Roy Falls at Norris' gravesite
Saturday, December 31, 2011
The Great White Throne Judgment
THE GREAT JUDGMENT MORNING ~ by Bertram H. Shadduck
I dreamed that the great judgment morning
Had dawned, and the trumpet had blown;
I dreamed that the nations had gathered
To judgment before the white throne;
From the throne came a bright, shining angel,
And he stood on the land and the sea,
And he swore with his hand raised to Heaven,
That time was no longer to be.
REFRAIN:
And, oh, what a weeping and wailing,
As the lost were told of their fate;
They cried for the rocks and the mountains,
They prayed, but their prayer was too late.
The rich man was there, but his money
Had melted and vanished away;
A pauper he stood in the judgment,
His debts were too heavy to pay;
The great man was there, but his greatness,
When death came, was left far behind!
The angel that opened the records,
Not a trace of his greatness could find.
The widow was there with the orphans,
God heard and remembered their cries;
No sorrow in heaven forever,
God wiped all the tears from their eyes;
The gambler was there and the drunkard,
And the man that had sold them the drink,
With the people who gave him the license,
Together in hell they did sink.
The moral man came to the judgment,
But self-righteous rags would not do;
The men who had crucified Jesus
Had passed off as moral men, too;
The soul that had put off salvation,
“Not tonight; I’ll get saved by and by,
No time now to think of religion!”
At last they had found time to die.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Mystery of Mysteries
If you can unlock the meaning of two extreme paradoxes, both of which characterize the life of every Christian, you can say, "I have reached a milestone". They are:
Every Christian can claim the benefits of God by virtue of the fact he is a
child of the King.
On the other hand, a Christian at the same time, is a "servant of all men".
Roy Falls
December 27, 2011
Every Christian can claim the benefits of God by virtue of the fact he is a
child of the King.
On the other hand, a Christian at the same time, is a "servant of all men".
Roy Falls
December 27, 2011
Monday, December 26, 2011
Personal Collection - Photo 14
Abilene Reporter says J. Frank Norris no "gun totin' parson".
Personal Collection - Photo 13
From top left clockwise:
Lillian Norris (daughter)
Jim Gaddy Norris (son)
J. Frank Norris Jr. (son)
J. Frank Norris Sr.
George Norris (son)
Lillian Norris (wife)
Sunday, December 25, 2011
Personal Collection - Photo 12
"700 Converted During Meeting" newsclipping (1917)
Personal Collection - Photo 10
Fundamental Baptist Bible Institute, Fort Worth, Tx.
Friday, December 23, 2011
History Is A Systematic Record of Past Events
In recording events, careful attention must be given to relative importance, their mutual relations, their causes and other consequences.
Without this consideration of the causes and their consequences of past events, history lacks its chief scientific and philosophic elements, and contributes little to one’s understanding of his own age or of the way in which he can best service his fellow man. (A quote from Dorothy Ruth Miller).
The J. Frank Norris Historical Society subscribes to this rule of historical research.
“J Frank Norris was no more racist
than everyone else in his lifetime.”
than everyone else in his lifetime.”
(reference - Barry Hankins)
“He was not cozy with the Klan.”
(reference - Texas Methodist Historical Society)
“He did not murder an unarmed man.”
(refer to the testimony from - Jane Hartwell)
“He never stood by and watched a lynching.”
(reference - The Waco Horror)
“His heart was in the right place.”
(reference - H. L. Mencken)
December 23, 2011
Is The End Of All Time Near?
Dr. Norris' closing statements at a sunday night service, April 16, 1939
"Friends, how wonderful when the angel says: "Time shall be no more" ... won't it be wonderful to have salvation like that!
Let us stand. Let every head be bowed while we pray. I want you to sing: "There's A Great Day Coming." Sing it softly. Let every head be bowed, please. I appeal to my unsaved friends tonight. I believe the end of all things is near. All things ... the sky, earth, land and sea tell us the end is near. Thanks be unto God we are not left without hope! If our names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life, we can say: "Let the storms come. Let the fires of hell rage, thanks be unto God something happend on the Cross of Calvary, and I accepted it." Who will accept Him now? Who will come tonight, accepting Christ as your personal Savior?"
(Many came and were gloriously saved.)
"Friends, how wonderful when the angel says: "Time shall be no more" ... won't it be wonderful to have salvation like that!
Let us stand. Let every head be bowed while we pray. I want you to sing: "There's A Great Day Coming." Sing it softly. Let every head be bowed, please. I appeal to my unsaved friends tonight. I believe the end of all things is near. All things ... the sky, earth, land and sea tell us the end is near. Thanks be unto God we are not left without hope! If our names are written in the Lamb's Book of Life, we can say: "Let the storms come. Let the fires of hell rage, thanks be unto God something happend on the Cross of Calvary, and I accepted it." Who will accept Him now? Who will come tonight, accepting Christ as your personal Savior?"
(Many came and were gloriously saved.)
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Sunday Evening Prayer - Detroit, Michigan
"Oh holy and righteous Father, before the mountains were brought forth or ever Thou hadst formed the earth and the world, even from everlasting, Thou art God. Thou art full of gracious and tender mercies. Thou knowest our frame and rememberest that we are dust.
Oh Lord, our Lord, somehow in a very particular sense we feel our need of Thee tonight, of Thy power as never before. Breathe upon this great audience tonight Thine own spirit; that the spirit of prayer and supplication like sweet incense from the altar before the tabernacle may go up to the throne of God.
Lord, thou knowest the hearts of all, the struggles, the conflicts, the trials, the defeats. We praise Thy name for Thy salvation. We thank Thee that many have turned to Thee through these months, now nearly a year, hundreds have found the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior in this tabernacle. And O Lord, Thine arm is not shortened that Thou canst not save. Thou art pleased for our coming.
O Lord, our Lord, revive Thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make known, in wrath remember mercy.
We pray, O Lord, for conviction, and that the old time power may be felt in the hearts of unsaved men and women. We pray that the New Birth of the soul may be witnessed here and that angels may rejoice as news of sinners coming home to God is proclaimed before the throne on high.
We pray for many a prodigal tonight who is away from the Father's house, who realizes that he has wasted all, who is in rags, foot-sore, heart-sore, distressed, and discouraged. May he feel the drawing power of the uplifted Christ.
And now, O Lord, our Lord, may we so exalt Him tonight that people will not think of the preacher or even where we are, but we will go away from this place with a new love, a new devotion, a new worship of Him who is worthy of all praise.
We ask for Christ's sake. Amen."
J. Frank Norris
Oh Lord, our Lord, somehow in a very particular sense we feel our need of Thee tonight, of Thy power as never before. Breathe upon this great audience tonight Thine own spirit; that the spirit of prayer and supplication like sweet incense from the altar before the tabernacle may go up to the throne of God.
Lord, thou knowest the hearts of all, the struggles, the conflicts, the trials, the defeats. We praise Thy name for Thy salvation. We thank Thee that many have turned to Thee through these months, now nearly a year, hundreds have found the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior in this tabernacle. And O Lord, Thine arm is not shortened that Thou canst not save. Thou art pleased for our coming.
O Lord, our Lord, revive Thy work in the midst of the years, in the midst of the years make known, in wrath remember mercy.
We pray, O Lord, for conviction, and that the old time power may be felt in the hearts of unsaved men and women. We pray that the New Birth of the soul may be witnessed here and that angels may rejoice as news of sinners coming home to God is proclaimed before the throne on high.
We pray for many a prodigal tonight who is away from the Father's house, who realizes that he has wasted all, who is in rags, foot-sore, heart-sore, distressed, and discouraged. May he feel the drawing power of the uplifted Christ.
And now, O Lord, our Lord, may we so exalt Him tonight that people will not think of the preacher or even where we are, but we will go away from this place with a new love, a new devotion, a new worship of Him who is worthy of all praise.
We ask for Christ's sake. Amen."
J. Frank Norris
Monday, December 19, 2011
Why My Dad, Roy Falls, Can't Compete With Sensuality Seekers Within Some Churches
It seems some years back, he was at a political forum featuring two candidates for Justice of the Peace.
One, whose name was Clara, came attired in “hot pants”. Cliff, the male candidate, when asked how he thought he faired, replied, “For sure, I can’t compete with Clara’s “hot pants”.
Roy, my dad, alludes to this event as analogous to present day events. When it comes to modern day religious entertainment of sorts, he pleads “the 5th”, and backs off. The defense of the J. Frank Norris legacy, however, is an entirely different ballgame.
Gail Hawkins
One, whose name was Clara, came attired in “hot pants”. Cliff, the male candidate, when asked how he thought he faired, replied, “For sure, I can’t compete with Clara’s “hot pants”.
Roy, my dad, alludes to this event as analogous to present day events. When it comes to modern day religious entertainment of sorts, he pleads “the 5th”, and backs off. The defense of the J. Frank Norris legacy, however, is an entirely different ballgame.
Gail Hawkins
Personal Collection - Photo 8
The Beginners Department, Mrs. J. R. Livingston superintendent, has a membership of 150. (1917)
Personal Collection - Photo 7
Undocumented photo. Dr. Norris seated center front.
Personal Collection - Photo 5
$3500.00 Sound Truck of The Temple Baptist Church (Detroit). Recorded messages on Salvation by Dr. Norris are given throughout the city of Detroit.
Personal Collection - Photo 4
Entitled "Present Church Building" (Erected 1913 - Burned 1929)
Personal Collection - Photo 3
One of Dr. Norris' congregations in Tyler, Texas, when he was introduced by Rev. John Rawlings.
Personal Collection - Photo 2
Intermediate Department Sunday School crowd in temporary tabernacle after the first fire 1913.
Personal Collection - Photo 1
Morning congregation of Temple Baptist Church, Detroit, Michigan in 1938.
The arrow points to Ralph Oder.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Memorial to J. Frank Norris
A MEMORIAL TO J. FRANK NORRIS
BORN: 1877
PLACE OF BIRTH: Dadesville, Ala.
PARENTS: Warren and Mary Norris
BAYLOR: 1899-1903
MARRIED: Lillian Gaddy (1902)
CHILDREN: J. Frank Jr., George, Lillian, Jim Gaddy
GRADUATED: Southern Baptist Seminary - 1905
J. FRANK NORRIS
* "A MAN AMOUNG MEN"
* CRUSADER
* TRAVELER
* EDITOR
* PASTOR
* PREACHER
* STATESMAN
* JOURNALIST
* EDUCATOR
The internationally known, colorful, controversial man who made things happen changed the complexion of religious life in America.
During his pastorate at FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH, Fort Worth, (1909-1952) the membership grew from 900 in 1911 to over 12,000 as early as 1928, with an average Sunday School attendance of 5,200.
* GOD'S BLESSINGS IN REVIEW *
Few men carved a place in the religious world as did DR. NORRIS, and the following will give the reader an idea of God's hand upon his life:~ Two years editor of Baptist Standard, official voice of Texas Baptists - 1908-1909.
~ Assisted B. H. Carroll in the founding of Southwestern Baptist Theological
Seminary in Fort Worth.
~ Founder of Bible Baptist Seminary of Fort Worth.
~ Founder of World Baptist Fellowship, an international organization of independent
Baptists.
~ Pastor: First Baptist Church, Fort Worth - 1909-1952.
~ Editor: The Fence Rail - 1917-1921.
~ Editor: The Searchlight - 1921-1927.
~ Editor: The Fundamentalist - 1927-1952.
~ Described by New York newspaper, The World Week, as "the strongest,
shrewdest, most romantically adventuresome prince of crowd gathers..."
~ Conducted revival in First Baptist Church of San Antonio, Texas, in which 600
people were saved, and which was described by the pastor, I. E. Yates, as
"a meeting that produced more results than any I've ever seen."
~ Conducted revival in First Baptist Church of Houston, Texas, in which a thousand
souls were saved.
~ Described by George Ragland of the First Baptist Church of Lexington, Kentucky,
as "one of the greatest preachers in America."
~ Assisted T. T. Shields and W. B. Riley in the formation of the Baptist Bible Union
in 1923.
~ Circled the globe in world-wide ministry.
~ Heard by 40,000 people in open-air revival in Detroit, Michigan.
~ Spoke to legislators in Texas, Georgia, and other states.
~ Conducted 120 tent meetings in the city of Fort Worth.
~ Described by the Evening News, London, England, as "a man who has
international events at his fingertips."
~ Spoke to large crowds in Berlin in 1937.
~ Preached to 25,000 people in baseball park in Fort Worth, 1942.
~ Conferred with Churchill in 1941.
* NEW FELLOWSHIP AND SCHOOL *
The INDEPENDENT BAPTIST FELLOWSHIP INTERNATIONAL, and the Bible school that will be born out of it will incorporate the philosophy of J. FRANK NORRIS as we move back to the basics, emphasizing evangelism, soul-winning, and church building.This motto will be our motto:
"TEACHING THE WHOLE ENGLISH BIBLE"
Saturday, December 10, 2011
THE JEW IN PROPHECY
The following are brief excerpts from an address given by J Frank Norris at the Bethel Jewish Synagogue sometime in the late 1940s.
The history of the Jews proves without question the divine character of the Word of God. It goes without saying I have no sympathy however, with any group of any form of anti semitic propaganda.
It was Napoleon when asked by one of his infidel generals what proof there was of God, to which he then looked at one of his marshals, who was a Jew, and said to the others, “Gentlemen, there is the unanswerable argument to your unbelief.”
Let me illustrate the miracle of the Jew. They saw the proud Egyptian army perish in the waters of the red sea. They have witnessed the ruin and fall of the Babylonian empire. They have outlived the Caesars, and the dark ages which followed, they have been through all civilizations, and shared in all of it’s convulsions and here they stand today, as distinct as ever and at last have returned to the land promised them in the Abrahamic covenant.
For centuries they were forbidden to claim Jerusalem as their own. They have been massacred by the thousands. They have been banished from place to place. Seven times the City of Jerusalem has been destroyed. It was Nebuchadnezzar in the year 607 B.C. who besieged the city and carried it’s inhabitants into captivity.
In the year of A.D., beginning with Titus, it was the Roman armies that destroyed the rebuilt temple and sacked the city in 70 A.D. In about the year 637 A.D., the advent of Mohammedism arose and built the mosque of Omer on the site held sacred by the Jews. For a period of about 500 years it was the fanatical crusaders who unleashed pain and suffering on this land held in trust, by God, for His ancient people, the Jews.
Fulfilling prophecy began to take shape in 1917 when the British General Allenby marched into Jerusalem and according to the Balfour decree the British took charge and stated, “The British government looks with favor upon the restoration of Palestine to the Jews, and religious liberty shall be guaranteed. God works in mysterious ways, His wonders to perform. Six hundred thousand Egyptians were engaged by General Allenby to build the railroad in 1917 from the Nile River. Paradoxically, the army of Moses leading the children of God out of Egypt four thousands years previously was comprised of an army of 600,000 men.
No wonder Moses exclaimed in Deuteronomy 28:37, “And thou shalt become an astonishment, a proverb, and a byword, among all nations, whither the Lord shall lead them.
Friends, this is just a prelude to a marvelous story just beginning to unfold. Look for more on this subject in days to come.
Roy Falls
Dec. 9, 2011
Thursday, December 8, 2011
THE RIGHT CAUSE
"The Uncooperative" J. Frank Norris Can Also Be "The Cooperative" J. Frank Norris, for THE RIGHT CAUSE
According to the Texas Methodist Historical Society, J. Frank Norris, in 1920, served on an inter church world movement committee set up to promote women's suffrage, anti-lynching legislation, prohibition and an establishment of YMCAs.
Norris never left his fundamental roots, but with the encroachment of modernistic theology, the hopes for unity soon vanished.
End Note: As an afterthought, if J. Frank Norris had been cozy with Klansmen, as alleged, the Methodists would have told us so.
Roy Falls
December 8, 2011
According to the Texas Methodist Historical Society, J. Frank Norris, in 1920, served on an inter church world movement committee set up to promote women's suffrage, anti-lynching legislation, prohibition and an establishment of YMCAs.
Norris never left his fundamental roots, but with the encroachment of modernistic theology, the hopes for unity soon vanished.
End Note: As an afterthought, if J. Frank Norris had been cozy with Klansmen, as alleged, the Methodists would have told us so.
Roy Falls
December 8, 2011
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
John Baptist Henry: Jews in early America & Israel's Reestablishment
John Baptist Henry: Jews in early America & Israel's Reestablishment: In 1948 President Harry S. Truman by following in the footsteps of President George Washington and heeding the Scriptural advice of Pastor ...
(CLICK ONTO THE SMALLER BLUE LETTER WORDS TO READ FULL STORY AND TO SEE VIDEO, WHICH WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED NOVEMBER 2010.)
(CLICK ONTO THE SMALLER BLUE LETTER WORDS TO READ FULL STORY AND TO SEE VIDEO, WHICH WAS ORIGINALLY POSTED NOVEMBER 2010.)
TOP TEN COUNTRIES - As of the end of November 2011
United States 4,759
Russia 198
Germany 85
Latvia 57
Ukraine 42
United Kingdom 36
China 34
Philippines 31
Canada 24
Thailand 22
Friday, December 2, 2011
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
OUR BLOG AUDIENCE ... (57 countries thru the end of November 2011)
From time to time we will post our audience listeners:
United States (Beginning August 2010)
Russia
Canada
Croatia
Philippines
South Korea
Hungary
Burkina Faso
Iran (new in February 2011)
Brazil (new in February 2011)
Guatemala (new in February 2011)
Singapore (new in February 2011)
Uruguay (new in February 2011)
Germany (new in March 2011)
United Kingdom (new in March 2011)
Thailand (new in April 2011)
Belarus (new in April 2011)
Denmark (new in April 2011)
Saudi Arabia (new in April 2011)
Spain (new in April 2011)
India (new in April 2011)
Australia (new in April 2011)
Uzbekistan (new in April 2011)
Netherlands (new in April 2011
Egypt (new in April 2011)
Latvia (new in May 2011)
Ukraine (new in May 2011)
Czech Republic (new in May 2011)
Bermuda (new in May 2011)
Portugal (new in May 2011)
China (new in May 2011)
France (new in June 2011)
Liberia (new in June 2011)
Romania (new in June 2011)
Kenya (new in June 2011)
United England (new in June 2011)
Taiwan (new in June 2011)
Nigeria (new in June 2011)
Ireland (new in July 2011)
Japan (new in July 2011)
Mexico (new in July 2011)
Costa Rica (new in August 2011)
Pakistan (new in August 2011)
Hong Kong (new in August 2011)
Malaysia (new in August 2011)
Zambia (new in August 2011)
South Africa (new in August 2011)
Israel (new in September 2011)
Sweden (new in September 2011)
Indonesia (new in September 2011)
Vietnam (new in September 2011)
Fiji (new in September 2011)
Serbia (new in September 2011)
Honduras (new in September 2011)
Finland (new in October 2011)
Greece (new in October 2011)
Belize (new in November 2011)
New Zealand (new in November 2011)
Venezuela (new in December 2011)
Lithuania (new in December 2011)
Moldova (new in December 2011)
Italy (new in December 2011)
Bulgaria (new in December 2011)
Palestian Territories (new in December 2011)
Dominican Republic (new in December 2011)
Georgia (new in December 2011)
Sunday, November 27, 2011
ONE LINERS ON TARGET!
(From a vast array of biblical scholars)
1. "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall."
I Corinthians 10:12
2. "Pagans saw divinities everywhere, modern man sees God nowhere."
3. "Man blesses God in words but God blesses man in deeds."
Suggestion: These thoughts can be a basis for discussion at the dinner table.
1. "Wherefore let him that thinketh he standeth take heed lest he fall."
I Corinthians 10:12
2. "Pagans saw divinities everywhere, modern man sees God nowhere."
3. "Man blesses God in words but God blesses man in deeds."
Suggestion: These thoughts can be a basis for discussion at the dinner table.
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Thursday, November 17, 2011
"I HATE IT! ... THE LIQUOR BUSINESS ..... " by J. Frank Norris
Taken from a sermon October 1946. Dr. Norris quotes Frank Hanley, the great Christian Governor of Indiana:
"I hate it for it's intolerance; I hate it for it's arrogance; it's hypocrisy; it's craft and false pretenses. It's commercialism; it's greed and sacrifice; it's sordid love of gain at any price; it's domination of politics; it's corrupt influence in civic affairs; I hate it for it's incessant effort to debauch the sufferage of the country.
I hate it! The liquor business. For the cowards it makes of public men; I hate it for it's ruthless trampling on the solemn compact of state constitution. I hate it! For it's utter disregard of law. For the load that it straps on labor's back. For the palsied hands that it gives to the toiler. It's wounds congeal; it's tragedies are mighty; the human wrecks it has caused; the alms houses it has peopled; the prisons it fills; the insanity it begets; the countless graves in potter's fields; the mental ruin it imposes upon it's victims.
I hate it's spiritual blight! It's moral degradation; the crimes it has committed; the homes it has wrecked; the hearts it has broken.
I hate it for the malice it has planted in the hearts of men.
I hate it!"
HABAKKUK 2:15 ..... Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!
"I hate it for it's intolerance; I hate it for it's arrogance; it's hypocrisy; it's craft and false pretenses. It's commercialism; it's greed and sacrifice; it's sordid love of gain at any price; it's domination of politics; it's corrupt influence in civic affairs; I hate it for it's incessant effort to debauch the sufferage of the country.
I hate it! The liquor business. For the cowards it makes of public men; I hate it for it's ruthless trampling on the solemn compact of state constitution. I hate it! For it's utter disregard of law. For the load that it straps on labor's back. For the palsied hands that it gives to the toiler. It's wounds congeal; it's tragedies are mighty; the human wrecks it has caused; the alms houses it has peopled; the prisons it fills; the insanity it begets; the countless graves in potter's fields; the mental ruin it imposes upon it's victims.
I hate it's spiritual blight! It's moral degradation; the crimes it has committed; the homes it has wrecked; the hearts it has broken.
I hate it for the malice it has planted in the hearts of men.
I hate it!"
HABAKKUK 2:15 ..... Woe unto him that giveth his neighbour drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness!
Poem read from a Sermon on July 23, 1933
This poem expresses the thoughts of J. Frank Norris on the many occasions of his dark moments during his ministry.
"Though nature's strengh decay,
And death and hell withstand,
To Canaan's bounds urge my way,
At his commands:
The watery deep I pass,
With Jesus in my view,
And through the howling wilderness
My way pursue.
There dwells the Lord our King,
The Lord our Righteousness,
Triumphant o'er the world and sin,
The Prince of peace,
On Zion's sacred height.
His kingdom still maintains,
And, glorious with His saints in light,
Forever reigns."
"Though nature's strengh decay,
And death and hell withstand,
To Canaan's bounds urge my way,
At his commands:
The watery deep I pass,
With Jesus in my view,
And through the howling wilderness
My way pursue.
There dwells the Lord our King,
The Lord our Righteousness,
Triumphant o'er the world and sin,
The Prince of peace,
On Zion's sacred height.
His kingdom still maintains,
And, glorious with His saints in light,
Forever reigns."
Saturday, November 12, 2011
The Gates of Hell Shall Not Prevail
Matthew 16:18
This one verse is a short description of an eternal conflict, which began in Heaven (Isaiah 14:4) and will continue thru-out eternity, even into the depths of the bottomless pit. (Rev. 20:3). So, all indications point to the fact that it all started in Heaven, and continues on in the earth and throughout the universe and will last forever in eternity.
Think it not strange that this conflict has been a part of human history touching every facet of life. Religious controversy has not escaped the conflict. The J. Frank Norris Historical Society is dedicated to confronting issues recognizing that we do not live in a dream world. One of the favorite lampooning epitaphs heaped upon the legacy of J. Frank Norris is the fact he was accused of always stirring up trouble, as if he is out-of-step with a peaceful world.
Friends, we have never lived in a peaceful world and the prospects are pretty clear that we never will. I have noted in my research of the J. Frank Norris ministry, so-called facts have been sketchy and slanted. He was not a man looking for an encounter, but contrariwise, encounter will soon surface if you dare to face evil head-on. The same goes for you and me also. Church history is an eye-opening validation of the eternal warfare.
It all began in eternity past, as we learn from (Isaiah 14:4). There was war in Heaven when Lucifer was cast out along with all of the fallen angels. The origin of all sin began with the advent of rebellion in eternity past. The sin of pride is at the top of this list. I remind you that a willing and submissive heart has no desire to rebel against the God of creation, the author of truth and righteousness.
I want to explain at this point why God did not step in and by His sovereign power put a stop to this original rebellion. He could have, but we must understand the nature of God. There are numerous attributes which explain God’s nature. God is love, omnipotent and so forth, but another side of His nature is the gift of freedom, but which He desires that no creature would misuse. Nothing is so cherished as the freedom of choice bestowed upon us from the very beginning, including Lucifer. Nothing is more precious to a parent than having an obedient child that honors father and mother. So, God did not create robots, but as a part of His benevolent being, this gift of freedom explains it all. If Lucifer had not misused his freedom, he would still be in good graces with a sovereign Creator. Submissiveness is just the opposite from rebellion. Rebellion leads to ultimate damnation. Submission leads to repentance and faith toward a loving and merciful Father.
And so, the conflict continues to this day, even being manifested in the lives of multitudes of thousands of troubled souls. This note of example. Just this week November 2011, I had a neighbor who drank himself to a drunken death, and a few days before had confided in a neighbor, “he had no desire to live.” Just 48 years of age.
The struggle within the beast of every human being is the out-growth and off-shoot of the war in Heaven. How else can you explain all this human unrest? “We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against power, against the ruler of the darkness of the world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. (Eph 6:12).
The death knell of Satan’s defeat has already been pronounced and was culminated at the death, burial and resurrection of our Savior. This is where God has most clearly demonstrated the nobility of His character. It is at the cross where the spirit of God convicts of sin, righteousness and judgment to come. Without that conviction, the sinner remains in that state of rebellion. It is no different from what happened in the first war in Heaven.
Be assured the “gates of hell” will not prevail against His bride, “the church”, nor any one of His redeemed sons and daughters. For the born again Christian, the battle is over, and we are just waiting for the final redemption of the body. Our crowning moment will come when we see “Him” face to face.
For the unredeemed, the war will continue forever. We, as God’s creation were designed to live forever. How long is forever, you may ask? My reply: How deep is a “bottomless” pit? Think of this. Descending forever toward a “bottomless pit”. To every troubled heart, I bring tidings of hope. Cease from your rebellion, cling to the rock, as the bible says ….. “to the rock that is higher than I”. Upon this rock I will build my church.
Good night and may God bless each of you ……… our friends around the world ………. and may God bless America.
Roy Falls
November 12, 2011
Thursday, November 10, 2011
Memories of Dr. J. Frank Norris ... by Dr. Louis Arnold
I did not know Dr. J. Frank Norris intimately, but our paths crossed a few times. I shall never forget those few brief contacts.
In my early ministry I ordered a book Dr. Norris had written, entitled, Inside the Cup. From that book I learned much of his ministry as pastor of two great churches, First Baptist Church of Fort Worth, Texas and Temple Baptist Church of Detroit, Michigan. Although these churches were 1,300 miles apart, he pastored them simultaneously and still managed to travel and preach in many parts of the United States and in several foreign countries.
When he returned to one of his churches after an extended absence, it was widely advertised that he would preach both morning and evening in the church on Sunday. Record crowds always attended the services when he preached.
From Dr. Norris’ book I learned something of the battles he was fighting. He had declared war on communism, liberalism, evolution, organized crime, gambling, the liquor interest, and corruption in high places. He was fighting battles on many fronts and winning more than his share of victories.
I subscribed to The Fundamentalist, Dr. Norris’ weekly paper. I soon learned that, in addition to his other battles, he was making war on Southern Baptists, and many of their preachers were leaving the convention. Some were bringing their churches out, and others were starting new independent Baptist churches. Eventually I learned that Dr. Norris was to preach in the Lockland Baptist Church in Lockland, Ohio, a suburb of Cincinnati. Ben Hillard was then pastor of the church. Lockland Baptist was a great church at that time, but it had not attained the size or influence that it did later under the leadership of Dr. John Rawlings. Dr. Rawlings moved the church to its present location and renamed it Landmark Baptist Temple. He pastored there for many years, and under his leadership the church reached an average attendance of more than 4 thousand. They frequently had 7 thousand on high days.
I was pastor of a church I had organized in Warfield, Kentucky when I learned that Dr. Norris was to preach at Lockland Baptist, and I drove to Lockland to hear him. Because of the distance and bad road conditions, the service had started when I arrived. Every seat in the auditorium was taken, and I had to stand in the vestibule to hear Dr. Norris preach.
After the service the pastor was scheduled to perform a wedding. Most of the congregation stayed, but Dr. Norris came out and stood in the vestibule while the wedding was in progress. I introduced myself to him and told him where I was pastoring. We talked briefly, and I did not see him again until I visited his church in Detroit a few years later. Apparently he never forgot a name or a face, for he called me by name when I entered his office.
In the spring of 1944 I boarded a train for Detroit, Michigan without knowing why I was going there, where I would stay, or what I would do when I got there. From the human viewpoint, that was the craziest thing I had ever done.
That Saturday morning I had been busy with plans for Sunday services in the church I was pastoring near Lexington, Kentucky. I was to teach a Sunday school class and preach morning and evening. Then there had come a strong impression that I should catch the noon train and go to Detroit. The impression made no sense to me. My people were expecting me to be in my pulpit on Sunday, and had no reason to leave my responsibility and go to a strange city with nothing to do and no one to see. Besides, I really could not afford the expense of the trip.
The impression that I should go to Detroit became stronger, and I became convinced that God must be leading me to go. At last, I told the Lord that I would go, even though I did not know why, if a preacher I knew could preach for me on Sunday. I phoned a brother preacher hoping that he would tell me he was scheduled to preach elsewhere. To my dismay, the brother said he would be glad to preach for me.
I packed hurriedly, rushed to the railroad station and boarded the train. I rode all night, sitting up in a day coach, and finally fell asleep in the early hours of the morning. At dawn, as the train was pulling into the station in Detroit, a man shook me awake.
“We have to get off here,” he said. “This is the end of the line.”
I awoke, not knowing what to expect. I did not know why I had come to Detroit or what I was supposed to do. I knew that Dr. Norris preached in Temple Baptist Church part of his time, but I had no reason to believe that he would be in Detroit at this time.
“My name is Sam Jesse,” the man who had awakened me said, demanding my attention. “I am pastor of an independent Baptist church in Burton, Kansas.”
“My name is Louis Arnold. I am pastor of South Elkhorn Baptist Church near Lexington, Kentucky,” I replied.
“I suppose you have come to the fellowship meeting,” he said.
“I certainly have. Where is it?” I responded.
“Temple Baptist Church. Dr. Norris will be there. Preachers will be coming from all over. The meetings will go all week. We are going to have a great time.”
I told Brother Jesse that I probably could not afford to stay for all the meeting, but he assured me the church would furnish all meals and that lodging would be provided in the homes of the members.
“Then I’ll stay,” I told him.
The train screeched to a stop, and we collected our bags and got off. Two men came out of the crowd that was waiting for the train to arrive and asked if we were preachers. We pled guilty.
“We have come to take you to the church,” one of them told us. There were other men looking for preachers who needed a ride. Our driver found another preacher who needed a ride, then led us to his car.
We were soon driving through the early morning traffic on our way to Temple Baptist Church. When we reached the church we were ushered into a large dining room where breakfast was soon to be served. What a welcome we received. Preachers were shaking hands, talking, getting acquainted and having a good time.
I still remember the hot biscuits, bacon, eggs and coffee we were served for breakfast. After breakfast we were registered and assigned to homes where we were to lodge. Then there was more visiting and fellowshipping until Sunday school time.
Soon we preachers crossed the street to the main auditorium of the Temple Baptist Church. There I attended the largest Sunday school class I had ever seen. There were about 2 thousand adults, including the preachers who had arrived for the meeting. Dr. G. B. Vick taught the class, and it was a blessing to hear him.
I can never forget the service that followed, the great crowd, Dr. Norris’ commanding presence, veteran missionary, Fred Donnelson and family, Oscar Wells and others who had miraculously escaped from Communist China, Dr. Norris’ exceeding tenderness as he brought them to the platform and presented them to the great audience, the great singing, the sermon Dr. Norris preached—and the invitation. I had never seen so many people saved in one service. More than 70 people confessed faith in Christ in that one service. I was overwhelmed. I thought Dr. Norris had preached an average sermon. The invitation had seemed almost indifferent, yet more than 70 people had been saved. The service that night was a repeat performance, great singing, an average sermon, a poor invitation, and more than 30 people made a profession of faith. Again I was amazed. I had never seen such results before.
That night I went home with the church family I was to stay with. I could hardly wait until I was seated in the living room with my host so I could ask him the questions that were clamoring for answers.
“Do you have people saved in your church every Sunday?” I asked as soon as we were seated. He told me that the numbers were not always as great, but that they did indeed have people saved every Sunday.
“How do you do it?” was my next question.
“Let me take myself as an example,” he replied. “I work for Ford Motor Company to pay expenses, but my business is serving God. There are hundreds of others in our church who do the same. They work in various places, but their business is serving the Lord.
“In our church something goes on almost every night. Sunday night and Wednesday night we have services. Other nights people meet for prayer. Then they go out two by two from door to door to win souls. When someone gets saved they follow up and get them in church the next Sunday if at all possible. Then they sit with them, or near them, and pray for them while the pastor preaches. When the invitation starts, they say to them, ‘Come on, let’s go,’ and they lead them down the aisle to make their public profession of faith. That is how we do it.”
That week I learned more about winning souls and building a church than I had ever learned before.
The third and last time I saw Dr. Norris was in the chapel of Bible Baptist Seminary at First Baptist Church in Fort Worth. I did not go to Fort Worth with the intention of seeing Dr. Norris. In fact, Fort Worth was not in my travel plans. But God rearranged my schedule so I would see him.
Dr. Mordecai Ham had given me the broadcast he had been conducting on radio station KWBU, a 50 thousand watt station, in Corpus Christi, Texas. After doing the broadcast by recording for some months, I decided to go to Corpus Christi and do the broadcast in person for a time. I thought that preaching live and making some personal appearances in the area would help build the listening audience.
I started to Corpus Christi in my own plane, but after refueling, in Jackson, Tennessee, the engine started icing up every time I attempted to climb the plane above 400 feet. I couldn’t fly on to Texas at that altitude, so I decided to leave the plane and go the rest of the way by bus. When I returned from Texas I learned that the plane had been refueled with gas that was unsuited for it. If I had not had the problem, I would not have gone by Fort Worth, but the bus schedule took me that way.
When I reached Fort Worth, I decided to spend the night and visit First Baptist Church while I was there. I had no idea that Dr. Norris would be there, but I wanted to see the church.
When I arrived at the church the next morning, I found a fellowship meeting in progress, and I decided to stay and attend the meeting that day.
The meeting was being held in the chapel. I went in, found a seat, and heard one preacher after another preach, but, to my disappointment, Dr. Norris was not to be seen. I kept wondering where he was and if he would make an appearance. At last they presented the final speaker of the morning. When he finished we were to be dismissed for the noon meal.
Just as the brother arose to preach, a door opened behind the pulpit, and 15 or more seminary students burst through the doorway, walked across the platform, down the center aisle, and out the front door of the chapel. Each one of them had a large bundle of The Fundamentalist, Dr. Norris’ paper, under his arm. Of course the brother could not begin to preach with all that commotion going on.
When the last of the students had left the chapel, Dr. Norris came through the door and walked to the pulpit. He pushed the brother aside, cleared throat and said, “Those young men you saw are students in our seminary. The papers they are carrying are copies of the latest issue of The Fundamentalist.” He held up a copy of the paper. On the front page was a picture of a preacher.
“The picture is of Dr. . . ,” Dr. Norris said, pointing. (He gave the preacher’s name, but I have forgotten who he was). Dr. Norris continued, “He’s a modernist. He doesn’t believe the Bible. He’s an infidel, and he’s speaking out on Cemetery Hill.” (He was referring to the Southwestern Southern Baptist Theological Seminary). “Our boys are going out there to pass out copies of The Fundamentalist to people as they go in to hear this infidel. In this article I exposed him for what he is.”
Dr. Norris reached in his inside coat pocket and pulled out a telegram. “Here is a telegram I received from the people out on Cemetery Hill. They say that if any more of our boys come out there to pass out copies of The Fundamentalist, they’re going to have them arrested.”
“I called judge, so and so, a personal friend of mine, and said, judge if they arrest any of our boys and haul them into court, I want a public trial in a place large enough to hold our crowd. The judge said, ‘Dr. Norris, the only place I know of that will hold your crowd is First Baptist Church. If they arrest any of your boys, we’ll try them in the First Baptist Church.’”
Dr. Norris paused, then said, “The old cat has got her tail caught in the crack under the door. She’s scratching the varnish off the floor, but it’s her tail.”
Dr. Norris turned and walked back through the door behind the platform, and the brother who was to preach had to try to go on with the service. I cannot remember what he did or what he said.
What shall I say of Dr. Norris? Certainly he was controversial and flamboyant. He has been called, “The Texas Tornado.” l have heard that he could be harsh, caustic, even mean. From personal observation, I know he could be very tender and compassionate. There are hundreds, perhaps thousands of preachers who knew Dr. Norris far better than I knew him. However, this I know. Dr. Norris had much to do with the fundamental movement we have today.
Dr. Norris went to his reward in 1952. Regarding his home going, Walter M. Moore wrote, “Your friend and my friend has been promoted to Glory, “To Die Is Gain” was a favorite text of his. On Wednesday morning, August 20th, 1952, Dr. Norris laid down his Bible and slipped away to be with the Lord. He was a great preacher and Christian statesman. He fought a good fight. He finished his course. He kept the faith. He loved the cause of righteousness. He loved men. He counseled with presidents and kings. He mingled with the common herd. Dignitaries sought his advice, and common people heard him gladly.”
Dr. Norris left the earthly scene at 2:15 in the morning after preaching for Dr. Bob Ingle in Jacksonville, Florida the night before. Dr. Ingle had organized and built a great church in Jacksonville. Dr. Norris had had a tremendous influence on Dr. Ingle, and they had become good friends.
A few years after Dr. Norris’ death I preached for Dr. Ingle. After the night service, Mrs. Ingle told Mrs. Arnold that it was almost as if Dr. Norris had planned his home going from their city. He had preached a great sermon on Sunday night. After the service they had gone to a restaurant with Dr. Norris. He had been in high spirits, and they had had no idea that the next morning he would be gone.
A few years after Dr. Norris had gone to his reward, I attended a fellowship meeting in Fort Worth. In that meeting, one speaker after another said, “From Dr. Norris I learned to weep over souls. From Dr. Norris I learned how to lead people to Christ. I owe the ministry I have to the influence of Dr. J. Frank Norris.”
Copied with permission by Dr. Louis Arnold
The Arnold Report
2440 Bethel Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
In my early ministry I ordered a book Dr. Norris had written, entitled, Inside the Cup. From that book I learned much of his ministry as pastor of two great churches, First Baptist Church of Fort Worth, Texas and Temple Baptist Church of Detroit, Michigan. Although these churches were 1,300 miles apart, he pastored them simultaneously and still managed to travel and preach in many parts of the United States and in several foreign countries.
When he returned to one of his churches after an extended absence, it was widely advertised that he would preach both morning and evening in the church on Sunday. Record crowds always attended the services when he preached.
From Dr. Norris’ book I learned something of the battles he was fighting. He had declared war on communism, liberalism, evolution, organized crime, gambling, the liquor interest, and corruption in high places. He was fighting battles on many fronts and winning more than his share of victories.
I subscribed to The Fundamentalist, Dr. Norris’ weekly paper. I soon learned that, in addition to his other battles, he was making war on Southern Baptists, and many of their preachers were leaving the convention. Some were bringing their churches out, and others were starting new independent Baptist churches. Eventually I learned that Dr. Norris was to preach in the Lockland Baptist Church in Lockland, Ohio, a suburb of Cincinnati. Ben Hillard was then pastor of the church. Lockland Baptist was a great church at that time, but it had not attained the size or influence that it did later under the leadership of Dr. John Rawlings. Dr. Rawlings moved the church to its present location and renamed it Landmark Baptist Temple. He pastored there for many years, and under his leadership the church reached an average attendance of more than 4 thousand. They frequently had 7 thousand on high days.
I was pastor of a church I had organized in Warfield, Kentucky when I learned that Dr. Norris was to preach at Lockland Baptist, and I drove to Lockland to hear him. Because of the distance and bad road conditions, the service had started when I arrived. Every seat in the auditorium was taken, and I had to stand in the vestibule to hear Dr. Norris preach.
After the service the pastor was scheduled to perform a wedding. Most of the congregation stayed, but Dr. Norris came out and stood in the vestibule while the wedding was in progress. I introduced myself to him and told him where I was pastoring. We talked briefly, and I did not see him again until I visited his church in Detroit a few years later. Apparently he never forgot a name or a face, for he called me by name when I entered his office.
In the spring of 1944 I boarded a train for Detroit, Michigan without knowing why I was going there, where I would stay, or what I would do when I got there. From the human viewpoint, that was the craziest thing I had ever done.
That Saturday morning I had been busy with plans for Sunday services in the church I was pastoring near Lexington, Kentucky. I was to teach a Sunday school class and preach morning and evening. Then there had come a strong impression that I should catch the noon train and go to Detroit. The impression made no sense to me. My people were expecting me to be in my pulpit on Sunday, and had no reason to leave my responsibility and go to a strange city with nothing to do and no one to see. Besides, I really could not afford the expense of the trip.
The impression that I should go to Detroit became stronger, and I became convinced that God must be leading me to go. At last, I told the Lord that I would go, even though I did not know why, if a preacher I knew could preach for me on Sunday. I phoned a brother preacher hoping that he would tell me he was scheduled to preach elsewhere. To my dismay, the brother said he would be glad to preach for me.
I packed hurriedly, rushed to the railroad station and boarded the train. I rode all night, sitting up in a day coach, and finally fell asleep in the early hours of the morning. At dawn, as the train was pulling into the station in Detroit, a man shook me awake.
“We have to get off here,” he said. “This is the end of the line.”
I awoke, not knowing what to expect. I did not know why I had come to Detroit or what I was supposed to do. I knew that Dr. Norris preached in Temple Baptist Church part of his time, but I had no reason to believe that he would be in Detroit at this time.
“My name is Sam Jesse,” the man who had awakened me said, demanding my attention. “I am pastor of an independent Baptist church in Burton, Kansas.”
“My name is Louis Arnold. I am pastor of South Elkhorn Baptist Church near Lexington, Kentucky,” I replied.
“I suppose you have come to the fellowship meeting,” he said.
“I certainly have. Where is it?” I responded.
“Temple Baptist Church. Dr. Norris will be there. Preachers will be coming from all over. The meetings will go all week. We are going to have a great time.”
I told Brother Jesse that I probably could not afford to stay for all the meeting, but he assured me the church would furnish all meals and that lodging would be provided in the homes of the members.
“Then I’ll stay,” I told him.
The train screeched to a stop, and we collected our bags and got off. Two men came out of the crowd that was waiting for the train to arrive and asked if we were preachers. We pled guilty.
“We have come to take you to the church,” one of them told us. There were other men looking for preachers who needed a ride. Our driver found another preacher who needed a ride, then led us to his car.
We were soon driving through the early morning traffic on our way to Temple Baptist Church. When we reached the church we were ushered into a large dining room where breakfast was soon to be served. What a welcome we received. Preachers were shaking hands, talking, getting acquainted and having a good time.
I still remember the hot biscuits, bacon, eggs and coffee we were served for breakfast. After breakfast we were registered and assigned to homes where we were to lodge. Then there was more visiting and fellowshipping until Sunday school time.
Soon we preachers crossed the street to the main auditorium of the Temple Baptist Church. There I attended the largest Sunday school class I had ever seen. There were about 2 thousand adults, including the preachers who had arrived for the meeting. Dr. G. B. Vick taught the class, and it was a blessing to hear him.
I can never forget the service that followed, the great crowd, Dr. Norris’ commanding presence, veteran missionary, Fred Donnelson and family, Oscar Wells and others who had miraculously escaped from Communist China, Dr. Norris’ exceeding tenderness as he brought them to the platform and presented them to the great audience, the great singing, the sermon Dr. Norris preached—and the invitation. I had never seen so many people saved in one service. More than 70 people confessed faith in Christ in that one service. I was overwhelmed. I thought Dr. Norris had preached an average sermon. The invitation had seemed almost indifferent, yet more than 70 people had been saved. The service that night was a repeat performance, great singing, an average sermon, a poor invitation, and more than 30 people made a profession of faith. Again I was amazed. I had never seen such results before.
That night I went home with the church family I was to stay with. I could hardly wait until I was seated in the living room with my host so I could ask him the questions that were clamoring for answers.
“Do you have people saved in your church every Sunday?” I asked as soon as we were seated. He told me that the numbers were not always as great, but that they did indeed have people saved every Sunday.
“How do you do it?” was my next question.
“Let me take myself as an example,” he replied. “I work for Ford Motor Company to pay expenses, but my business is serving God. There are hundreds of others in our church who do the same. They work in various places, but their business is serving the Lord.
“In our church something goes on almost every night. Sunday night and Wednesday night we have services. Other nights people meet for prayer. Then they go out two by two from door to door to win souls. When someone gets saved they follow up and get them in church the next Sunday if at all possible. Then they sit with them, or near them, and pray for them while the pastor preaches. When the invitation starts, they say to them, ‘Come on, let’s go,’ and they lead them down the aisle to make their public profession of faith. That is how we do it.”
That week I learned more about winning souls and building a church than I had ever learned before.
The third and last time I saw Dr. Norris was in the chapel of Bible Baptist Seminary at First Baptist Church in Fort Worth. I did not go to Fort Worth with the intention of seeing Dr. Norris. In fact, Fort Worth was not in my travel plans. But God rearranged my schedule so I would see him.
Dr. Mordecai Ham had given me the broadcast he had been conducting on radio station KWBU, a 50 thousand watt station, in Corpus Christi, Texas. After doing the broadcast by recording for some months, I decided to go to Corpus Christi and do the broadcast in person for a time. I thought that preaching live and making some personal appearances in the area would help build the listening audience.
I started to Corpus Christi in my own plane, but after refueling, in Jackson, Tennessee, the engine started icing up every time I attempted to climb the plane above 400 feet. I couldn’t fly on to Texas at that altitude, so I decided to leave the plane and go the rest of the way by bus. When I returned from Texas I learned that the plane had been refueled with gas that was unsuited for it. If I had not had the problem, I would not have gone by Fort Worth, but the bus schedule took me that way.
When I reached Fort Worth, I decided to spend the night and visit First Baptist Church while I was there. I had no idea that Dr. Norris would be there, but I wanted to see the church.
When I arrived at the church the next morning, I found a fellowship meeting in progress, and I decided to stay and attend the meeting that day.
The meeting was being held in the chapel. I went in, found a seat, and heard one preacher after another preach, but, to my disappointment, Dr. Norris was not to be seen. I kept wondering where he was and if he would make an appearance. At last they presented the final speaker of the morning. When he finished we were to be dismissed for the noon meal.
Just as the brother arose to preach, a door opened behind the pulpit, and 15 or more seminary students burst through the doorway, walked across the platform, down the center aisle, and out the front door of the chapel. Each one of them had a large bundle of The Fundamentalist, Dr. Norris’ paper, under his arm. Of course the brother could not begin to preach with all that commotion going on.
When the last of the students had left the chapel, Dr. Norris came through the door and walked to the pulpit. He pushed the brother aside, cleared throat and said, “Those young men you saw are students in our seminary. The papers they are carrying are copies of the latest issue of The Fundamentalist.” He held up a copy of the paper. On the front page was a picture of a preacher.
“The picture is of Dr. . . ,” Dr. Norris said, pointing. (He gave the preacher’s name, but I have forgotten who he was). Dr. Norris continued, “He’s a modernist. He doesn’t believe the Bible. He’s an infidel, and he’s speaking out on Cemetery Hill.” (He was referring to the Southwestern Southern Baptist Theological Seminary). “Our boys are going out there to pass out copies of The Fundamentalist to people as they go in to hear this infidel. In this article I exposed him for what he is.”
Dr. Norris reached in his inside coat pocket and pulled out a telegram. “Here is a telegram I received from the people out on Cemetery Hill. They say that if any more of our boys come out there to pass out copies of The Fundamentalist, they’re going to have them arrested.”
“I called judge, so and so, a personal friend of mine, and said, judge if they arrest any of our boys and haul them into court, I want a public trial in a place large enough to hold our crowd. The judge said, ‘Dr. Norris, the only place I know of that will hold your crowd is First Baptist Church. If they arrest any of your boys, we’ll try them in the First Baptist Church.’”
Dr. Norris paused, then said, “The old cat has got her tail caught in the crack under the door. She’s scratching the varnish off the floor, but it’s her tail.”
Dr. Norris turned and walked back through the door behind the platform, and the brother who was to preach had to try to go on with the service. I cannot remember what he did or what he said.
What shall I say of Dr. Norris? Certainly he was controversial and flamboyant. He has been called, “The Texas Tornado.” l have heard that he could be harsh, caustic, even mean. From personal observation, I know he could be very tender and compassionate. There are hundreds, perhaps thousands of preachers who knew Dr. Norris far better than I knew him. However, this I know. Dr. Norris had much to do with the fundamental movement we have today.
Dr. Norris went to his reward in 1952. Regarding his home going, Walter M. Moore wrote, “Your friend and my friend has been promoted to Glory, “To Die Is Gain” was a favorite text of his. On Wednesday morning, August 20th, 1952, Dr. Norris laid down his Bible and slipped away to be with the Lord. He was a great preacher and Christian statesman. He fought a good fight. He finished his course. He kept the faith. He loved the cause of righteousness. He loved men. He counseled with presidents and kings. He mingled with the common herd. Dignitaries sought his advice, and common people heard him gladly.”
Dr. Norris left the earthly scene at 2:15 in the morning after preaching for Dr. Bob Ingle in Jacksonville, Florida the night before. Dr. Ingle had organized and built a great church in Jacksonville. Dr. Norris had had a tremendous influence on Dr. Ingle, and they had become good friends.
A few years after Dr. Norris’ death I preached for Dr. Ingle. After the night service, Mrs. Ingle told Mrs. Arnold that it was almost as if Dr. Norris had planned his home going from their city. He had preached a great sermon on Sunday night. After the service they had gone to a restaurant with Dr. Norris. He had been in high spirits, and they had had no idea that the next morning he would be gone.
A few years after Dr. Norris had gone to his reward, I attended a fellowship meeting in Fort Worth. In that meeting, one speaker after another said, “From Dr. Norris I learned to weep over souls. From Dr. Norris I learned how to lead people to Christ. I owe the ministry I have to the influence of Dr. J. Frank Norris.”
Copied with permission by Dr. Louis Arnold
The Arnold Report
2440 Bethel Road
Nicholasville, KY 40356
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
How The Gamblers Mocked The Savior
Using Matthew chapter 27, verse 35 as a text, one of J. Frank Norris’ favorite themes and which characterized his ministry was his passionate opposition to all kinds of vices. In this year of 2011, many of the vices that defined that era, are now so commonplace that we hardly blink an eye at the presence of these common vices. Go into any grocery store and you think you are entering a liquor store.
It was the out-of-control racehorse gambling which first caught the ire of Norris while he pastured The McKinney Ave. Baptist Church in Dallas, Texas. Ironically, this same building was later turned into the “hard Rock Café”. Even though his multifaceted ministry touched many areas, Norris never ceased to vent venom against the sin of gambling.
Verse 35 of Matthew chapter 27 speaks of the soldiers casting lots for the savior’s garments. This verse illustrates the blasphemous nature of a gambler’s heart.
In the mind of Norris, all of the gamblers, the liquor crowd and lawless practitioners are all organized and in it for their own gain, but sadly, the good people of this city (1945) will just sit by and let lawlessness prevail.
Much of what Norris was referring to was happening in the west end of Arlington, known as “Top of the Hill Terrace”, a notorious hangout for professional gamblers. Ironically, this same Top of the Hill Terrace became and is now the home of The Arlington Baptist College. Little did Norris realize in (1945) that this one-time gambling hang-out would become home to the school which he founded in 1939. I want to pay homage to the man, now deceased, Dr. Earl Oldham, who was largely responsible for the acquisition of this property in 1953.
Like the curse of liquor, compulsive gambling has destroyed the manhood of many a good man. Some may ask why make so great a fuss about just a minor part of society. Herein lies the reason. It is like a silent killer. Like the Roman soldiers, it is the seemingly little sins that destroy mankind. When it strikes home to the individual, it is they who must suffer alone.
Quoting Norris; “The spirit of the gambler is dishonest. He is for getting something for nothing. He is the lowest of scrapings of God’s creation.” If you know the history of big-time gambling, you will find the gambling interest deeply entrenched in big-time corruption.
In 1945, Norris confessed to the church that due to his inability to keep watch on the daily affairs of the church, a schism developed involving the superintendent of the Sunday School. After his exposure in engaging in petty gambling within the confines of the church, this superintendent soon left the church, but not until he had created a situation which gave birth to the greatest heartbreak of Norris’ lifetime.
These events took place while I was serving in Europe at the time of World War II, therefore, much of the details, I am unable to verify. But it shows how petty gambling can have dire consequences.
Gambling and such vices are not the worst of sins, for all sins are reprehensible in the eyes of God. “But where sin abounds, grace doth much more abound.” This gospel truth can be found in multiple scriptures but none more poignant than what the thief on the cross expressed in his dying hour. It is all expressed in this song entitled “There Is A Fountain Filled With Blood” …
“ The dying thief rejoiced to see
that fountain in his day;
and there may I,
though vile as he,
wash all my sins away. ”
So simple, yet so sublime. It is all a heart matter. So the message is this, open your heart to Him who alone is able to save.
Thank you…………….God bless each one ………. And may God Bless America.
P.S. WOULD YOU NOT EXPECT FALSE IMPRESSIONS OF J. FRANK NORRIS WOULD BE FORTHCOMING FROM THIS FORMER SUNDAY SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT WHO WAS DISMISSED. JUST ONE EXAMPLE OF HOW FALSE IMPRESSIONS SPREAD LIKE CANCER.
FOOD FOR THOUGHT: The gospel is like a two-edged sword. It excises both the cancer and applies the healing Balm of Gilead at the same time.
Roy Falls
November 2, 2011
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Taiwan (new in June 2011)
Nigeria (new in June 2011)
Ireland (new in July 2011)
Japan (new in July 2011)
Mexico (new in July 2011)
Costa Rica (new in August 2011)
Pakistan (new in August 2011)
Hong Kong (new in August 2011)
Malaysia (new in August 2011)
Zambia (new in August 2011)
South Africa (new in August 2011)
Israel (new in September 2011)
Sweden (new in September 2011)
Indonesia (new in September 2011)
Vietnam (new in September 2011)
Fiji (new in September 2011)
Serbia (new in September 2011)
Honduras (new in September 2011)
Finland (new in October 2011)
Greece (new in October 2011)
Belize (new in November 2011)
New Zealand (new in November 2011)
TOP TEN COUNTRIES - As of End of October 2011
United States 4,363
Russia 166
Germany 49
Latvia 36
China 35
Ukraine 34
United Kingdom 30
Philippines 24
Canada 23
Netherlands 18
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
"AS LONG AS THIS HAPPENS" - Story of J. T. Pemberton
PART 1
PART 2
This phrase shaped the early ministry of J. Frank Norris. These words, “As long as this happens” … were spoken by J. T. Pemberton, who served on the pulpit committee that called J. Frank Norris as pastor in 1909.
The story of this man, J. T. Pemberton gives evidence which refutes the false claim that J. Frank Norris eventually parted company with most of his one-time associates. Of all of the thousands of friends which Norris encountered along the way, none were more loyal than J. T. Pemberton. In the end, Norris considered J. T. Pemberton as the best friend he ever had and for that reason, the story of J. T. Pemberton needs to be told.
Initially, J. T. Pemberton opposed Norris at the beginning as pastor of the First Baptist Church. As it turned out, this man, Pemberton, who was the leading banker in Ft. Worth, Texas and for 38 years was in a position to befriend his pastor on more than one occasion. Strangely, it was J. T. Pemberton who cast the lone dissenting vote in 1909. Pemberton later explained the logic for casting a negative vote.
In addressing his fellow committee men, he stated, “If Norris comes as pastor, you can be assured we will not all be the same before long, for we are not ready for his type of preaching.”
“If he does come and when the fight is on, a lot of your fellows are going to take out, but I want to serve notice now. I will stay with him to the end.”
This accounts why J. Frank Norris considered J. T. Pemberton the greatest friend of his lifetime.
(This is a fascinating story which in all likelihood has never been told in detail).
In the midst of the early years, controversy soon developed into front page news, as the “city fathers” pursued means by which to silence the “straight talk” of Norris against vice and corrupt politics.
This is where the story of J. T. Pemberton begins. These “city fathers” tried to intimidate Pemberton by threatening to close his bank unless he cast in his lot to rid the city of this “trouble maker.”
J. T. Pemberton stood his ground and defied all the “would be” enemies. A typical reply to these would-be Norris assassins went like this: “I think that any man that God Almighty can get along with as well on He does with J. Frank Norris, I, J. T. Pemberton, will also get along with him too. ” Such loyalty would be hard to match which J. T. Pemberton exhibited time after time.
Addressing the critics of Norris, Pemberton said: “Gentlemen, you can cut this left arm off, and let every drop of blood in my body fall on this ground, before I will sit silently by, and let you ruin an innocent preacher, and drive him from the pulpit.”
A turnaround in Norris’ ministry began in the year 1913. At the height of this controversy with the “city fathers”, Norris had decided to leave Ft. Worth and head for California for a new start, but an interesting conversation at that time changed his (Norris’) ministry which lasted until the time of his death. Norris said to Mr. Pemberton:
“J. T., I am going to leave. I have made the best fight that I could. I have a wife and three babies. There is no use for me to try to stay here. I wish that I had never seen this town. I never want to see it again when I leave. I want to borrow some money. I haven’t a thing in the world to give you; no security.” (And that was Norris’ exact words)
Then Mr. Pemberton said: “How much do you want?” Then Norris said, “Well, I want more than I am going to ask you for. I am going out to Southern California. A friend of mine has got a ranch, and I am going to start life again.”
“I am going to get on my feet, and I will make something, or do something.” Then Mr. Pemberton said, “Well, I don’t blame you. You have stayed longer than I thought you would. Longer than I would.” Then Norris replied, “You have been a true friend.”
Norris just signed a note, with only his signature as security. Pemberton quotes as saying: “Go down there, and get your money. When are you leaving?” Norris replied, “I am leaving in the morning at 4 o’clock. I want to leave before daylight. I will take my wife and three babies, and I am going and I never want to see this place again.” “I wish that I had never heard of it. I have made a hard fight. I have been wounded to death. I have been betrayed. I have been stabbed in the back. I came here a young preacher. I thought that I was doing the right thing.”
As Norris and Pemberton walked to the door, Pemberton said,
“Well, I will tell you goodbye. But with one last word. I am mighty glad that you had last Sunday’s great service before you left.” “You know I sat there and I saw twenty-five or thirty people coming down the aisle, some hard cases that I have known for years, old red-boned sinners coming up there and confessing to the Lord, and tears running down their faces, and I saw that night a still larger number coming.” Pemberton continued by saying:
“I don’t know, it must have been fifty or sixty during the day.” And do you know what I thought? Pemberton said: “Well, they are cussing out my preacher, and attacking him, and lying on him, but just AS LONG AS THAT HAPPENS and God uses him to win souls like that, no matter what they say about him, he will win out.”
Norris seized upon that one little phrase: “JUST AS LONG AS THAT HAPPENS.” This thought under-girded his ministry for the next 30 years. Norris then tore up the note and went home and told my wife we are going to stay.
That is why the J. Frank Norris Historical Society has been established and in conclusion it is in keeping with that one phrase, AS LONG AS THIS HAPPENS, Gail and I want to sing a song, which in another way tells the whole story of just what I’ve been talking about.
Song is entitled Christ Receiveth Sinful Men
Goodnight and may God Bless America.
Roy Falls
October 25, 2011
PART 2
This phrase shaped the early ministry of J. Frank Norris. These words, “As long as this happens” … were spoken by J. T. Pemberton, who served on the pulpit committee that called J. Frank Norris as pastor in 1909.
The story of this man, J. T. Pemberton gives evidence which refutes the false claim that J. Frank Norris eventually parted company with most of his one-time associates. Of all of the thousands of friends which Norris encountered along the way, none were more loyal than J. T. Pemberton. In the end, Norris considered J. T. Pemberton as the best friend he ever had and for that reason, the story of J. T. Pemberton needs to be told.
Initially, J. T. Pemberton opposed Norris at the beginning as pastor of the First Baptist Church. As it turned out, this man, Pemberton, who was the leading banker in Ft. Worth, Texas and for 38 years was in a position to befriend his pastor on more than one occasion. Strangely, it was J. T. Pemberton who cast the lone dissenting vote in 1909. Pemberton later explained the logic for casting a negative vote.
In addressing his fellow committee men, he stated, “If Norris comes as pastor, you can be assured we will not all be the same before long, for we are not ready for his type of preaching.”
“If he does come and when the fight is on, a lot of your fellows are going to take out, but I want to serve notice now. I will stay with him to the end.”
This accounts why J. Frank Norris considered J. T. Pemberton the greatest friend of his lifetime.
(This is a fascinating story which in all likelihood has never been told in detail).
In the midst of the early years, controversy soon developed into front page news, as the “city fathers” pursued means by which to silence the “straight talk” of Norris against vice and corrupt politics.
This is where the story of J. T. Pemberton begins. These “city fathers” tried to intimidate Pemberton by threatening to close his bank unless he cast in his lot to rid the city of this “trouble maker.”
J. T. Pemberton stood his ground and defied all the “would be” enemies. A typical reply to these would-be Norris assassins went like this: “I think that any man that God Almighty can get along with as well on He does with J. Frank Norris, I, J. T. Pemberton, will also get along with him too. ” Such loyalty would be hard to match which J. T. Pemberton exhibited time after time.
Addressing the critics of Norris, Pemberton said: “Gentlemen, you can cut this left arm off, and let every drop of blood in my body fall on this ground, before I will sit silently by, and let you ruin an innocent preacher, and drive him from the pulpit.”
A turnaround in Norris’ ministry began in the year 1913. At the height of this controversy with the “city fathers”, Norris had decided to leave Ft. Worth and head for California for a new start, but an interesting conversation at that time changed his (Norris’) ministry which lasted until the time of his death. Norris said to Mr. Pemberton:
“J. T., I am going to leave. I have made the best fight that I could. I have a wife and three babies. There is no use for me to try to stay here. I wish that I had never seen this town. I never want to see it again when I leave. I want to borrow some money. I haven’t a thing in the world to give you; no security.” (And that was Norris’ exact words)
Then Mr. Pemberton said: “How much do you want?” Then Norris said, “Well, I want more than I am going to ask you for. I am going out to Southern California. A friend of mine has got a ranch, and I am going to start life again.”
“I am going to get on my feet, and I will make something, or do something.” Then Mr. Pemberton said, “Well, I don’t blame you. You have stayed longer than I thought you would. Longer than I would.” Then Norris replied, “You have been a true friend.”
Norris just signed a note, with only his signature as security. Pemberton quotes as saying: “Go down there, and get your money. When are you leaving?” Norris replied, “I am leaving in the morning at 4 o’clock. I want to leave before daylight. I will take my wife and three babies, and I am going and I never want to see this place again.” “I wish that I had never heard of it. I have made a hard fight. I have been wounded to death. I have been betrayed. I have been stabbed in the back. I came here a young preacher. I thought that I was doing the right thing.”
As Norris and Pemberton walked to the door, Pemberton said,
“Well, I will tell you goodbye. But with one last word. I am mighty glad that you had last Sunday’s great service before you left.” “You know I sat there and I saw twenty-five or thirty people coming down the aisle, some hard cases that I have known for years, old red-boned sinners coming up there and confessing to the Lord, and tears running down their faces, and I saw that night a still larger number coming.” Pemberton continued by saying:
“I don’t know, it must have been fifty or sixty during the day.” And do you know what I thought? Pemberton said: “Well, they are cussing out my preacher, and attacking him, and lying on him, but just AS LONG AS THAT HAPPENS and God uses him to win souls like that, no matter what they say about him, he will win out.”
Norris seized upon that one little phrase: “JUST AS LONG AS THAT HAPPENS.” This thought under-girded his ministry for the next 30 years. Norris then tore up the note and went home and told my wife we are going to stay.
That is why the J. Frank Norris Historical Society has been established and in conclusion it is in keeping with that one phrase, AS LONG AS THIS HAPPENS, Gail and I want to sing a song, which in another way tells the whole story of just what I’ve been talking about.
Song is entitled Christ Receiveth Sinful Men
Goodnight and may God Bless America.
Roy Falls
October 25, 2011
Monday, October 24, 2011
HOW "FAITH" WORKS
When you become tired of sinful ways,
When you become aware that you are going in the wrong direction,
When the way of the world, the flesh and satan become repugnant,
When you see yourself as a part of the earthly corruption,
When you begin to see that surely there is a better way.
These thoughts begin to weigh heavily upon your heart and mind. God's way then begins to break through,
and
They lead to a stirring up of that stubborn will,
and
That is when your thoughts begin to focus on the goodness of God's way.
Faith then leads us to pray the sinner's prayer ...
LORD, BE MERCIFUL TO ME, A SINNER ... just 7 words says it all.
Where sin abounds - Grace doth much more abound.
Roy Falls
When you become aware that you are going in the wrong direction,
When the way of the world, the flesh and satan become repugnant,
When you see yourself as a part of the earthly corruption,
When you begin to see that surely there is a better way.
These thoughts begin to weigh heavily upon your heart and mind. God's way then begins to break through,
and
They lead to a stirring up of that stubborn will,
and
That is when your thoughts begin to focus on the goodness of God's way.
Faith then leads us to pray the sinner's prayer ...
LORD, BE MERCIFUL TO ME, A SINNER ... just 7 words says it all.
Where sin abounds - Grace doth much more abound.
Roy Falls
Letter to Star Telegram Editor October 25, 2011
October 25, 2011
Bud Kennedy
Star Telegram
Re: Oct. 23rd Sunday article entitled Religious prejudice never goes out of style in politics
Dear Mr. Kennedy,
Norris did not attack Catholicism simply because of religious views, but in the case of which your article refers, his attacks were directed on the basis of Catholic opposition to prohibition. The country in 1928 was divided on this issue. Why is it that J. Frank Norris is fair game for demonization, but others are given a free ride as if they deserve some sort of sacrosanct privilege?
You do give credit to Norris when he lauds the Catholics for their opposition to the menace of communism. Friends and foes alike agree on one characteristic of J. Frank Norris. Unlike many of his critics, he did not resort to subtle or misleading statements to express his opinions.
Mr. Hankins’ statement “Norris was part of a wing of fundamentalists who attacked Catholics simply because of Catholicism.” That is a subtle statement unworthy of comment. Would he say the same about the Capitol speech given by Dr. Truett?
The often quoted assertion that Norris killed an unarmed man is simply not true. The court records plainly reveal that at least 12 witnesses testified otherwise and then the jury ruled “not guilty”.
Truth is unassailable and for verification read the eulogy by Mr. Amon G. Carter upon the death of J. Frank Norris.
P.S. Stokes and Hankins resort to hearsay. At age 91 I am a first hand witness since 1928.
Roy Falls
www.TheJFrankNorrisHistoricalSociety.blogspot.com
Bud Kennedy
Star Telegram
Re: Oct. 23rd Sunday article entitled Religious prejudice never goes out of style in politics
Dear Mr. Kennedy,
Norris did not attack Catholicism simply because of religious views, but in the case of which your article refers, his attacks were directed on the basis of Catholic opposition to prohibition. The country in 1928 was divided on this issue. Why is it that J. Frank Norris is fair game for demonization, but others are given a free ride as if they deserve some sort of sacrosanct privilege?
You do give credit to Norris when he lauds the Catholics for their opposition to the menace of communism. Friends and foes alike agree on one characteristic of J. Frank Norris. Unlike many of his critics, he did not resort to subtle or misleading statements to express his opinions.
Mr. Hankins’ statement “Norris was part of a wing of fundamentalists who attacked Catholics simply because of Catholicism.” That is a subtle statement unworthy of comment. Would he say the same about the Capitol speech given by Dr. Truett?
The often quoted assertion that Norris killed an unarmed man is simply not true. The court records plainly reveal that at least 12 witnesses testified otherwise and then the jury ruled “not guilty”.
Truth is unassailable and for verification read the eulogy by Mr. Amon G. Carter upon the death of J. Frank Norris.
P.S. Stokes and Hankins resort to hearsay. At age 91 I am a first hand witness since 1928.
Roy Falls
www.TheJFrankNorrisHistoricalSociety.blogspot.com
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Sept. 2011 Letter to Editor, Times Union, New York
September 27, 2011
Times Union
Box 15000, News Plaza
Albany, N. Y. 12212
Dear Editor,
On behalf of the J. Frank Norris Historical Society, I wish to point out glaring erroneous assertions in the article by Rev. David R. Stokes which appeared in your publication on August 27, 2011.
I have done extensive research on this very subject which Mr. Stokes’ uses as the focus of his remarks. You will note that Mr. Stokes equates “Fundamentalism” as the fertile recruiting soil for the Ku Klux Klan. Scholarly research does not validate his assumption. If you, as Editors, will substitute the word “Protestantism” for the word “Fundamentalism”, you will get an entirely different take on the man Rev. Stokes tries to make out as the leader of the “pack”. Protestantism of all sectors, including main-line Southern Baptist churches were the core leaders of different factions of the Klan in this time period. The vast majority of Klansmen were members of protestant churches and most pastors were sympathetic supporters, although themselves not dues paying members of the Klan. It is not surprising, that Rev. Stokes has found evidence that one such Klansman was a member of the Norris church. Read the archives of the Dallas Morning News for an eye-opener. At best, any involvement in the Klan on the part of J. Frank Norris would be considered on the periphery.
Another inaccuracy in the article is the oft assertion that Norris shot an unarmed man. This assumption is based on hearsay and out-of the court’s sources. It’s a long story, but I’ve talked and knew personally most of the defendant witnesses. At age 91, I do have a closer view and understanding of the events in 1926, rather than from a distance of 75 years.
For the benefit of all New York Jewish constituents, the name of J. Frank Norris will, in the course of history, be remembered as the most ardent exponent of Jewish causes, namely Zionism. This one aspect of Norris’ legacy has led me to an appreciation of his legacy, thus my endeavor on the J. Frank Norris Historical Society is committed to factual reporting.
Roy Falls
3505 Cherokee Trail
Granbury, Tx. 76048
Times Union
Box 15000, News Plaza
Albany, N. Y. 12212
Dear Editor,
On behalf of the J. Frank Norris Historical Society, I wish to point out glaring erroneous assertions in the article by Rev. David R. Stokes which appeared in your publication on August 27, 2011.
I have done extensive research on this very subject which Mr. Stokes’ uses as the focus of his remarks. You will note that Mr. Stokes equates “Fundamentalism” as the fertile recruiting soil for the Ku Klux Klan. Scholarly research does not validate his assumption. If you, as Editors, will substitute the word “Protestantism” for the word “Fundamentalism”, you will get an entirely different take on the man Rev. Stokes tries to make out as the leader of the “pack”. Protestantism of all sectors, including main-line Southern Baptist churches were the core leaders of different factions of the Klan in this time period. The vast majority of Klansmen were members of protestant churches and most pastors were sympathetic supporters, although themselves not dues paying members of the Klan. It is not surprising, that Rev. Stokes has found evidence that one such Klansman was a member of the Norris church. Read the archives of the Dallas Morning News for an eye-opener. At best, any involvement in the Klan on the part of J. Frank Norris would be considered on the periphery.
Another inaccuracy in the article is the oft assertion that Norris shot an unarmed man. This assumption is based on hearsay and out-of the court’s sources. It’s a long story, but I’ve talked and knew personally most of the defendant witnesses. At age 91, I do have a closer view and understanding of the events in 1926, rather than from a distance of 75 years.
For the benefit of all New York Jewish constituents, the name of J. Frank Norris will, in the course of history, be remembered as the most ardent exponent of Jewish causes, namely Zionism. This one aspect of Norris’ legacy has led me to an appreciation of his legacy, thus my endeavor on the J. Frank Norris Historical Society is committed to factual reporting.
Roy Falls
3505 Cherokee Trail
Granbury, Tx. 76048
J. Frank Norris' Opposition to Denominationalism
The difference between Fundamentalism and Denominationalism. Also the difference between pre millenniumism and post millenniumism.
CORRECTION: J. Frank Norris died in 1952, not 1925, as stated.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
TOP TEN COUNTRIES - As of End of September 2011
Click photo to enlarge
United States 4,082
Russia 161
Germany 48
China 35
Latvia 34
Ukraine 34
Canada 23
Philippines 23
United Kingdom 21
Thailand 15
Russia 161
Germany 48
China 35
Latvia 34
Ukraine 34
Canada 23
Philippines 23
United Kingdom 21
Thailand 15
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
J Frank Norris Supported Zionism
Tonight I want to deal with a subject which has very seldom been addressed at length. It is a subject in which the man for whom my website is named, The J. Frank Norris Historical Society, was vitally concerned for and had a deep-seeded compassion for its success.
I refer to the movement of what has been called, “Zionism” which originated in the mind of Theodore Herzl in about the year of 1900. Mr. Herzl, of Jewish descent, looked toward the future and foresaw the day in which a national homeland would be established for Jews scattered around the world for the first time in over 2500 years. This dream was finally culminated in 1948, but I must state, it was in part only, for the final and complete culmination is yet in the future.
I want to emphasize the futuristic concept of this dream, for that thought carries with it a host of unanswered questions worthy of consideration. The future is unknown but who knows, there may come a time scientifically, that we can foretell the future.
Zionism per se did not begin in the mind of Theodore Herzl, for the thought behind Zionism dates back to the Old Testament time of Abraham, 1500 years before Christ. The year of 1900 just happened to be the focal point reviving the concept of the re-gathering of the nation of Israel.
The connotation of Zionism invariably is linked with religion and in this case, it is the religion of the Jewish people. The subject of Zionism is important, not only from a religious standpoint, but also should serve as a basis for scientific research. In this modern era, science has reached a plateau of respectability and rightfully so in so far as true science is concerned. Science prides itself in holding to ideals of objectivity. It is no accident that the world’s greatest scientific minds are of Jewish descent. Albert Einstein is a case in point. Zionism likewise is an idea born in the mind of Jewish sages. What may seem like a silly idea to some just might be a meaningful source of serious research concerning the future of Zionism if the same amount of endeavor where forthcoming as that which is devoted to earthly science. We then just be able to determine the future of mankind.
Zionism is synonymous with the core message of the Old Testament, and out of this has immerged the era of Christendom.
Like all of life, Zionism is shrouded in mystery, but it’s adherents, while clinging to the hope of reaching the land of “milk and honey”, has motivated untold millions and so, like the Zionists and J. Frank Norris, a foremost proponent of Zionism, we join in singing there is a land that is fairer than day……In The Sweet By And By.
Roy Falls
October 2011
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Paul and Merci Caro - Phillipino Missionaries
Paul and Merci Caro came to America after hearing and learning about J. Frank Norris, to attend the school established by Norris, now Arlington Baptist College.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Friday, September 30, 2011
OUR BLOG AUDIENCE ... (53 countries thru the end of September 2011)
CLICK PHOTO TO ENLARGE
From time to time we will post our audience listeners:
United States (Beginning August 2010)
Russia
Canada
Croatia
Phillipines
South Korea
Hungary
Burkina Faso
Iran (new in February 2011)
Brazil (new in February 2011)
Guatemala (new in February 2011)
Singapore (new in February 2011)
Uraquay (new in February 2011)
Germany (new in March 2011)
United Kingdom (new in March 2011)
Thailand (new in April 2011)
Belarus (new in April 2011)
Denmark (new in April 2011)
Saudi Arabia (new in April 2011)
Spain (new in April 2011)
India (new in April 2011)
Australia (new in April 2011)
Uzbekistan (new in April 2011)
Netherlands (new in April 2011
Egypt (new in April 2011)
Latvia (new in May 2011)
Ukraine (new in May 2011)
Czech Republic (new in May 2011)
Bermuda (new in May 2011)
Portugal (new in May 2011)
China (new in May 2011)
France (new in June 2011)
Liberia (new in June 2011)
Romania (new in June 2011)
Kenya (new in June 2011)
United England (new in June 2011)
Taiwan (new in June 2011)
Nigeria (new in June 2011)
Ireland (new in July 2011)
Japan (new in July 2011)
Mexico (new in July 2011)
Costa Rica (new in August 2011)
Pakistan (new in August 2011)
Hong Kong (new in August 2011)
Malaysia (new in August 2011)
Zambia (new in August 2011)
South Africa (new in August 2011)
Israel (new in September 2011)
Sweden (new in September 2011)
Indonesia (new in September 2011)
Vietnam (new in September 2011)
Fiji (new in September 2011)
Serbia (new in September 2011)
Honduras (new in September 2011)
Finland (new in October 2011)
Greece (new in October 2011)
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
The Subtleness of Sin
The downfall of humanity and demise of nations can be attributed to the deceitfulness of this one little element, The Subtleness of Sin. It all began in the Garden of Eden, a seemingly simple act of falling prey to the age-long trickery of Satan is as real today as it was six thousand years ago. Be not deceived, for your sins will find you out.
Mr. Stokes, in his latest book, does not seem to grasp the serious nature of this phenomenon, but having been blinded by his own naivete, nevertheless has mastered the art of deceitfulness invented by the arch deceiver of all time. Stokes, with his eloquent way with words, makes it appear that Norris was the leader of the KKK pack.
Anyone halfway familiar with the ministry of J. Frank Norris is well aware of his life-long attempt in exposing the evils of the cursed liquor traffic, which has been the downfall of multitudes. Instead of applauding the great crusader, he (Stokes) tries to make him out as a man out of touch with the times. In the minds of critics, Norris’ attacks on the liquor industry seem to be more of an evil than the curse of liquor itself. No, Mr. Stokes, J. Frank Norris was not out of touch, his early experiences in life taught him the real lessons of life. Evil is evil, even if smells like a rose in religious garb. Billy Sunday was also a great crusader.
You will note Mr. Stokes’ mishandling of the Ku Klux Klan issue. The record shows that J. Frank Norris was a shaker and a mover in the religious world resulting in the great divide, best described as “Fundamentalism vs. the Modernist controversy.” Herein lies the background and how the act of deceit plays a vital role. Instead of total honesty in giving a report of the religion/Klan entanglement, Mr. Stokes equates “Fundamentalism” as the fertile ground for Klan recruitment. He knows full well the difference between “Fundamentalism” and “Protestantism”, but yet fails to acknowledge that is was “Protestantism” not “Fundamentalism” that furnished this fertile ground. Honest research reveals the involvement of “Protestantism” in this perplexing era. In the south and in Texas, the largest Southern Baptist Churches, were leaders in the Klan movement, whose acts of violence had some similarity to that which happened in Jasper, Texas. Read the story of Jesse Washington. Ironically, it was Norris who was often threatened with violence, NOT the other way around. Incidentally, Mordecai Ham, a Norris cohort, was at one time, “tarred and feathered” by the liquor crowd.
Last but not least, the inside story of J. Frank Norris has not yet been told. It involves his early detection and recognition of the legitimacy of Jewish causes. Human conflicts involving the Middle East are shrouded in mystery. The crucial issue of Zionism lies at the heart of this mystery. Norris was in the forefront on the side of the Zionist Movement in the 1920s. But rather than focus on this life and death issue, deceitfulness has diverted the focus and thus subtle lies have become the paramount topic.
Thank you all and may God Bless America,
Roy Falls
Saturday, September 24, 2011
♪ ♫ We'll work...till Jesus comes, we'll work ... ♪ ♫
We have taken a short break this week, but will be returning next week with more ... stay tuned dear friends!
Friday, September 16, 2011
A Quick Quest Into The Abrahamic Covenant Can Prevent a Quantum Leap Into The World of Quackery And Quandary
PART 1
PART 2
I hope by this video to give you some interpretation of what the Abrahamic covenant is all about. You will note at the beginning this covenant is just opposite from a humanistic world view.
I am reading from the 12th chapter of Genesis … verses 1 thru 3, which reads as follows:
“Now the Lord had said unto Abram, get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will show thee: and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great, and thou shalt be a blessing: and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee; and in thee shall all the families be blessed.”
These three verses were favorite quotes of J. Frank Norris who was the foremost supporter of the Jewish Israelites, at a time when it was unpopular to do so. He, (Norris) was capable of taking complex subjects and reducing the same into plain and simple language. When we depart from the simplistic covenant message that God made with Abraham, then human wisdom soon supplants the real message of faith and obedience. For this reason … every student of history should appreciate the ministry of J. Frank Norris for his understanding of crucial issues as revealed in the bible. So, if we understand the meaning of the Abrahamic covenant it leads to an understanding of many mysteries in the bible.
Abraham is considered to be the father of many nations. If other nations had followed his lead, the world would be a much different place than what it is today. Exploring the meaning, the Abrahamic covenant can open an understanding of many scriptures. It is not accidental that the three great religions, (Christianity, Judaism and Islam) trace their beginnings to Abraham of the old testament. But, unlike Abraham, the man who best exemplified simple faith, somewhere along the line, all but a remnant have gone the way of all flesh or have become so amalgamated, that any resemblance of Abrahamic faith is hard to find even in this late era. Abraham, by faith, was able to understand the true character of a monolithic creator. God (who is one) thus honored Abraham’s faith. It was Abraham who understood the redemptive plan of salvation initiated in the mind of God even before the creation. The folly of Babel has always raised it’s ugly head, sending mixed messages and leaving a trail of despair.
Fifteen hundred years before the event of the gospel, Abraham saw the plan of God afar off, as it were, and passed the message on to his offspring, albeit a remnant, but nevertheless untainted by pagan beliefs. It is no wonder then, that the event of Christ’s death, burial and resurrection has been labeled as the “greatest story ever told.” It is no wonder that the Queen of Sheba, a non-Israelite, exclaimed “The half has not been told.” By this quotation even pagans can have a veiled view of truth. And to this day, pagans strangely so, extol the virtue of Christ Jesus, but sadly stops short of acknowledging His divinity. The immortal Martin Luther’s heart was stirred when he came to realize that the “just” shall live by faith.
Another aspect of the Abrahamic story has to do with God’s instruction for him to leave his native land. I think the underlying lesson to be gleaned from this aspect of his call was to demonstrate the great wall of separation between truth and error. The heart of Abraham was moved by faith to separate himself from pagan beliefs. What is unique about the Abrahamic covenant is the fact that he, Abraham, best understood the mind of God in dealing with fallen humanity.
Fallen humanity can not and does not place proper emphasis on the very sound beliefs that Abraham learned as he communed with God.
Fallen humanity does not see the world thru the eyes of Abraham but rather has developed a palatable view best described in general as humanism, the new-found fad so engrained in the human heart. The concept of humanism is the extreme antithesis of the Abrahamic covenant.
Humanism is the granddaddy of all religions which magnifies unholy self-righteousness. The idea of humanism originated with the tower of Babel, and hence from this event, sprang forth in the heart of Abraham a holy desire to separate himself from paganism. The theory of humanism has found its way into all religions … Christianity notwithstanding. Listen to the average modern sermons coming from sources promoting liberal theology and you will detect a humanistic connection couched in biblical language.
Strange as it may seem, the bible can be construed to support a variety of beliefs … and indeed this is a perplexing phenomenon. But when we depart from the simplistic faith demonstrated by Abraham we’re heading in the wrong direction. Christ Himself eluded to this dangerous tendency of false teachers who He said burden men with heavy burdens.
An understanding of the Abrahamic covenant illustrates the importance of simple faith by which God judges all men. Friends, the way of salvation is simple, yet so sublime. I am not a universalist as some might suppose but I believe that God can hear the simple sinner’s prayer, which is “Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner.”
It matters not what your native culture might have taught you, the God of Abraham, the forerunner of our Redeemer can hear the cry of every seeking soul.
Faith in the goodness of God leads to Godly repentance. Faith creates within a holy desire to follow in His footsteps. There is a kindred spirit that binds all believers together when you can hear the testimony of a broken heart which leads us to say there will be multitudes from every kindred and tongue in the day of the Lord God Almighty.
Sadly, this kindred spirit of error embodied in the concept of humanism can be seen when man begins to listen to unsound doctrine instead of listening to that still small voice.
Roy Falls
PART 2
I hope by this video to give you some interpretation of what the Abrahamic covenant is all about. You will note at the beginning this covenant is just opposite from a humanistic world view.
I am reading from the 12th chapter of Genesis … verses 1 thru 3, which reads as follows:
“Now the Lord had said unto Abram, get thee out of thy country, and from thy kindred, and from thy father’s house, unto a land that I will show thee: and I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great, and thou shalt be a blessing: and I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee; and in thee shall all the families be blessed.”
These three verses were favorite quotes of J. Frank Norris who was the foremost supporter of the Jewish Israelites, at a time when it was unpopular to do so. He, (Norris) was capable of taking complex subjects and reducing the same into plain and simple language. When we depart from the simplistic covenant message that God made with Abraham, then human wisdom soon supplants the real message of faith and obedience. For this reason … every student of history should appreciate the ministry of J. Frank Norris for his understanding of crucial issues as revealed in the bible. So, if we understand the meaning of the Abrahamic covenant it leads to an understanding of many mysteries in the bible.
Abraham is considered to be the father of many nations. If other nations had followed his lead, the world would be a much different place than what it is today. Exploring the meaning, the Abrahamic covenant can open an understanding of many scriptures. It is not accidental that the three great religions, (Christianity, Judaism and Islam) trace their beginnings to Abraham of the old testament. But, unlike Abraham, the man who best exemplified simple faith, somewhere along the line, all but a remnant have gone the way of all flesh or have become so amalgamated, that any resemblance of Abrahamic faith is hard to find even in this late era. Abraham, by faith, was able to understand the true character of a monolithic creator. God (who is one) thus honored Abraham’s faith. It was Abraham who understood the redemptive plan of salvation initiated in the mind of God even before the creation. The folly of Babel has always raised it’s ugly head, sending mixed messages and leaving a trail of despair.
Fifteen hundred years before the event of the gospel, Abraham saw the plan of God afar off, as it were, and passed the message on to his offspring, albeit a remnant, but nevertheless untainted by pagan beliefs. It is no wonder then, that the event of Christ’s death, burial and resurrection has been labeled as the “greatest story ever told.” It is no wonder that the Queen of Sheba, a non-Israelite, exclaimed “The half has not been told.” By this quotation even pagans can have a veiled view of truth. And to this day, pagans strangely so, extol the virtue of Christ Jesus, but sadly stops short of acknowledging His divinity. The immortal Martin Luther’s heart was stirred when he came to realize that the “just” shall live by faith.
Another aspect of the Abrahamic story has to do with God’s instruction for him to leave his native land. I think the underlying lesson to be gleaned from this aspect of his call was to demonstrate the great wall of separation between truth and error. The heart of Abraham was moved by faith to separate himself from pagan beliefs. What is unique about the Abrahamic covenant is the fact that he, Abraham, best understood the mind of God in dealing with fallen humanity.
Fallen humanity can not and does not place proper emphasis on the very sound beliefs that Abraham learned as he communed with God.
Fallen humanity does not see the world thru the eyes of Abraham but rather has developed a palatable view best described in general as humanism, the new-found fad so engrained in the human heart. The concept of humanism is the extreme antithesis of the Abrahamic covenant.
Humanism is the granddaddy of all religions which magnifies unholy self-righteousness. The idea of humanism originated with the tower of Babel, and hence from this event, sprang forth in the heart of Abraham a holy desire to separate himself from paganism. The theory of humanism has found its way into all religions … Christianity notwithstanding. Listen to the average modern sermons coming from sources promoting liberal theology and you will detect a humanistic connection couched in biblical language.
Strange as it may seem, the bible can be construed to support a variety of beliefs … and indeed this is a perplexing phenomenon. But when we depart from the simplistic faith demonstrated by Abraham we’re heading in the wrong direction. Christ Himself eluded to this dangerous tendency of false teachers who He said burden men with heavy burdens.
An understanding of the Abrahamic covenant illustrates the importance of simple faith by which God judges all men. Friends, the way of salvation is simple, yet so sublime. I am not a universalist as some might suppose but I believe that God can hear the simple sinner’s prayer, which is “Lord, be merciful to me, a sinner.”
It matters not what your native culture might have taught you, the God of Abraham, the forerunner of our Redeemer can hear the cry of every seeking soul.
Faith in the goodness of God leads to Godly repentance. Faith creates within a holy desire to follow in His footsteps. There is a kindred spirit that binds all believers together when you can hear the testimony of a broken heart which leads us to say there will be multitudes from every kindred and tongue in the day of the Lord God Almighty.
Sadly, this kindred spirit of error embodied in the concept of humanism can be seen when man begins to listen to unsound doctrine instead of listening to that still small voice.
Roy Falls
Letter to Institute for Lifelong Education at Dartmouth
September 16, 2011
Institute for Lifelong Education at Dartmouth
10 Hilton Field Rd.
Hanover, New Hampshire 03755
Re: David R. Stokes’ Sept. 28th talk on his book “The Shooting Salvationist”
To Whom It May Concern,
A review of “The Shooting Salvationist” recently appeared in the Texas Monthly. The writer gives a fair and balanced account from the viewpoint of an unbiased observer. In 1938, H. L. Mencken met and heard J. Frank Norris. A quote from Mencken; “I have no doubt whatever, that his (Norris’) heart is in the right place.”
Stokes leaves out crucial testimonies of witnesses unfavorable to his purported research. It cannot be proven that Chipps was unarmed.
Norris’ KKK connection is demonstratively present only in prohibition matters. “He had no brief for the Klan” … quoted from Time Magazine 1926. Dallas Texas was the hotbed of Klanism in that era superceeding by far any events that transpired in Ft. Worth. It is noteworthy that Dallas was the prime headquarters of mainline Baptist churches. The great question is, why no emphasis is given to these facts but rather focus on the one lone voice in Ft, Worth and make it appear that all but Norris had a “lilly white” record.
Prestigious members of society were noticeably associated with J. Frank Norris.
a. Brooks Morris, a renowned violinist and director/founder of the
Ft. Worth Symphony Orchestra
b. John Birch (The John Birch Society)
c. G. V. Vick of Detroit
d. Many successful businessmen
Norris was the foremost promoter of Jewish causes which proves no kkk connection.
Barry Hankins, a Baylor professor, confirmed that Norris was no more racist than others of that era.
Personal note: I have attended black churches where he often preached. He was a man of genuine affection for the common man.
Sincerely,
Roy Falls
Institute for Lifelong Education at Dartmouth
10 Hilton Field Rd.
Hanover, New Hampshire 03755
Re: David R. Stokes’ Sept. 28th talk on his book “The Shooting Salvationist”
To Whom It May Concern,
A review of “The Shooting Salvationist” recently appeared in the Texas Monthly. The writer gives a fair and balanced account from the viewpoint of an unbiased observer. In 1938, H. L. Mencken met and heard J. Frank Norris. A quote from Mencken; “I have no doubt whatever, that his (Norris’) heart is in the right place.”
Stokes leaves out crucial testimonies of witnesses unfavorable to his purported research. It cannot be proven that Chipps was unarmed.
Norris’ KKK connection is demonstratively present only in prohibition matters. “He had no brief for the Klan” … quoted from Time Magazine 1926. Dallas Texas was the hotbed of Klanism in that era superceeding by far any events that transpired in Ft. Worth. It is noteworthy that Dallas was the prime headquarters of mainline Baptist churches. The great question is, why no emphasis is given to these facts but rather focus on the one lone voice in Ft, Worth and make it appear that all but Norris had a “lilly white” record.
Prestigious members of society were noticeably associated with J. Frank Norris.
a. Brooks Morris, a renowned violinist and director/founder of the
Ft. Worth Symphony Orchestra
b. John Birch (The John Birch Society)
c. G. V. Vick of Detroit
d. Many successful businessmen
Norris was the foremost promoter of Jewish causes which proves no kkk connection.
Barry Hankins, a Baylor professor, confirmed that Norris was no more racist than others of that era.
Personal note: I have attended black churches where he often preached. He was a man of genuine affection for the common man.
Sincerely,
Roy Falls
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