Between Malachi and Matthew is a span of at least 400 years. When we arrive at the Gospels, we read of Pharisees, Romans, and synagogues, none of which were present in the Old Testament.The Intertestamental Period is one of the best commentaries on the first-century Jewish climate. The sects, institutions, and divisions of Judaism-not to mention the rejection of Jesus as Messiah-is given clearer understanding by knowing what took place during this period. In this 13-lesson study of the period between the Testaments, Steven C. Hunter gives Bible students a window into the first-century world in which Jesus preached, was rejected, and crucified. The result will be a deeper understanding and richer appreciation for the New Testament world.