reflects the principle of discerning spirits, as Brother Collier suggests that Ellen White will be able to discern the spirit governing the men in question. This aligns with the instruction in 1 John 4:1 to 'try the spirits.'
"These persons who made such lofty professions, were deceiving the unwary. They had much to say about charity covering a multitude of sins. I could not agree with their views and feelings, and felt that they were wielding a terrible power for evil, and was glad to get away from their presence. LS 81.2"
"And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins."
The EGW passage directly references the idea of 'charity covering a multitude of sins,' which is a clear allusion to 1 Peter 4:8. However, EGW disagrees with their interpretation of this concept.
"For when they speak great swelling words of vanity, they allure through the lusts of the flesh, through much wantonness, those that were clean escaped from them who live in error."
Both passages describe individuals who use deceptive words and allurements to mislead others. The EGW passage mentions 'lofty professions' and deceiving the unwary, while 2 Peter 2:18 speaks of 'great swelling words of vanity' and alluring through lusts.
"As soon as the views of these people were crossed, they manifested a stubborn, self-righteous spirit that rejected all instruction. Though professing great humility, they were boastful in their sophistry of sanctification, and resisted all appeals to reason. We felt that all our efforts to convince them of their error were useless, as they took the position that they were not learners, but teachers. LS 81.3"
"Be of the same mind one toward another. Mind not high things, but condescend to men of low estate. Be not wise in your own conceits."
Both passages address the issue of pride and resistance to instruction, highlighting the importance of humility and a teachable spirit.