Intertestimental Period 2

The Intertestamental Period — Part 2 Bobby Stafford | church of Christ at Granby, Missouri What happened during the four centuries between the Old and New Testaments? Understanding those years helps us recognize the people, customs, and institutions we encounter throughout the Gospels and Acts. In this second lesson, we explore how God continued working through history and how the world was prepared for the coming of Christ and the spread of the gospel. A World Prepared for Christ Daniel’s prophecies provide the background for changing empires. The spread of Greek language and culture, followed by Roman roads and infrastructure, helped shape the world in which the apostles preached. (Daniel 2; Daniel 8–12) The Jewish Dispersion Why were Jewish communities found in so many cities visited by Paul? The dispersion, or Diaspora, explains how Jewish life and knowledge of Scripture spread beyond the homeland. (John 7:35) The Synagogue Synagogues became important places for prayer, Scripture reading, and instruction. Paul’s visit to Antioch of Pisidia shows how these gatherings provided opportunities to proclaim Christ. (Acts 13:14–16) The Septuagint The translation of the Hebrew Scriptures into Greek helped Greek-speaking people read and understand God’s word. We consider why this translation mattered in the centuries before Christ. The Sanhedrin The Jewish council exercised considerable religious authority. Understanding its leaders and influence helps us follow the trials of Jesus and the opposition faced by the apostles. (John 18) The Feast of Dedication John places Jesus in Jerusalem during this winter observance. Its connection with the Maccabean struggle and the rededication of the temple explains an important detail in the Gospel account. (John 10:22–23) Open your Bible and follow along. Learning the historical setting can deepen our understanding of Scripture and help us explain its message more clearly to others. Read the full sermon and preaching outline: https://www.granbychurchofchrist.org/... Download the Word manuscript: https://www.granbychurchofchrist.org/... Read Part 1: https://www.granbychurchofchrist.org/...    • Intertestamental Period   #BibleStudy #IntertestamentalPeriod #ChurchOfChrist https://granbychurchofchrist.org/ https://granbychurchofchrist.org/Serm...