"The teaching of the Bible has a vital bearing upon man's prosperity in all the relations of this life. It unfolds the principles that are the cornerstone of a nation's prosperity—principles with which is bound up the well- being of society, and which are the safeguard of the family—principles without which no man can attain usefulness, happiness, and honor in this life, or can hope to secure the future, immortal life. There is no position in life, no phase of human experience, for which the teaching of the Bible is not an essential preparation. Studied and obeyed, the word of God would give to the world men of stronger and more active intellect than will the closest application to all the subjects that human philosophy embraces. It would give men of strength and solidity of character, of keen perception and sound judgment—men who would be an honor to God and a blessing to the world. PP 599.1"
"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people."
Both passages connect righteousness/biblical principles with national prosperity and well-being. EGW expands on the idea of righteousness affecting all aspects of life, while Proverbs focuses on the national level.
"In the study of the sciences also we are to obtain a knowledge of the Creator. All true science is but an interpretation of the handwriting of God in the material world. Science brings from her research only fresh evidences of the wisdom and power of God. Rightly understood, both the book of nature and the written word make us acquainted with God by teaching us something of the wise and beneficent laws through which He works. PP 599.2"
"For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:"
Both passages assert that creation reveals God's attributes. EGW emphasizes science as an interpretation of God's 'handwriting,' while Romans speaks of understanding God's 'eternal power and Godhead' through creation.
"The student should be led to see God in all the works of creation. Teachers should copy the example of the Great Teacher, who from the familiar scenes of nature drew illustrations that simplified His teachings and impressed them more deeply upon the minds of His hearers. The birds caroling in the leafy branches, the flowers of the valley, the lofty trees, the fruitful lands, the springing grain, the barren soil, the setting sun gilding the heavens with its golden beams—all served as means of instruction. He connected the visible works of the Creator with the words of life which He spoke, that whenever these objects should be presented to the eyes of His hearers, their thoughts might revert to the lessons of truth He had linked with them. PP 599.3"
"Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?"
Both passages highlight the use of nature as a teaching tool. EGW describes Jesus using nature to illustrate His teachings, while Matthew 6:26 uses birds as an example of God's provision.
"The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork."
Both passages emphasize that creation reveals God. EGW speaks of seeing God in all the works of creation, while Psalm 19:1 states that the heavens declare God's glory.
"is written upon every opening bud, upon the petals of every flower, and upon every spire of grass. Though the curse of sin has caused the earth to bring forth thorns and thistles, there are flowers upon the thistles and the thorns are hidden by roses. All things in nature testify to the tender, fatherly care of our God and to His desire to make His children happy. His prohibitions and injunctions are not intended merely to display His authority, but in all that He does He has the well-being of His children in view. He does not require them to give up anything that it would be for their best interest to retain. PP 599.4"
"For the invisible things of him from the creation of the world are clearly seen, being understood by the things that are made, even his eternal power and Godhead; so that they are without excuse:"
Both passages suggest that God's attributes are visible in creation. EGW focuses on God's tender care and desire for human happiness evident even amidst the curse of sin, while Romans speaks of understanding God's 'eternal power and Godhead' through creation.
"Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field;"
EGW directly references the thorns and thistles mentioned in Genesis 3:18 as a result of the curse, but then contrasts it with the beauty that still exists in nature, reflecting God's care. This is more than a thematic parallel; it's a direct allusion and expansion upon the Genesis verse.