The Holy War

John Bunyan (1628–1688) was born in Elstow, England, and his life was spared twice in his early years, something he believed God had done for a special purpose. In November 1660, when Bunyan arrived to preach in the little town of Lower Samsell, he was informed that a warrant had been issued for his arrest. Unwilling to denounce his Christian faith and his calling to the ministry, he was imprisoned for twelve years. Among the many writings he published during his imprisonment are The Holy City, Grace Abounding to the Chief of Sinners, and the most famous, The Pilgrim’s Progress. After his release, he continued to write and publish stirring works that have endured through time. Among these classics are The Holy War, Visions of Heaven and Hell, and Journey to Hell: The Life and Death of Mr. Badman. Daniel Frayer-Griggs (editor) is assistant professor of theology for the McAnulty College and Graduate School of Liberal Arts at Duquesne University, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He specializes in New Testament studies with a focus on the Gospels and historical Jesus research. His current research examines spiritual healing and exorcism traditions in the Gospels. He has secondary interests in Jewish apocalyptic literature and the apostle Paul. He holds a Ph. D. from Durham University and Master’s Degrees from Aquinas College, McNeese State, and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary.