The Ten Minute Bible Hour Podcast PLMN008 - It's De-Greekifying Time
Oct 29, 2025
Delve into the rich historical context bridging the Old and New Testaments. Discover the pivotal role of Rome and Augustus’ census in shaping early narratives. Learn about the power struggles after Alexander the Great’s untimely death and the division of his empire into three kingdoms. Explore the cultural clashes between Greek practices and Jewish customs, leading to rising tensions. Finally, uncover the roots of Jewish resentment under Seleucid rule that set the stage for revolt.
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Alexander's Death Created A Power Vacuum
- Alexander's early death left no strong heir and unleashed his generals to carve the empire apart.
- This power vacuum turned conquest leadership into a gladiatorial scramble among his generals.
Three Hellenistic Kingdoms Emerged
- Alexander's empire fractured into three major Hellenistic states: Antigonid, Ptolemaic, and Seleucid.
- The Seleucid realm became the primary power interacting with Judea and influencing Jewish life.
Cleopatra Connects Hellenistic Egypt To Rome
- Matt links Ptolemy I's dynasty to Cleopatra as a vivid historical thread connecting Hellenistic Egypt to Rome.
- He notes Cleopatra dies shortly before Jesus as Augustus consolidates Roman power.