How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"[...] Everything works together for good for them that love the Lord."
He had heard her say this before—it was her text, as Set thine house in order was his father's—but he knew that today she was saying it to him especially; she was trying to help him because she knew he was in trouble. (1.1.110-11)
Elizabeth is quoting a Bible verse, Romans 8:28, which is called "her text." It's as though she's chosen that biblical text as a motto for her life. Later we realize that it's because even though her early life was hard, it worked out; she found a father for John and a husband for herself.
Quote #8
And the Lord, as He had promised to the two or three first gathered together, sent others; and these brought others and created a church. From this parent branch, I the Lord blessed, other branches might grow and a mighty work be begun throughout the city and throughout the land. In the history of the Temple the Lord had raised up evangelists and teachers and prophets, and called them out into the field to do his work [...]. (1.1.204)
This is a description of how the little church has grown; the religious mission spreads. What started out as simple meetings between only a few people becomes a church, and then this spreads to other locations, like McDonald's or Starbucks, except with a spiritual purpose rather than a commercial one.
Quote #9
"Praise the Lord," said Elisha, standing on the doorstep, grinning.
"Praise the Lord," said John. This was the greeting always used among the saints. (1.1.208-09)
Elisha and John identify themselves as members of the religious community by using the unusual greeting. Rather than a "'sup?" or a "howdy", they use the phrase "Praise the Lord" to say hello to one another. It's like a secret handshake, letting each other know that they're in the club.