"In that ancient ritual which is 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.” Romans 12:1 ; Ephesians 5:27 . PK 489.1"
"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.
"But whatsoever hath a blemish, that shall ye not offer: for it shall not be acceptable for you."
EGW explicitly references the concept of unblemished offerings and connects it to the need for Christians to be 'without blemish,' directly alluding to Leviticus 22:20 and other similar passages.
"The Hebrew worthies were men of like passions with ourselves; yet, notwithstanding the seductive influences of the court of Babylon, they stood firm, because they depended upon a strength that is infinite. In them a heathen nation beheld an illustration of the goodness and beneficence of God, and of the love of Christ. And in their experience we have an instance of the triumph of principle over temptation, of purity over depravity, of devotion and loyalty over atheism and idolatry. PK 489.2"
"Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months."
Both passages discuss the shared humanity and passions of individuals while highlighting their faithfulness and reliance on God. The EGW passage uses the Hebrew worthies as an example, while James uses Elijah. The connection is thematic rather than a direct allusion.
"The spirit that possessed Daniel, the youth of today may have; they may draw from the same source of strength, possess the same power of self-control, and reveal the same grace in their lives, even under circumstances as unfavorable. Though surrounded by temptations to self-indulgence, especially in our large cities, where every form of sensual gratification is made easy and inviting, yet by divine grace their purpose to honor God may remain firm. Through strong resolution and vigilant watchfulness they may withstand every temptation that assails the soul. But only by him who determines to do right because it is right will the victory be gained. PK 489.3"
"I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me."
The EGW passage directly echoes the principle of Philippians 4:13, stating that through divine grace and resolution, individuals can overcome temptations and honor God, drawing strength from the same source as Daniel. This aligns with the idea of being able to do all things through Christ who strengthens.