C. Mervyn Maxwell
- Born:
- December 12, 1925, Kingston, Jamaica
- Died:
- October 13, 2015, Keene, Texas, USA
- Nationality:
- Jamaican-American
- Profession(s):
- Theologian, Historian, Author, Seventh-day Adventist Educator
Early Life and Education
- Born to Seventh-day Adventist missionary parents.
- Earned a BA in Theology from Pacific Union College (1946).
- MA in Biblical Languages from Pacific Union College (1947).
- PhD in Ancient History from the University of Chicago (1959). His dissertation examined the biblical flood accounts in light of Mesopotamian flood legends.
Career and Major Achievements
- Taught at Union College (Nebraska) from 1947 to 1980.
- Served as Chair of the Department of History and Theology at Union College.
- Visiting Professor at Andrews University, Berrien Springs, Michigan (1980-1981).
- Professor of Church History at the Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary, Andrews University (1981-1995).
- Considered a leading Seventh-day Adventist scholar on biblical history, prophecy, and the history of the denomination.
Notable Works
- God Cares: The Message of Revelation for You and Your Family (1981). This book, explaining the Book of Revelation, became a widely distributed work within the Seventh-day Adventist church.
- Tell It to the World: The Story of Seventh-day Adventists (1976). A comprehensive history of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.
- Man: The Dwelling Place of God (1972).
- Numerous articles published in theological journals and Adventist periodicals.
Legacy and Impact
C. Mervyn Maxwell's legacy rests on his prolific writing and teaching career within the Seventh-day Adventist Church. His accessible and scholarly works on biblical prophecy and church history significantly shaped Adventist understanding and identity. His contributions ensured a well-documented foundation for future scholars and church members seeking information about their faith.