Why does the history of the intertestamental period need to be studied?

Answer 1

Having a basic grasp of these four centuries (roughly between Malachi and the emergence of John the Baptist) will help the student understand the context into which Jesus was born and conducted His ministry. The Septuagint is translated during this period and the synagogue emerges. Also, the political context develops to form the back drop for the ministry of Jesus and the destruction of the temple in AD 70.