Abide – The Journey

The final words of the Old Testament echo with both warning and promise. In the book of Malachi, God speaks of coming judgment, a refining fire, and a messenger who will prepare the way for the Lord. And then—the voice of prophecy falls silent.

What follows is a period of nearly 400 years, often called the Intertestamental Period or the Silent Years. Although the Bible offers no canonical record of this time, history was anything but quiet. It was a time of political upheaval, religious development, and cultural transformation—all of which would shape the world into which Jesus Christ would be born.

This chapter serves as a bridge between the Old and New Testaments, highlighting the key developments that occurred during these centuries and preparing the reader to understand the setting of the Gospels.

During this time, Judaism evolved in several key ways:

• Synagogues emerged as centers of worship and teaching, especially for Jews living far from the temple in Jerusalem.
• The Hebrew Scriptures were translated into Greek (known as the Septuagint), making the Scriptures accessible to Jews across the Greek-speaking world.
• Several Jewish sects developed, each interpreting the law and expectations for the Messiah in different ways:
  • Pharisees emphasized strict observance of the Law and traditions.
  • Sadducees were temple-focused and aligned with political power.
  • Essenes withdrew from society, anticipating divine judgment.
  • Zealots advocated for violent resistance to Roman occupation.

Amid this diversity, the longing for a Messiah—a deliverer promised by the prophets—grew stronger. Many expected a political and military leader who would liberate Israel and restore its glory.

Though no prophetic books were written during these centuries, the voice of God was not forgotten. The people remembered the promises of Isaiah, Jeremiah, Malachi, and others. They awaited:

• A messenger who would prepare the way
• A king from David’s line
• A new covenant written on hearts
• A light for the Gentiles and glory for Israel

The stage was set, the world was watching, and the fullness of time had come (Galatians 4:4). Into this moment—after centuries of longing—would come the cry of a baby in Bethlehem, and the beginning of the greatest chapter in God’s story: the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Understanding this period helps us make sense of the New Testament:

• Why were the Pharisees so prominent?
• Why were the Jews expecting a conquering king?
• Why did Roman rule cause so much tension?
• Why was the temple both central and contested?

The answers lie in these silent yet formative centuries. By the time the New Testament opens, the world was hungry for hope, longing for a Savior—and the voice crying in the wilderness was about to break the silence.