“For too long students of Scripture have jumped historically from the fall of Jerusalem to the birth of Jesus, skipping some of the key moments in the redemptive story and they key theological role that these wrongly named ‘intertestamental’ years and texts play in biblical theology. George Athas invites us into this era and its literature, showing how the communities of the Second Temple as well as enduring exile continue the history of redemption that emerges with the same community gathered around the temple in the Gospels and Acts. Historically accurate, carefully presented, Bridging the Testaments is an extremely helpful invitation to what is for many unfortunately the ‘dark ages’ of Jewish and biblical history.”
—Mark J. Boda, professor of Old Testament, McMaster Divinity College
“This is a winsomely written yet carefully nuanced account of the historical landscape of Judea in the Second Temple period. It is unburdened by excessive footnotes, yet clearly informed by extensive research. Athas helps us hear how passages from both the Jewish Scriptures and extrabiblical texts spoke to people in their lived contexts during this period—and makes some provocative suggestions for how several Old Testament texts are actually part of the bridge between the testaments. I highly recommend this book to those looking for a solid immersion into the story of the deceptively blank page that separates Malachi from Matthew.”
—David A. DeSilva, trustees’ distinguished professor of New Testament and Greek, Ashland Theological Seminary
“This masterpiece bridges the gap between the worlds of the Old and New Testaments and paints a clear picture of Second Temple Judaism during the centuries that precede the advent of the Messiah. Highly recommended.”
—Hélène Dallaire, Earl S. Kalland professor of Old Testament and Semitic languages and chair of Old Testament department, Denver Seminary
“This is an outstanding book—it is interesting, well-written, erudite, and relevant for anyone seeking to understand either the postexilic period or the social, historical, and religious background for the New Testament. . . . Furthermore, even if it is not required for class, it is a great read.”
—J. Daniel Hays, senior professor of Old Testament, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary
“This book contributes enormously to a thoughtful engagement of the biblical tradition as a cornerstone of the human reckoning with history.”
—Mark Leuchter, professor of ancient Judaism, Temple University
“I recommend this book to all who are interested in biblical history and theology.”
—Tremper Longman III, distinguished scholar and professor emeritus of biblical studies, Westmont College
