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=> General Discussions => Topic started by: Dennis Vogel on June 20, 2012, 12:35:30 PM

Title: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Dennis Vogel on June 20, 2012, 12:35:30 PM
Just posted:

http://bible-truths.com/enigmaOfGod.htm (http://bible-truths.com/enigmaOfGod.htm)
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Foxx on June 20, 2012, 01:49:32 PM
Amazing, ,makes perfect sense. Jesus is a transLITeration not translation. Thank you Dennis for posting this. I have learned an incredibly interesting truth today.

my favorite line:

"Okay... who am I to challenge The Universal Jewish Encyclopedia? Well, really, no one. But let me give it a try anyway"

I started laughing so hard, classic Ray. God I miss him.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Extol on June 20, 2012, 02:52:12 PM
Amazing, ,makes perfect sense. Jesus is a transLITeration not translation. Thank you Dennis for posting this. I have learned an incredibly interesting truth today.

my favorite line:

"Okay... who am I to challenge The Universal Jewish Encyclopedia? Well, really, no one. But let me give it a try anyway"

I started laughing so hard, classic Ray. God I miss him.

And then what he writes makes perfect sense, and makes the Universal Jewish Encyclopedia look foolish.   ;D

It states: "JEHOVAH is an erroneous pronunciation of the Tetragrammaton..." Well, yes, of course it is. But they are setting up a fraudulent straw man. Any thinking person knows that "Jehovah" is not the pronunciation of YHWH. But guess what? That is WHY WE TRANSLATE Tetragrammaton to our language! Give me a break. But "Jehovah" IS how one pronounces YHWH after it has been translated and transliterated INTO ENGLISH! OF COURSE "Jehovah" makes no sense in Hebrew - neither does the name "Universal Jewish Encyclopedia" make any sense in Hebrew! That's an ENGLISH TITLE, NOT HEBREW! Am I going too fast for anyone?
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: newgene87 on June 21, 2012, 01:13:30 AM
This a GREAT paper. Ever since ray spoke of this; I was waiting for this teaching. So when I read that he had passed.....I was so hurt and sorrowful for all those who loved him and his family :'( and I thought this was gonna be one topic I would never hear Rays teaching of. I USED to study in the "sacred names" group and teaching and I stumbled across bible-truths afterwards. Then I saw how ray rebuked those who did profess the "sacred" name...I was caught way off guard. And might I say, RAY NAILED IT. For me at least. That was probably the last problem I had against this site and now I'm complete ;D ;D oh the joy! there's nothing terrible with the name Jesus and Jehovah...thank you Dennis for posting this. Thank you bible-truths for the teachings that has guided me to Christ. Rest in Peace Ray and Grace and Peace to all his loved ones and family :)
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 21, 2012, 04:16:03 AM
So basically God the father is his own son in human form. He had relations with mary to create a human form version of himself? The son is his own father in human form? The son come using the Father's name? Why is there a sense of two different entities if they are the same being? In genesis. God said let us make man..... That's plural, not singular. Seems to point to a group consciousness rather than a singular consciousness and why did Jesus pray to his father or felt that his father forsaked him if he is the father himself in human form? Its like praying to yourself in a sense?  Please help me understand?
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Dave in Tenn on June 21, 2012, 04:44:25 AM
Denise, I don't mean to be rude, but that's about five questions too many for one post, and I don't know how many of them came from the article itself.  By all means, keep them in mind and read the article again.  If it blows some assumptions out of the water, so be it.  If you still have a question about what the article says, please post it. 
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 21, 2012, 05:38:49 AM
I'm Sorry Dave.  I was thinking out loud as I wrote the previous post. Its the deaf culture. We tend to talk openly and all on the table when we talk. :) Let me summarize my thoughts into one. Is Ray saying that  Jesus is God the father in human form? I just want to make sure I understand it correctly?

Thanks so much

Denise
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Dennis Vogel on June 21, 2012, 08:39:15 AM
Quote
So basically God the father is his own son in human form. He had relations with mary to create a human form version of himself? The son is his own father in human form? The son come using the Father's name? Why is there a sense of two different entities if they are the same being? In genesis. God said let us make man..... That's plural, not singular. Seems to point to a group consciousness rather than a singular consciousness and why did Jesus pray to his father or felt that his father forsaked him if he is the father himself in human form? Its like praying to yourself in a sense?  Please help me understand?

I remember bringing up most of these points with Ray at Cracker Barrel several months ago.

Ray never asked me to post this. Perhaps he knew he had to get all the pieces together before posting any of it.

But you cannot argue with the facts he gave us. How it all fits together will most likely remain a mystery.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Cypress on June 21, 2012, 10:55:30 AM
So fascinating, isn't it? Makes your mind swirl! God is amazing :).
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Rene on June 21, 2012, 12:11:29 PM
I have been wondering for a long time why the name Jehovah/Yahweh was never mentioned in the New Testament.  I now get it!  Ray's study makes perfect sense to me. :)

These are the highlights I took from this paper:

"just where in the gospels did Jesus do the things He stated below? When Jesus says, "I have declared unto them Thy Name..."?

That truth being that the Name that Jesus was "given," which He "inherited," that is "above EVERY name," was God's Name, His Father's Name, the NAME JEHOVAH.

John 17:11 - "Holy Father! Keep them in Thy name which Thou has given Me, that they may be one as we." - (Rotherham's Emphasized Bible)

The Name that Jesus came with; was born with; taught with; exalted and manifested His Father with; that was above every name, IS THE NAME JESUS, transliterated from His Fathers name JEHOVAH, transliterated from His Hebrew name YHWH.

And so the names Jehovah and Jesus have been transliterated for every language on earth. It is the NAME given to Jesus that must reflect all of the virtues of Jehovah His Father.

And when we read the prophecy concerning His name, we read this:

"For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and His Name shall be called Wonderful, Counselor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace" (Isa. 9:6).  


René
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 21, 2012, 01:13:19 PM
I'm glad His Name isn't Enigma.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 21, 2012, 01:14:08 PM
Oh yeah. It's alot to wrap my mind on too. But what Ray said made alot of sense too. I admire his gift for seeing and catching things that normal people don't have thr eye to see. I'm glad he had the opportunity to write that paper before he went "home". Because it did change my perception of how I see God and I'm grateful for that.

Denise
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John from Kentucky on June 21, 2012, 04:20:09 PM
I don't want us to back off from what Ray saw in the scriptures.  I think Ray knew the answer to the "Enigma of God".  He just didn't have all the scriptures to explain it to others without causing offense.

In his article on his creed, Ray wrote that the most profound part was that Jesus was God's Authorized Autobiography.  I understood immediately what Ray was saying.  Jesus is the Word of God.  Is an autobiography a writing about someone else?  No, it is not.  An autobiography is a writing about yourself.  About yourself.  In Jesus, God is writing about Himself.   8)

I no longer believe that Jesus is separate from the Father.  The scriptures teach that the Father is God.  The scriptures teach that Jesus is God.  If the Father and Jesus are separate, then you have two separate Gods.  However, the scriptures teach that there is only One God.

Jesus spoke the Truth when He said, "I (Jesus) and the Father are One."
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gabriel on June 21, 2012, 07:42:45 PM
Alittle more than a year ago my good friend Bryan Huie told me that the Father gave Jesus His own name! It was so awesome reading this fascinating article.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: christalfan on June 22, 2012, 04:59:30 AM
I just printed the paper and can't wait to get home and read... :P

God keep on blessing you Dennise! 8)
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: santgem on June 22, 2012, 06:10:20 AM
I'm waiting for this.  Thanks a lot........


Not long time ago, i thought that what God the Father name was Jesus. This always comes into my mind because Jesus said that He came in His Father's name, so i concluded that what The Father have is also Jesus have that includes the name.

After reading part 1 of Solving the Enigma, then my reaction is, "ah", "oh" , "well", "uhm"... :)

As of my sentiments like the others, Is Father  Jesus in the flesh?

If then, Father is Jesus in the Flesh, therefore Father and Jesus coexist... :-[

Oh my God! where am i going! ???

Somebody there could help me bit? :)





Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: zander on June 22, 2012, 08:05:51 AM
This has confused me.

I thought Jesus wasn't his own Father?  I thought the Father wasn't his own son? I thought they were 2 separate beings?  The trinity believes they ARE the same.

 Am i missing something?  I'm sure Ray used to say they were 2 separate beings?
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Kat on June 22, 2012, 10:01:11 AM

The thing is that Ray did not finish his study on this God enigma. What we need to do is get into your Bibles people, if you have the Spirit indwelling, why can't you search the Scriptures for answers?

Luke 11:9  And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

I know that we depended on Ray to put all these things together for us, and he gaves us a great deal, praise God for that. Now use what you have learned and continue your study and meditation and God will help your understanding on these things. There is much and more in the Scriptures, let the Spirit show you what wonderful things you can learn.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: walt123 on June 22, 2012, 10:07:06 AM
This has confused me.

I thought Jesus wasn't his own Father?  I thought the Father wasn't his own son? I thought they were 2 separate beings?  The trinity believes they ARE the same.

 Am i missing something?  I'm sure Ray used to say they were 2 separate beings?


I feel the same way zander,i don't have a problem with it , it is what it is,but ????.

Walt.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John from Kentucky on June 22, 2012, 11:05:30 AM

The thing is that Ray did not finish his study on this God enigma. What we need to do is get into your Bibles people, if you have the Spirit indwelling, why can't you search the Scriptures for answers?

Luke 11:9  And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.

I know that we depended on Ray to put all these things together for us, and he gaves us a great deal, praise God for that. Now use what you have learned and continue your study and meditation and God will help your understanding on these things. There is much and more in the Scriptures, let the Spirit show you what wonderful things you can learn.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

Very well said Kat.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: arion on June 22, 2012, 11:08:52 AM

The thing is that Ray did not finish his study on this God enigma. What we need to do is get into your Bibles people, if you have the Spirit indwelling, why can't you search the Scriptures for answers?


And that is the danger of posting an unfinished paper for all to peruse.  It's going to cause a lot of questions that are not going to be answered because only Ray was allowed to teach here and now he's gone.   The thing is as much as I valued Ray, he didn't teach me anything.  There is no way any of us can understand spiritual truth unless God opens our ears.  And indeed John tells us that we have no need for men to teach us;

1Jn 2:27  But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you.....

I don't know, I guess I'm just wired a little differently but I don't get bent out of shape with myriads of questions and trying to figure everything out.  God brings each of us along at our own speed and in his timing for us.  There are some of the papers I read the first few times and didn't understand much at all and then the next time I read it truth just jumps off the page as the holy spirit gives illumination.  When/if it's God's time for us to understand these things then we will.  In the meantime just keep on keeping on.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Craig on June 22, 2012, 11:15:09 AM
Everyone step back and take a breath.  Dennis and Kat have both alluded to the fact this was a work in progress that Ray never completed.  Who knows, he may have found he could never complete it because of the questions that it raised.

Now then, I don't necessarily agree with it all but that would take more study and prayer before stating that unequivocally. But it does give us a lot to study and to search out for those so inclined; I do believe the fact of Jehovah as the name leaves little doubt.

Bottom line is don't let this article become a stumbling block to you, nor make it idol of your heart. 

Craig

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Rene on June 22, 2012, 11:38:35 AM
The essay that was posted was not the "Solving The Enigma of God" paper.  Ray stated:

"I am researching a paper on "Solving the Enigma of God." But as it is somewhere in the future, I decided to cover some of the shorter enigmas that will prepare us for a deeper understanding of just Who our God really is. So this paper is one of those related Biblical Enigmas." 

Perhaps this paper that was posted by Dennis should have had a different title so as not to be confused with the actual paper Ray was hoping to present. :-\

Personally, I got a lot out of this paper and feel happy it was shared with us. :)

René
 
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: mharrell08 on June 22, 2012, 01:53:49 PM
I didn't get the impression that Ray was teaching the Father and Jesus were one and the same being. What the paper is basically saying is that Jesus was given the Father's name, Jehovah was transliterated to the name Jesus. Children take their Father's name even to this day and we see where this custom came from.


Hope this helps,

Marques
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John from Kentucky on June 22, 2012, 03:45:38 PM
Hear, O Israel: Jehovah our God is one Jehovah.  Deut 6:4

That men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun That there is no one besides Me.  I am Jehovah, and there is no other.  Isa 45:6
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: believerchrist100 on June 22, 2012, 04:00:03 PM
Hear, O Israel: Jehovah our God is one Jehovah.  Deut 6:4

That men may know from the rising to the setting of the sun That there is no one besides Me.  I am Jehovah, and there is no other.  Isa 45:6

Taken from the 2007 Nashville Conference:

Even though we give Jesus the designation Jehovah/Elohim, it still includes the Father. Why? Because there is only ONE Elohim! He is the Jehovah, one God - there is the Father, one God and together they are the one God. You just have to believe the scriptures. 

John 10:30  I and My Father are one.

One what? One God and it’s understood, We are one... one God. We two, are one. Whenever two are of the same mind and spirit, they are considered one.
 
Now we only have one analogy of that in the scripture, and it’s of a husband and wife. Isn’t it interesting when He says that they are joined together. Because when you are joined together, it’s like you stick a plug in the wall. The plug that you stick in is the male and the wall plug is called the female. So it’s when a man and woman join there bodies. They are literally inside of each others body, they are one, see, literally they are one. That is the most intimate relationship there is, on the human plain, sexual intercourse with a man and a woman, you literally become one body. Because it signifies being one in Spirit. But Paul says he speaks of this concerning Christ and the church in Ephesians. He says this is a great mystery.

Eph 5:28  So husbands ought to love their own wives as their own bodies; he who loves his wife loves himself.
v. 29  For no one ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and cherishes it, just as the Lord does the church.

See the connection.

Eph 5:30  For we are members of His body, of His flesh and of His bones.
v. 31  "For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh."
v. 32  This is a great mystery, but I speak concerning Christ and the church.

So what is it about Jesus and His Father, that make them one? I mean they don’t have a sexual union, they are both masculine. How do they be, one? There is one other all encompassing factor….. they are one Spirit! 

You could get a superficial feeling of this, when you have a group of men in the army, let’s say the navy seals or somebody. They are so precisely trained to do one job together, that 6 of them function as one, see. They are multiple individuals, but function as one. We call it, I think it’s Latin, Esprit de corps….. the spirit of the corps, the group. That’s what Jesus Christ and God His Father have, they have a lot of Esprit de corps. They are one Spirit, it’s the same spirit and it’s the same spirit of perfection wisdom and knowledge, love and power. Same Spirit! How could they both have that and not be God?  But there is only one Spirit. 

Wherever God gives His spirit in this room, it’s all the same spirit. Those of us who have that spirit, have a certain Esprit de corps with one another. Now we don’t do it as well, I realize that and some of us are virtually strangers. But if we can talk to each other for an hour or so and know that we have that bond. You would trust me and I would trust you anywhere. Why? Because you have the spirit of God.   

John,

You are correct there is only one God, however the Father and Jesus are not one and the same being. They are two seperate beings who are one in the same sense that a husband and wife are two separate beings who make up one flesh. Jesus and the Father share the same spirit and mind, but they are not one and the same being. I believe also that the latest paper does not teach that Jesus and his Father are one and the same person, but Jesus was given the name Jehovah by his father whose name is also Jehovah which is transliterated to Jesus as Marques says. I apologize if I misunderstood the points you've been trying to make.

Patrick
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: onelovedread on June 22, 2012, 04:01:01 PM
I would have to agree with Marques, because  - Colossians 1: 15 "...Who is the Image of the invisible God, Firstborn of every creature,..." suggests that Jesus was born. And we know that the Father was not.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Dennis Vogel on June 22, 2012, 05:08:41 PM
I didn't get the impression that Ray was teaching the Father and Jesus were one and the same being. What the paper is basically saying is that Jesus was given the Father's name, Jehovah was transliterated to the name Jesus. Children take their Father's name even to this day and we see where this custom came from.


Hope this helps,

Marques

Yes it does help Marques.

All this foolishness makes me wish I never posted the article. I have other things Ray left on his PC that will never see the light of day.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 22, 2012, 05:28:20 PM
Maybe the Father/Son analogy can get confusing when it comes to understanding the difference between The Father and Son.

Scriptures teach this:

John 1:14
King James Version (KJV)
14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

So technically, God the Father became flesh, representing as a son of the father?

Galatians 4:4-5
King James Version (KJV)
4 But when the fulness of the time was come, God sent forth his Son, made of a woman, made under the law,

5 To redeem them that were under the law, that we might receive the adoption of sons.

Philippians 2:6-10
King James Version (KJV)
6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

7 But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:

8 And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross.

9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:

10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

Hebrews 2:14-18  14 Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil;

15 And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.

John 14:8 -12

6 Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.

7 If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.

8 Philip saith unto him, Lord, show us the Father, and it sufficeth us.

9 Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Show us the Father?

10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works.

11 Believe me that I am in the Father, and the Father in me: or else believe me for the very works' sake.

12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

16 For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham.

17 Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren, that he might be a merciful and faithful high priest in things pertaining to God, to make reconciliation for the sins of the people.

18 For in that he himself hath suffered being tempted, he is able to succour them that are tempted.


So basically  maybe... it just means the Father emptied himself by humbling himself, stripping of all reputation and all that represents the Father God but instead, as a human and as the son of God to help others see and follow.  the Son is really the Father come into the flesh? and the God in flesh represent the son, while God the father is God without form? basically, The father sacrificed himself for the world by becoming human? Maybe?

Denise
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Marky Mark on June 22, 2012, 05:40:38 PM
In all of Scripture I do not believe that our Lord Jesus Christ has ever mentioned that he was actually the Father and not the Son. Now for sure Jesus has said that He and the Father are One and thought it not robbery to be equal with God but this is accomplished by the Fathers Holy Spirit indwelling in Jesus,the Fathers Words are of the Father,that's the words that Jesus speaks of,in Oneness of both Father and Son.

Joh 10:30  I and my Father are one.   [by a certain abundance of like-minded-ness and intensity]

Php 2:5 Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
Php 2:6 Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

Joh 14:10 Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me,

But the reason that Jesus and the Father are One is because they have a oneness of Spirit,the Holy Spirit. It is in that unity[oneness] of the Holy Spirit that make up their being One,not the false belief that they are the same exact Supreme deity. There is no witness saying that the Father is the Son and that the Son is the Father,to say that is adding to the Word of God and the outcome to that would be...

Pro 30:6 Add thou not unto his words, lest he reprove thee, and thou be found a liar.
 
Rev 22:18  For I testify unto every man that heareth the words of the prophecy of this book, If any man shall add unto these things, God shall add unto him the plagues that are written in this book:
Rev 22:19  And if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book.

Don't you know that we also are to be one [united], as the Father and Son are One,in the glory of His Holy Spirit,in that holy city and not in the deity of being the Supreme Being of which only God the Father can make claim to. We are to be converted rather into the oneness of the Fathers Spirit, just as Jesus is of One Spirit,in His Father.

Joh 17:21  May they all be one! Even as you, Father, are in me and I am in you, so let them be in us, so that all men may come to have faith that you sent me.
Joh 17:22  And the glory which you have given to me I have given to them, so that they may be one even as we are one;

Jesus has the same name of His Father buy virtue of having the same exact knowledge,authority and character of his Father whom the Father gave,by His Word, that they[Father and Son] may be One,as we will all be one, under the Father, when God is all in all.

Joh 17:11  ...Holy Father, keep through thine own name those whom thou hast given me, that they may be one, as we are.

Joh 17:6 I have manifested thy name unto the men which thou gavest me out of the world: thine they were, and thou gavest them me; and they have kept thy word.

Zec 14:9 And the LORD shall be king over all the earth: in that day shall there be one LORD, and his name one.

1Co 15:28  And when all things shall be subdued unto him, then shall the Son also himself be subject unto him that put all things under him, that God may be all in all.

Hope this helps some.

Peace...Mark
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: doug on June 22, 2012, 05:45:59 PM


All this foolishness makes me wish I never posted the article. I have other things Ray left on his PC that will never see the light of day.


Hello Dennis,
If you could sleep over it and have a change of heart...  why don't you post Ray's unfinished papers and then lock the subject.
Each of us could then let the Spirit reveal to us what is needed to be revealed in our individual walk.  We each will continue to grow at our own pace.

In His Love,
doug
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 22, 2012, 05:47:46 PM
If Jesus were His Father, who would have been running the universe when Jesus died, Denise?

This is all in Ray's papers.  I hope you'll read them.  It's really not that difficult.

( I agree with Doug. Time to lock it. )
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 22, 2012, 06:34:57 PM

Please be patient with me...  I'm trying to make sense of the deeper stuff- I may be way off and completely wrong. This is conversation is a huge topic and new too. that's for sure. It's definitely mind blowing and of course people will want to participate and talk about it.

Maybe Here's another understanding that may be more correct?

Maybe Jesus is a separate being that came from the Father but also carried The Father's name.. LIke Smith and son,   So therefore Jesus carried his father's Name. or is it more like Joseph Sr. and Joseph Jr? LIke senior and junior analogy? So does this mean all people that carry the same name represent one family, so maybe in a sense. when you become of like mind as the Father and the son, you become one family with them?

I learn best from analogies when it comes to deeper stuff. some analogies don't click, others does.

Denise




Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 22, 2012, 06:41:40 PM
You're beginning to get it. 

Ray has given many analogies.  If we all come here and post our own analogies (like I've done many times - not judging) it will be total chaos.   

Ask God to help you read and understand Ray's articles.  That's what Ray did when reading the bible, and that's what we are all trying to do.

One thing Ray said was a major key in God opening up the scriptures to his understanding was that he REPENTED.  We won't understand anything until we repent and obey God.

Please read the articles and ask God for wisdom Who gives generously and without faultfinding.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 22, 2012, 07:00:06 PM
Thanks Gina-

 

 I guess patience is a virtue and it's going to take its time.  God has his plans and I'm just glad he has salvation for all mankind in mind as well. You're absolutely right,  we have to repent from sinning against the light in order to understand the effects it has on the light and that alone will help you dwell in the light with the Father.  The thing is, Jesus understood his Father and I want to understand what Jesus understood about his Father as well. I also want to understand what Ray  understood of our Father as well. I guess all in due time.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Kenneth Clark on June 22, 2012, 07:08:37 PM
we will know the truth in another age...to me it doesnt matter...just love God and talk to Him...just talk to Him
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gabriel on June 22, 2012, 07:21:48 PM
Ancient Israelites knew that God had a special, unique Son:
 
PROVERBS 30:4  Who hath ascended up into heaven, or descended? who hath gathered the wind in his fists? who hath bound the waters in a garment? who hath established all the ends of the earth? what is his name, and what is his son's name, if thou canst tell? (KJV)

I'll qoute from the apocryphal book Sirach just to make a point.

SIRACH 51:10 I appealed to the Lord, the Father of my lord, not to forsake me in the days of affliction, at the time when there is no help against the proud. (RSV)

I personally don't believe Ray was teaching that Jesus was his own father.

Gabriel 
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Dave in Tenn on June 23, 2012, 01:38:44 AM
Took my own advice and laid aside any assumptions.  Here's what I got:

Ray started this paper like he has started nearly every paper.  Exposing those who contradict and teaching sound doctrine.  (That's the very purpose for Bible-Truths.com--sez so right on the fron t page.

What/who did he expose?  This sect of 'holy-name' afficianodos.  Small, maybe, but vocal.

What sound doctrine did he teach?  That the Father gave Jesus the same name as the Father, and that both share the same attributes.

What/who did he expose?  Those who claim that Jesus wasn't around in the Old Testament.

What sound doctrine did he teach?  That Jesus is the Jehovah of the Old Testament.

Now I've personally never been seriously tempted by the 'sacred name' business.  But if a group in babylon asserts that men are not saved unless they pronounce the name of YWVH in Hebrew, then that is bondage I am happy to see ANYBODY freed from.  I'm also glad to know that my faith IN Jesus (and the faith OF Jesus on my behalf) are not in vain.

If there is much of anything else IN THE ARTICLE, I missed it.  I have asserted since the beginning of this interest, that there would not be anything forthcoming that CHANGED what Ray has already shared.  This article has not changed that 'opinion'. 

Most of B-T was posted before I ever found it.  Here's a brief (and woefully incomplete) list of things Ray has already said.  In most cases, I've had to lay down my assumptions in these matters.  In all of those cases, I am glad I did. 

God is Spirit, not A Spirit.

Spirit has no hands.  (Tell a child that God has no hands, and see if she feels sorry for Him.  I don't want to be child.)

God is not a six-foot tall man (as some silly preacher claimed).  Am I to assume that God is then a 7-foot-tall man?  How about a 600 foot tall man?  If I'm really "spiritual", is he a 6 million mile tall man?

In the "doctrine of the trinity" there are three "persons".  Scripturally, only one of those could be described as a 'person'.

Jesus is the "creative original" by whom are all things.  (As a 'trinitarian'--even as lapsed as I was--I had a lot of problems with the first part).

What is seen is not made out of nothing, but out of that which is unseen.

Spirit is invisible.

Jesus is the express image of Almighty God.

Mankind is being formed (conformed) into the image of the Son.

God is not a Trinity.  God is not a Duality.  But what was the 'conclusion' --the sound Doctrine--of the trinity paper?  God is an expanding Family.

Now I have to preach.  Sorry.  Even if any of us don't 'get' the enigma of God, we're not left without 'instructions'.  The consummate act of all mankind will be to aver (say with full conviction) that Jesus Christ is Lord.  He is my God, if indeed I do what He says.  He is the author and finisher of my faith (look to Him).  He is the Creator and Sustainer of the world.  He is the Word of God.  He is the mediator between God and man.  These things (and many others) don't have NO meaning just because you haven't worked out this family relationship.

I've tried not to overstep, and am sorry if I have.

 
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: cjwood on June 23, 2012, 05:07:29 AM


All this foolishness makes me wish I never posted the article. I have other things Ray left on his PC that will never see the light of day.


Hello Dennis,
If you could sleep over it and have a change of heart...  why don't you post Ray's unfinished papers and then lock the subject.
Each of us could then let the Spirit reveal to us what is needed to be revealed in our individual walk.  We each will continue to grow at our own pace.

In His Love,
doug


dennis, your statement made me sad.   :(    if you had not posted the article, we would have been denied the opportunity to be shown by the Holy Spirit some things we might have never been shown before, had this article not seen the light of day.  i am one of those.  and i am grateful that you posted it.

i included doug's post reply because i thought it was maybe something to think about.  kind of like a bible study, that is not in detail, but like short studies that ray was looking into.  whomever the Spirit causes to study and search the scriptures, on whichever topic of ray's studies they are guided to.  but then of course, each posting of whichever papers dennis decides to share, must include a lock.  there is always the pm option if someone wants to discuss a paper further.

there were many subjects that ray was desiring to write about.  he was always asking God questions about things.  different areas of study in many different stages of getting thoughts to paper/computer.  but, perhaps a sort of outline for further study, and let the Spirit guide us.  the 'foolishness' can be controlled by a lock.

claudia
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 23, 2012, 05:43:57 AM
Whether Dennis changes his mind or not, I won't put any more pressure on him than he has already. 

I'm grateful for the article.  With everything Ray has given us I feel well provided for.

As for me, I will be content with what I've been given.  If what I have been given already isn't enough and I feel compelled to put pressure on Dennis (as if I've been starved) I'm a sorry case and not acting in love.

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 23, 2012, 10:17:00 AM
Dennis,


There will be teachers and there will also be students.   They're the babes and little children learning. Think of it that you are helping them grow bit by bit. They will make less and less noises as they learn. They will no longer make noise when they're mature. I am not sorry I asked questions but I am sorry that it caused problems because that is not the intention at all. I was simply trying to connect and learn even if the article was incomplete or not. Its called bible study between babes and the wise ones.

 You can lock it as soon as you post it and maybe let people discuss it in private in one of the forum for members only,  like a bible study. People will wwant to talk abt it regardless if u post it or not.   People waited so long for this article and was ready to burst when you posted it. Lock the incomplete ones in a member only forum or something. 

Just know that I greatly appreciate that what you are doing by sharing great truth about our God. And for that I am grateful. I mean it. It helped me see God in a different light and its awesome.  Really awesome. Thank you.

Denise
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Cypress on June 23, 2012, 02:57:06 PM
smh  :o
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Craig on June 23, 2012, 03:00:55 PM
Denise, you are wanted and you are welcome by me; sometimes you have made me have the patience of Job ;) ,but there is nothing wrong with questioning.  It just gets frustrating sometimes when you ask several questions at once and when someone tries to answer, you do not acknowledge their response and then ask a dozen more questions.  You need to focus so someone can help you better.  If you are referred to an article Ray has written then put forth the effort to read it and acknowledge if you are in agreement or not and then ask another question if you need to.  I know some of this frustration could be because of your disability and communications barriers; I'm sure that makes it tough for you. 

If any member does not agree with what is taught that is O.K. but as per the rules we just ask that you drop that line of discussion so it does not become a point of contention or debate.

If any forum member asks questions we should not be too quick to take a stick to them, try and help them to focus and learn; not just once or twice but as long as you feel you can be helpful.  If they just won't try or only want to cause division the moderators will spot this and deal with it, that is our jobs.  We have many members here that have matured and have learned to deal with other members effectively and have made the moderators job much easier.  For that we are grateful.

Don't give up on us Denise.

Craig
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Marky Mark on June 23, 2012, 04:36:46 PM
Jas 4:10 Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and he shall lift you up.

Pro 6:3 My son, do this now, and deliver yourself when you have come into the hand of your friend; go, humble yourself and make your friend sure.

Psa 69:32 The humble shall see this, and be glad: and your heart shall live that seek God.

Mat 18:2  And Jesus called a little child unto him, and set him in the midst of them,
Mat 18:3  And said, Verily I say unto you, Except ye be converted, and become as little children, ye shall not enter into the kingdom of heaven.
Mat 18:4  Whosoever therefore shall humble himself as this little child, the same is greatest in the kingdom of heaven.
Mat 18:5  And whoso shall receive one such little child in my name receiveth me.




Peace...Mark
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: DougE6 on June 23, 2012, 04:51:29 PM
Dave in Tennessee

My spirit soared as I read these words you wrote.."Now I have to preach.  Sorry.  Even if any of us don't 'get' the enigma of God, we're not left without 'instructions'.  The consummate act of all mankind will be to aver (say with full conviction) that Jesus Christ is Lord.  He is my God, if indeed I do what He says.  He is the author and finisher of my faith (look to Him).  He is the Creator and Sustainer of the world.  He is the Word of God.  He is the mediator between God and man.  These things (and many others) don't have NO meaning just because you haven't worked out this family relationship."

Thank you for that testimony of faith, and all those reminders in your post of all the other great things we have learned and are continuing to learn.

I so look for the day the whole world, the whole universe gives Jesus the acclaim and falls into subjection to Him.  Every principality and power, every person from every tribe nation tongue and group.

Apparently it was not Gods desire for Ray to release all that he was thinking about to the world. If it was, then God would of seen fit to have it all finished and done.

So the enigma of God will remain an enigma until we have the spiritual mind to comprehend it. Until then, as we see through a glasss darkly, I ONLY speaking for myself, want to major on pleasing Jesus and doing His will.

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Dennis Vogel on June 23, 2012, 05:16:10 PM
I did not see in the paper where Ray said the Father and Son are the same being.

My son and I are one on many issues, but that does not make us the same person. Just because the Father and Son are one on all issues does not make them the same being.

If I missed it, please show me.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: indianabob on June 23, 2012, 05:39:53 PM
Denise,

You note below that you tend to write from the heart and say what is on your mind at the time.
I do much the same and it has led to some misunderstanding on other forums, so I think that I may understand and empathize with your efforts to stimulate responses to your valid questions. All well and good.  :D
Over the years I have found that I do much better and gain better insight into my own needs by taking the time to edit each and every email that I send. I know it may sound like I'm just trying to do a spell check or grammar check so I don't embarrass myself, but it also has benefits for the reader as well. AND I have learned to view my own writing with the critical eyes of readers that I do not know very well and whose cultural background is unfamiliar to me. So rather than respond to an email with a correction to try to say more clearly what I meant, I just try to anticipate how it will read in the mind of a VERY new person on the forum. Because after all there are dozens of new readers every day and it is their tender feelings that Lord Jesus would have us protect from stumbling.  8)

Hoping that these words may be of some benefit, I remain your friend in Christ Indianabob




Gina- I have responded to all of your pms except the one you sent me yesterday. I did not answer that one pm  because it is the copy and paste of what you already wrote to me on this subject and I answered it here instead. What's the point of answering the same thing twice? You're going to read it here too.

I am really frustrated.  I feel like you are blaming me for causing the upset and trouble and wanted me to stop asking for "more". I wasn't asking for more, it was a simply of wanting to know the Father's name and talking about it. Is that too much to ask?  I knew that the article were incomplete. That's common sense. I simply wanted a fulfilling conversation about that article with you all.   I was just simply trying to help talk about the possibilities.  I wanted to get an idea and i wanted other's thoughts on the subject. Nothing official, It is just talk, talk abut things that could mean what it is. Imagine this as if we were all here at a luncheon in person, You would love that kind of talk, it can be beautiful, just talking about the article and what it could mean when it comes to the other enigmas in relation to that article.

What I love about my deaf culture is that we can talk about anything without feeling like we're walking on eggshells all the time. It's like family talking to family. if that makes sense. You don't have to worry about crossing any line- I want  to be able to have a conversation with you all, talking about ray's articles, the bible, and  Keep it all casual and nothing formal. Why can't we all connect like that. After all we are really all family in spirit? I know being on the internet can be diffcult because we can't see the behavior and facial expressions in person.

 I certainly don't want to hurt or offend anyone because that's not me at all. I certainly don't want to start something that's not even there in the first place. We are all here to talk about God's beautiful truths and simply connect. I am really glad Dennis posted that article about God's name, because it confirmed many of my feelings I already have about the subject and I feel more free. If you don't want me to ask, that's fine too. I'll just shut the hell up. You of all people, should understand how that feels, not being able to talk to anyone in your home town, community- your own family about Ray's articles, because they would just mock you and make you feel rildiclious for even bringing it up. or even tell you to shut up simply because you just don't understand God's truths in comparable to their understanding of God's truths.   It's not a good feeling and I understand that very well. That is how you made me feel and that hurt.

God led me here for a reason and I'm glad he did. I love the posts you guys make. It's beautiful and it's enlightening for sure. I did not mean to make Dennis feel regret for posting the article. I am really sorry for that. That was not my intention at all. I was just trying to make a casual conversation wtih you all about the possiblities of what it could mean. I already know what Ray wrote and understood it fine.  It is the deep spirit of the article that's hovering that I am asking about. what it could mean. If that makes sense.

I hate to cause trouble really just because I wanted to know something. I also do not want to have to feel like walking on eggshells every time I ask something.

I know I have alot to overcome when it comes to limiting my questions when I ask. I tend to think it out loud when i type, I tend to blurt it all out and just say, like I said.. its like talking to family more than talking to strangers here. I have to learn that too. Like i said, please be patient with me, with time, I will learn to watch what i type here and tread lightly. I also need to learn to acknowledge the links people send my way  But just know that  I do read them after a link is posted in the topic conversation. Sometimes a conversation in that topic gets carried to a different subject and I didn't want to interrupt and I just stopped responding and just read what they had to say on the subject. sometimes it just answers my question :) Thanks for letting me know what I can improve on. I appreciate it. I will work on that.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 23, 2012, 05:42:07 PM
Dennis-

In earlier conversation, I was only suggesting  what if because The Father and Son has the same name. Jehovah and Jesus.  I assumed maybe they are the same essence of the same being- Father - invisible- The son- flesh version- More like a clone twin of each other that just split. in essence, the same being. if you get my meaning? But Gina pointed out it is more like Father and son family thing, like Smith and son, Jennings and son, Vogel and son, everyone in the same family has the same last name. So whenever we join the Father's family- we carry his name. we become one family with them. Like son come out of the mother, same sense.  I understand that now.

Am i on the right track?


Denise-
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: mharrell08 on June 23, 2012, 06:48:15 PM
Dennis-

In earlier conversation, I was only suggesting  what if because The Father and Son has the same name. Jehovah and Jesus.  I assumed maybe they are the same essence of the same being- Father - invisible- The son- flesh version- More like a clone twin of each other that just split. in essence, the same being. if you get my meaning? But Gina pointed out it is more like Father and son family thing, like Smith and son, Jennings and son, Vogel and son, everyone in the same family has the same last name. So whenever we join the Father's family- we carry his name. we become one family with them. Like son come out of the mother, same sense.  I understand that now.

Am i on the right track?


Denise-

Yes, I would agree Denise.

Rev 3:12  He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: eggi on June 23, 2012, 10:40:43 PM
Hi all,

I don't want to upset anyone for what they believe. I too can't see how what Ray wrote in this latest article would lead one to believe that Jesus and the Father are one being. On the contrary, I felt that the article was explaining that they had the same Character. Nothing more than that. Speaking of two or more characters being the same, these must out of necessity be similar characters belonging to TWO (or more) different beings. To say that someone has the same character as himself/herself would be redundant. It doesn't make sense to say: My character is the same as my character.

A while back I read a very good article about the meaning of the word "NAME" in Hebrew. I might have saved it somewhere, but couldn't find it. Basically it said something like Ray said in his article, NAME is closely linked to CHARACTER, especially when it comes to the relationship between the Father and His Son. They HAVE the same character, no doubt. But again, in order to use the words THE SAME referring to similar characters, involves TWO or more entities.

This is just speculation, but I noticed one thing in particular that Ray said about the enigma of God:

Ray's April 2nd 2011 message:

Even Universal Reconciliation becomes an axiomatic certainty and not even debatable when we understand just who "the ONLY TRUE GOD" (John 17:3) really is!

How is it that "universal reconciliation becomes an axiomatic certainty and not even debatable when we understand just who "the ONLY TRUE GOD" really is!" ? I believe this has to do with the FAMILY of GOD, or the DIVINE FAMILY as Ray put it in another study. Isn't this closeness that Jesus has with His Father that makes them ONE GOD, also what will be OURS when we will be ONE FAMILY (ALL INCLUDED) when God is ALL in ALL? This however, doesn't mean that all will be one lump where nobody will be distinguishable from each other.

Just my thoughts. I thank Dennis for putting the article on the site. It was very upbuilding for me, also learning that there is nothing wrong with using the name Jesus, as I have been told in the past 6 months that I am wrong and "pagan" for using.

God bless you all,
Eirik
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John from Kentucky on June 23, 2012, 11:24:05 PM
http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,13550.0.html

It seems Ray thought this topic was a tad more complicated than just a Father and Son being one in a family relationship.  If you read the several emails from Ray over the past year and Ray's article on his creed about this nature of God topic, you will begin to see there is much, much more to God.

It's all in the scriptures.  Jesus said He and the Father are one.  But most don't want to believe the scriptures.  So they feel the need to explain away clear scriptures.

However, I believe Kat's post said it best.  We need to study this topic on our own and let the Spirit guide us.

Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit, says the LORD Almighty.  Zech 4:6

Truly, You are a God who hides Himself, O God of Israel, Savior!  Isa 45:15
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: mharrell08 on June 23, 2012, 11:55:11 PM
http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,13550.0.html

It seems Ray thought this topic was a tad more complicated than just a Father and Son being one in a family relationship.  If you read the several emails from Ray over the past year and Ray's article on his creed about this nature of God topic, you will begin to see there is much, much more to God.


Actually John, it was being taught from just that perspective: a family. Here is an excerpt from the last bible study Ray held in March 2011 (http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,12896.msg113153.html#msg113153):

I’m not suggesting that there are two Gods, I’m saying that the one God said, “let Us,” that's all that I am saying. I’m not saying that there is more than one God. We have all kinds of examples of how that is possible.

I think we should do away or should have done away… well it’s pretty hard to do it now... but we should have never got in the habit of translating in English Yahweh and Elohim and Adonia, we should have never translated it God. God is a pagan heathen title. Why should we call the God of creation after some pagan title? Why should we? After all we know He’s not a pagan god, yet we’re strapped with the idea that the word Elohim is translated the true God and the god of the pagans. God of creation that was Elohim and Mohoc of the Canaanites that was elohim too.

I would have made a distinction. I would have translated it something like this, since we know what God is from other Scriptures and so on. I would have translated it something like this, in the beginning the Almighty Family created the heavens and the earth. What’s wrong with that? To me that’s what God is. Takes care of the ‘one,’ family, takes care of the plural, family has more than one unit.

Or we could say, the Almighty Divine Family, saying let Us make man in Our image. You could throw the word divine or divinity in there, that okay that’s a good word. It takes care of the plurality of the word Elohim. We could call Him the Almighty Divine Family. What’s wrong with that?


To me the pagan title god or in Germany gott, it doesn’t do justice to the God of creation. 

We are familiar with lots of words anyway that are used with a singular pronouns and so on, but consist of multiple units. We speak of the United States of America, United States, plural. One nation under God or it used to be one nation, I don’t know what it is now. One nation, united, states plural. One nation, okay. This isn’t rocket science, it’s not hard to understand.

You can have an orchestra, one orchestra, 150 members. It doesn’t mean since you have more than one you have more than one orchestras? The accusation is, ‘if there is more than one talking then you are saying there is more than one God.’ No I’m not and neither is the Scripture saying that

Ps 2:2  The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against His Anointed...

Eph 2:19  Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God

2 Cor 6:18  I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.


Excerpt from 'Solving the Enigma of God Part 1' (http://bible-truths.com/enigmaOfGod.htm):

THE NAME HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT

Most Christians have no idea that virtually all of the Old Testament references to "God" or "the LORD-YHWH-Jehovah," are not spoken by God the Father, but by someone else. And just who might that someone else be? We'll get to it.

But I will give you at least one Old Testament Hebrew Scripture which tells us exactly what the name of God the Father is. In the 2nd Psalm we have reference to two individuals: They are "the LORD" and "His Anointed" and "the LORD and My Son."

Psalm 2:2- "The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, [Heb: YHWH-Jehovah] and against His Anointed, saying,"

Psalm 2:7-"I will declare the decree: the LORD [Heb: YHWH-Jehovah] hath said unto me, Thou art My Son; this day have I begotten Thee."

Psalm 2:11-"Serve the LORD [Heb: Jehovah] with fear, and rejoice with trembling. Kiss the Son..." (and Psalm 2:12)

In these verses we can clearly identify the Father's name as "Jehovah."

We have Jehovah and His Anointed; Jehovah and His Son; and again Jehovah and His Son. So in these verses at least, Jehovah HAS to be the Father as He is contrasted with His Anointed and with His Son. And so though Jesus never called His Father by the name "Jehovah," it is clear (from Scripture) that Jehovah is His Father's name.


Stating that Jehovah is the name of a Family is not explaining away the scriptures, but in actuality, harmonizing them.


Hope this helps,

Marques
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John from Kentucky on June 24, 2012, 12:35:54 AM
Hello Marques,

No, it does not help at all.  I'm aware with what Ray said at his March 2011 bible study.

It was Ray's emails after that which just amazed me.  I believe the April 2, 2011 may have been the first?  In that one, the third paragraph from the bottom, Ray said that all prior teachings by the churches didn't explain the nature of God.  Ray also said that his paper on the trinity and the origin of Jesus did not explain all the scriptures on this subject either.  From that, I learned Ray was rethinking some of his prior papers and wanted to go into greater detail on the Nature of God.  Here is another email from Ray  that just stunned me and gave me insight into deeper understandings to come.

http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,7500.msg115456.html#msg115456

I had a telephone conversation with Ray in August 2011 on several topics.  I told Ray that what he implied in his recent emails just stunned me.  That I was dumbfounded by their implications.  I also said that I thought many on the Forum would have difficulty with these ideas.  Ray told me that we all would need to change some of our previous understandings.

This thread makes it clear to me that many don't have a clue where Ray was going.  But I found in Ray's article on his creed that he had a conclusion in mind.

The answers are clearly stated in the scriptures.  But most our blinded until the Spirit gives us the understanding.  The first step is to bring together all the scriptures on God, and Jesus, and how they interact.  But without the Spirit, it will be meaningless.

In order not to cause confusion and break the fellowship of the Forum, it will best to drop the subject, and let God guide our way.
One question I have is why God allowed this topic to be brought up by Ray, and then just hang there without a definitive resolution?
Our God is a strange God.  He does do things His own way.   8)
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Kat on June 24, 2012, 12:49:12 AM

Hi eggi,

Quote
Isn't this closeness that Jesus has with His Father that makes them ONE GOD, also what will be OURS when we will be ONE FAMILY (ALL INCLUDED) when God is ALL in ALL? This however, doesn't mean that all will be one lump where nobody will be distinguishable from each other.

Yes that is in the Scripture, "all" created beings that have ever live will one day be one with the Father and the Son, that is the second all in "all in all."

John 17:11 And I am no longer in the world, but they are in the world, and I am coming to You. Holy Father, keep them in your name, which you have given me, that they may be one, even as We are one.

John 17:22 And I have given them the glory which You have given Me, that they may be one, even as We are one,

So the Father and Son are in perfect Oneness with each other in Spirit and mind. Jesus had a discussion with the Jews about this.

John 10:30 I and My Father are one.
v. 31  The Jews took up stones again to stone Him.
v. 32  Jesus answered them, Many good works have I showed you from the Father; for which of those works do ye stone me?
v. 33  The Jews answered Him, For a good work we stone You not, but for blasphemy; and because that You, being a man, make Yourself God.
v. 34  Jesus answered them, Is it not written in your law, I said, ye are gods?

Interesting what Christ says there, He is referring to Psalms 82, which actually proves the Salvation of all.

Psa 82:5  They know not, neither do they understand; They walk to and fro in darkness: All the foundations of the earth are shaken.

God is speaking of all people that have ever lived, everybody is in darkness until the Holy Spirit (Christ) is indwelling, "I have come as a Light into the world, so that whoever believes on Me should not remain in darkness" (Joh 12:46).

Psa 82:6  I said, Ye are gods, And all of you sons of the Most High.
v. 7  Nevertheless ye shall die like men, And fall like one of the princes.
v. 8  Arise, O God, judge the earth; For You shalt inherit all the nations.

Jehovah here in Psalms states that ALL will be sons of the Most High God and so shows the salvation of ALL. In John 10 Jesus told the Jews He and the Father were one and when they wanted to stone Him for that, He reminded them of what was said in Psalms (by Him), He is one with the Father and that all will be sons of and therefore one with God.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: mharrell08 on June 24, 2012, 01:10:04 AM
Hello Marques,

No, it does not help at all.  I'm aware with what Ray said at his March 2011 bible study.

It was Ray's emails after that which just amazed me.  I believe the April 2, 2011 may have been the first?  In that one, the third paragraph from the bottom, Ray said that all prior teachings by the churches didn't explain the nature of God.  Ray also said that his paper on the trinity and the origin of Jesus did not explain all the scriptures on this subject either.  From that, I learned Ray was rethinking some of his prior papers and wanted to go into greater detail on the Nature of God.  Here is another email from Ray  that just stunned me and gave me insight into deeper understandings to come.

http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,7500.msg115456.html#msg115456

I had a telephone conversation with Ray in August 2011 on several topics.  I told Ray that what he implied in his recent emails just stunned me.  That I was dumbfounded by their implications.  I also said that I thought many on the Forum would have difficulty with these ideas.  Ray told me that we all would need to change some of our previous understandings.

This thread makes it clear to me that many don't have a clue where Ray was going.  But I found in Ray's article on his creed that he had a conclusion in mind.

The answers are clearly stated in the scriptures.  But most our blinded until the Spirit gives us the understanding.  The first step is to bring together all the scriptures on God, and Jesus, and how they interact.  But without the Spirit, it will be meaningless.

In order not to cause confusion and break the fellowship of the Forum, it will best to drop the subject, and let God guide our way.
One question I have is why God allowed this topic to be brought up by Ray, and then just hang there without a definitive resolution?
Our God is a strange God.  He does do things His own way.   8)


John you continue to reference past emails and comments from Ray, but you do not post any of them...you don't specify any particular comment. That type of behavior is what leads to confusion.

Even the link you provided has a quote from Ray speaking of the Father and Jesus as 'the two of them'. Yet you continue to imply that Ray was teaching that the Father and Jesus are the same being/entity.


Here were your first comments in this thread:

I no longer believe that Jesus is separate from the Father.  The scriptures teach that the Father is God.  The scriptures teach that Jesus is God.  If the Father and Jesus are separate, then you have two separate Gods.  However, the scriptures teach that there is only One God.

Jesus spoke the Truth when He said, "I (Jesus) and the Father are One."

While you no longer believe such, you continue to insist Ray was teaching this as well yet provide no specific comment or quote. You state that Ray was 'changing' his line of thinking, when in reality, Ray has been teaching for years that the term 'God' is more of a title than what you would actually call the Father or the Son.

It's One God because it is One Family, not one single being. This line of thinking you are taking on is the same as the trinity...it closes humanity out instead of what the scriptures teach that God is an ever expanding family. That was the essential message of the Trinity paper and that message has not changed, Ray has only been expanding on this topic.

God never changes course with His message through His messengers, He always expands upon what was already being taught. For example, Jesus stated He did not come to 'change' the law but to fulfill. Paul stated the same that he knew the law was spiritual...it was always spiritual, but Israel did not have the understanding to follow it. The message never changed, God just expanded upon that same message.


Quote
One question I have is why God allowed this topic to be brought up by Ray, and then just hang there without a definitive resolution?
Our God is a strange God.  He does do things His own way.   8)

1 Cor 11:19  For there must also be factions [Gk. 'heresies'] among you, that those who are approved may be recognized among you.

Because we are all sheep but only a few will follow His Voice [John 10:27].


Marques
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Kat on June 24, 2012, 01:28:24 AM

Hi John,

Quote
One question I have is why God allowed this topic to be brought up by Ray, and then just hang there without a definitive resolution?

Because God did bring this questions out through His servant, Ray, as we all listened to Ray and these things that Ray brought up about this enigma, very obviously, stirred up a lot of thought and questions on this. But God does not depend on any man and He can/will easily bring the answers to this question to any of us whenever He chooses.

I think we are missing the obvious on this inexplicable relationship that the Father and the Son have in oneness... that is the enigma! It's not that the Father and Son are the same being, it's that the connection that they do have is near (if not totally) impossible for a human mind to comprehend.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John9362 on June 24, 2012, 01:58:17 AM
This paper was easy and simple to understand. Ray wrote all his papers that way  :)

As I've said many times before, one must read the BT website many times !!  >:(

I will pray for all the moderators, for God to bless you with patience and strength. ;)

I've been a member here for over 6 years ...........believe me ALL the good stuff is on the BT website.........the more one reads it the more blessed one gets !!  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 24, 2012, 02:05:38 AM

The relationship between the Father and Son IS completely impossible for a human mind to comprehend.

James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.

Thanks James!
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 24, 2012, 03:09:16 AM
1 Cor 11:19  For there must also be factions [Gk. 'heresies'] among you, that those who are approved may be recognized among you.

What's the answer:

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to show yourself approved unto God, a workman that needs not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth.

Thanks, Paul and Timothy.  Err ... I mean the Comforter.  :)

John 10:24-26 Then came the Jews round about him, and said unto him, How long do you make us to doubt? If you are the Christ, tell us plainly.

Jesus answered them, I told you, and you believed NOT: the works that I do in my Father's name, THEY [the works] bear witness of me.

But you believe not, because you are NOT of My sheep, as I said unto you.

[I guess they were somebody's sheep, but NOT his.  It's like this:  Sssssllllaaappp~!  One down, and however many ... or few  ;) to go~]

John 10:27-30:  My sheep hear MY voice [ they don't hear (believe) anyone else's voice, only MY voice], and I know them, and they follow ME [they don't follow anyone else, only ME]: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of MY hand.  My Father, who gave them to Me [He didn't give them to anyone else, but Me], is GREATER than all; and no man is able to pluck them out of My Father's hand.  I and my Father are one.

"I and my Father are one and My Father ... is GREATER than all.

Wow, that is so cool.  I love that.



Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John from Kentucky on June 24, 2012, 03:15:17 AM
Marques,

You said I referenced Ray's emails but never posted them.  Actually, I posted two of them above.  Here is a third one.

http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,12934.0.html

Take a look at the third paragraph from the bottom.  Ray says, and I quote, "Nor does my paper on the trinity or the origin of Jesus explain and harmonize all of these Scriptures.  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 understood from Ray's statement that his prior understanding on this nature of God matter was incomplete and more information would be forthcoming.

Also, I do not believe that the Father and Jesus are the same being.  Nor do I think Ray thought so either.  I don't think the word being is even in the scriptures much less using that term in reference to the Father.

I said I do not believe Jesus is separate from the Father.  Because, if they are separate then you have two separate Gods.  The scriptures teach there is One God.

The scriptures use the analogy of One Body.  A head and a right arm are different, but they are part of One Body.  They are not separate. 

Please do not assume I am saying something which I did not say.  Just ask me if you are unsure.

John

 
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: John from Kentucky on June 24, 2012, 03:25:20 AM

Hi John,

Quote
One question I have is why God allowed this topic to be brought up by Ray, and then just hang there without a definitive resolution?

Because God did bring this questions out through His servant, Ray, as we all listened to Ray and these things that Ray brought up about this enigma, very obviously, stirred up a lot of thought and questions on this. But God does not depend on any man and He can/will easily bring the answers to this question to any of us whenever He chooses.

I think we are missing the obvious on this inexplicable relationship that the Father and the Son have in oneness... that is the enigma! It's not that the Father and Son are the same being, it's that the connection that they do have is near (if not totally) impossible for a human mind to comprehend.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

Hi Kat,

Thank you for your comments and I see your points.

I do not believe that the Father and Son are the same being.  But I do believe they are One because that is what the scriptures teach over and over.  They are not two Gods.  And I do think the human mind can understand with the Holy Spirit.  Remember what Jesus said that there is nothing impossible to God.

Thanks again.

John
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 24, 2012, 06:09:20 AM
When I think of the U.S. analogy, I think:  War with Iraq, etc..  When I think "Family"  the word "feud" comes to mind. 

I love the orchestra analogy.  I'm going with that one.   That sounds so much better than "God." 

"God" it's exactly like Denise said in another thread:  it gives you this picture of a titan "up there" with his scepter. 

It's so Year 4000 B.C., dahlings. 

God surely does Provide!  This is a keeper and almost forgot it existed:


(http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,12896.msg113153.html#msg113153):


To me the pagan title god or in Germany gott, it doesn’t do justice to the God of creation.

We are familiar with lots of words anyway that are used with a singular pronouns and so on, but consist of multiple units. We speak of the United States of America, United States, plural. One nation under God or it used to be one nation, I don’t know what it is now. One nation, united, states plural. One nation, okay. This isn’t rocket science, it’s not hard to understand.

You can have an orchestra, one orchestra, 150 members. It doesn’t mean since you have more than one you have more than one orchestras? The accusation is, ‘if there is more than one talking then you are saying there is more than one God.’ No I’m not and neither is the Scripture saying that

Ps 2:2  The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the Lord and against His Anointed...

Eph 2:19  Now, therefore, you are no longer strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints and members of the household of God

2 Cor 6:18  I will be a Father to you, and you shall be My sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: mharrell08 on June 24, 2012, 09:49:54 AM
Marques,

You said I referenced Ray's emails but never posted them.  Actually, I posted two of them above.  Here is a third one.

http://forums.bible-truths.com/index.php/topic,12934.0.html

Take a look at the third paragraph from the bottom.  Ray says, and I quote, "Nor does my paper on the trinity or the origin of Jesus explain and harmonize all of these Scriptures.  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 understood from Ray's statement that his prior understanding on this nature of God matter was incomplete and more information would be forthcoming.

Also, I do not believe that the Father and Jesus are the same being.  Nor do I think Ray thought so either.  I don't think the word being is even in the scriptures much less using that term in reference to the Father.

I said I do not believe Jesus is separate from the Father.  Because, if they are separate then you have two separate Gods.  The scriptures teach there is One God.


John, them being separate, which they are seeing that One was dead [Rev 1:5] and the Other is Immortal [1 Tim 6:16], has nothing to do with having 'two Gods'. God or Lord, which are better served as saying 'Jehovah', is a family name. That's why there is one God/Lord/Jehovah but 2 separate beings...with this household of God ever expanding. We will all soon carry the name Jehovah [Rev 3:12] but we will be separate from one another.

I understand exactly what you are saying John, from your comments above as well as the Father and Son being a little more complicated than a simple family relationship. But the scriptures teach again and again that it is exactly that: a Family relationship.

I grow weary when members state that a particular subject is so much more complicated and it takes 'the spirit' to understand. These types of comments do nothing to edify the body but rather lift oneself up above the rest. In times past, when a member has made this sort of comment, it is because they have a new idol of the heart that they don't plan to give up anytime soon.

Jesus, Paul, and the rest of the apostles spoke of a family dynamic that we will all soon be a part of. If they never saw fit to make that understanding more complicated, I don't see why we would either.


Marques
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Kat on June 24, 2012, 10:57:16 AM

Hi John,

Quote
I do not believe that the Father and Son are the same being.  But I do believe they are One because that is what the scriptures teach over and over.  They are not two Gods.  And I do think the human mind can understand with the Holy Spirit.  Remember what Jesus said that there is nothing impossible to God.

Yes God could bring this understanding to any of us, I guess He could take us to the 3rd heaven, like He did Paul and show us. But for now we are having a physical experience and with the Holy Spirit indwelling we do gain spiritual understanding. But at this time that is only as an earnest/guarantee/promise (2Cor 1:22) and it's like we only see through a glass/mirror dimly, it's interesting how the CLV have this verse in 1 Corinthians.

1Co 13:12 For at present we are observing by means of a mirror, in an enigma, yet then, face to face. At present I know out of an instalment, yet then I shall recognize according as I am recognized also."

The word enigma means something obscure or hard to understand. While we are still in the physical I don't think we have anything to point to that can adequately explain this Father and Son relationship/enigma, but God can and does give us a degree of understanding. But until we are actually born into the kingdom and have become spirit beings,and are like Christ, I don't think we can fully understand. But then when we do experience the spiritual realm first hand, we will "see Him as He is."

1John 3:2  Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is.

I think it may take our entering the kingdom, to relate to the Father as Jesus Christ does. But even then it will will just be the beginning, as Christ has had at least 14.6 billion of yrs to come to know the Father, that's the estimated age of the universe. Maybe it will take us a while too, to come to 'know' the Father.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Rene on June 24, 2012, 12:05:09 PM

I do not believe that the Father and Son are the same being. 


Hi John,

I'm glad you cleared that up because your previous statement about the "Father and Son not being separate" gave me the impression you were saying they were the same being.  Just a little further explanation, goes a long way. ;)

As Marques quoted: "It is One God because it is One Family.....God is an ever expanding family"  is a clear and simple statement I understand. :) 

René
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Kat on June 24, 2012, 12:18:41 PM

Hi Rene,

Quote
I couldn't find the word "Enigma" in any bible translation, so maybe that is why this topic has thrown us into a state of confusion. Just a thought.

Ah but it is. I just run across it in the CLV.

1Co 13:12 For at present we are observing by means of a mirror, in an enigma, yet then, face to face. At present I know out of an instalment, yet then I shall recognize according as I am recognized also."

I find that very interesting that as other translations say we see things dimly, it stated that we see them in an enigma. The word enigma means something obscure or hard to understand. Does explain a lot.

mercy, peace and love
Kat

 
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 24, 2012, 12:31:54 PM
Quote
This thread is a sad testimonial to  Ray.... I personally don't think you all are going to resolve this matter
 

I think this is a wonderful testimonial to Ray.  I'm so grateful to God. 

Ray pointed out that the Orchestra Family of Jehovah and Jesus provides.  I'm telling you, God provided for me abundantly through this thread.  I've been praying and thanking God all night since I saw the orchestra analogy again that Marques pulled out.  I almost forgot that was there. 

Some might fault JFK for starting something (I'm positive none of the mods do), and while I personally don't agree with some of the things JFK said, I thank God for his posts too because without them Marques would not have remembered Ray's 2011 bible study.  (I'd totally forgotten all about that analogy and that's the whole key.)

God provides abundantly. 

As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he. 

If anyone thinks or believes God is impossible to understand then He will be impossible to understand to that person.

If anyone refuses to believe Jesus when He said He'd send the Comforter to teach you all things, then you won't receive the Comforter and your understanding won't be opened.

We don't need the mind of Ray! We need the mind of Jesus Christ.  Let this mind be in you.


All we have to do is ... pay attention to all the Word of God.  And believe it.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Rene on June 24, 2012, 01:02:18 PM

Ah but it is. I just run across it in the CLV.

1Co 13:12 For at present we are observing by means of a mirror, in an enigma, yet then, face to face. At present I know out of an instalment, yet then I shall recognize according as I am recognized also."

I find that very interesting that as other translations say we see things dimly, it stated that we see them in an enigma. The word enigma means something obscure or hard to understand. Does explain a lot.


I stand corrected. :)

René

Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 24, 2012, 01:07:58 PM
Arncha glad his Name isn't Enigma?

And the Father's Hebrew name would be:  NGM 

Wouldn't wanna belong to an orchestra with a name like that.  ha!
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: GaryK on June 24, 2012, 01:11:28 PM
Quote
This thread is a sad testimonial to  Ray.... I personally don't think you all are going to resolve this matter
 

I think this is a wonderful testimonial to Ray.  I'm so grateful to God. 

 I'm telling you, God provided for me abundantly through this thread.   



As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he. 

If anyone thinks or believes God is impossible to understand then He will be impossible to understand to that person.

If anyone refuses to believe Jesus when He said He'd send the Comforter to teach you all things, then you won't receive the Comforter and your understanding won't be opened.



All we have to do is ... pay attention to all the Word of God.  And believe it.




Why am I not surprised?   


And so, I stand corrected.  Post removed.

So is my membership.   Some people don't know when to shut-up........obviously I'm one of them.

gk
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 24, 2012, 01:18:15 PM
gk, we don't need the mind of Ray, we need the mind of Jesus Christ.  I wasn't picking on you.  I think you're a wonderful person.  I'm glad for your post.  Once again, God provides for me.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: servias on June 24, 2012, 01:59:42 PM
This whole thread is an Enigma!  I do not think any of this is explainable.  That's why it is an enigma and probably can't be solved on paper.  It can probably only be solved in spirit.  Opinions should be kept to a minimum on this in my opinion  ;D.  More scripture, less opinion...In the end we will all probably agree that we can't solve it collectively.
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Gina on June 24, 2012, 02:54:49 PM
But the Name of God and God's relationship to the Son has been solved for me in a way I never dreamed possible.  That's all that was going on here. 

God provides.  And this first installment has been a major gift to me.

I am researching a paper on "Solving the Enigma of God." But as it is somewhere in the future, I decided to cover some of the shorter enigmas that will prepare us for a deeper understanding of just Who our God really is. So this paper is one of those related Biblical Enigmas.

Are we going to have a deeper understanding (not a complete understanding, but definitely a deeper one) of just Who our God really is?   I believe a few will.

God is a RICH provider/supplier of needs for anyone willing to believe this.

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. (Phil. 4:19)
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 24, 2012, 11:11:02 PM
Dear, Indianabob-

Thank you for your advice. I will certainly take that to heart. I need to mind my manners and it only takes a few minutes to correct, revise and post. Sometimes when I've written for so long and so often, as writing is my primary method of communication with other hearing people, I start to get lazy about checking my grammar every time I write.  Again, thank you for your reminder and I appreciate your generosity in your words. I will try to do better from now on.

Thank you again,

Denise


Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Revilonivek on June 24, 2012, 11:19:20 PM
Dennis-

In earlier conversation, I was only suggesting  what if because The Father and Son has the same name. Jehovah and Jesus.  I assumed maybe they are the same essence of the same being- Father - invisible- The son- flesh version- More like a clone twin of each other that just split. in essence, the same being. if you get my meaning? But Gina pointed out it is more like Father and son family thing, like Smith and son, Jennings and son, Vogel and son, everyone in the same family has the same last name. So whenever we join the Father's family- we carry his name. we become one family with them. Like son come out of the mother, same sense.  I understand that now.

Am i on the right track?


Denise-

Yes, I would agree Denise.

Rev 3:12  He who overcomes, I will make him a pillar in the temple of My God, and he shall go out no more. I will write on him the name of My God and the name of the city of My God, the New Jerusalem, which comes down out of heaven from My God. And I will write on him My new name.


Dear Marques,

Thank you for showing me that particular scripture. I never really noticed that part in the same  verse where Jesus said about giving us God's name once we conquer ourselves till now.  It was really something. It is just another confirmation that God's name is just a family name. I had that verse on the brain in the past because Jesus said, in the same verse, that we will no more go out if we overcome ourselves". I always wondered what he meant by that.  I mean, where would we go if we don't overcome ourselves and until when we do overcome ourselves?  but that's for another thread. Thank you so much for that scripture, as it adds to and confirms further among many other confirmations that God's name is just a family name and God wants everyone to adopted into one family and carry the family name. It freed my soul even more. Thank you Marques. 

Denise
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: the truth on June 25, 2012, 02:56:35 AM
Oh how I love my family,you bters that is!Because in you....Christ.... is everything I need to be whole.We so function as a family.You have your babes who have been watching and listening to ever word of the percieved grown ups.While the grown ups make sure the other grown ups know this aint their first rodeo.While all along their all trying to press in to make sure they will be helpful when it appears the kids have been left as orphans.Let me just say I love my Family...I love you because YOU desire with all that God has graced you to be .To know and  learn of ways of God.So i hope Dennis you will see that this  topic is no different than any other article that has been written.The only difference is that Ray isnt here to fall back on.As has already been said it was never about Ray the person but what was revealing to Ray .....the Spirit of GOD!We so have such a awesome group of people here.But the very blessed thing about what we have here is that each person has a beautiful gift to offer.Sure I could make a list of who I think could impart to me the most wisdom..but what if i didnt need wisdom? I just needed a hug,a listening ear? or maybe just to be told how to make Banana pudding.I am thrilled to know one day I will meet you all and when i do you will know I love you!So lets keep growing together Iron sharpens Iron!For this is true love that we challenge each other to continue to grow in the Faith!
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Rene on June 25, 2012, 11:29:40 AM

For this is true love that we challenge each other to continue to grow in the Faith!


Nicely put, Jerry. :) 

René
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: olasupo jacobs on June 25, 2012, 10:08:50 PM

For this is true love that we challenge each other to continue to grow in the Faith!


Nicely put, Jerry. :) 

René

Yes lets continue in that spirit...loving each other and growing in the faith- olasupo jacobs
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Vera on June 26, 2012, 12:17:14 AM
Thank you Kat,
I agree with you...I believe that God wants us to study and knock, seek and ask.... now is the time. He took Ray home from us for a reason otherwise he would be still with us...
As much as we miss him we need to be thankful to our Father for leaving us this way so we will rely on Him totally and get ready for more on our own....if we are His elect our ears are open to hear and eyes to see...
Anyway this is what I feel deep in my spirit even though I still have lots to study from Rays papers I will continue to seek Gods Truth...
I love your answers Kat.
p.s. I know I'm new here and don't write to much but it is nice to read your Posts and learn. Thank you all.
Vera 
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Joel on June 26, 2012, 12:36:50 AM
Thanks Dennis for posting the new article, I always get something beneficial when I read one of Ray's papers or watch him doing a Bible study. All the material including the numerous emails is really staggering, when looking at the bigger picture. He was a very gifted teacher.
I can see that Jesus came in his Father's name, and it is made more clear when I think of the Church. The Church being the body of Christ, ONE body but many members. (Christians)
Thanks again! would welcome any more insights Ray may have had.

Joel
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: indianabob on June 26, 2012, 02:34:46 AM
Hi Vera,
I see that you are in Canada and yet are from Czech Republic so which is your current location please.
I ask because I am interested in the history of how your Nation was organized during the difficulties of the recent century. I have heard that it was very difficult to make a good living or have religious freedom. Can you share a little bit of your history while you lived there?

Please respond in the Private Message area or the Off Topic area
Thank you, Indianabob



Thank you Kat,
I agree with you...I believe that God wants us to study and knock, seek and ask.... now is the time. He took Ray home from us for a reason otherwise he would be still with us...
As much as we miss him we need to be thankful to our Father for leaving us this way so we will rely on Him totally and get ready for more on our own....if we are His elect our ears are open to hear and eyes to see...
Anyway this is what I feel deep in my spirit even though I still have lots to study from Rays papers I will continue to seek Gods Truth...
I love your answers Kat.
p.s. I know I'm new here and don't write to much but it is nice to read your Posts and learn. Thank you all.
Vera
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: newgene87 on June 26, 2012, 07:15:27 PM
this thread is amazing and that paper is even better. There shouldnt be a problem at all with all this. Great for Kat to have pointed that 1 Corinthians 13:12 out cause it holds a strong principle about this...

" For the present we see things as if in a mirror, and are puzzled (as an enigma, dimly, darkly)..."

and even better, just about any commentary reveals that the ancient "mirrors" were of "polished metal" (wowsers :o ???), so yea, literally it was "dimly" to see yourself, and paul reveals that knowledge we have and what we know, is in part, an enigma or even a puzzle. so what the Spirit reveals to us through Ray is a "Part" of knowledge of an enigma :o :o. but regardless, ALL here should take heart and Joy. Jesus is speaking to all here; "Blessed YOUR eyes, for they see: and your ears, for they hear" (Matthew 13:16). If you're here, you saw something, you heard something. No matter where you are in life, you heard or saw 'something". And the fact that we all see Salvation for all is amazing. Look at all the people professing Love for all but still thinking their enemies are gonna burn in a hellfire forever??? what a mind :-\. but we all had to be there at one point, but we see. As far as the "enigma", yes, WE KNOW IN PART. i see the truth of the parable of the Sower here too. Lets pray our ground or soil (our hearts), does what God desires it to do for the word to grow. Amazing; Matthew Mark and Luke express 3 different sayings for the seed that produces fruit. Matthew says, "understands it"; Mark says, "RECEIVES it"; and Luke says, "KEEPS it". so no, many of us can't understand certain things; but with the truth of this parable applied, we can "grow" to that level. But we can "receive it and keep it" and Luke even adds "with an good and honest HEART" --- truths can be revealed. For all those discouraged, be of good cheer! Paul reveals to us that "love rejoices with Truth" (1 Corinthians 13:6) and for "Christ to dwell in our hearts by faith; that you, being ROOTED and GROUNDED in LOVE, may be able to APPREHEND..." (Ephesians 3:17). This "enigma" is still wonderful; for I know Jesus foremost, and through Love i can be aware of the "fowls" that try to snatch the word out of my heart, the word can find root in me, and my seed is not growing around thorns ;D ;D ;D. Be Blessed my bibletruth family. Dont be discouraged. "The sower SOWS the word...the SEED is the Word of God" - and seed must Grow. (Mark 4:14, Luke 8:11). Im thankful for my increase in my knowledge of God, the Father, Jesus and their names. so yes, we will always know in part, but by Love; we can overcome all things  ;D ;D
Title: Re: New article: "Solving The Enigma Of God" just posted.
Post by: Heidi on July 01, 2012, 06:30:11 AM
Took my own advice and laid aside any assumptions.  Here's what I got:

Ray started this paper like he has started nearly every paper.  Exposing those who contradict and teaching sound doctrine.  (That's the very purpose for Bible-Truths.com--sez so right on the fron t page.

What/who did he expose?  This sect of 'holy-name' afficianodos.  Small, maybe, but vocal.

What sound doctrine did he teach?  That the Father gave Jesus the same name as the Father, and that both share the same attributes.

What/who did he expose?  Those who claim that Jesus wasn't around in the Old Testament.

What sound doctrine did he teach?  That Jesus is the Jehovah of the Old Testament.
 

That is exactly what Ray's paper was about.  I agree with you Dave.