The Holy War [Paperback]

John Bunyan (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: December 1, 1998

The Holy War appeared in 1682. Although The Pilgrim's Progress has always been the most popular of Bunyan's numerous works, The Holy War holds a firm second place in the hearts of Christians throughout the world.

The story recalls the fall and redemption of mankind under the guise of a beseiged city. The city of Mansoul originally belonged by right to Shaddai or God, but was betrayed through Ear Gate and Eye Gate into the hands of Diabolus or the Devil, a besieging giant who takes control. In the hands of the enemy, Mansoul loses its Major, Lord Understanding, and Mr. Conscience is dismissed from his post of Recorder. Lord Will-be-Will becomes the Lord of Mansoul--man's fallen will, selfwill, and ill-will all combined in one unpleasant and anti-God character.

Mansoul is recaptured by Emmanuel's army and Diabolus is driven out. There is triumph over sin and evil-one of the Bible's most comforting themes.

The Bunyan characters in The Holy War are fascinating: Mr. Prejudice, Captain Anything, Ill-pause, Captain Self-denial, Lord Understanding, Miss Humblemind, Master Thinwell, and many others.

Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover

The Holy War Once upon a time in the town of Mansoul, a fierce battle raged to take control away from the rightful Prince. Who will be the conquering Prince? Diabolus or Emmanuel? And what can the inhabitants do to resist the attacks of the evil one? Your soul is under attack from the forces of evil. Through this powerful allegory, you will learn how to:Build up your defenses, flood your moat, and prepare for war!Bunyan will illuminate your understanding and show you:* When your will is in line with Christ, you can accomplish anything.* Spiritual attack is constant and can be deadly.* The enemy will stop at nothing to possess your soul.* Christ the Conqueror is on your side, and with His help, you have nothing to fear! --This text refers to an alternate Paperback edition.

About the Author

John Bunyan (1628-1688) was a Baptist preacher and author who received very little formal education and at an early age worked in the trade of his father, who was a tinker. After his conversion in his twenties, Bunyan began to preach and to write. In 1660, after the restoration of Charles II, the Nonconformists were subjected to religious persecution. Because Bunyan refused to give up his preaching, he was arrested and placed in the Bedford jail, where he remained for nearly twelve years. During his imprisonment, Bunyan wrote many of his most acclaimed works.

Product Details

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Emerald House Group (December 1, 1998)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1840300264
• ISBN-13: 978-1840300260
• Product Dimensions: 8 x 5.4 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 8.5 ounces
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (16 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #3,948,115 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

31 of 31 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A true classic on spiritual warfare!, April 6, 2000

By 

al ellefson - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Holy War (Paperback)

Forget Frank Perretti! Bunyan's allegory on spiritual warfare is absolutely profound. The old tinker of Bedford (a true independent Baptist!) knew whereof he spoke. The chronicles of Mansoul and the great battle for its mind, heart and spirit make difficult reading to be sure, but you will be rewarded for your perseverance a hundredfold!

BONUS: Bunyan uses real army strategems and tactics in his descriptions of the symbolic battles. He is believed to have picked up these details while a soldier in Cromwell's New Model Army.

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Life-changing., June 2, 1999

By 

[e-mail] (New York City) - See all my reviews

This review is from: The Holy War (Paperback)

Presents a whole new perspective on truth and Christianity. John Bunyan's knowledge and insight make every allegory dense with meaning. Great for Bible study. You'll never look at the way you live your life the same way again.

25 of 25 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars John Bunyan knows mankind., October 16, 1998

By A Customer

This review is from: The Holy War (Paperback)

Bunyan disects the mind and soul of man and lays bare the faults of the individual that get in the way of doing right. He illustrates how one, by effort, can overcome their lower selves and make spiritual progress. Bunyan shows us the assistance that is available for all, if consistant right effort is made and if that assistance is asked for. This book helped me to see more clearly that 'God is not mocked' We reap what we have sown. Yet that Gods laws are not carried out for our punishment, but for our benifit. A very worthwile book by a man who knew mankind and understood the teachings of Jesus and Paul.