"Some will be found whose minds have been so long debased that they will never in this life become what under more favorable circumstances they might have been. But the bright beams of the Sun of Righteousness may shine into the soul. It is their privilege to have the life that measures with the life of God. Plant in their minds uplifting, ennobling thoughts. Let your life make plain to them the difference between vice and purity, darkness and light. In your example let them read what it means to be a Christian. Christ is able to uplift the most sinful and place them where they will be acknowledged as children of God, joint heirs with Christ to the immortal inheritance. MH 169.1"
"But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall."
EGW directly uses the phrase "Sun of Righteousness," which is a clear allusion to Malachi 4:2. The surrounding context in EGW's writing further reinforces the connection by discussing the transformative power of Christ.
"Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Both passages discuss the transformative power of Christ, leading to a new life and a new identity. EGW's passage elaborates on the process of becoming a new creation, aligning with the core message of 2 Corinthians 5:17.
"By the miracle of divine grace, many may be fitted for lives of usefulness. Despised and forsaken, they have become utterly discouraged; they may appear stoical and stolid. But under the ministration of the Holy Spirit, the stupidity that makes their uplifting appear so hopeless will pass away. The dull, clouded mind will awake. The slave of sin will be set free. Vice will disappear, and ignorance will be overcome. Through the faith that works by love, the heart will be purified and the mind enlightened. MH 169.2"
"If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed."
Both passages focus on the freedom from sin that Christ offers. EGW's passage describes the process of being set free from the slavery of sin through the Holy Spirit, which directly relates to the concept of freedom presented in John 8:36.
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them."
Both passages highlight the idea that individuals are transformed and equipped for good works through Christ. EGW's passage describes how divine grace fits people for lives of usefulness, echoing the sentiment of Ephesians 2:10, which states that we are created in Christ Jesus for good works.