"The body is the only medium through which the mind and the soul are developed for the upbuilding of character. Hence it is that the adversary of souls directs his temptations to the enfeebling and degrading of the physical powers. His success here means the surrender to evil of the whole being. The tendencies of our physical nature, unless under the dominion of a higher power, will surely work ruin and death. MH 130.1"
"What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?"
Both passages emphasize the importance of the body and its role in spiritual life. EGW highlights the body as the medium for developing character and the target of temptation, while 1 Corinthians 6:19 states that the body is a temple of the Holy Spirit. There's a clear thematic connection regarding the body's significance.
"The body is to be brought into subjection. The higher powers of the being are to rule. The passions are to be controlled by the will, which is itself to be under the control of God. The kingly power of reason, sanctified by divine grace, is to bear sway in our lives. MH 130.2"
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
Both passages advocate for bringing the body under control and offering it as a sacrifice (living sacrifice in Romans, subjection in EGW). The EGW passage elaborates on the process of subjection, involving reason, will, and divine grace, which aligns with the concept of 'reasonable service' in Romans.
"And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts."
Both passages discuss the need to control the passions and desires of the flesh. EGW speaks of bringing the body into subjection and controlling passions, while Galatians 5:24 describes crucifying the flesh with its affections and lusts. The theme of overcoming sinful desires is central to both.
"In that ancient ritual which was the gospel in symbol, no blemished offering could be brought to God's altar. The sacrifice that was to represent Christ must be spotless. The word of God points to this as an illustration of what His children are to be—“a living sacrifice,” “holy and without blemish,” “well-pleasing to God.” Romans 12:1 , R.V., margin; Ephesians 5:27 . MH 130.4"
"I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service."
Ellen White directly references Romans 12:1 in this passage.
"That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish."
Ellen White directly references Ephesians 5:27 in this passage.