The Last of the Giants

Otis' book is important for the perception of events of the past 30 years. Even though published in 1991, it is amazingly current in light of events which have developed since then. It is an important book for Christians to read to enlarge their comprehension of the significance behind world events.

In his book, Last of the Giants, George Otis Jr. leads the reader deep into the heart of modern day Islam (within the context of the 1990's) This is a meticulously well documented account of the three forces that are moving in the earth today: Materialism, Hinduism and Islam. It is an important read not only to place the church today in a timeline of the book of Revelation, but to expose Western Christianity to the reality of the spirit realm and the nature of aggressive Islam. This book is not about demonizing Muslims. It is about equipping the praying church how to wage informed intercession. Although some of the details are dated, such as the fall of communism, that does not negate the insight relayed through the authors study. The first nine chapters are devoted to the author's in-depth research both historical and contemporary on Islam as a worldwide movement. The last two chapters tie together the belief that we are not waging war against flesh and blood but powers and principalities. Therefore, the author encourages the reader to respond to his message through prayer or missions to this unreached people group.

Actually, I would recommend reading Otis' The Twilight Labyrinth first, which gives the background on the roots of spiritual darkness, then read The Last of the Giants.Both books were invaluable in helping me understand the true causes of the turmoil in Central Asia and the thinking that led to the events of September 11, 2001.I can't give the book 5 stars for a couple of reasons. First, at times, Otis is not easy to read. Better editing would have helped. Secondly, Otis mentions the dangers of materialism in American society, but fails to elaborate much on this topic. Since materialism seems to be one of the reasons Muslims are so offended by the West, more information on the spiritual implications of materialism and consumerism would have added to the value of this book.

The Last of the Giants combines two rare qualities for books considering biblical prophecies and middle east events: use of a reasoned scholarship and use of a subjunctive mood. Otis brings plausibility to the spiritual mapping movement by painting spiritual dynamics with broad strokes that cover the entire 10/40 window. One may or may not agree with his assessments, but they cannot be ignored or easily dismissed. Must reading for the 1990's.