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This first volume of the author’s History and Mystery series is an introductory look at the prophecies of the Bible and the apocalyptic writings in Revelation. The author explains in his forward: “The first segment of the multi-volume set is a series of some sixty essays relating to prophetic or theological topics that may be a bit ‘difficult’ or begging for a fuller explanation. The information provides a good base from which to start the search for information and understanding and is therefore placed in front.” The volume is set up for the best learning experience possible, with pertinent information included in a section entitled “Apocalyptic Background Studies” placed at the beginning. This informative section includes information on symbolism, biblical standards of weights and measures, biblical dreams and visions, and calendars of feast and holy days of major religions. It also includes “Practical Data for Basic Biblical Learning,” which discusses the importance of Babylon, Neo-Babylon, Babylon the Great, “The Basics of Applied Hermeneutics,” a study of angels and demons, as well as other important information concerning biblical revelation and prophecy. The final two sections consist of theological studies with information concerning hell, the Rapture, eschatological parables, and “End Times Studies” with a concentration on Revelation.
Calaway wishes in his forward for the reader to “Be a valiant, intrepid, investigator.” He has certainly provided the information required for readers to not only gain a great deal of valuable and informative facts but has also included essays to further one’s understanding of these facts. He writes in a conversational manner, which invites readers to ponder what is presented. This conversational manner helps in the understanding of some hard-to-comprehend facts. The book is organized so that the first section provides valuable knowledge that helps the reader’s comprehension of future discussions concerning prophecies in the Bible. As Calaway proclaims, his intent is to “introduce Bible names and terms that not only pertain directly or exclusively to prophecy and eschatology but also history, science, the mystery religions, ecclesiology, philosophy, ethics, religious aberrations and cults, anthropology, pagan or foreign religions and many other disciplines.” He manages to not just touch on these topics, but to expound upon them with an accessible prose that fosters understanding and the desire to learn more. It is a remarkable undertaking with a successful outcome.
As a biblical scholar and retired Navy chaplain, Calaway is well-positioned for this vast undertaking. After receiving a BA in English and religion with a minor in history from Baylor University, he attended Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, where he received a master’s degree in theology. Calaway is also a prolific writer with eight non-fiction books and a collection of fables to his credit, in addition to magazine and newspaper articles, plays, poetry, and essays. His dedication to providing the public with a comprehensive and accessible reference book concerning prophecy achieves fruition in this five-volume set, of which this is the first. If the following volumes hold as much information as the first, this series is indeed one from which readers can discover an in-depth study that illuminates historical, cultural, philosophical, and biblical information.
This volume offers an easy way to achieve biblical knowledge about prophecy. Written from a Judeo-Christian perspective, it is nevertheless an appropriate read for members of all religions as it provides a fascinating study of the most complex writings from the Bible. Calaway’s achievement both educates and inspires. Those wishing to study the apocalyptic prophecies will find enlightening work in this set of books. Calaway’s passion for biblical scholarship is evident in this remarkable addition to the world of biblical study.
RECOMMENDED by the US Review