bible-truths.com/forums
=> General Discussions => Topic started by: Dennis Vogel on May 24, 2012, 03:13:22 AM
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Manuela called and told me Ray died.
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Oh Dennis, this is a very sad day for all of us..iknow especially for you.. Give our love to Manuela
Kathy :(
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I can't believe it, :'(
Dennis I'm sorry. You and Manuela are definitely in my prayers.
I hope you all are comforted through this.
Gosh, I can't believe it!
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Very sad day but thankfully there is no more pain and suffering for Ray.
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This is really sad... my God.... but it is your will Lord ... it is your will.
Please comfort us all especially those who are closest to Ray.
........
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How was it that God put so much wisdom into a roofer? We know Ray was the work of God. I am so glad he had no theological degree.
I am so glad I made it to the Mobile Conference. I have memories that cannot be taken. I can hear his voice so clearly, and when I read the words written, I remember.
Ray, I am sure your work will go on, in many lives, and in the vast body of work you have written. For this I am deeply thankful.
He was one in millions. For sure.
Goodbye, and may we emulate in you what was good and true and worthwhile and right. And fight the good fight as you did.
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I will never forget the day I stumbled upon these bible truths...Thank you Ray for all that you showed us.
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I am so sorry to hear this :'(. Truely "Joy Cometh in the Morning".
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Thank you Dennis, for keeping us up to date. I'm sure this is very difficult to lose such a good friend. We are here for you and Manuela if you need anything.
we will all miss him very much, but we are a family here and he would want us to continue to seek the truths of God together, as a family . Been up all night checking back and forth because I had a feeling tonight would be the time for some reason...at any rate, take it easy Dennis and be sure to get some rest and I'm sure Manuela knows she is in our prayers.
we love you both. We are all still here my friend. I'm not going anywhere that's for certain.
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I'm glad he's no longer suffering.
What an amazing, powerful work of God we were witnesses to in Ray. And still are, thanks to you, Dennis and everyone who worked in the greatest ministry to come in my lifetime.
Thank you, too, Manuela.
I pray God soon comforts us all.
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I'm speechless. I'm 22 and when I was 18 I was actually listening to people like Bill Wiese, John Hagee, Mike Murdock, Benny Hinn, etc. Yeah, I know, pretty bad. But I was young and of course there was no one to guide me in the right direction. A friend of mine found out about Ray's site and told me to read his material. I read his letter to John Hagee and was confounded, shocked, and after a short time so thankful to have found Ray's website. Ray was the first man God used to show me the true Gospel. Ray is such an awesome guy.
I never met Ray. I wish I could have met him. He did send me 500 of his Bible-Truths cards which have his picture on it. It would probably be better to have your own made by a small company so you can put your own email on there because Ray cannot respond anymore. I love Ray like a brother and will miss him. This should reminds us all the time is short and we still have to run our race just as Ray did. We all still have the obligation to witness for Christ and stand up for the Truth. Lets all stay close, edify one another in Christ, and not lose fellowship. I don't know what else to say right now. Dr. Jimmy Steger was Ray's Naturopathic doctor and I highly recommend him. www.drsteger.net
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Sad day indeed.We comfort ourselves with his material,he has done everything he came here to do, we will continually remember him
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Hi everyone. First time poster
This is a sad day. It's weird how you're expecting this to happen and when it does, it's still a shock.
In the 70's, there was a popular Christian slogan "I Found It!" on billboards everywhere. About 3 years ago, "I Found It" when I stumbled my way here.
Thank you Dennis for teaming up with Ray to create bible-truths.com.
My thoughts and prayers for manuela and surviving family and friends.
"Hell knows no fury like a Christian who has been shown the truth" - L. Ray Smith
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My heart is sad for the loss of Ray, but at the same time i'm thankful his suffering has passed. My prayers go out to Manuela, Dennis and others close to Ray, as well as everyone of my brothers and sisters here. I know not what the immediate future holds for us, but i pray for Christ to comfort us.. We love you brother Ray, and can't wait to see you again on the day of our Lord's return.
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Heartfelt sympathy to Manuela and Ray's other family and friends. I have not posted very often but have kept Ray in mind so often. What a wonderful work he has performed.
fox
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I am so sorry... :'(
Thank you Ray, and thank you Dennis and other co-workers of Ray for BT, together you have changed my life forever.
Dear Manuela you are in my earnest prayers, may the the Father of mercies, and God of all comfort be with you.
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Dear all,
I'm feeling both sadness and hope. Sad for loosing him, sad for the suffering and pain for Ray's family and all of us. Hopeful because we will meet one day and because of what God has done through Ray. Happy thinking about the gifts and treasures God has left us through Ray. I loved Ray's warm and great sense of humor. It was an inspiration how he cared for others and stood up for weak and hurt people. I know that Manuela made all of this possible through her tirelessly working and caring for and loving Ray. The other workers at Bible Truths have done incredible things. We need to pray for each other and ask the Lord to strengthen us and guide us. I thank God for all he has done and all He will do that we don't know yet.
Peace and love to all of you,
Eirik
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I met another "B-T'er" on the bus today and we were grieving over the possiblity of Ray's "spirit being retrieved by God" and then it struck us: What if the funders STOPPED funding this sie because Ray is no longer with us??? We don't have all this in "hard copy" and we can't LOSE this VALUABLE INFORMATION FOREVER as there is no place LIKE THIS!! WORRIED!!
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I met another "B-T'er" on the bus today and we were grieving over the possiblity of Ray's "spirit being retrieved by God" and then it struck us: What if the funders STOPPED funding this sie because Ray is no longer with us??? We don't have all this in "hard copy" and we can't LOSE this VALUABLE INFORMATION FOREVER as there is no place LIKE THIS!! WORRIED!!
I don't think you have to worry about that. This site isn't going anywhere anytime soon. We love each other too much to let that happen.
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I just feel numb and sad, Father please comfort ALL of us.
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Ray was a teacher like no other I will ever get to know. What I appreciated most about knowing Ray was that as great a teacher he was he was just a man like myself, warts and all. When you discover the bible truths site you have a tendancy to think of Ray as some Zen master who was head and shoulders above everyone else, but he was not, he was a man just like everyone else with all the same struggles and problems. That should prove to all of you that if God decides to use you He will. It doesn't matter what the gift is, if it is given by God you will be used and you don't have to be a saint, just willing.
I will miss his writings and emails but I also know that if I can apply even a little bit of what I learned through Ray it will take the rest of my life and then some.
Over the last few years I have held back a few emails here and there to post after he is gone so in the next weeks I will post a few of them. Even though you are sad now look toward the future and all the changes you can work in your lives because of what knowledge God has given to you through the teaching that Ray brought out. Death is not an end it is just another beginning and Ray is pain free now and resting as he awaits the next beginning God uses him for.
Craig
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Amen dear brother Craig! I can't wait for the emails you will post. I liked very much how you described Ray. This is the way I felt about him since I started studying his material. I'm still amazed at the work he has done. What a man! What a witness for the Lord! Imagine the value of what he has left behind. I take comfort in the fact that Ray sleeps now, but it will take time to get used to the fact that he isn't around.
God bless you,
Eirik
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I knew that soon I would log into the forum and read those words. It was expected but it's still a shock. I'm happy for Ray because he is now sleeping the sleep of death and out of pain....but I'm sad for us. I really didn't think it would impact me so hard, the death of a person I've never met in the flesh but what he has left us goes much deeper than words can express. Perhaps it's time to re-read Rays short paper called an encouraging word about death. http://bible-truths.com/death.htm
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with joy and grief in my heart i take the news of Ray's demise...are the dead really dead? yes when God takes our spirit we die....is that the end of all that there is to life? NO....the same God promised He would bring back all to life (Resurrection).....We sorrow not as a people without Hope or Expectation but in sure assurance that God is faithful and He would accomplish His overall purpose.
To all B-ters and his immediate family...take heart, be comforted that he has finished the race..like we all would do someday....take care ..best regards- olasupo jacobs
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Sorry to hear this sad news. Like many here I can honestly say Ray's ministry changed my life. My thoughts are with his family and closes friends at this time.
Dave
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Gosh, I don't even know what to say :(.
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Elaine, you are so right. Words are hard to find. God's Word can give hope even in the darkest situations. The scriptures that many have provided in these last days of Ray's life are amazing and dry away our tears.
God bless you,
Eirik
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God changed me, and the way I think about everything, through Ray's teachings. God gave me rest of many things and took me out of "hell". I really started to believe that God is good in all that He does.
For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. Isaiah 55:9
I'm glad that God directed me to the forum last night and I could say a prayer for Ray while he was alive. Although I've never met him in person, I feel his passing away as a dear and close brother, the bonding that the Spirit gives us.
God bless and comfort Manuela, Dennis, all immediate family and friends, and us BTers.
Levy
Brazil
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Just told my mom, who was the one that found BT and brought me to it...I could hear her voice cracking on the other end of the line. She said "he's left much for us to study."
*hugs to all*
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Psalms 56:8 Thou tellest my wanderings: put thou my tears into thy bottle: are they not in thy book? 9 When I cry unto thee, then shall mine enemies turn back: this I know, for God is for me.
We all need a good cry.. Prayers and love to Manuela, Dennis, Craig and ALL of the family. Margo
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Goodbye, Ray
I never met you in person, but God sent you into my life and your words have transformed me. Surely there is a great reward reserved for you. You have run the race worthily.
Manuela, Dennis and my forum family, I share your grief and express my heartfelt sympathy. May God comfort you and continue to fill you with His peace.
John (One-love-dread)
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1 Cor 1 :26-29
[26] For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called:
[27] But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise; and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty;
[28] And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are:
[29] That no flesh should glory in his presence.
I never had the chance to meet Ray, but these scriptures will always remind me of this funny, kind, bold, WISE roofer. Thank you Lord and thank you Ray for getting me out of the sand and on to the Rock. BT members , my prayers and love to you all as God comforts each and every one of you.
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Thank you Father that Ray's suffering has ended. We were hoping for healing, but You have given him sleep instead. Please bring comfort to all those who mourn, and please know how grateful we are for your mercy and your mighty work through your servants.
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Ray was a teacher like no other I will ever get to know. What I appreciated most about knowing Ray was that as great a teacher he was he was just a man like myself, warts and all. When you discover the bible truths site you have a tendancy to think of Ray as some Zen master who was head and shoulders above everyone else, but he was not, he was a man just like everyone else with all the same struggles and problems. That should prove to all of you that if God decides to use you He will. It doesn't matter what the gift is, if it is given by God you will be used and you don't have to be a saint, just willing.
I will miss his writings and emails but I also know that if I can apply even a little bit of what I learned through Ray it will take the rest of my life and then some.
Over the last few years I have held back a few emails here and there to post after he is gone so in the next weeks I will post a few of them. Even though you are sad now look toward the future and all the changes you can work in your lives because of what knowledge God has given to you through the teaching that Ray brought out. Death is not an end it is just another beginning and Ray is pain free now and resting as he awaits the next beginning God uses him for.
Craig
What Craig Posted above sums up my thoughts and feelings on the matter, Ray is pain free and isn't suffering anymore, My prayers go out especially for Manuella, the Marriage Mate usually suffers the most, because She is conscious of these things, including the eventuality of Death. Ray has passed away and We grieve, but His Paper, Death Is An Encouraging Word holds true. One day, Ray will be awake by the power of His and Our Master, Christ Jesus and to Ray it will seem like no time had elapsed, because He's not conscious of being dead or suffering from the prospect of Dying like the Living currently are. I am the Resurrection and the Life, He who believes in Me will not die unto the Age. My prayers go out especially to those who were real close to Him. I only spoke to Ray on the phone once, about three weeks ago and even in that conversation He was trying to give Me pointers about the first three chapters of Genesis relating to the 2008 Conference material, an area I was weak in understanding, the discussion "unexpectedly" went in that direction.
Take Care, Samson.
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Indeed,
Ray suffers no more. May God's Grace that enabled him to endure to the end be sufficient to those of us who have read his papers and communicate on the forum to continue our journey knowing that God's Will has been (and continues to be) done.
Ches
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God's will be done. It is perfect, it is good.
I thank our Heavenly Father for showing us His mercy and grace by giving us time to "prepare" for this day and for finally relieving Ray of his pain and suffering. May his blessings be upon all of us to endure until the end.
René
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I rarely post here and didn't plan to bother Ray with my problems and trials, but then this year (actually on the new year's eve), all of a sudden i finally felt the need to send him a long email to talk about my trials, he wrote me back with lots of comforting words, i am glad God put the desire in my heart to talk to him just in time.
:'( :'( :'( goodbye Ray, hope we will see you again soon.
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Although I was afraid this day would come I, like all of us, prayed that God’s will would be to let Ray stay a bit longer to give us more words from his wisdom. But it seems, God knew that his battle was done and no doubt, Ray will hear the words ‘well done, good and faithful servant’! Although my heart is broken today, I rejoice in thankfulness his suffering has ended and now can only pray that Manuela and family will continue to be strengthened by all the love of those here and, of course, by our Lord’s spirit.
I thank my God for leading me to Ray’s site those many years ago when I was at the bottom of the barrel spiritually and emotionally. Words are inadequate to express my joy in the ultimate revelation of scriptural truths in Ray’s articles. Lord, I thank you for Ray, the man who wasn’t afraid of showing his ‘warts’ but wielded your Sword of Truth with POWER that only You could give him! I look forward to meeting him someday alongside Paul, Peter and all of those who are YOURS.
Love & blessings to all,
Barbara
"For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death."
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Manuela,
I am so very sorry to hear about your husband's passing. Even though I don't know you or Ray, I wish that I could reach out and hug you. Going though something like this is never easy. We will never really get over losing someone we love. He is part of you forever. He will always be in your heart and in your mind, and your life. That is what makes it hard.
I am also glad that Ray is no longer suffering and in excruciating pain. But I cannot imagine how difficult this is for you and your family.
May God grant you everything you need to get through this.
I am so sorry for your loss.
Denise
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From very early on in my time at B-T, I've rarely opened the forum without at least a little dread of reading this notice. For everything there is a season...a time to weep.
Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all (including those who sleep) be changed in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.
This is the way it has to be. I'm thankful for the faith, grace, comfort AND the foretaste brought about by what Ray has shared from the Scripture.
My prayer is for Manuela and family and friends. God be with you as you go through this, each in your own way.
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I never met Ray and never attended a conference, but he was one of the most influential people in my life--certainly THE most influential in my adult life. My gratitude is boundless for all the work he's done.
Echoing the words of others...
1) I'm grateful that he is no longer in pain.
2) It's an amazing, beautiful thing that God gave such wisdom to a roofer. "You read my credentials, they're right there on the front page--retired roofer. Those are my credentials, I’m a retired roofer and they hate that. Why? Because they want to put me down, but I’ve already put myself down. I mean I could say that I’m just a roofer’s helper, that would put me down a little bit more, you know." From FOUNDATIONAL TRUTHS, my favorite study that Ray has done. 8)
3) Praying for Manuela and Dennis. God bless and comfort you.
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Dear Manuela ~
Perhaps our Christ has used your Ray to teach us all the last of the revelation to mankind He wishes to declare. And to soon usher in the First Resurrection.
That would be my earnest prayer to You my Lord. Use Ray mightily in Your service in the Kingdom to come. Amen.
We will see you shortly Ray... in the bliss of the New Age!
Your fellow servant in Christ - love, doug
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sad day for us left behind, especially for manuela, and others close to brother ray.
my hopes and prayers for you all.
since finding the website some years ago it changed me and my concept of God.
it showed the true loving Father, not the monstrous being of the mainstream, thankyou brother Ray for the revelations.
in times such as this where i feel the loss of a loved one, i have lost now 4 since finding the truth here at bt, the more comforting paper from brother Ray is the paper about what happens at death, it gave comfort knowing it is all God and His timing for all.
i no longer view death as a final out come, it is not goodbye brother Ray, but it is see you in a bit
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James 1:12
12 Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.
2 Timothy 4:8
8 Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day —and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
2 Timothy 4:7
7 I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.
Standing down and at rest.
Well deserved SIR, and friend. You've done your part that was layed out for you to accomplish. No complaints on this end.
gk
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Thank you, Craig. You're right about Ray just being a man like us. (Except he was so smart -- but obviously that too is another work of God. Just amazingly brilliant.)
Thank you for your willingness and work here, too, Craig.
God bless you and everyone.
That God would comfort us by there being more emails from Ray in the next days, weeks, or months, brings me much joy and comfort. Thank you very much for that.
I thank God for leading me to Ray. I have so much to learn and there's no way I, or anyone, could ever learn all there is to learn in one lifetime, even if we lived to 125. But there's enough material in Ray's writings to keep this group busy for the next 10 thousand years, dare I say millions of years.
God brought us face to face with a miracle when He led us to the work He's done through Ray. There is no doubt in my mind.
Thank you again to all who work and have worked so tirelessly o keep us safe, comfort us, train, lead and guide us-- Ray, Dennis, Manuela, Craig, Marques, DaveinTenn, ChrisR, Kat, Rene, etc.
Thank you for this wonderful ministry that I get to be a witness to and have a part in, however small.
I love you all. I'm so glad you're here. Thank you.
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Its a sad day for us all, its nice to know he is free of pain, may God comfort his family and friends, what a great teacher he was.
Dave & Sandie.
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We are saddened by the passing of our friend and mentor. May Jesus comfort his family, Manuela, Dennis, and all the moderators and members of Bible-Truths. We were also at the Mobile conference at got to meet Ray and other members. We have been but a very few, blessed to have been able to study and understand the teachings of L. Ray Smith. We will never forget Ray and he will be in our hearts and minds as we continue to study his teaching and listen to all the audio and video he has left us. Thank you Ray, Bob and Sue
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You know, I woke up and opened my facebook and this was the first thing I saw. It was hard to believe. I went downstairs and told my mother, she has no clue who he is but I just couldn't help but cry. Even though I know this was all planned by our Father, even though I know he feels no more pain, even though I know we will see ray again. It still hurts. I love you ray and I wish I could have met you just once or spoken to you over the phone. Through you God showed me just how real He is, the most real thing in the universe. Through you, God showed me His love for mankind and your humerous no nonsense approach to the scriptures and all the heresy that is out there always put a smile on my face and gave me great hope and strength. I feel like a light on a hill has gone out. You will be terribly terribly missed ray. I love you so much, thank you for everything you did my brother. We will all see you again and until then, we will strive forward in Christ, I Just wish I could have told you personally, thank you.
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I'll never forget this day. Every year, two days before my birthday, my thoughts will be dedicated to our precious friend.
Rest In Peace Ray. We love you and the beautiful people that were closest to you.
Justin
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Rest in Peace Ray. My heart is struggling to accept this.
2Cor1v3 Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4 Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.
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Dearest Manuela, I pray your grief be bearable and you feel the comfort of our Lord in the days ahead. Thank you for sharing Ray's time with us, your humble husband has touched many lives with his diligence in searching the scriptures. He will be sorely missed. I pray your family and friends comfort too
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My heart goes out to Rays family and friends. I found so many comforting scriptures reguarding the death of our loved ones....so many describe the dead being 'gathered to their people.'....(Gen_25:8 And Abraham expired and died in a good old age, old and satisfied. And he was gathered to his people). What an amazingly comforting thought. Another favorite comforting scripture is Job_14:5 For his days are fixed, the number of his months is with You, and You have set his bounds so that he cannot pass;.....it just reminds me that even tho life (and death) is very much out of our control, it is never out of Gods control. 2Sa_7:12 And when your days are fulfilled, and you shall sleep with your fathers, I will set up your seed after you, who shall come out of your bowels. And I will make his kingdom sure.....Ray planted seeds of truth for all of us, and God will bring the increase and make His kingdom sure.2Ti_1:12 For this cause I also suffer these things; but I am not ashamed, for I know whom I have believed, and I am persuaded that He is able to guard My deposit unto that Day..... hoping these scriptures will bring comfort and confidence to us all.
lauri
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I cry for you as for a brother, Ray. I will miss you and your great wisdom and humor very much.
But, I am glad you are finally out of pain and in the Father's hands awaiting the prize of the upward calling. For surely you are Christ's brother.
Thank you, Ray, for opening our eyes to His truths, even preparing us for your own death by teaching us that death is only sleep while Father deals with the rest of mankind.
Thank you, Dennis, for always keeping us informed, even though today's news is extremely sad.
Thank you, Manuela, for sharing your dear husband's time with us.
My heart goes out to all of you.
Cindy
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Every time I read those words "Ray is gone" my heart sinks and tears come to my eyes. I have visited this thread so many times today that I can't count them. I need to, because I feel closer to all of you just opening this page. It's so good that we have this forum to share and support each other. Christ is with us and strengthens us. I have felt that many times today.
You are all in my prayers.
Love,
Eirik
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I feel the same as you. I've visited the forum probably 200 times in the last few days. Was listening to one of Ray's audios while at work...
Every time I read those words "Ray is gone" my heart sinks and tears come to my eyes. I have visited this thread so many times today that I can't count them. I need to, because I feel closer to all of you just opening this page. It's so good that we have this forum to share and support each other. Christ is with us and strengthens us. I have felt that many times today.
You are all in my prayers.
Love,
Eirik
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Every time I read those words "Ray is gone" my heart sinks and tears come to my eyes. I have visited this thread so many times today that I can't count them. I need to, because I feel closer to all of you just opening this page. It's so good that we have this forum to share and support each other. Christ is with us and strengthens us. I have felt that many times today.
You are all in my prayers.
Love,
Eirik
Me, too.
I was up late last night talking to one of the forum members that God used to comfort me. Thank God for this forum and all you members.
I was only able to cry this morning. I know there are others who can't even begin to express their grief and sadness because it's so overwhelming. It's totally understandable, and my heart goes out to you, too.
My thoughts keep going to Manuela too because she's the one who's had him close to her all these years and taking care of him and now she has to completely readjust her entire way of getting through the day. It's overwhelming just to think of that alone.
And then of course there's Craig who fielded all the emails. And Dennis who kept up the site, etc.
It's going to be quite an adjustment. But God will continue to comfort us and pull us through this. God's way too good to me.
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Ray is my Dad's brother, Jack (Jacob). They don't have internet to see the love spilling from this forum. Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers. I'll let my parents know that hundreds of people send their love.
Thanks again.
Bonnie
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Ray is my Dad's brother, Jack (Jacob). They don't have internet to see the love spilling from this forum. Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers. I'll let my parents know that hundreds of people send their love.
Thanks again.
Bonnie
Thank you, Bonnie.
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Bible truths and L. Ray Smith has dramatically changed my life and I don't think I will ever forget the truths I have learned here. I am very sad because of Ray's passing on. Even though I have never met Ray in person I'll miss him very much.
Here's a quote from Deutoronomy 32:47 to show what BibleTruths is:
"They are not just idle words for you--they are your life."
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Rest in Peace dear Ray. My life was forever changed as a result of reading one of Ray's articles back in 2008. What a journey it has been. I always hoped for a healing here for Ray but thankful he fought for as long as he did and as hard as he did. He will be missed.
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Like everyone else here, I’m saddened by the loss of Ray. A man whom I have never met in person but felt I knew in spirit. My prayers are for his dear wife, his family and loved ones, and for all of us here on this site. Ray’s wisdom will continue to live on through his articles and emails. Thank you dear brother and faithful servant for all you have done. Rest in peace. :'(
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I rarely use the expression " The Holy Spirit reminded me of ... " ,but I have
to be honest, and say that today The Holy Spirit reminded me that Ray`s
last message to us on the forum was the Mothers day message May 13.
In John 19 , Jesus on the cross says these words:
When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!”
Thank you Ray and Manuela. I too will pray that our heavenly Father will comfort you Manuela.
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My deepest sympathies to Manuela and Rays family, close friends, to the Mods on B.T who knew him so well and to the greater B.T Family.
This is indeed a day of days to remember...I feel like we're all in the "upper room" here and yet Rays life and passing is one of great hope. What a great legacy he has left behind. The fruit that has fallen from this great tree shall surely boast a more plentiful harvest!
I'm convinced that the revelation Ray has been privy to all these years, shall surely continue in the hearts and minds of those, who God in His grace, has called to the truth. I'm sure Ray would have it no other way.
Peace and comfort to you all.
J.D.
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I love you Ray and I will miss you. Sleep well Brother. :'(
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I couldn't come up with the words to describe the sadness I feel for Manuela and all those who loved Ray. I will say this, had it not been for Ray, the death of my own husband would have been the end of me but because of his teachings, and correspondence with me about death, I know I would not have been able to live through it. Thank you Ray.
Eileen
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I love you Ray and I will miss you. Sleep well Brother. :'(
:'(
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I rarely use the expression " The Holy Spirit reminded me of ... " ,but I have
to be honest, and say that today The Holy Spirit reminded me that Ray`s
last message to us on the forum was the Mothers day message May 13.
In John 19 , Jesus on the cross says these words:
When Jesus therefore saw His mother, and the disciple whom He loved standing by, He said to His mother, “Woman, behold your son!” Then He said to the disciple, “Behold your mother!”
Thank you Ray and Manuela. I too will pray that our heavenly Father will comfort you Manuela.
Very true eagle. The first person I told about this was my very own mother without thinking. She doesn't know ray but when I couldn't help but cry, she almost started to cry with me. I think these reminders and events are more than just inspirations. Thank you for sharing.
It's so hard to come to this thread without hurting. Like many others, i never got to meet ray in person though I wanted to so bad. I remember wishing I had the money to go attend a conference so many a times. Despite this, my heart aches so much like so many here.
My prayers are certainly with our entire family here and Ray's dear wife.
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This goes to the man that God used to teach me many things....from the words he wrote in spoke I have gained a level of understanding in that I can truly say I am starting to know who God is. Rest on until the resurrection sir. A mentor and a teacher to many, a crazy heretic to many more, but you held the faith and even at deaths door for the last few years you ministered to others as though you had no cancer in your body......L. Ray Smith you shall be missed......sleep on brother...sleep on.
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I am so very sad but because God is good, I pray that good will come from this. His teachings are life changing and he is a legend. We have truly entered into another man's labor. May God give us all comfort at this time.
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You have contended the ideal contest. You have finished your career. You have kept the faith.
Furthermore, there is reserved for you the wreath of righteousness, which the Lord, the just Judge, will be paying to you in that day; yet not to you only, but also to all who love His advent.
What an inspiration and blessing in all of our lives.
There are no other words.
Good-bye Ray
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:'( :'(
what a shock! and yet as many said, dreading to come to forum and read those words, its finally true.
I am kinda mad at God...I know I will go thru all the stages of grieving and this "anger" will pass correctly and I will confess and be forgivien but dangit right now I just don't get it...
I loved meeting him in Tenn. conventions twice...what a guy!!! Dear Manuela...I am so sorry for your loss. We lost a teacher, you lost your soul-mate.
I am at a loss..... :'(
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Ray is gone but not forgotten.
I remember Ray saying that when he would go to bed he would sometimes fall asleep thanking the Lord for all his blessings. His pillow, the sheets on the bed, heat or airconditioning, and so on.
It is a sad time now, I think Ray would want us to rejoice in the Lord, and all the Truths that have been revealed in our day.
Thanks Ray for all the work, and time that you spent in helping others! I am a better person as a result of your labor.
May the Lord bless his faithfull wife, and the rest of his family, and all the forum members during this time of sorrow.
Psalms 116:14 Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his saints.
Joel
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Rest in peace my friend. :'(
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I am shocked and saddened at the news of Ray's passing.
He was an amazing teacher with tremendous insight into the word of God.
My heart goes out to Manuela and family. you are in my thoughts and prayer.
I will be forever grateful.
The pain is gone, the healing will begin.
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My life was changed because of the articles that Ray wrote. I prayed that Ray would get better, but that was not God's plan. He will be missed by all.
peace,
Iris
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A really sad loss to us all. I am happy I met Ray in person, I won't forget the feeling of entering his study. Ray has indeed touched many lives with his scholarship, and I'm sure many more will still be touched and we shall all continue to ruminate on what a gem we lost. But has he taught, all is of God.
My sincere thoughts are with Manuela and those left behind... Including the forum family.
Although early days, but the legacy must be kept alive.
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It is only last March 2011 that i stumble in Ray's writing, and with the help of the Spirit of the Lord i was able to understand the writings that he made, for it is the simplicity of the writings to be understood easily. All the writings detail in my point of view is very clear and precise.
Now is the time the Lord to call, and Ray's time is over. Ray is gone but his contribution for the truth is so huge and remains that even myself is waiting for such a long time and now found it through Ray.
How lucky is Ray that he is chosen by the Lord "Exposing those who Contradict."
May we the brother's and sister's of Ray steadfastly continuing spreading the truth.
Thank you Lord for bringing Ray to us and i pray that there will be more Ray to come....
God bless you Ray!
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I am sad.
When I was a kid and my father died of cancer, for some strange reason, I didn't cry. Somehow I had a strong feeling that
that happen just how it was meant to happen. And there is no other way around. Today I feel the same way.
I am sure one of the main reasons that Ray fighted so well his trials on the last years was to keep on giving comfort to
others. Ray remained on the Scriptures all time on his teachings, but not only that, his message used to fit also with his life
example. I am thankful for his example, he became the message himself! ..some where expecting for another miracle but--
HE WAS THE MIRACLE already. On a world replete with vanity, greed and superegos, God showed Ray how to be humble and go down to your level and be your friend.
Now. When does the ideas and teachings of somebody expand the most? Just after that somebody's death. So I believe this are crucial times and we should surely try to don't waste them. It might be time to think and rethink, and now what's next...? Some will get discouraged and slowly leave and forget the teachings, others will hopefully be encouraged to keep on growing on a faster rate, and take on the same essence/substance/SPIRIT and courage!
What we should be the most is grateful, for the time that we where able to study the Scriptures along with him. God willing, Ray will be given in-mortality some day.
just saying...
Moises
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One of the things that I will regret for the rest of my life is that Moises gave me Ray's home phone number, which i still have pinned on our board, and everyime I went to call him SOMETHING came up and I never got the chance to talk to him in person! A once in a life opportunity---GONE!
Our hearts are heavy with Ray's passing and our spirits GROAN withion us in a way that only the holy spirit can interpret.
In Christ,
Duane
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I am saddened at the loss of a wonderful man who taught us so much; God's will is done and Ray is no longer in pain; my condolences to his family and friends.
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I am sad.
When I was a kid and my father died of cancer, for some strange reason, I didn't cry. Somehow I had a strong feeling that that happen just how it was meant to happen. And there is no other way around. Today I feel the same way.
I am sure one of the main reasons that Ray fighted so well his trials on the last years was to keep on giving comfort to others. Ray remained on the Scriptures all time on his teachings, but not only that, his message used to fit also with his life example. I am thankful for his example, he became the message himself! ..some were expecting for another miracle but--
HE WAS THE MIRACLE already. On a world replete with vanity, greed and superegos, God showed Ray how to be humble and go down to your level and be your friend.
Now. When does the ideas and teachings of somebody expand the most? Just after that somebody's death. So I believe this are crucial times and we should surely try to don't waste them. It might be time to think and rethink, and now what's next...? Some will get discouraged and slowly leave and forget the teachings, others will hopefully be encouraged to keep on growing on a faster rate, and take on the same essence/substance/SPIRIT and courage!
What we should be the most is grateful, for the time that we where able to study the Scriptures along with him. God willing, Ray will be given in-mortality some day.
just saying...
Moises
Amen, amen, and amen. He was the miracle indeed.
It's a miracle that we don't ever have to be ashamed of anything he taught because no one can find so much as a pinhole in all of it -- you can't find one because it's not there.
It's a pure miracle that not only are his words true and edifying and good and right, but they're completely airtight.
I'm in awe.
And he closed the gulf between God and me. I never saw that coming, not without some serious denial and lying on my part.
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One day in May of 2008 while talking to my sister who was trying to convince me there was a God who would send to hell, anyone who didn't accept him, because I couldn't believe if there was a God, who is Love, could do that to anyone. So out loud, looking off into the sky, in front of her, I asked, "God if you are real, please show yourself to me, I want to know you". Several days later I happened upon BT and was overwhelmed with joy as I read Ray's writings. "Now this is the God I could believe in and love" I thought to myself. I wept for weeks as I read the site. God used Ray to bring me and many others like me out of darkness and into the light. We were are all blessed by God through Ray. Thank you Lord for using Ray to reveal your Glory to those willing to believe.
I never met or talked to Ray but I have a profound love for him in my heart. He is my spiritual Father and Brother in Christ. May God's perfect Will be done.
Manuela, I pray that God will see you through these trials, and please, ask as you need, and I'm sure we forum members will help in any capacity we are able.
In love,
Brad
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Grace and peace...
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I will never forget the day I stumbled upon these bible truths...Thank you Ray for all that you showed us.
I totally agree! He will be missed!
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To All of our new-found friends @ BT...
We can only share with you in the sorrow you all feel in Rays passing. It's amazing... all that God has done through Ray and BT's. As we look at all the responses here, we can truly agree with everyone about how dear he was to eveyone (whether they met him in person or not). It's hard to imagine the void that will be now for all those so close to him. Our prayers are with you all to find comfort, peace & direction in the days ahead. We will continue to study (as we have been) because each time we read or hear, we glean more of what he actually shared. It's strange how you can listen, feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of it all... and then listen again and say.."Gee.. how could I have missed that part." So it's always something new for us. BT's has changed our whole lives. At the age of 65 & 66, we have spent most of our lives steeped in the church (myself a pastors daughter)... and let me say... letting go of the old has been a process... but it has truly been a 'blessing'. It has answered so many unanswered questions, brought a brand new relationship into our lives with God. Given us a peace about everything in life... even the trials. Where I used to be riddled with fear... fear about everything in life... that is being replaced with a comfort and an acceptance of even the struggles and trials. What a blessing all of this has been to us and there are no adequate words to express how very thankful we are that God decided to raise up an ordinary 'Roofer'... and give him the wisdom and knowledge to understand and then the "Time" to put all of this together in such a wonderful way for us all to read, study and learn of God and is will and His ways.
Our love and prayers go out to Manuela and Rays family and friends... To Dennis and all of you at BT's... we love you and pray for God direction in what to do from here.
God Bless us all
Dennis & Connie
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Two things come to mind when I think of Ray.
First, in his articles and papers he showed respect for the Word of God. He taught from the scriptures using as his guide, "in the mouth of two or three witnesses let every word be established". How rare is that?
Second, unlike 99% of all the false teachers, Ray did not sell God's truths for money. Ray followed Jesus' words: "...freely you have received, freely give." Matt 10:8 and "...It is more blessed to give than to receive". Acts 20:35 God's truths are freely available on this Forum.
The last time I talked with Ray was over the telephone in August 2011. We discussed some aspects of his studies and thoughts about the enigma of God, which I find endlessly fascinating. I also thought I needed to tell him about some things I didn't agree with him. I told Ray I agreed with him on most all of his spiritual teachings. But I totally disagreed with him about his views on health and food and food supplements. I told him I thought Dr. Steger was completely wrong in his teachings.
Well, I thought Ray might get a little upset with my disagreeing with him. Instead we had a good conversation back and forth. He ended our conversation by quoting Romans 14:17, "for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit". We both agreed on that.
So that is how I remember Ray. Even though we had different views on a subject, we could still be unified in spirit over God's scriptures.
At least I can say that I have met and talked to a true teacher of God's ways.
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I got his one on march 28/2012:
Hey Moises: Good to hear from you. I am steadily recovering from my hip replacement. I did correspond
with both Amelia and Maria the past week. I was embarrassed as one day I got them mixed up (Amelia
for Miria). They were understanding. I told them they both have the same one Spirit even if they do have
different names. I don't have anything presently that I am writing, but I will try to get more out if I am able.
The larger paper will be a long way off yet, I am thinking. But I can write on shorter subjects. Tell me what
are some of the things that the Spanish brethren are most interested in on Bilbe subjects?
I hope you get enough iron work to keep you busy and bring you a good income. I feel so helpless having
two terminal cancers (Prostate and Bone cancer), and now this hip replacement, which is really major
surgery. I need everyones prayers, that's for sure. I will not survive with God's grace and compassion on
my life.
Keep in touch as I love to know what you are doing and how the brethren are learning and coming along.
I am glad that you and Dave in the UK keep in touch as you are both doing the same kind of work, except
that Dave doesn't have to translate everything before teaching it.
I always have time for your emails, and that goes for Maria and Amelia as well.
God be with you,
Ray
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I feel like i lost a brother and mentor. God through Jesus through Ray has changed my life 180 degrees. I have so much to say and dont know how to say it. There are many lasting things from Ray that are permamently now part of me. I noticed awhile back how Ray questioned everything and how much he asked questions while teaching us (not only questioned but ANSWERED), in fact it mirrored Paul a lot, actually alot of the Prophets and Apostles writings. Looking back, 6 years ago when first coming to his writings, he inspired me with the marquee, now my motto or MO that is at the bottom of all my post. I dont know i could go on forever (eonian) the impact he had on me.
Cant wait to see him
:'( :'(
Anthony
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Ray wrote a wonderful paper - An Encouraging Word About Death" to give comfort to those who've lost a loved one or fear death. Now the loved one we've lost is Ray himself. and his own words can bring us comfort.
From Ray:
"Once God created consciousness in a human they will NEVER EVER know anything BUT CONSCIOUSNESS. From my perspective and from your perspective we will never "know" ANYTHING but life and feeling and emotions and consciousness."
It is wonderful and so merciful of God that Ray's next thoughts will be a continuation of his last thoughts. He won't even remember being dead, but will know he is free of pain.
Ray told us he was researching for a new study about the relationship between Jesus and His Father. Who is God? Is this what will be on Ray's mind when he is again conscious? Here is what he had to say about his research:
"I am seeing glimpses of a greater understanding of the relationship between the Father and the Son, but my understanding is yet far from complete.
I believe there was and is a far greater drama of the ages being played out than most could even imagine. The fact that Jesus and His Father are "ONE GOD" is only part of this enigma.
As I still have questions, don't look for a final solution of this anytime soon. But the full ramifications of the study could well be the most amazing thing we will ever learn in the Scriptures...Even Universal Reconciliation becomes an axiomatic certainly and not even debatable when we understand just who the "ONLY TRUE GOD" (John 17:3) really is."
end quote
Was God giving us a preview of what we will learn in the new age? Will He continue to use teachers, including Ray, to pursue this line of study with the full measure of His spirit? Will Jesus Himself teach us?
Many wonderful things to think about and to comfort us. The resurrection has never seemed more real when thinking about these things. Ray truly is only "sleeping". Let's look forward to the day, the blink of the eye, when we will see him again in God's kingdom.
With love,
Cindy
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Cindy, Thank you for bringing this to my memory..We don't know what will be in the next age...but we do know there is much to learn that we in a lifetime will never learn! I believe Ray's death has shown us this...He was always searching and studying..and as we all know he would never tell us anything unless he was sure of it..
I think you're right..when he wakes up..it will be like he has been asleep and the first thing he'll think of will be that study on God! That is very comforting...
Ray would say to us...Read it for yourself! So that is what we need to do..
Get out there in that field and DIG for the treasure of great price! It is there for us to find!!
Thank God that Ray helped us to learn to read the scriptures, REALLY read...ALL the words!!
Kathy :)
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How sad. I was hoping for another conference and a chance to meet him and other forum members.
Sleep well, indeed.
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I had come upon Rays teachings about the time Ray first was diagnosed with cancer. I never got to meet him. Being brought up in a mainstream church I was left with endless questions about things that didn't seem quite right. It wasn't until I read Ray's teachings that so many questions were answered. It was a WOW few months. One truth after another, and me thinking "I knew this didn't make sense, I knew that didn't make sense". Ray's teachings have been the beginning of a great liberation from mainstream teachings (that mostly stem from Catholicism and mythology). How dumb could I have been. I guess the time was right for me. I am excited about the truths God is showing me each day, there is no end, "God has never left himself without a witness", he continually leads us onward and upward. I will be forever grateful for the wonderful teachings that Ray taught, and am very excited about the future. God said that he would lead and guide us into all truth, and that unto us it was given to know the mysteries of the kingdom. WOW
I am very saddened by his passing, and send my sympathy to his family and loved ones.
Ray will rest in peace until that day, but will be remembered by many, and his messages will reach many more people in the future,
With Christian Love,
Sky
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my thoughts and prayers are with manuela and those of you that were close to him. he was a blessing to those that The Father has enlightened through his passion.
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I am glad that Ray is no longer in any pain. In regards to any last thoughts about him, he was a man. Plain and simple. He was a stinking, carnal dirt pile just like me. He is a future son of the Father just like me. I don't elevate him beyond being that. The Father and our Lord use whomever they will.
When the Lord revealed truth through a donkey to the prophet Balaam, Balaam did not worship the donkey (Numbers 22:28-31). The apostle John was rebuked for trying to worship the angel (Rev 22:9). Our Lord told the Pharisees that rocks would cry out in praise, to fulfill prophesy (Luke 19:40).
I look forward to meeting Ray when our carnal natures have been destroyed.
In Him,
John
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Hi John,
This is not to argue but an advice. I would like to say that you should try to not say such things especially not at a time like this. Ray has very recently passed away and there are people who are still mourning his death. There is a time for everything but this is not the time for the subject of worshipping persons. As far as I know, nobody here has been worshipping anyone else than God.
I don't believe this is what you meant, but take care because not everything is appropriate at all times.
God bless you,
Eirik
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There is a great joy amidst the sadness of Ray's passing. He is further on than us all now, he is at peace. When I was called out of Babylon by God (Rev 18:4), it was a very crazy time and my family was suddenly blanked by our former congregation member and all sort of accusations were thrown at me and my wife. Needless to say God sent me to Ray's sight and things started to get a whole lot better and God through Ray started opening my eyes to His wonderful liberating truths. I'm sure all you guys have similar stories to tell.
God bless Ray, his family, his closest friends, and all the members of this form at this time of reflection and sorrow.
May Ray's writings on this site stand and go on as a testimony to the true gospel of Christ until our Lord returns and all are reconciled to God through Jesus.
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I am glad that Ray is no longer in any pain. In regards to any last thoughts about him, he was a man. Plain and simple. He was a stinking, carnal dirt pile just like me. He is a future son of the Father just like me. I don't elevate him beyond being that. The Father and our Lord use whomever they will.
When the Lord revealed truth through a donkey to the prophet Balaam, Balaam did not worship the donkey (Numbers 22:28-31). The apostle John was rebuked for trying to worship the angel (Rev 22:9). Our Lord told the Pharisees that rocks would cry out in praise, to fulfill prophesy (Luke 19:40).
I look forward to meeting Ray when our carnal natures have been destroyed.
In Him,
John
You say, "In Him". Really?
Is it not the truth that you resent Ray because he showed you where you were in error about his paper where Ray stated that God hates sin and the sinner? He proved you wrong with multiple scriptures. In the mouth of two or three witnesses let every word be established.
Think it over. Is it Ray you resent, or the scriptures themselves?
http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,13736.0.html
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C'mon Guys
No debating. Let's not show up our carnality. John I am asking you not to respond to JFK.
It's not worth it.
Oelovedread
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My conscience is clear. I am not guilty of worshipping Ray.
Loving him, giving thanks for him, remembering and speaking of the good he did, and attempting to follow and obey what he taught us will never be synonymous with worshipping him.
No one should be guilty of "kicking" him, either. I hope you feel better soon, JohnMichael. In the meantime, please try to have some compassion for those who love and appreciate him?
Thank you.
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When I think of Ray in this regard this scripture comes to mind.
Rom 13:7 Render therefore to all their dues: tribute to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; honour to whom honour.
Jas 3:1 My friends, we should not all try to become teachers. In fact, teachers will be judged more strictly than others. (cev)
Ray was a teacher. That is all he claimed for himself. Being a teacher he was one of the few out there that was very careful in what he taught as he was aware of the warnings of James. Because of the way he taught and how he lived his life he is certainly worthy of honor even though he was only a vessel that God used. I should do so well........ ???
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Gal 4
14 Even though my illness was a trial to you, you did not treat me with contempt or scorn. Instead, you welcomed me as if I were an angel of God, as if I were Christ Jesus himself.
15 What has happened to all your joy? I can testify that, if you could have done so, you would have torn out your eyes and given them to me.
16 Have I now become your enemy by telling you the truth?
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I just wanted to say to Rays family.That because of Gods Grace in using Ray Smith in a most powerful way in so many other peoples lives.That the hope that we to could... by the grace of God..... make a life changing difference in others lives....is truly the purpose and plan of God.Ray Smith I love you my brother thanks for everything.Thanks for being a awesome example to us all.And to all bt..ers..Out there that help us so much in understanding Arc,Kat ,Dave in tenn,marques,Gina,Denise,God is Gracious,Samson,Craig,John in Kentucky,and on and on!I love you brothers and sisters and so we carry on preaching and teaching.
The Truth, The Faith!
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My heart goes out to Manuela. I thank her for sharing our beloved Ray with us. We that never got to meet Ray in person, love him just as much as a brother. I am so very sad. I am so very grateful that God took his pain away. I am so very empty feeling. I thought about Ray every day since coming to BT. I have countless binders and folders of his work printed up and have all his audios and videos on every electronic device I own and go to sleep EVERY night for 5 years now with my Ipod set on a timer with Ray's audios going. When I wake up in the middle of the night, I reset my timer and start listening to Ray again. I read and re read his papers almost every day. Ray has "been in my heart" every day now for over 5 years.
I feel like I know his voice better than anyone close to me. I love his sense of humor. When I read and re read my binders with his papers, I mark up sentences with colored pencils each time and make little comments on the side margins about how funny Ray is and how much I agree with what he is saying and how blessed we all are by God that He raised up Ray to teach us these truths.
I so appreciate how intelligent Ray was. I love to listen to intelligent talk. All the blither blather that goes on with most people is so boring to me. It is rare to have any intelligent input around you anymore. Most people don't even want to mention God or Christ, not alone discuss anything about them.
Ray filled my intellect and my heart every day. He made my life fuller than any one I have ever known.
May I ask everyone, please continue supporting Ray's work. My husband Rick and I have been contributing for a number of years now and encourage everyone to continue or start! I love you all, Kelli
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I did not know Ray personally, in the flesh I mean. But I know him in spirit, as I think we all do. I also agree and think the best way to honor his memory is to continue this work, and God willing it will continue. I know this is a sad time for all of us, but we must keep in mind that God's work is never about one person. And also, it should comfort us to know that Ray has left to go to where he really wants to be. Is this not what we live ( and die ) for daily ? I could almost envy him in a way. The Lord truley does come as a thief in the night. We know not the day or hour of our death. So, even in death Ray continues to teach us.
" The righteous perish, and no one ponders it in his heart; devout men are taken away and no one understands that the righteous are taken to spare him from the evil to come . Those who walk uprightly enter into peace ; they find rest as they lie in death "
Sleep well brother, it will be morning soon, and time to get up.
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Fortunate for the believers of God, Ray and Bibletruths, "Ray will NEVER BE GONE" from this website, our hearts, our souls, nor our lives.
Ray has been the 'earthly father' I never had. He was and will forever be the inspiration I needed to become the person God intended me to be. Ray's words to my life has given me the strength to grow into the word of God and forget the things I was raised on as a child. By non-believers of Our Lord and Saviour because they are willing to live blind. So willing not to find nor believe that God is th's only way.
Ray, whom we have all grown to know and love through his beliefs and knowledge of Christ the Saviour will be my inspiration for life.
To Ray and his beloved family "weeping may endure for a night, but joy shall cometh in the morning".
Ray will live on through "his supporters, staff and loved ones". Dennis please be strong because you have some very large shoes to fill and I am anxious to hear where God is leading us next.
I love my family and i need you all to keep me grounded because i am a wild one. God is in control. Amen and God's continued blessings to this site.
Eva
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Eva, if it be of any comfort to you, many of Gods prophets of old, including John the baptizer, whom Jesus said there was none greater born of woman, and even some of the deciples themselves ( "sons of thunder" ) were what we could term "wild ones" .
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Hi Eva,
Welcome to the forum :)
God is in control
This statement that you made is what we all have to hang on to. Ray finished all the work that God had for him to do, then He brought his spirit back to Himself to keep until the resurrection! We have an incredible amount of material on this site that we can peruse as we wish, praise God!
mercy, peace and love
Kat
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hello Eva, welcome, we are so happy you have joined our family of friends here. We will all miss Ray so much. I will always remember that man's voice and no nonsense way of explaining things. He could explain things in a way that no one else I know could. God really blessed him with this ability to share the truths of God's word.
He also was so kind even to those who condemned him and he considered everyone here his family and friends. We are all joined together and are here to support and help each other out. So welcome.
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Welcome back, Eva. :)
I remember you from about a little over a year ago.
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From Manuela.
Dennis,
Please let everyone on the forum know how much I appreciate their prayers and support and I will answer the emails in time.
Thank you
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Manuela,
I pray that you continue to experience God's comfort in your heart and mind. Please be assured of our loving support and our willingness to help in any way possible.
God's richest blessings to you and the family.
Dennis,
You have been such a faithful servant in keeping us all updated. We truly appreciate it and comfort you on the loss of your friend and brother. God's richest blessings to you and the family.
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Such a lost, a great teacher for Truth. My heart and prayers go out to Ray and his family especially for his wife whom i never met and only know through BT.
Darren
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Thank you again Dennis for conveying her messages to us! We all want to keep in touch with her. I miss Ray so much I can't imagine how hard it must be for her. She seems like a strong kind lady though.
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God bless you Ray, and may you rest in peace. thank you for setting me on the road of bible truths, now I shall do my best to continue. you have helped lay the foundations of my faith. hopefully we shall meet in the first resurrection.
alan
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well I am sorry he has died I will miss him and his love for the truth so much that he would study for weeks and weeks seeking God for the truth and then share it with those that would listen or not and argue with him. God took him home and we were blessed with much more time than we were suppose to have had and he suffer so much to give us that time. my heart has a hole in it right now from this lost he has left a wonderful wife who was so good to him she will need our help love and support I am sure Ray would like that peggy
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I came on here tonight and couldnt believe what i was reading, i been on the other main site every day all week but didnt really come to the forums much but i did come and read some of the comments n stuff but i missed the part that ray had died on may 24th wow I am so upset tonight over this, I really admired his work and his words of truth I was a non believer when i first came, i came here by going to ask jeeves typed in hell or something to that effect and it brought up bibe truths site and that was at least 8 years ago or longer not sure but been here since, Rays teachings were the only ones that made sense to me i went to church oof CHRIST for awhile but it just didnt seem right to me teachings and tithings ect so i quit actually they dis fellow shipped me, i couldnt afford tithing i live on ssi and so i left it and im so glad i found this site it has taught me alot and im still learning i hope this site continues to be on here so more people can experience rays teaching to the true GOD true facts, again my heart and sympathy go out to Manuela. craig andd the ones who knew Ray and kat and well all of us on here may GOD help us all thru our loss of Ray....
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My condolences to Manuela, and also to Ray's family, physical and spiritual. The grief will pass, but let us remember and honor Ray's life and legacy.
We all have been expecting this day. We've had years to prepare. Ray's race is done, Blessed be the name of the Lord.
Ray has been an inspiration and a goad to study the scriptures:
to confirm what he said, because some things I needed to read myself
to pursue subjects of my own interest that hadn't been covered
and just general study methods.
Our studies must continue, more so now than ever.
Of course bible-truths must continue! We need each others' support. But more than that, God hasn't closed the door yet. There are many Called that are yet to discover this site. I hope they come and learn as much as I have. No. I hope they learn more than I have!
Lewis
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I have learned so much and I will miss him.
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I have learned so much and I will miss him.
I could not say it better.
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Hello Everyone,
It was with profound saddness that I read of Ray's death.
I want to add my belated but heartfelt and sincere condolences to Manuela and family. I am relieved (it may sound selfish) that God has ended Ray’s suffering. Ray was a light to all of us and he shall be in our hearts and minds until the end… God the Father has blessed us by drawing us nearer to His Son, and blessed Ray with the insight and relentless faith that he had in teaching us the True Word of God. Yes, my fellow BTers, brothers and sisters who I admire and love from afar… we are all saddened by Ray’s death but now he sleeps peacefully. I /we have all been touched and blessed by this faithful and called servant of our Lord. Amen
May God continue to bless us through Jesus our Saviour.
Thank you all for the deep, inspired and relevant verses you have all so wonderfully shared with us for our beloved Ray!
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Thank You, Ray and Manuela,for your service in our Lords army.
See you later Ray.
Walt
http://youtu.be/6wJPe4MR5W4
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My heartfelt condolences to Ray's wife Manuela and his family for their recent loss. Rest in peace bro. :'(
G. Driggs
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Well i dont often join this forum, so I've only just read this about Ray's passing away. wow! Definitely a sad moment for many of us. Back in 2004, his website and his teaching changed me as a person and my outlook on life. Although i'd argue i am not any more a "better person" the site has given me more comfort than i ever could have had without it.
I do also wish to say this about Ray. I know he played himself down as just a roofer and "like anyone else" but i don't think he was "like anyone else". He was arguably the most intelligent person who's work i had ever read. He seemed to almost have an answer or an opinion on everything that seemed right. I don't just mean his scriptural interpretation, just his general knowledge too. It was astounding. A true student that exceeded even Greek philosophical standards. I would love to have had dinner or a drink with him to just chat about life and stuff, he would have made a very entertaining guest.
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You are so right about his intelligence and him playing himself down as "just a roofer," Zander.
I'm a legal secretary. There was a time before I knew that Ray was "just a roofer," that I thought he was an attorney and the best that anyone could ever hope to have on their side. Because from my personal perspective because of all those attorneys who I've had the pleasure of working for and with, that's the kind of sound counsel that he is gives. He's just remarkable. Outstanding in knowledge and intelligence. Outstanding. And yet I was so thrilled when he came back and lowered himself to "just a roofer." I can relate to that. ;)
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:'( :'( I never met him in person, only talked to him on the phone once about 10 years ago and through emails (he always gave me top draw). He was the best friend I've ever had. :'( :'( I love him so much. :'( :'( :'( :'(
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p.s. And he never took any crap off me either. ;D
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I did have the opportunity to have dinner with him and just chat about life and stuff. I remember him very often. What a good example to try to follow...
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Here is a quote from a forum member that I thought would fit very good on this tread:
I believe that now, with Ray's passing, it is especially important that the forum members (whether active or no longer participating in the forum for whatever reason) draw strength, courage, and hope from each other by staying in contact with each other, using whatever mode of communication we have available.
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Thanks, Moises.
Everyone is welcome to write / contact me here. :)
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I feel numb.....I have not been on the forum for a while....I can't believe he is gone.
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I am sorry to hear that Ray is gone, may God give comfort to Manuela and his family during this time, I never met Ray personally although I did receive a few emails from him regarding some questions I had. God definitely used and is still using Ray's teachings in my life when God cause me to find Bible Truths. The teachings that he shared have a lifetime of learning. I look forward to reading and re-reading his teachings and as God wills understanding to me I can truly say that the truth will set you free.
Brother in Christ,
Larry
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well he also was so kind to point out Matthew was a tax collector, Peter was a fisherman, and Jesus was a carpenter; who were any of them to tell the high and mighty religious know-it-all's of the day any thing? That alone is a truth that blows away so much complex bull from the church leaders, they hated Ray for it and they don't even realize it.
As he said "I am not an expert in Hebrew or Greek" "you just have to pay attention to words". It was amazing that on any other subject these super smart people who went to seminary and school could have an intelligent conversation but the moment you spoke of the bible all their intelligence means a hill of beans because nothing they say is scriptural.
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Yep.
The one and only thing that set Ray apart in understanding from them is -- Ray actually believed what God wrote and God opened up his understanding. It is that simple. But it's a gift of God.
People ask me, ‘what makes you think you know more than all these ministers?’ In a haughty arrogant way, I don’t. But here is the answer to that, I know what they believe and why they believe it. But they don’t know what I believe and why I believe it, they don’t know that. That is a big difference.
2009 conference transcript http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,11521.msg99622.html#msg99622 (http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,11521.msg99622.html#msg99622)
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I hoped this day would not come but I did not fear it.
Like many I did not know him personally and only communicated with him once through an email. It is strange that I get this news on the 10th anniversary of my fathers death.
Although I feel for his wife and family we should remind ourselves in this age death is as natural as life...nor is it something to feel sad about (even though we all still do).
Personally, one of the most remarkable things I noticed from Ray was that he rarely spoke his "own" words. He rarely if ever gave an opinion on spiritual matters it was all from scripture. He always backed up points with scripture and back scripture with scripture...a true man of God.
He has left us with a wealth of information and writings (many I have personally yet to read).
Ray is not "gone" he is asleep, however the greatest force, the greatest power NEVER sleeps... God is our master and for this we should neither fear nor worry about anything.
Peace everyone.
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I have some pictures of Ray I'd like to upload, but not sure where or how on this forum. Can anyone help?
http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,14285.0.html
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did you get some help yet bonnie?
claudia
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Rest well Big brother Ray, for the Lord almighty knows best.
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Yes, the link is in my previous post. Thanks!
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Manuela called and told me Ray died.
Dennis, can you sticky this post.