"This is an illustration of the way in which we are to work. We must offer men something better than that which they possess, even the peace of Christ, which passeth all understanding. We must tell them of God's holy law, the transcript of His character, and an expression of that which He wishes them to become. Show them how infinitely superior to the fleeting joys and pleasures of the world is the imperishable glory of heaven. Tell them of the freedom and rest to be found in the Saviour. “Whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst,” He declared. Verse 14 . MH 157.1"
"But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life."
The EGW passage directly quotes John 4:14, making it a clear and explicit allusion.
"Lift up Jesus, crying, “Behold, the Lamb of God, that taketh away the sin of the world!” John 1:29 , A.R.V. He alone can satisfy the craving of the heart and give peace to the soul. MH 157.2"
"The next day John seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world."
Ellen White directly references John 1:29 in this passage.
"Of all people in the world, reformers should be the most unselfish, the most kind, the most courteous. In their lives should be seen the true goodness of unselfish deeds. The worker who manifests a lack of courtesy, who shows impatience at the ignorance or waywardness of others, who speaks hastily or acts thoughtlessly, may close the door to hearts so that he can never reach them. MH 157.3"
"Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself, is not puffed up,"
Both passages emphasize the importance of qualities like kindness, patience, and unselfishness, particularly for those in positions of influence or reform. The EGW passage describes the ideal reformer, while 1 Corinthians 13:4 outlines the characteristics of charity (love).
"As the dew and the still showers fall upon the withering plants, so let words fall gently when seeking to win men from error. God's plan is first to reach the heart. We are to speak the truth in love, trusting in Him to give it power for the reforming of the life. The Holy Spirit will apply to the soul the word that is spoken in love. MH 157.4 Naturally we are self-centered and opinionated. But when we learn the lessons that Christ desires to teach us, we become partakers of His nature; henceforth we live His life. The wonderful example of Christ, the matchless tenderness with which He entered into the feelings of others, weeping with those who wept, rejoicing with those who rejoiced, must have a deep influence upon the character of all who follow Him in sincerity. By kindly words and acts they will try to make the path easy for weary feet. MH 157.5"
"But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ:"
The phrase "speaking the truth in love" is a direct quote from Ephesians 4:15, making this an explicit allusion rather than just a direct principle.