The Empire Series is a collection of four separate books written by Alonzo T. Jones which cover the important nations of the Bible from the world flood to the second coming of Christ. The series is not merely a scholarly presentation of the history, but also the lessons to be learned from each of the nations; not merely their impact and importance of the past, but also their lingering and even yet active importance in this world's final hours. The four books contain some 69 maps and illustrations overall. Volume one of this present publication contains books I & II of the series-Great Empires of the Bible, and Great Empires of Prophecy, respectively. The first book covers from the world flood to the captivity of Judah by the empire of Babylon. The second book covers the empires from Babylon through to the breakup of the Western Roman Empire.Volume two contains books III & IV-Ecclesiastical Empire, and The Great Nations of Today, respectively. The first book covers the rule of the papal empire. The last book covers in more depth the end-time role of the papacy, the modern nations of Europe, the United States, and the Moslem empire-all in the light of history and the yet future fulfillment of bible prophecy.Jones, Alonzo Trevier (1850-1923) -. Editor, author, preacher. Jones became an SDA in 1874 while in the Army at Fort Walla Walla. He soon became involved in evangelism in the Northwest. He was called in 1885 to assist with periodical editorial work at the Pacific Press, where Ellet J. Waggoner was also working as editor. Jones' knowledge of history enabled him quickly to become the church's expert on the fulfillment of prophecy in the realm of religious liberty. With Waggoner, he pushed the frontiers of understanding the righteousness of Christ in relation to liberty and salvation. May of 1888 Senator Blair brought a national Sunday bill to the U. S. Senate, with Jones appearing later that year before a Senate committee to oppose that legislation on behalf of the church, the first of many testimonies he would give in those settings.During the 1890s both Jones and W. W. Prescott erred by supporting the prophetic claims of Anna Rice, but quickly repented on reproof from Ellen White. Jones continued his speaking and writing, publishing at least six major historical works during the next 10 years. Next to Ellen White, he is undoubtedly the most prolific writer the SDA denomination has ever had. In 1897 he became editor of the Review and Herald for a few years.- Adapted from the Adventist Pioneer Library."The Bible is the most ancient and the most comprehensive history that men possess. It came fresh from the fountain of eternal truth, and throughout the ages a divine hand has preserved its purity. It lights up the far-distant past, where human research in vain seeks to penetrate. In God's word only do we behold the power that laid the foundations of the earth and that stretched out the heavens. Here only do we find an authentic account of the origin of nations. Here only is given a history of our race unsullied by human pride or prejudice. "In the annals of human history the growth of nations, the rise and fall of empires, appear as dependent on the will and prowess of man. The shaping of events seems, to a great degree, to be determined by his power, ambition, or caprice. But in the word of God the curtain is drawn aside, and we behold, behind, above, and through all the play and counterplay of human interests and power and passions, the agencies of the all-merciful One, silently, patiently working out the counsels of His own will." Ellen G. White, Education, 173.