Chapter 17: Myth—Giving 10% Is A Tithe

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Myth—Giving 10% Is A Tithe

[20] Now a go-between (intermediary) has to do with and

implies more than one party [there can be no mediation 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].

[21] Is the Law then contrary and opposed to the promises of God? Of course not! For if a Law had been given which could

confer [spiritual] life, then righteousness and right standing with God would certainly have come by Law.

[22] But the Scriptures [picture all mankind as sinners] shut up and imprisoned by sin, so that [the inheritance, blessing] which

was promised through faith in Jesus Christ (the Messiah) might be given (released, delivered, and committed) to [all] those who believe [who adhere to and trust and rely on Him].

[23] Now before the faith came, we were perpetually guarded under the Law, kept in custody in preparation for the faith that was destined to be revealed (unveiled, disclosed),

[24] So that the Law served [to us Jews] as our trainer [our guardian, our guide to Christ, to lead us] until Christ [came], that we might be justified (declared righteous, put in right standing with God) by and through faith.

[25] But now that the faith has come, we are no longer under a trainer (the guardian of our childhood).

[26] For in Christ Jesus you are all sons of God through faith.

[27] For as many [of you] as were baptized into Christ [into a spiritual union and communion with Christ, the Anointed one,

the Messiah] have put on (clothed yourselves with) Christ.