Just prior to the first Advent of Christ...
The time between the testaments was one of great ferment and upheaval - a time of the realignment of the traditional power blocs and the passing of a cultural tradition that had been dominant for almost 3,000 years.
(Not unlike TODAY)
· In biblical history, this span of 400 or so years; separates the time of Nehemiah from the birth of Christ and is known as the intertestamental period (432 - 5BC). It is sometimes referred to as the 'Silent Years'.
(Do you sense the Lord about to speak?)
· God had not spoken or moved in any significant fashion for over 400 years.
(Creating a spiritual hunger among his people)
· These were years of great oppression and internal strife.
(The Lord was disciplining, refining and preparing his people for a monumental turn of events)
· Many powerful groups had arisen and were predominant during the period just prior to the birth of Christ.
(Take a look around today!)
· The time was ripe for Heaven to speak!
(Need convincing?!)