Add parallel Print Page Options

18 For if the inheritance [of the promise depends on observing] the Law [as these false teachers would like you to believe], it no longer [depends] on the promise; however, God gave it to Abraham [as a free gift solely] by virtue of His promise.

19 What then was the purpose of the Law? It was added [later on, after the promise, to disclose and expose to men their guilt] because of transgressions and [to make men more conscious of the sinfulness] of sin; and it was intended to be in effect until the Seed (the Descendant, the Heir) should come, to and concerning Whom the promise had been made. And it [the Law] was arranged and ordained and appointed through the instrumentality of angels [and was given] by the hand (in the person) of a go-between [Moses, an intermediary person between God and man].

20 Now a go-between (intermediary) has to do with and implies more than one party [there can be no mediator with just one person]. Yet God is [only] one Person [and He was the sole party in giving that promise to Abraham. But the Law was a contract between two, God and Israel; its validity was dependent on both].

Read full chapter

Bible Gateway Recommends

Amplified Thinline Holy Bible--bonded leather, black
Amplified Thinline Holy Bible--bonded leather, black
Retail: $49.99
Our Price: $33.99
Save: $16.00 (32%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
Amplified Holy Bible, XL Edition--soft leather-look, burgundy
Amplified Holy Bible, XL Edition--soft leather-look, burgundy
Retail: $52.99
Our Price: $34.49
Save: $18.50 (35%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
Amplified Thinline Holy Bible--bonded leather, black (indexed)
Amplified Thinline Holy Bible--bonded leather, black (indexed)
Retail: $64.99
Our Price: $43.99
Save: $21.00 (32%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars
Amplified Outreach Bible, Paperback, Case of 24
Amplified Outreach Bible, Paperback, Case of 24
Retail: $239.76
Our Price: $169.99
Save: $69.77 (29%)
Amplified Compact Holy Bible--soft leather-look, camel/burgundy
Amplified Compact Holy Bible--soft leather-look, camel/burgundy
Retail: $39.99
Our Price: $27.99
Save: $12.00 (30%)
4.5 of 5.0 stars