October 8, 2007
Posted: 08:45 AM ET

Obama told an evangelical church in South Carolina: "I am confident we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

GREENVILLE, South Carolina (CNN) — After speaking to an evangelical church on Sunday in this traditionally conservative South Carolina city, Sen. Barack Obama said that Republicans no longer have a firm grip on religion in political discourse.

"I think its important particularly for those of us in the Democratic Party to not cede values and faith to any one party," Obama told reporters outside the Redemption World Outreach Center where he attended services.

"I think that what you're seeing is a breaking down of the sharp divisions that existed maybe during the nineties, when at least in politics the perception was that the Democrats were fearful of talking about faith, and on the other hand you had the Republicans who had a particular brand of faith that often times seemed intolerant or pushed people away," he said.

Full story

Related video: Obama: 'Faith plays every role'

Related video : Obama goes after the 'God gap'

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– CNN South Carolina Producer Peter Hamby

Filed under: Barack Obama • Faith • South Carolina


J Turner   January 20th, 2008 6:39 pm ET

Obama: First he drops his middle name of Hussein. Then he goes to a Christian Church in South Carolina and acts like he is a Christian. How dumb does he think the people of South Carolina are.

He is a Muslim. He is hiding this from the American people, just as he is hiding his middle name. If he would do this, what would he hide or do if elected President.

Pat   January 18th, 2008 9:51 am ET

Is this guy for real?

If people thought Hillary had delusions of grandeur, what can be the conclusion of obama?

Obviously, his short term in the Senate wasn't grand enough for him, and he's devined that in pursuit of god's kingdom on earth prompted him to run for President. Didn't they lock people away for ideas like that in earlier centuries?

Coming of age in an era of the film, "Titanic," perhaps like Joseph Smith, what he heard and fantasized too much upon was that he was "King of the world." Great for fairy tale films, but not right for rational reality.

That's a bit more than audacious. He must live in a fantasy world, and America needs no King with imaginary clothes.

mark santos   January 15th, 2008 7:57 am ET

Wer is a Diference beetwen Obama und Hillary? Obama ist Mr. AIPACK and
Hillary is Mrs. AIPACK. She is AIPACK-Marionette, He is AIPACK-Marionette
to. No AIPACK, no Politic in U.S.A. First, You must well be for the Israelspoli-
tic, or go Home!
Demokratic or Republicans? No Diference!!! Or AIPACK, or Go Home! Mr.
Martin Luther King was Torah-Marionette. Exakt, Israelsmarionette. Black
or White, no AIPACK no Politic in U.S.A. John Kerry was Torah-Marionette to.
G. W. Bush is AIPACK-Marionette, He is in Iraq. The next War is in Iran! It is
absolutly same, Why is President in U.S.A. AIPACK giv Commando!!!

Thank You!

jmpw, brooklyn, ny   December 18th, 2007 1:03 am ET

Goodness this is silly. If Africans had not been brought to the United States as slaves, they too would enjoy the knowledge of their ancestry as white Europeans do. History, being different, would allow for churches with names like, the Nigerian Christian Congregation or the Ethiopian . . . and so on as European Christians have with the Greek Orthodox Church, etc. There are many Christian churches that have an emphasis on their European foundations. The Catholic mass was in Latin. The suggestion that a church claiming to be supportive of white values would be called racist is not an apt comparison. Obama’s church mentions Africa and race in the absence of a more complete history of it’s members. Asking Barack to deny that he is black is ridiculous. This is about preserving a cutural heritage, not about separatism.

Dee, Cape Town (South Africa)   October 10th, 2007 4:43 am ET

“Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.”

I am South African, and it shocks me to the core to read thru the vile bitterness and self-hate that has been expressed by many people in this CNN blog.

I am a Christian. My life has been transformed thru serious encounters with the Lord Jesus Christ. From my reading, Senator Obama walked that agonizing public walk to the church altar, which has been experienced by many Christians, to surrender his life to the Lordship of Jesus Christ. Labelling a fellow human being as the anti-christ, and all kinds of foul names, is not the Christian way. Christ’s way is Love. And the foul language that’s been used by many writers here is totally devoid of Love. It is full of judgement and serious prejudice.

My reading of American politics is that it’s traditionally divided, and politicians’ statements get pre-judged based on whether they are democrats or republicans. Their stand on abortion seems to be the only barometer that’s used to either prejudge or listen to them. If these divisions persist, America would continue to hopelessly lose its global moral leadership.

Nelson Mandela taught the people of South Africa not to prejudge each other. Otherwise, we would have still been stuck in decades-old compartments of division.

As a result of that simple lesson, our children and grandchildren will never experience what we went thru. Some of the changes that Mandela’s administration brought about were fundamentally in opposition to the Word of God. As Christians, we will always stand for the truth. However, we have learned some lessons that would benefit our future generations, namely that these differences should never be used to create prejudice and divisions.

The New Testament refers to the Kingdom in about 150 instances. This refers to the Kingdom of God, the Kingdom of Heaven, or simply the Kingdom that is in and among us. For Christians, the Kingdom is in us. Like all the talents that we have been given, we have a responsibility to build and grow all that God has entrusted us with, including His Kingdom. That does not sound like Islam to me. Read your Bibles so that you may not prejudge or engage in this destructive self-hate.

Mandela came straight from prison to the Presidency. Yet it was his approach to things that set him apart.

Senator Obama may not be eloquent in his “Christianese” talk. But his fresh approach can mend the decades-old divisions (starting all the way from the bay of pigs), and allow the US to be respected worldwide again.

Leila, Long Beach, CA   October 10th, 2007 12:59 am ET

To all of you nasty commentators:

I am outraged and shocked by your profane & racist comments. It is a shame and an embarassment to this country, to your religion, and to your children.

It is times like this that I feel disgusted with the human race. How can any of you be so hateful, ignorant, backwards, and hypocritical?!?

Intelligent Americans vote for their candidates based on character, integrity, judgement and RESEARCH, TRUTH, and FACTS.

If you disagree with something, use intellect not blind belligerence.

Frankly, I'm also apalled by CNN for not doing their job in monitoring this board. I have even seen the N-word, amongst other disgraceful use of language.

Enough is enough.

Not a Dem or Repub...but an American, Greenville, SC   October 9th, 2007 10:06 pm ET

Jesus never said to go out and over throw Ceasar and mandate morality. I'm voting for whomever is going to help bring about the rapture baby!! "Behold He comes…riding on the clouds…."

jocko, colorado springs, co   October 9th, 2007 5:53 pm ET

What bothers me about this guy is he is an alleged former muslim who now attends a radical racist church. According to the Koran, any muslim that leaves the religion is supposed to be beheaded. Which means he is either lying about being a former muslim or he will be a perpetual target of all muslims.
Also, the Koran tells the faithful that it is alright for a muslim to lie to the unfaithful when he is in a position of weakness until he is in again in a position of strength.
So which is true, is he a target or is he lying until he can get into a position of strength.
Also, if he wants to be everymans president, why would he attend such a radically racist church? If any white candidate were to belong to a church like that, CNN and the others would be all over him. If you do not believe it is a radically racist black church, look them up on the web. Scary.

Debra Springtown, Tx.   October 9th, 2007 3:56 pm ET

No Bob…myself as a christian, and a woman do not believe in stoning women…and the story in the bible about the men who were about to stone the woman for committing adultry, well Jesus came upon them, looked at them and said ye without sin cast the first stone…and they went away, in the old testament we were under the law, in the new testament Jesus came to take our sins upon Himself on the cross, now we live under grace, not law, so we no longer have the stoning, and other things that still go on under the teaching of muslims and there koran.

Doug, Springfield Illinois   October 9th, 2007 3:43 pm ET

/facepalm @ america

Seriously? The 969 people above me are allowed to vote?

SyF, Chicago Illinois   October 9th, 2007 3:17 pm ET

Religion and Politics is full of win. That's because you can never change somebodies views on religion, but you can tweak a person's view on politics. But Obama is working for himself in the subtext of his anti-republican view surrounding religion. This might be a good move on his part, but I doubt it will help in the long run.

I just want to see how many people still think thier votes count.

Kenneth the sinner, Colorado Springs, Colorado   October 9th, 2007 1:53 pm ET

To KD, your welcome, God bless and keep you.

RuthieM   October 9th, 2007 1:38 pm ET

I told my friends and family when Obama started running for the presidency, that now you will see all the bigots come out of the woodwork!
And so, the Bible says, if the Word be hidden it is hidden to those who are lost. All you on this blog against Obama and unknowing of Christianity, you are lost and I pray for you.

Bubba, Gem City   October 9th, 2007 1:06 pm ET

"I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

He sound like a Jehovah's Witness to me.

Ed, Dobson's ministry isn't going anywhere.

libavenger   October 9th, 2007 12:33 pm ET

This country has become the Lying States of America. None of the politicians ever tell the truth,either on the left or right. They are just like the Lawyers in the judicial system. Truth has nothing to do with the outcome of a trial, it's only which lawyer can B.S. the jury the best. And the more money you have the better B.S.er you get. Bush has B.S.'d this country into believing he is a christian, but christians aren't supposed to lie in order to start a war. Christians aren't supposed to kill. And christians are supposed to give to the poor not millionaires. Wake up and smell the coffee folks, the god of America is money, not Jesus. The military industrial complex loves this war, they are making hundreds of billions of dollars. And that is why it will go on for the next fifty years. And that is why Hillary refuses to have the troops out by the end of 2013. She said they might not be out by the end of her second term.

charles, cha, NC   October 9th, 2007 12:03 pm ET

We all Know Obama didn't start to go to church yesterday coz of presidential nomination. I just see gunuiness in him. Can not wait this guy to get to the white house

Craig H, Mpls, MN   October 9th, 2007 11:57 am ET

1 John 4:8
Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love.

Is falsly accusing Barack Obama (who is Christian) to be a Muslim extremist love? Is falsly accusing all Muslims to be terrorists love? Since a lump of cells is a baby as much as a lump of clay is a Ming vase, is falsly accusing someone to be a baby killer love?

If God is love, then a kingdom of God is a kingdom of love (not a kingdom ruled by only Christians because Christians arn't the only people who are capable of love). Why would anyone who is truly a loving human being feel slighted because a person of a different political party advocates a kingdom of love here on earth?

jason smith, upstate ny   October 9th, 2007 11:22 am ET

GOP is intolerant right-wingers who hate everyone who is different!!!

Having faith and so-called "christian" ideals" such as loving others, turning the other cheek, treating others as you wish to be treated, etc…and claiming to be a Christian conservative have two totally different connotations that anyone who has any intelligence can easily discern…King George's faith based initiative basically alienates everyone else, would put up walls to around the whole country , would spy on everyone and persecute anyone who thinks differently….what a great country this is….now you can't even get OUT of the country without getting persecuted, depending on what you look like and what language you speak….DON'T write some inane comment about if you don't like it get out, and at the same time say we are protecting freedoms, that is bull…don't give me some garbage about illegals have to earn their freedom by fighting for US while deporting their families while they are overseas…..

Angie, West Des Moines IA   October 9th, 2007 11:06 am ET

I am a Christ-follower who has, for most of my life, considered myself a Republican. I just thought that as a Christian, I was "supposed" to vote Republican. I've slowly come to see that, truly, the GOP does not have the corner on the market. What a relief when I realized that, yes, there are legitimate reasons why a Christian would choose to vote for either side. And I absolutely believe in separation of church and state. I LOVE separation of church and state. The church is better off without ties to the government, and we need to always keep a watch on this. Barack is walking a fine line here, but I'm glad to know more about his faith… maybe we can finally begin breaking those ties between religion and the Republican party.

I think Christianity is so much more than a couple of hot-button issues, and that while God is concerned about the lives of unborn babies, He is also so very concerned about the millions of children who go to bed hungry every night, about the 30,000 children who die each day from hunger-related causes… I think that we do begin to see God's Kingdom here on earth when we reach out to the poor and the marginalized. That is what Jesus is all about, and that's the kingdom that He created, yes, beginning right here on earth. Why is it wrong to talk about it as such?

speakingoutworld   October 9th, 2007 8:39 am ET

I'm getting real tired of hearing religion in politics. All it seems the Christians want to do in this country is force their beliefs and lifestyles. I personally believe (and I'm not homosexual) that homosexuals should have the right to marry and the government has no place to tell them they can't. I don't have a bible anymore, but if you search it you'll find a verse that says "Don't stand in the path of the sinner." What was meant by that is tell them what the bible says and leave them alone. Let them do what they want. If they are wrong God will judge them. So if the Christians would follow their own bible they would stop trying to force their values on everyone else. History is trying to repeat itself. Don't believe are way and will punish you for God. We are doing his work. In my prayers a say "Please God save me from your followers."

Stephanie, Indianapolis, IN   October 9th, 2007 8:22 am ET

Jon in Jacksonville said: Both parties should avoid these agendas because they violate the first amendment clause "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion." We need someone for president who can respect freedom of religion and the separation of church and state, such as presidential candidate Ron Paul."

You're misunderstanding the Constitution here, friend. Neither the GOP or the Dems are ESTABLISHING any religion. They're merely talking about the faith of America, which is already established and has been for centuries. America is a country that was founded by men of faith. Yes, we believe in religious freedom, but that's not freedom FROM religion.

Rev. Robert Behnke, Chicago, IL   October 9th, 2007 2:06 am ET

I find it incredible that anyone who even tolerates infanticide can use words like "values" and "faith."

H. Karel, Grand Rapids, MI   October 8th, 2007 11:21 pm ET

Are we electing a president or a pastor? If both parties keep pushing the Christian message without backing it up with their actions and policies, it is going to lose its power. They might be risking the religious right becoming apathetic towards being involved in the political process again.

Scott, WPB FLorida   October 8th, 2007 10:38 pm ET

For those of you who say politicians should keep religion out of gov't, our Constitution says our government is not allowed to establish a religion, it DOES NOT say they are not allowed to discuss or proclaim their faith. For those who now think Mr Obama is a man of Christian value and worthy of your vote, I say nobody can be pro abortion (choice) and be a follower of Jesus as He said let the children come unto me. At this point, Christians do not have a LEGITIMATE candidate who will stand for our values so we must do what is best for our country and pray God would give us wisdom and bring His wisdom and the salvation of Jesus Christ our Lord into their lives and that He would give boldness to His children to stand up for what we believe. We are a nation founded on Judeo-Christian values and that can never be denied by anyone who studies our history and the foundation of our nation. The Pilgrims were Christians who came to avoid religious persecution and set up a nation where it could not happen again. How funny that Christians right now are under attack in this country more than any other 'religion'. God have mercy on our nation and help us to turn from our ways that do not please you.

KD, Dallas, TX   October 8th, 2007 9:25 pm ET

Posted By Kenneth the sinner, Colorado Springs, Colorado : October 8, 2007 5:29 pm

Kenneth, we should all live by your words. I can tell we have differing views, but your writing is what we should all live by. Thank you for making sense out of this post. You have brightened my day. :)

Mia, Stafford, VA   October 8th, 2007 9:17 pm ET

For all those taking such a strong moral stance on Abortion, how many of the unwanted children that have been born have YOU TAKEN INTO YOUR HOME?

Have any of you with your STRONG OPINIONS ON ABORTION, ADOPTED AN UNWANTED AMERICAN CHILD?

Hopefully some of you have, but I would really like to know. What should happen to all the children born that no one wants, because their parents didn't have the ABORTION?

While abortion, and how we feel about that issue is important, I personally don't think that one should base there vote ONLY on that. We have a LOT OF ISSUES AND UPCOMING ISSUES THAT HAVE TO BE DEALT WITH.

Here's what I know for sure each person has to give an account for their actions on Judgement Day!

So PLEASE stop trying to hijack politicians who understand that, to fit in your small view of what is important & LASTLY, STOP BEING SO DARN MEAN!

CHRIST CALLS FOR US TO LOVE EVERYONE. EVERYONE… EVERYONE…. EVERYONE….

Mia, Stafford, VA   October 8th, 2007 9:02 pm ET

kruger, Olney, IL- get your facts right, it was an aethist and it is aethist that is trying to remove God from everything.

Judges, republican and democrat are just following the constitution when these matters come to them in court.

Mia, Stafford, VA   October 8th, 2007 8:59 pm ET

Mary Hopkins of KY – His white mama died of cancer. What is your point?

Ali, Kansas City, MO   October 8th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

As a Christian, I have no problem with Obama's comments. Love that the former assumptions about all Christians voting republican are being lifted. I still have yet to decide how to vote this election, and value the dialogue taking place (on all political sides) about faith and politics this year.

Fed Up   October 8th, 2007 8:55 pm ET

Joseph in Philadelphia:

Why is it always a man who has such a self righteous attitude towards a womans right to choose? It's men who bomb the clinics, men who kill the doctors, men who commit acts of violence all in the name of "the unborn baby"

The government has no right to interfere with a healthcare decision. The woman, her doctor and her clergy person, should she choose, should make the decisions without your judgement.

I think you will be surprised when the gates of heaven don't swing wide open when you get there.

Jim, Houston TX   October 8th, 2007 8:16 pm ET

It's sad that Obama has jumped wholeheartedly into the "holier than thou" race. Religion in politics – it degrades both and the founding fathers knew that. Is anyone else seeing McCarthyism rearing it's ugly head as religion continues on this path?

Star Chaser   October 8th, 2007 8:15 pm ET

People of faith do not support homosexual marriage or the murder of the unborn. The Democrats do. This man is nothing more than a lying hypocrite which makes him a perfect democrat. It will be fun to see how many are stupid enough to believe him.

Lamb Cannon, Renfrew PA   October 8th, 2007 8:12 pm ET

Can i vomit?

Dwain, Aiken, SC   October 8th, 2007 7:50 pm ET

This was a typical smelly performance by a neophyte politician invited to speak to a church with which I'm very familiar. The latest push by the mega-churches is to sucker blacks into helping push up their numbers and profits. Obama took the opportunity to speak of course. I don't blame him. I do, however, point a finger of shame at the Redemption World Outreach Center which is a fairly recent member of a growing group of so-called evangelical mega-churches. Put all of them in a bag, shake it up a little, pull one out and then another and you will see that they are all the same. Their sport is to capitalize on the black race and their influence. It's the beginning of the end of the church as we know it. If you do not have a very personal relationship with Jesus Christ, you will fall for anything. Obama will lead you down the path of destruction and these goofballs are helping. Good luck

Walter Buffalo, New York   October 8th, 2007 7:11 pm ET

Obama is expressing a belief that the Democrats have long held. To Democrats government is god. Instead of looking to God, they look to government to provide their needs, wants and desires. Nothing new he just was naive enough to say it.

Posted By David, Saint Augustine, Florida : October 8, 2007 5:16 pm

You are absolutely right, David. The Democrats are basically Marxists who worship nothing more than big government, to which they look for all the answers and solutions to this life's problems!

Bill, Irvine, CA   October 8th, 2007 7:06 pm ET

Are all Republicans moral, NO. Are some Democrats moral, YES. But it is difficult to reconcile faith and morality with a political party that is so invested in the free-for-all taking of innocent life as in the unborn. Reconcile that most basic of moral premises and then you move to the question of religion.

Len, MIlford NH   October 8th, 2007 7:03 pm ET

Barack's kingdom on earth will consist of abortion on demand, socialized medicine, unlimited government hand outs at the expense of those are willing to work and last but not least, a military that receives its marching orders from the corrupt and arrogant United Nations. Oh joy… what a kingdom. No thanks.

Robert, Austin TX   October 8th, 2007 7:02 pm ET

As an evangelical christian, this statement absolutely terrifies me. Since the dawn of civilization, well-intending but misguided socialists (and, in some cases, devout christians) have warped God's message and Christ's example to the world and set out to create heaven on earth. The result is invariably a turning away from God, a belief in our own ability to perfect humanity, and the imposition of tyranny and misery.

Obama: "I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

Jesus: "My kingdom is not of this world." (Jn. 18:36)

Who do you think we should listen to?

Brad, Birmingham, AL   October 8th, 2007 7:00 pm ET

The simple title of this piece is quite ridiculous. There is no political party in the twenty first century that even should claim a "grip on religion in political discourse". They both seek to destroy religious expression in the public square. Obama belongs to the party that considers government its god.
Obama and any other candidate (especially dems) would be better served leaving their religious snake oil in the wagon.

JW,Mesa Ariz   October 8th, 2007 6:59 pm ET

I think he is a Wahabist in sheep's clothing. We don't need a Terrorist as our next President

Tom Quinn, Portland, Maine   October 8th, 2007 6:53 pm ET

To Rich in Orlando: well said!

Franklin Roosevelt, Hyde Park, NY   October 8th, 2007 6:49 pm ET

LOL. Gee, can't any of these right-wing nutcases at least SPELL correctly? Go back to changing my oil, and when the Dems win in 2008 you'll be amazed to find that your lives actually get better, in spite of your idiocy. Your drunk the GOP Kool-Aid for years now, and what has it gotten you? You've been played like a cheap guitar and you still can't figure that out. How's that job of yours in China?

JP, Corona, CA   October 8th, 2007 6:46 pm ET

It's like Osama bin Laden saying he supports Hindu faith….a man of hatred saying that he is a man of peace…

Robert M. Reidy N.Y.   October 8th, 2007 6:43 pm ET

To all of these very ill informed so called Christians hung up on the kingdom quote by Obama – listen up once and for all, Jesus said – "the kingdom lies within" that means we have to grow in the incredible potential to love that we as humans possess. Also in the "Our Father" – "thy kingdom come on earth as it is in heaven" Jesus did not advise to give up on the spiritual ideal but to strive in the way of Love. Obama speaks of such things and it comes across for he has a heart for the people, which is the mark of gifted
leadership.

Vote for the man who speaks of peace
instead of those who constantly prepare for war and its horror!

Baarock the vote !!!

Chicago Il   October 8th, 2007 6:42 pm ET

If I where the Antichrist that's exactly what I'd do.

If the devil really looked and acted like a "devil" no one would fall for it.

Walter Buffalo, New York   October 8th, 2007 6:41 pm ET

So let me get this straight, Barack Obama was raised Muslim, attended a Wahabist (extremist Muslim school-which teaches/preaches taking over the world for Islam), preaches in so-called Christian churches about establishing a Kingdom on Earth (a false Kingdom of God or a Muslim Kingdom?) is anti–life (pro-abortion), and pro-homosexual. He appears to be, either one very conflicted individual, or an anti-Christ!

Big Dan, Rocklin,Ca   October 8th, 2007 6:38 pm ET

The Democratic party is morally bankrupt! They are the party that promotes the murder of the unborn and that homosexuality is alright.
This Obama can't fool the people
with real morals.

John Johnson   October 8th, 2007 6:35 pm ET

What a fool.

All historical attempts at creating heaven on earth have failed. We are not intended to have this, and this is why utopias are always always violent.

Jeff Johnson, Minnesota   October 8th, 2007 6:33 pm ET

This is old fashioned rhetoric. To enlist a "God term" is essential to become elected, and that is precisely what he is doing here.

If Obama had a true religious sense, he would realize that he should stand against sin; here I am thinking of the greatest sin on earth: abortion.

What kind of leader abdicates his responsibility to protect the human rights of our most innocent, unborn citizens? My answer is one that sucks, and who also has judgments coming his way…

Tom Quinn, Portland, Maine   October 8th, 2007 6:31 pm ET

I find it really interesting that all of these right wing fundamentalists are excoriating Obama for using the phrase "a Kingdom here on earth." These are the same people who have spent the last twenty years (and they're not done yet) trying to foist their own "Kingdom" on the rest of us: one in which their religion, and their religion alone, decides what we can see, hear, say, and believe. One in which Christianity will be enforced in the schools, and all other religions or belief systems scorned and silenced. One in which the individual conscience about matters as profound as abortion are smashed by their belief that they, and they alone, know the truth, and will impose it on others. If they weren't so ignorant of the rest of the world, rather than denouncing Obama as a "Mooslim" (What's that? Here in Maine we might think it's a slim moose) they might understand that he is saying exactly what JFK said in his inaugural address, when he invoked God, but said that "here on earth, God's work must truly be our own."

Sterling, VA   October 8th, 2007 6:31 pm ET

Judging from the emotionally-based comments posted here, I doubt very much that Barack Obama is going to "unite" this country, or bring any sort of kingdom.

Those who want a "kingdom on earth" are merely "have nots" looking for a handout from those they perceive to "have". When politicians promise us earthly goods, the greedy among us reveal themselves very quickly.

Anthony Roberts, Nashville, TN   October 8th, 2007 6:29 pm ET

Did he make this speech with his on-demand, Southern Fried accent this time, too?

Ayyub, Richmond, Va   October 8th, 2007 6:26 pm ET

All of you Republicans and Hillary supporters (republicans just don't know it yet) seem very scared of Obama for doing what you want your candidate to do, it's sad. Plus no one canbe half Muslim (it's a religion not race) and his father became an athiest. Plus you nuts should know that Obama is Christian and his names not Osama and I haven't seen someone do that since May (it's old get over it). That's all Ayyub Khalifati has to say, I see all of you have been doing the Hillary on me.

TONSAIL   October 8th, 2007 6:25 pm ET

Hillary, Obama, and Edwards have no Moral Values. They recognize no sin that will hurt their election chances

They promote and support Genocides such as Abortion and Death by HIV/AIDS!

AIM, Chicago   October 8th, 2007 6:22 pm ET

Thank you, Barack Obama, for having the vision, the patriotism and the decency to try to bring us together again as the great country we are.

There is a lot of hate out there, Senator. Hate that has been stirred up by both sides in a disgusting politicization of morals over the last decade or so.

You can see a lot of that hate in the comments above.

But most of us are better than that.

And we're listening.

Jon Frey, Mission Viejo CA   October 8th, 2007 6:22 pm ET

Jim Wallis wrote a book, "God's Politics: Why the left get it wrong and the right don't get it." I think Obama is the only candidate who comes close to "getting it."

Pmyoung Huntsville, AL   October 8th, 2007 6:20 pm ET

Obama goes to church and makes a speech. Now he is all religious and has values. SHUT-UPPPPP that does not make him or the demon-cratic partly holy and wonderful.

Bob, San Francisco, CA   October 8th, 2007 6:19 pm ET

The ignorance presented here is unbelievable. So much superstition. What parts of the bible do all you weak-minded people choose to follow? Do you even read the book you defend so much? Do you see the numerous contradictions? Do you agree with stoning women and killing infidels (I bet you do!)?
Awaiting a new Age of Enlightenment…..

Ron Salina Kansas   October 8th, 2007 6:19 pm ET

Don't conservative churches usually lose their tax exempt status for this kind of political speech? Is it only candidates left of center who can campaign in churches?

steve johnson city Tn.   October 8th, 2007 6:18 pm ET

is communisim a faith? is venezula a kingdom on earth? is karl marx a god? is cuba heaven? will someone give us a decent choice for the next president please!! The republicans have a yankee geek and a guy that wears secret underwear and the democrats have this and another clinton.

Josh-Lincolnton, NC   October 8th, 2007 6:18 pm ET

Maybe you folks singing Obama's praises should investigate his affiliation with Jeremiah Wright Jr. and the church in Chicago where the self proclaimed "Senator Messiah" is a member. Maybe then you will see what his true feelings are about faith and how it applys to politics.

Mike Orlando Florida   October 8th, 2007 6:16 pm ET

How come Democratic candidates can get away with campaigning in churches ??
Is the IRS going to investigate and revoke this churched tax exempt status as they legally should do ??
Democrats always talk about seperating State & church, but not their State & church.

JRR Columbus, OH   October 8th, 2007 6:09 pm ET

Notice how the non-partisan CNN editors put the first 8 or so responses to this "pander piece" as pro-Obama. You have to scroll down to get to the first person who is remotely negative about this stupid regurgitated story. Enough already!! CNN and the rest of the mass media have alreay chosen sides. Just admit it.

http://www.usatoday.com/news/opinion/editorials/2006-07-16-letters-religion_x.htm

john, phoenix, az   October 8th, 2007 6:04 pm ET

barack hussein obama. attends a racist church that espouses racist views, hasn't visited any troops, doesn't know the first thing about the military or its members, stop wearing the flag AFTER 9/11, attended a mosque in his younger years, is a devout socialist and is all about hand-outs and keeping people down. Yep, great guy! i question his allegience and motivation in the most basic ways.

Tom Hoots, Kingsport TN   October 8th, 2007 6:01 pm ET

Liberal is mentioned 7 times in the Bible. Each time as giving freely of ones' substance. I would suppose Nable, who railed on David's men who was asking for something to eat, must have been conservative. Sound Familiar? Like con others to serve ones self.

Bernie Kasper   October 8th, 2007 5:58 pm ET

Wow… If that would have been a Republican , the media would be going nuts, but whats new.

paul bonne terre mo   October 8th, 2007 5:57 pm ET

ever notice the HYPOCRISY of the agenda driven,liberal media outlets??? why is it "ok" for sen obama to advocate a political/religous point of view in a Church??? blacks and liberals democrats running for president have done this for decades,but,if a republican talks about his or her faith,in a Church,the agenda driven media,liberal democrats get so exorcised,call for seperation of Church and State,call for the prohibition of camapigning in Churches,or even revocation of tax exempt status,because of those rightwing republicans campaigning in a CHURCH,etc! how about some FAIRNESS in your reporting,CNN,other agenda driven media outlets,all you liberal democrats!

Mark Kirkland, WA   October 8th, 2007 5:57 pm ET

As a true advocate of abortion Obama is hardly a Christian value.

Steve Simm, Hillsborough, New Hampshire   October 8th, 2007 5:53 pm ET

Someone other than a "white man" is due, (we are better than that narrow view, and past due to engage the diversity), also a woman. Sorry Hillary, Obama trumps your card where it counts, in character. May he bring us to be more deserving to be the great country we are.

Kevin, Dallas, Texas   October 8th, 2007 5:48 pm ET

Obama is confident he can create a "Kingdom on earth."

Laughable!!!!

The government can't run anything right.

Hey LIBERAL Obama…… Why don't you concentrate on the madrasa you were raised in.

What a FRAUD!

Hillary is worse….

Any Republican on 08′!!!

Eman Laerton   October 8th, 2007 5:33 pm ET

Comical. Regardless of any sound reason, let's call it "faith," leaders have to appease followers of an antiquated superstition. How far we have not come…

Kenneth the sinner, Colorado Springs, Colorado   October 8th, 2007 5:29 pm ET

I am not a religous nut. I am not a right wing christian nazi fanatical fundementalist. I am just a small, lumpin', human being; a tiny speck in a unimaginably large universe. I am not that important in the grand scheme of things, but I have been endowed by the Creator of the universe with free will and the capacity to care for others more than my own self. More than my own animalistic need to survive in this world. I choose not to hate today. I choose to be kind and thoughtful today. I CHOOSE NOT TO CARE ABOUT ALL THE SILLY,PETTY, UNIMPORTANT ARGUMENTS ALL OF YOU HUMANS ENGAGE IN CONSTANTLY WITHOUT END OR THOUGHT OF WHAT YOUR SAYING AND DOING TO EACH OTHER!!!!! I choose,today,to not hate Barack Obama or liberals, or those who don't believe as I do. Today, I choose to love others, to be kind and considerate. Is it so hard to live this way, or must I go and murder my neighbor because he is different from me??! It is easy to hate, it takes very little effort, but it is hard to love those whom ridicule, hate, or abuse you and the ones you love. Someday, when I stand before God, he will not ask me about what others said or did to me, he will ask only WHAT I SAID AND DID IN THIS LIFE;I WILL ANSWER ONLY FOR MYSELF,IN THE END… Barack Obama is just a man, like me. He loves his wife and children, He sees the sun rise and set just as do, he cries and laughs, just like me, and sometimes he weeps for the world,and for all humanity and the dark place this world is heading. Like him, I to bleed red when stabbed, "Prick me,do I not bleed? Tickle me, do I not laugh? Harm me, will I not avenge?" The nazis, and many others thruought history forgot this saying. Will we forget this saying also America?

Rich Orlando, FL   October 8th, 2007 5:28 pm ET

By reading some of these posts, it is no wonder why we have such problems in America. I’m sorry to see many of you are too easily influenced by propaganda. Please do some basic (and I mean basic) research, and you will learn Barack Obama is a Christian, attending the United Church of Christ. It is unbelievable how many of you are willing to bear false witness against your fellow neighbor, such as Obama, by calling him something he is not. Equally disheartening are the ones who are willing to play God’s role by making His judgments for Him. There are direct commandments against both of those actions in the Bible. Just as you want your freedom to practice your own religion, please adopt a little empathy and extend that same courtesy to other Americans to practice, or not, any religion they choose.

And since we are on the topic of choice, I see many here are still stuck in the single-issue mindsets regarding the legal precedence (over three decades now) of a woman’s right to choose. The simple fact remains that politicians can be pro-life personally and still uphold the laws in this country. If you are unable to make that simple distinction, you should not be a hypocrite by voting for Giuliani, Romney, McCain or Thompson. Every one of them has supported a woman’s right to choose during their political careers, and many of them still do.

To the person who had the audacity to use the n-word, how can you sleep at night?? A person has no control over their ethnicity, yet you would stoop to such an uneducated, low level to disgrace yourself in a public forum. Martin Luther King’s dream is a reality for most of us, so I would implore you to please catch up with the 21st Century already. In fact, if you are representing a gross constituency on the right, it is no wonder why the leading candidates in the Republican Party skipped the debates for the black and Hispanic communities. How sad.

Obama is correct–faith is not owned by any political party. Everyone has the freedom to practice any religion they choose in this country, regardless of affiliation. I think Obama has great ideas for America, and I will proudly support him in the next election.

Godspeed Obama in ’08

Brian, Austin TX   October 8th, 2007 5:20 pm ET

i'm falling out of my chair in astonishment just reading these jesus freaks comments. You think a progessive period is bad? HAHA!! What would you prefer? a REGRESSIVE period? That is what we are pretty much in. Just reading the BS that you right wingers are posting just indicates that your party you defend has made you all stupid! Your uneducated misinterpretation of what religion is really about just sickens me.

David, Saint Augustine, Florida   October 8th, 2007 5:16 pm ET

Obama is expressing a belief that the Democrats have long held. To Democrats government is god. Instead of looking to God, they look to government to provide their needs, wants and desires. Nothing new he just was naive enough to say it.

dennis atlanta, ga   October 8th, 2007 5:14 pm ET

he will fade away and not even radiate
havent you realized yet that politicians are just the same …the parties dont matter they all do the same thing no matter who they are the color of their skin the state they are from or what religion they are or sex they are…they work for big business and anyone else with the money. the PEOPLE dont matter the speeches pump you up and then let you down and everyone keeps on taking it.
pretty soon we will be scanned and tagged like cattle and money will all be electronic that way they dont have to worry about collecting taxes they will get from you automatically…you will have no freedom any more and it will be too late
once your right to protect yourself is gone (guns man guns) it is all over…government will rule…not the people government can do what they like and we cant do a dang thing about it.

God, Everywhere, Universe   October 8th, 2007 5:13 pm ET

Alright, Already.
would you all just SHUT THE H–l UP, and learn to get along???
You're really pissing me off.
YES, I KNOW HOW TO SWEAR – I LEARNED IT FROM MY KIDS!!!
This is GOD, I'm beginning to re-think my whole Creation. Remember what I DID in Noah's days??? Huh?? You remember??
I know I said I wouldn't do that again and sent you the rainbow( THAT'S RIGHT, A RAINBOW!!!) as a sybmol, Well don't provoke me!!!!!!!

joseph b. hall jr..... philadelphia,pa   October 8th, 2007 5:12 pm ET

will OBAMA'S new kingdom murder the unborn?

Ping Dallas, TX   October 8th, 2007 5:12 pm ET

The left just don't get it. I don't ever recall any member of the GOP claiming they "owned" religion or morals. Democrats are tagged as being immoral and without religion because of their actions and deeds. They bend the truth and lie to the sheep that are their constituents. Obama doesn't stand a chance unless he tags along with Clinton as a VP. No one can possibly believe the Clinton machine has morals but they will get the Democratic nod due to their ruthless nature which is positive news for conservatives in 08.

Brian, Austin TX   October 8th, 2007 5:11 pm ET

ATTENTION RELIGOUS FREAKS!!

Obama is right on this issue!! I guess you feel threatened by the fact that a liberal is right about religion. It's you ignorant people that seem to think any hypocritical conservative understands what religion means at all. Your blinding yourselves putting any trust in the religous right. it's a joke to even conceive the notion that there even is a "religous" right. They should be called the "always fool the religous right".

Preston Hansonn   October 8th, 2007 5:10 pm ET

WHERE IS THE ACLU. Where is the separate of church and state? Obama and demorats get free press and advertising in church who don't pay taxes. That should be illegal. Where's the IRS? Where is honest in these churches. Obama is NOT a church official, thank God.

Mary Smith, Hopkins KY   October 8th, 2007 5:07 pm ET

What ever happen to his white Mama ?

kruger, Olney, IL   October 8th, 2007 5:07 pm ET

Get real people. Jesus is not a figment of our imagination that we can twist and skew so as to fit our means. Either we are for HIM or against HIM. THERE IS NO GRAY AREA. It amazes me that people can profess love for God, and go to the polls and vote AGAINST GOD! You Dems support taking God out of classrooms, courtrooms, off of money, OUT OF SOCIETY! It is a way of thinking that is UNCONSTITUTIONAL and UNGODLY! Anyone with half a brain knows that the intended meaning of 'separation of church and state' is that the goverment CANNOT tell us when, where and how to worship GOD. All but 2 of the signers of the Constitution were proven to be DEVOUT CHRISTIANS, and the other two were thought to be, although it has not been proven. It doesn't mean that we are not allowed to worship him in a goverment facility. It means that we can worship him and praise him wherever and whenever we want. That includes praying "in Jesus' name" if we want to. And the Government CANNOT Constitutionally tell us not to. But they do. Thanks to the anti-God Dems. That is such idiocracy. It sickens me that anyone would ever believe the sack of lies that the democratic leaders feed the people of this country on a daily basis. It also sickens me that people who claim to love God would support the constant belittling of the Christian faith. I have NEVER met a Democrat that truly knew what they supported, and fully understood the ramifications of what they do when they go to the polls. Do all of the world a favor and decide which side you are on. If you are FOR GOD, then support him in all of your actions. (voting included) If you are against him, then keep voting the way you do. Sit down and be quiet Obama. You talk like you're the Anti-Christ. You are not the Savior… There is only one Savior. The Lord Jesus Christ. I'm sure He'd be more than happy to remind you of that.

P. Peterson   October 8th, 2007 5:06 pm ET

Let's see…Jesus hung around with 12 other guys all the time and was never married. Hmmmm…it seems to me that the first Christian probably liked other men…

Jim, Oakland Park, FL   October 8th, 2007 5:06 pm ET

Obama "I think its important particularly for those of us in the Democratic Party to not cede values and faith to any one party,

You'd have to HAVE values and faith in order NOT to cede them. Empty rhetoric.

maddog, cincinatti, ohio   October 8th, 2007 5:00 pm ET

By reading these comments, I guess he's sucked most of you into his BS. A progressive agenda we need??? Thanks but no thanks, if you want a socialist /progressive government why not move to one. Leave America alone, I love my wife (it's a man/woman thing most of you wouldn't understand) I like my gas guzzling truck, boat, motorcycles, my guns, my 401K and my health insurance as it is… but then again I work for a living and I'm not looking for government handouts.

Jason M.   October 8th, 2007 4:59 pm ET

This article is just silly. Of course the GOP owns issues of faith. We're the only party defending the notion that Christianity should stay at the forefront of "public" display in society.

Steve Lefave,Orlando Florida   October 8th, 2007 4:57 pm ET

For all the Lieral Democrats who think religion is an issue. "It is,ONLY AT ELSCTION TIME".
Does the ACLU ring a bell,Liberal Democrats all.How about the judges who adjudicate seperation of church and state under false pretenses.If the Democrats really belive in seperation of church and state why are they going to these church's singing and praising the Lord,how obnoxiois can you get.Just another ploy to split people into groups. WAKE UP DEMOCRATS you are being feed a line of bologna and you are eating it right up.

Take a look at what happens in places like SanFrancisco where they glorify the gay idiots but don't allow the Marines to film an advertisment. That is your Liberal Democrat Party.

The Republicans don't have any better track record but they are supported by Christian Conservatives because they stand for some form of morality and they do not stoop to pandering at black churches or, white churchs for that matter.

Too bad Democrats don't have the sme values as when John Kennedy was president and Bobby was Attorney General.

Ron, TX   October 8th, 2007 4:56 pm ET

"I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth." So much for that little separation of church and state thing, eh. Any Republican saying things like this would be hammered by the media and every pro-Obama poster on this site. C'mon, you know you it would happen.

Posted By Markus, Pittsburgh PA : October 8, 2007 4:19 pm
———————————-

Anyone who takes that line and thinks there is a problem is guilty of playing headline politics. It is taken out of context. Obama, unlike if some Republicans said it, obviously did not mean that he wanted to establish a religious kingdom in the United States.

sad   October 8th, 2007 4:55 pm ET

"If he continues to support unlimited abortion, he will soon prove that he is not a Christian"

Actually the only thing required to be a Christian is to accept Jesus Christ into your heart, period.

I cannot believe the amount of hatred posted in these comments.

Osama   October 8th, 2007 4:54 pm ET

Why is Barack Hussein Obama hiding the fact that he is muslim???

Spartan-117, Colony 229, California-New   October 8th, 2007 4:53 pm ET

Yeah he is definitely the anti-christ. A kingdom on earth is a statement right out revelation. Don't believe everything he tells You…

Faith Heckenberg   October 8th, 2007 4:51 pm ET

Sounds like Islam to me. Whatever happened to separation of church & state. Beware Americans our country is in real danger. You cannot criticize George for his beliefs and then say Obama has it right. Pay attention to what he said.

Erik Hough, Granbury, Tx   October 8th, 2007 4:48 pm ET

I still think its slightly hard for Liberals claim you have any credibility in a discusson about religion when the ACLU is on a mission to remove any public symbols of Christianity.

True, Republicans have been the ones more willing to use God's name in speeches, and don't always practice what they preach. However, they aren't the ones trying to remove the word "God" from the pledge of allegiance either. Here's a tip, if you don't like it cover your ears. The same thing rational Americans have to do when we hear Sean Penn talking about how great things are in Venezuala, or Michael Moore talking about how wonderful the health care system is in Cuba!! Or Ted Kennedy saying anything!

Chris   October 8th, 2007 4:46 pm ET

LOL! Obama for religious values? Yea, maybe he can hold up some aborted babies at his next rally. ANYone who supports the killing of innocent unborn babies is not truly religious. I wonder what those so-called evangelical churches feel about his abortion stance? Maybe CNN should ask them.

Mike-Carlsbad, CA   October 8th, 2007 4:46 pm ET

Just because Barack Osama says it doesn't make it so. He is a typical Democrat poolicitican who will say whatever it takes to get a vote. Not recognizing that life starts at conception and condoning murder of the unborn does not get my vote.

Shane, Tallahassee, FL   October 8th, 2007 4:45 pm ET

I just finished reading this article and decided to read through the postings. I was floored by the hateful and closed minded veiws of the liberal posters here. I can't believe you people (liberal/democrats). Then again, yes I can.

Eric, Maryland   October 8th, 2007 4:45 pm ET

Since when does a pro-abortion mentality, the outright murder of INNOCENT infants, coincide with morality and Christian values? I'd like to see any "so called" compassionate liberal defend this stance.

Oh yeah, don't even try to point out the capital punishment card…

Atheist   October 8th, 2007 4:44 pm ET

Atheists comprise 10-20% of the US population. A significant sub-population with probably a high incidence of voting, especially after years of Bush attempting to create a theocracy.

I've been turned off by Obama's prima donna attitudes, and now by his overt delcaration of his belief in fairy tales. What a great way to finish off his already-sinking ship. He underestimates the number of people who don't have imaginary friends (i.e., gods).

Rick/Marine City Michigan   October 8th, 2007 4:43 pm ET

what you have here is…a typical liberal democrat that changes like a chameleon. Just like when Hilary Clinton speaks in the south she suddenly has an accent.
Fakes.
~Rick

DONALD FAHRENKRUG, Colorado Springs, CO   October 8th, 2007 4:41 pm ET

Obama may think he can create a Kingdom on earth, but I have news for him. He can't. That feat is under the sovereign control of Jesus Christ. As for his "religion" anyone who supports gay marriage (an obscenity), and abortion–the modern-day version of child-sacrifice, is not Christian. He may belong to a pagan religion of some kind an so be it. But, please, don't claim to be an Orthodox Christian and have those loonie ideas.

Eyes rolling   October 8th, 2007 4:41 pm ET

Wow 866 comments – mostly from the village Jesus freaks !

haha..no wonder the USA elects guys like Bush.

good luck yáll your gonna need it

Peace, Greenville, SC   October 8th, 2007 4:41 pm ET

I have some news for you people. I am saying these things as a Republican who has only voted for two Democrats in 20 years of voting, and as someone who was at the church and heard Senator Obama speak:

1. Redemption World Outreach is NOT a black church. It is multicultural. That means there are people of many different races who worship here, and we worship together in harmony.

2. Senator Obama was not 'invited', nor did he do any campaigning in church. He asked to come worship with us, and as an avowed christian (we don't judge, just like the bible says people) and a current holder of public office, he was welcomed with open arms, and allowed to greet the congregation and basically introduce himself. He did not, and would not have been allowed to campaign.

3. I don't remember anybody complaining when Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), Lieutenant Governor Andre Bauer (R-SC), or Governor Mark Sanford (R-SC) were afforded the same honor just a year ago.

4. Christians, all y'all need to grow up and realize that just because somebody disagrees with you, they are not necessarily evil or the antichrist. Quit being so judgemental and legalistic for Christ's sake(literally) and start praying FOR each other. RIGHT NOW. Don't make me come over there.

5. Atheists/Agnostics, take a chill pill. None of us christians are out to take over the world, it ain't our job. And by the way, we have the First Amendment right to talk about God wherever we want, even if we hold public office. That violates no constitutional provision. Just ask the Supreme Court.

Tim, Mansfield, TX   October 8th, 2007 4:38 pm ET

Folks,

Sorry, you've missed the boat. YOU CANNOT TALK RELIGION, YOU MUST LIVE IT. Obama does not live it.

There is no kingdom, except that of God & Jesus Christ. It is a kingdom in heaven, not of this world.

Republicans do not own religion & my vote, but their stance on important issues more resemble Christian values & is the reason they receive the majority of the Christian vote.

The democrats can talk all they want about faith, but until they understand it is NOT OK TO KILL UNBORN BABIES (among many other failed beliefs they own), they will continue to lose the Christian vote.

Infidel1099 Cleveland, Ohio   October 8th, 2007 4:38 pm ET

Osama….oops, I mean Obama says alot of NOTHING. Typical Democrat

Bill   October 8th, 2007 4:38 pm ET

What a Joke,,,a Honest Democrat,,,,Get Real

Tim Paul Central, NH   October 8th, 2007 4:37 pm ET

Mr Bradley Schaubs:

Before you start spewing ignorant vomit, you might want to study your Bible a bit more…

You say:
"Would the Lord Jesus Christ want us to be pitted against each other like we are now? NO! Christ encouraged harmony, and Obama encourages harmony".

Jesus Christ says in the Holy Scripture:
Luke 12:49-53
"I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.

I'm afraid you sir, have the little (and ignorant)mind.

Brian, Austin TX   October 8th, 2007 4:36 pm ET

Dear Pilgrims Progress,

THERE IS NO LITERAL WORD OF GOD!!!
It is religous organization that is a self defeating system. People put their faith and values into the hands of the institution of church because they are lost and confused (probably like you). People forget that all those religous scriptures are from a PRIMITIVE time! By taking what the bible, and all that religous rhetoric literally you eliminate what we as people have learned throughout history, and our EVOLVED morality. Religion should just be for moral guidelines. All those psalms are just metaphors and stories to teach you a moral lesson anyway. We all share the same moral goals, and they all (whether you like it or not) are met differently through our own indepent vison. Sorry your mindset is stuck in the 1400's!

Roger Tarus   October 8th, 2007 4:36 pm ET

Obama makes an endrun for the dimwit vote.

Ellen Seattle, WA   October 8th, 2007 4:33 pm ET

His idea of *Kingdom* is most likely a version of the *Kingdom* of Saudi Arabia. No wonder….

Leroy, Beverly Hills, CA   October 8th, 2007 4:32 pm ET

Like the other Democrat leaders, Obama preaches about faith but then will go back to the Senate to fight prayer in school, school vouchers for poor kids that could be used at private religious schools, and of course, and any references to God in public buildings or even on U.S. currency.

Obama just says what he has to in order to get votes. All form over substance. I for one am not fooled.

Joe Fielder , Spring Hill Florida   October 8th, 2007 4:29 pm ET

Senator Obama and the democrates support their party. That political party supports gay marrage, gay rights, abortions and socialism. So, where is God in the Democratic Party? There isn't one!

ken Pittsburgh Pa   October 8th, 2007 4:24 pm ET

He is a wolf in Sheep's clothing. Any one can talk. Its what he does and stands for that defines him.

Luke 6:43

For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. 44 For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush. 45 A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart[g] brings forth evil. For out of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks.

Ian Fort Mill SC   October 8th, 2007 4:24 pm ET

Faith? I was not aware that God was for abortion. After all he forms babies in the mothers womb.

I am ware however Mr. obama is for abortion at all stages-al the way up to full term.

Now that's faith in the public square!

Randy, Seattle, WA   October 8th, 2007 4:22 pm ET

More vapid "Hallmark card" bromides from a very gifted speaker.

Markus, Pittsburgh PA   October 8th, 2007 4:19 pm ET

"I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth." So much for that little separation of church and state thing, eh. Any Republican saying things like this would be hammered by the media and every pro-Obama poster on this site. C'mon, you know you it would happen.

Gregg Steven, Houston, TX   October 8th, 2007 4:15 pm ET

Must be getting near election time. Democrats are going to church looking for votes. Every time Bill Clinton got busted with a women he showed up in some black church the next Sunday.It must be true. You can fool some of the people all of the time.

A. Theist, Sodom and Gomorrah, CA   October 8th, 2007 4:15 pm ET

Christianity is stupid (see comments above).

MeSoHoly   October 8th, 2007 4:15 pm ET

"God hates homosexuals"

That is such a crock and an excuse to hate a group you don't like and still claim to be Christian.

You get that bible quote from Leviticus. It also tells you to stick your woman in a shack to isolate her when she's menstruating because it's evil.

If God hates homosexuals, He hates his own creation. Good luck worshiping THAT.

Sterling, VA   October 8th, 2007 4:14 pm ET

Who's the King??

And by the way, didn't we fight Britain to get away from monarchies??

No, Obama, the only kingdoms on earth all rise and fall. You've got it all wrong, Senator, but you're pandering to gullible fools.

rochester, ny   October 8th, 2007 4:14 pm ET

"kingdom on earth". Where is that in the scriptures? Mr. Obama would be better served if he just came out of the Muslim closet that he's been hiding in.

Gregg Houston, Texas   October 8th, 2007 4:12 pm ET

What has Obama done that has been so great? How many African Americans will vote for him just because he is black? Imagine what the world would be like if white people voted their race? Not of us should judge anyone's religion, including Obama's or the political parties. Both Parties are ruining this country.

Eduardo, Seattle, WA   October 8th, 2007 4:09 pm ET

You have got to be kidding!! Jesse Jackson probably backs him too! No doubt. He'll never get a vote from me.

AK, Rome, GA   October 8th, 2007 4:05 pm ET

Only the Messiah will create a Kingdom on Earth, and you ain't Him Mr. Obama!

new york   October 8th, 2007 4:02 pm ET

Isnt this obama guy part muslim?

Dave, Cheverly, MD   October 8th, 2007 4:01 pm ET

854 comments = Obama struck a cord. Obama is going after votes in the back yards of Republican strong holes. They are nervous and fearful of that. SMART move on Obama's part and everyone knows it. Reach across party lines and bring everyone together to vote for Obama. The Republicans could have learned form Obama by attending minority Debates. Obama The Leader! The only thing to fear is fear it's self. If Obama is THE BEST Candidate, Then he should be President. Enough said!

Dave Glick, Lake Forest, California   October 8th, 2007 4:01 pm ET

Obama is just another politician trying to get elected. Need I day more?

Mark Rhoads, Wesley Chapel FL   October 8th, 2007 4:00 pm ET

Obama is clearly a political child with "why cant Ihave itMommy" tactics.
Somday he may grow up, but it is a day far past the election in '08 He's a good looking kid, but he is a kid none the less.. Groping for acceptance among perceived peers without the knowledge or experience to know who they are. He's like a kid wanting to be sure he has the most popular T-shirt logo

Free Government Cheese Guy   October 8th, 2007 4:00 pm ET

Mr. Obama, which book are you going to put your right hand on when you have to take an oath?
Smoke 'em if you got 'em.

Pilgrims Progress   October 8th, 2007 3:58 pm ET

Anyone who preaches and or teaches acceptance of homosexual love as Barak’s Church does, are in no way CHRISTIANS or followers of Jesus Christ. They certainly do not accept the Literal Word of God, but have transmuted the Word of God into a lie, and have become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.

RH, Brooklyn, NY   October 8th, 2007 3:58 pm ET

"If the post-born abortions in Iraq were to stop, tell me, would you then still condone abortions? Or is your comment nothing more than noise to divert from the facts?"

I never said I "condone" abortions. Do you condone relentless murder in Iraq?

Brian, Austin TX   October 8th, 2007 3:54 pm ET

in my opinion any organized religion should have no claim over faith and values. Both should belong soley to the individual. Life should also be the only thing that teaches us these things.

D.L. Matte, Milwaukee, WI   October 8th, 2007 3:53 pm ET

I do not rely or accept my spiritual values to be determined by politicians. Morality cannot be legislated.

Walter Buffalo, New York   October 8th, 2007 3:52 pm ET

This is not only presumptuous of Obama, but totally unbiblical, arogant and false. If mankind could create the Kingdom of God on earth, certainly he would have already done so! Also, perhaps Obama forgot, or never learned, that the Holy Bible proclaims that pride goes before a fall. I hope you don't fall too hard young man (Obama), but you should not be allowed to drag America down with you!!!

Pi   October 8th, 2007 3:48 pm ET

Bush is the antichrist, and you right wing "conservatives" trying to start a religious war against the middle east are Satans army.
Do you only know three words? Homosexuals, Unborn babies, and Hussein?
Jesus would cry for all of you and your hatred that you spread everywhere and for your judgment of all people of the Earth. Take the log from your own eye first. You are an abomination to the very word "Christian"

Robert M. Reidy N.Y.   October 8th, 2007 3:48 pm ET

These polls ????

The story on Hillary right above this one on Barak Obama had 45 hits and this one on Barak has 845 as of this blog.

Much more interest in what he says, wouldn't you say!

Barak will surprise many in the early primaries – much money to be made betting this way. He has an incredibly large motivated grass roots organization – never underestimate this

Vote for the smartest guy in the room!

Baarock the vote !!!

Jeff, Houston, Texas   October 8th, 2007 3:48 pm ET

Wow. A step in the right direction at least. Maybe one day we, as a species, can stop beleiving in the tooth fairy and vote in a secular humanist.

AJB, New Jersey   October 8th, 2007 3:48 pm ET

It's funny, all you religious nuts calling Obama a hypocrite because he supports a woman's right to choose. You people don't seem to have any trouble murdering the post-born in Iraq.
Posted By RH, Brooklyn, NY : October 8, 2007 3:35 pm

If the post-born abortions in Iraq were to stop, tell me, would you then still condone abortions? Or is your comment nothing more than noise to divert from the facts?

Brian, Pittsburgh Pa   October 8th, 2007 3:47 pm ET

It's amazing that when someone on the left makes such religious claims as Obama has, they are praised by the media. When someone on the right makes such claims they are excoriated by the media and labeled as a crazy religious zealot.

jack, seattle, wa   October 8th, 2007 3:44 pm ET

Don't thank God for Obama, pray for him. He just said Republicans particular brand of faith (Christianity) seemed intolerant or pushed people away. I guess he disagrees with Christians around the world. If you want to thank a God thank a nonexistant god like Obama's.

Ayyub, Richmond, Va   October 8th, 2007 3:41 pm ET

It's a shame how you all think a muslim can't become Christian and the other way around. It happens all the time.

Gary - Covington, OH   October 8th, 2007 3:37 pm ET

Interesting how Mr. Obama, raised Muslim, is now conveniently a Christian. I guess it just shows how much of a politician he really is, pandering for votes. This man, as well as Hillary, and the rest of the Democratic AND Republican candidates just disgust me. It's really a shame we can't fire them all and start fresh.

Craig Kerwood, Everett, Washington   October 8th, 2007 3:36 pm ET

If a Republican made the remark that Barrack Obama made, he would be labeled a right-wing, religious zealot kook, but somehow Barrack Obama gets a pass on this one…amazing. More hypocrisy fromt the left

Ayyub, Richmond, Va   October 8th, 2007 3:35 pm ET

Dave from Omaha, I understand where you're coming from but Obama can't just take away a woman's chose to get rid of a baby of a rapist. If you don't support abortions, think of a law that could possibl be passed like 'one woman who were pregnated against there will by a rapist and such can only get abortions'. I can support that.

Roy   October 8th, 2007 3:35 pm ET

Barack Obama, removing his American Flag lapel Pin, reminds me of Tommy Lee Jones, who as ex Sergeant Hank Deerfield, in the unpatriotic movie, “In the Valley of Elah, flew the American Flag upside down depicting “A Nation in Distress”, when in reality it was his drugged-up bad boy son who became a sadistic soldier when serving in Iraq. Upon returning home his son was killed and cut up by a soldier in his unit who had been his friend.

After finding out the facts of his son’s death Hank in quiet anger transferred blame to the U.S. Government for “bad boys becoming worse boys” while on drugs in Iraq.
Sgt. Hank’s son choose to do drugs and choose to be sadistic. If anyone or anything was in distress, it was his family, not the Military, and not our Nation!

In the future, look for Barack Obama to fly his American lapel Flag Pin upside down!

RH, Brooklyn, NY   October 8th, 2007 3:35 pm ET

It's funny, all you religious nuts calling Obama a hypocrite because he supports a woman's right to choose. You people don't seem to have any trouble murdering the post-born in Iraq.

Nameless, Anchorage. Alaska   October 8th, 2007 3:33 pm ET

GREAT!!!

He'll make Hillary a nice VP!

Nashua, NH   October 8th, 2007 3:32 pm ET

Just like the kingdom on earth the LBJ created on the 'war on poverty' in the 1960s that has wasted trillions of dollars and produced nothing. If we must pull out of the Iraq war because it can be won, I would say the 'war on poverty' certainly hasn't be won and perhaps the federal government should pull out of both wars and return to following the original intent of the constitution.

kirk   October 8th, 2007 3:28 pm ET

I don't think republicans have labeled democrats less religious, I think democrat policies have done that and rightly so.

Sorry, but if you put the convenience of liberal women before the life of living unborn babies, then well, you know, if the shoe fits then wear it.

Democrats go to church to hear the democrat message, republicans go to hear about the word of God. Just my opinion, but I suspect the facts prove it out just fine.

Dave Omaha, NE   October 8th, 2007 3:28 pm ET

Yes, you libs keep giving lip service to "faith" while advocating the murder of babies and the suppression of basic freedoms and maybe you'll all feel better about yourselves.

Debra Springtown, Tx.   October 8th, 2007 3:27 pm ET

I get so tired of politians finding, and loudly declaring there loyality to religion when elections draw near, but you don't see them trying to defend it at all in every day life, I believe they would all be happy if they could rub it off the face of the earth, but they got to get those votes, and there are enough fools out there that will fall hook sink and ladder for these flim flam con artist every time….I have had it with them all in both parties….there all just a bunch of whiney inmmature babies, and there constant bickering is going to bring about the fall of our country, the children are minding the nursey,… and if president Bush had 4 more years in office he would make this into the United States of Mexico if it were up to him, and I voted for the guy both times! I will probably just stay home on election night 08, because nothing is going to change in this country no matter who is in office, and you people that think it will need to come down out of laalaa land….by the way were is the outrage in this …you know the old separation of church and state thing,…what I can say for sure though, if it had been a republican we would be deaf right now with all the outrage and screaming we would be hearing in the liberal news media right now concerning the separation issue….what a total bunch of hypocrites, who can't see there own hypocrisy, because there to busy pointing out every one else's.

John Matthews, St. Paul MN   October 8th, 2007 3:25 pm ET

"I think its important particularly for those of us in the Democratic Party to not cede values and faith to any one party"
When your party's platform includes the murder of unborn children as one of it's most sacredly held beliefs, you've already ceded values and faith Osama.

Jim, Wasilla, Alaska   October 8th, 2007 3:25 pm ET

Sen. Obama is like most polititons and will say anything if it might help gain votes. We also must remember that he was raised by a muslum parent, attended a muslum school and recently started attending a Christian Church to help in his election.

Ayyub, Richmond, Va   October 8th, 2007 3:24 pm ET

Cayla, Austin, TX.
Come on! Give me the proof of him flip-floping as you say he has. I have no proof of that. And plus, what is so bad about talking to other people of different faiths with you share an idea with them? You should never close anyone one out on the bases of race or religion or anything like that.
Plus, I've never heard of Obama going to a Mosque for his campaign, I doubt they would let him do such a thing in a Mosque. Frankly, no religious building should let any candidate including the beloved Hillary enter it's doors to campaign. It makes the temple look bad.

Bryan, Dallas TX   October 8th, 2007 3:23 pm ET

Obama doesn't seem to understand that the sharp divisions he mentions were not due to the perception "that the Democrats were fearful of talking about faith" but that many of the foundational issues (eg. abortion – murder of babies, extra rights for homosexuals – who already have the same rights as every male and female – there is no third sex, unproven stem cell research that destroys life, etc.) of the Democratic Party are not in sync with the majority of religious voters. The Democratic Party will not obtain the votes of the majority of the religious until many of these foundational issues are rethought from a religious point of view (eg. not just evangelical Christian, as many religions hold views that are opposed to those of the Democratic Party).

Still thinking, wpb, fl   October 8th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

Please,
if any of you readers are Muslims' I did not , did not ,did not mean to equate Muslims with the Anti-Christ in my last post.
Please accept my apology, that was not my meaning. What I meant to point out was that the other posters have accused Obama of being a Muslim under the guise of being a liberal Christian of some kind. I was just sharing my opinion that I believe he is what he says he is and I came to that conclusion by his actions, not his words. Bottom line – he is a politician with a plan that won't please everyone.

Dan Smith, Charlotte, NC   October 8th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

Does anyone else hear reverberations of the muslim delaring that a muslim flag will one day fly over the White House? Everyone is having a card trick played on them. All of you dimmiecrats can start practicing "Allah Akbar!".

Anonymous   October 8th, 2007 3:21 pm ET

Lol

Neither Hillary nor Obama will become President. Bill Clinton knows it in fact secretly I think he prays his wife won’t, Hence the comment from him about slitting his own throat. If Bill wanted his wife to win he would be coaching her to run as he did, A centrist right of center, instead he lets her go out and make an ass out of her self by constantly contradicting her own positions. You have two Liberal Progressive/ Marxist running on killing the economy with purposed Tax Increases of over 2-300 Billion it will take a decade of recession for the economy to recover. The fed will increase the reserve amount that banks will have to keep, taking a large chunk of investment capitol out of the pool killing investment, then they will raise the interest rates to attract new investment capitol mostly foreign, home ownership will plummet, foreclosures will go threw the roof Inflation will skyrocket as businesses try to stay solvent, then your liberal utopia will crumble killing off what is left of manufacturing. The Funny thing is people like Hillary know this as well as George Soros they stand to profit in some way. For Hillary it will be the ultimate position of Power the Presidency. For Soros a billionaire stock trader most likely he will invest in China markets. I do not think the average baby boomer Democrat is that stupid, cutting off their nose to spite their faces, quite a few voted for Reagan and Bush 1st- 2nd. Pretty scary stuff for the baby boomers that are heavily invested in capitol markets planning on retiring. : )

Pray Hillary, Obama and Polosi to what ever god you people worship. The god of Castro, Hugo Chavez, Putin or Ahmedinejad certainly not the same God that helped our founding Fathers’ create a more perfect Union!

Greg, NY, NY   October 8th, 2007 3:20 pm ET

"Am I missing something?
Isn't Obama a muslim? Whats he doing at a church of another faith preaching about God? Some people will do anything to win an election

Posted By Florence B Marlboro NJ : October 8, 2007 9:56 am"

Yes, you are missing something. Obama is NOT A MUSLIM!!! I can't believe how many people on this blog still believe he is.

And to all the others that think he is the antichrist. The Left Behind series was a great series of books. I myself am an atheist, but I do enjoy good fiction.

The only fictional story I could never enjoy was the bible.

Lioness, Washington DC   October 8th, 2007 3:18 pm ET

Cayla from Austin,

I answered your post about half an hour ago – interesting that CNN has not published it.

It was a detailed answer but in two words:

I have nothing against people of faith – including many of my loved ones, by the way, and Obama himself, whom I support and who is a very religious Christian, contrary to the lies being espoused here about his being Muslim or non religious.

Religion plays a positive role in millions of lives – it gives people a sense of community, shared values and a moral compass. By the same token, one can have that without being religious. So no generalizations can be made.

What can be said is how outrageous some of the people here are being.

What I denigrate is those who used scripture to spew libel, venom, hate and prejudice.

Many of those are republican. Why? Because these are behaviours that have been handed down to them by republican political leaders, and they believe what these leaders say without question.

But not all – especially not the republicans who happen to be Obama supporters – would engage in this kind of sorry diatribe.

There are many prejudiced democrats out there – that is undeniable – and one should let them have it (eg: MoveOn's Petraeus ad was unfathomable, ill-advised and bordering on libelous).

The mistake is to assume that people criticize others only if they belong to a different party. Many do. Not me.

I criticize character – a certain person by the name of Hillary Clinton comes to mind here. She and Tom DeLay are some of the most unsavory public figures to invade the political scene in recent years. Some of the things I read here suggest that so are their authors.

Now I REALLY say Good-bye.

Stacy, Chicago, Il   October 8th, 2007 3:17 pm ET

I LIVE in Ill and he is NOT a great leader. He has done nothing in Washington to help his constituents. He is only interested in running for Pres. He is HORRIBLE and I find it quite the coincidence that both him and Hillary are playing the religious card.

Elizabeth, Long Island NY   October 8th, 2007 3:16 pm ET

OBAMA 2008! There's no doubt in my mind, that he is the best candidate for our next President.

randy, bangor, me   October 8th, 2007 3:16 pm ET

Beware of politicians or religious leaders who claim they will usher in a "kingdom on earth". There is only one King who can do that.

Cayla, Austin, TX   October 8th, 2007 3:13 pm ET

See the problem is that Obama has been a Muslim when he's speaking to Muslims, a Christian when he's speaking to Christians and a secularist when he's speaking in LA or New York. Hence our confusion. Maybe he should let us know when he finally makes up his mind. Ok?

God, is, DEAD   October 8th, 2007 3:12 pm ET

Just because a canidate beleives in giving a woman the freedom to make person decisions about her body with her family, doesn't make the canidate a baby killer. Get a freakin' clue you ignorant hicks. I suppose G.W.B. is your savior because he only kills Iraqi babies that have already been born? Nice logic, wackos!

S. Haase   October 8th, 2007 3:10 pm ET

Do not be deceived, he is not talking about the Lord God who created Heaven and Earth

Ian, New Orleans, Louisiana   October 8th, 2007 3:07 pm ET

Whatever Obama's views are on retaining faith and don't matter at all.

The Left will turn on him for something which is the direct opposite of their entire ideology – the total annihilation of religion from the public sphere and the persecution of those who practice it in the private sphere.

He won't win liberal Democrats this way. He won't win conservative Republicans because of everything else. He can't win religious groups like Baptists and Catholics because he is pro-abortion. He's only left with a small portion of the middle. And those who say the middle wins elections take for granted that you've got your party with you.

The Left will never support a candidate who even says he's going try to retain something they've spent 40 years trying to eradicate. Sorry, Hussein.

Ayyub, Richmond, Va   October 8th, 2007 3:05 pm ET

For those he keep on calling him Muslim. You people haven't heard anything about this guy all year have you. Because by now you would know that he's Christian. Plus, Obama is an African Name, Hussein is a common name in Africa including the Middle East (so are you people calling all Africans with the name Hussein Radical Muslims or Muslims at that, get a life). Barack is a common African name which means blessed. So please people stop the hatred, you sound prejudice towards people of African and Middle Eastern descent and towards Muslim or Christian even from the Middle East or Africa.

Cheng, Hamilton , Ma.   October 8th, 2007 3:04 pm ET

If a Republican said these things the press would hang them. Maybe Obama can borrow Bill Clinton's giant bible. The one he carried around on Sunday mornings during the impeachment proceedings.

Still thinking,wpb, fl   October 8th, 2007 3:03 pm ET

A good portion of the posts here are ranting about abortion and racism and religiosity. How can any of you complain about Obama's choice of words when your own are even more inflammatory and divisive.
Is this the pot calling the kettle black?(just a phrase, no reference to race)
And what is the difference between abortion, capital punishment and killing innocent civilians and troops in the name of war and oil and politics?? How do you justify killing somedays and condemn it other days?

While I honestly think Obamas' words were poorly chosen and will probably hand the Nomination to Hillary, I don't think he is the Antichrist or a Muslim.

The knee jerk reactionary comments of most of you have exposed your vulnerability to having your buttons pushed. There are big rings in your noses that can be easily grabbed by anyone.
Pay attention to a persons actions and their consistency and not pounce on a few words and then think the world is coming to an end. That's the Media's job.
Faith without works is dead
(for the religious)

Practice what you preach.
(for everyone-else)

Peace.

CM, Dahlonega, GA   October 8th, 2007 3:02 pm ET

Let's leave the Almighty out of this debate. At least until he tells us via a burning bush or writing on the walls which side He's on (neither I suspect). Here's a new idea, let's just debate the relevant issues and leave religion where it belongs, between the individual and his/her maker.

Matt, Irvine, CA   October 8th, 2007 3:00 pm ET

Take God and the Christian religion, strip them of any meaning, and you have the Democrats' "religion". Funny, it still looks a lot like socialism. Their morals are to do whatever it takes to make everyone equally miserable – except for the ruling elites.

aj, san jose, ca   October 8th, 2007 3:00 pm ET

Forget Obama – Join the Ron Paul R3Voltion!!!

Miami, Florida   October 8th, 2007 2:58 pm ET

"Is America really this gullible?
Socialism = totalitarianism.
Totalitarianism = depotism, dictatorship, absolutism, tyranny.
Is this the America that you are truly striving for?

Posted By Tammy, Scottsdale, AZ : October 8, 2007 1:49 pm"

Sadly, it sounds remarkably similar to the America we've ALREADY GOT, Tammy.

Only, our distinctly American brand of socialism is supporting corporations, not people.

And, in answer to your first question, YES.

Kenneth the sinner, Colorado Springs, Colorado   October 8th, 2007 2:56 pm ET

Hello CNN, I've scrolled up and down for my original post this morning,{Oct.8th} but I can find it nowhere. It saddens me that you'll print a lot of vile hate and not my original post today. It was a good message,not a proud or self serving one. Perhaps I have simply missed it in my visual scanning,so I'll ask the question I first posed to all the "leftist" christians blogging this article about Obama today: If you were walking down a road, and saw George W. Bush bloody and laying in the ditch,robbed,wounded,and dying, would your heart be moved to help save him? Or would you just walk by and laugh in glee? How you answer this question,in your heart of hearts will tell you what kind of a christian you truly are. {I Corinthians,chap. 13}… read it.

Craigo   October 8th, 2007 2:56 pm ET

How about this from Mark 7:
He answered and said unto them, Well hath Esaias prophesied of you hypocrites, as it is written, This people honoureth me with their lips, but their heart is far from me. Howbeit in vain do they worship me, teaching for doctrines the commandments of men. For laying aside the commandment of God, ye hold the tradition of men……

Steve   October 8th, 2007 2:55 pm ET

go back home obama!

Jared, Decatur, GA   October 8th, 2007 2:55 pm ET

How many cronies does Obama have telling him what to say, how to look, and what to think? Another politician, but the same old crap.

Mia, Stafford, VA   October 8th, 2007 2:54 pm ET

Each person will be held accountable for their actions.

Those who choose to have abortions, have to answer for that – not Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, George Bush or anyone else. ONLY THE PERSON WHO CHOOSEs TO HAVE AN ABORTION – and guess what – If that person ask for forgiveness God has promised to give it – So your point is what?

Not only will God forgive you, but he will forget, and give you new mercies! How awesome is that.

I am so glad all you so called Christians writing these hate filled comments are not God!

Joe, Gaithersburg MD   October 8th, 2007 2:52 pm ET

"I am confident we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

Signed,

Barack (I AM THE LORD, YOUR GOD!) Obama

Jim, Redford, MI   October 8th, 2007 2:52 pm ET

Why is it that when a Conservative speaks at a church, the church gets threatened to loose its tax exempt status by the IRS and the Liberals can do it without any consequence whatsoever?

Cayla, Austin, TX   October 8th, 2007 2:51 pm ET

Obama the Pharisee scores points with the political left for extolling the virtues of faith in public. What absolute hypocrites they all are. There are no issues for these people, just labels. If you have the "correct" label, you can do whatever you want and the left will praise it as a virtue. If you aren't part of their herd, everything you do and say is evil and all the world's problems are your fault. The left is all about "this group is superior to this group." It doesn't matter what people do or say, because liberals don't judge people as individuals, they judge the label they've given you. They're just nasty little people who are most interested in laying blame on some group they're not a part of in order to feel better about themselves. In other words, they are the world's worst bigots.

Scott, Orlando FL   October 8th, 2007 2:47 pm ET

Obama is a socialist and a liberal from Chicago. The CONSTITUTION demands that religion has no place in politics. Whatever he says about religion, it will never translate into policy. He will still want to "cure" poverty and social "injustice". Progressive values are NOT American values when they want them codified into law.

C herron Odessa, Texas   October 8th, 2007 2:45 pm ET

Give me a break people! Do you really want a President Named Obama? His name says it all. You better check his past real close instead of just listing to his words.

John - Bronx, Ny   October 8th, 2007 2:45 pm ET

He's a good man, but I would like to see him finish is term in the Senate first – before becoming president. He may not do it in 2008 – but Barack Obama will be President of the US one day.

Ryan Indianapolis   October 8th, 2007 2:45 pm ET

The republicans carry the religous cause they actually believe in Christ and have morals…Most democrats are either scared to speak about religion or they are athesist..Democrats are morally bankrupt, Obama is a fraud,,go to his church website,,is church is racially driven, his preacher is a racist that does not allow whites in his church, people do your research..

AJB, New Jersey   October 8th, 2007 2:45 pm ET

Amazing the praise he receives in the name of God…Let the butchered children speak volumes for what he stands for. He purports to believe in the Lord…watch the wolf in the cloth of the sheep. A special man? Ordinary, but great at painting the picture of deception.

kris grapevine tx   October 8th, 2007 2:43 pm ET

I do not believe that God or religion need to have any part in our election process. The moral decay in our nation does not come from from not attending church. I do not attend church but I still know right form wrong, and I still do my best to be the best example of decency for my two children. I am looking for a leader who is willing to embrace the growing number of people who do not believe, not just focusing on those that do.

John Plick Andover, NJ   October 8th, 2007 2:42 pm ET

2Cr 11:13 For such [are] false apostles, deceitful workers, transforming themselves into the apostles of Christ.

2Cr 11:14 And no marvel; for Satan himself is transformed into an angel of light.

2Cr 11:15 Therefore [it is] no great thing if his ministers also be transformed as the ministers of righteousness; whose end shall be according to their works.

Could this have anything to do with Obama???

Dookie, Falls Church, VA   October 8th, 2007 2:42 pm ET

Are we really going to fall for the Democrats new found religion?

Obama is no doubt a "nice guy", but you can be sure he will be "owned" by the same people running things now.

The best thing to do would be that nobody votes, we reset the field of candidates with qualified people (not just people who have already pledged allegiance to the "empire") and get someone in office who will actually be in a position to change things (from the top down).

FIDEL C. HAVANA, CU.   October 8th, 2007 2:40 pm ET

OBAMA'S MY MAN. HE'S WHAT THE U.S. NEEDS.

Scott, Annapolis, MD   October 8th, 2007 2:35 pm ET

HALELEUIAH! – Pass the collection basket….the changing colors of the Obama chamelion adapt to nealy any environment….

Jack Kinch--Midwest City,Ok.   October 8th, 2007 2:31 pm ET

Does he explain away homosexuality and abortion?

Dave, Scottsdale, AZ   October 8th, 2007 2:31 pm ET

Hey, give Obama a chance. I think it is wonderful that he has fairly recently become a Christian and now proclaims that faith. As a new Christian, he must indeed come to terms with his past stance on pro-abortion, and must renounce the abuse of the innocent. This will drive his Kossack base wild.

If he continues to support unlimited abortion, he will soon prove that he is not a Christian, and was just playing politics as usual. God be with you in your decision, Mr. Obama.

Disgusted, Haiku, Hi.   October 8th, 2007 2:31 pm ET

As a Christian, I'm totally disgusted with the hate and bile I see spewed out through the comments. Is he really responsible for his middle name being Hussein? I don't think so. There's a big world out there and many people have different names than anglo-saxon surnames. If Heaven is going to be populated with people like you, I don't want to be there.

John, Chatsworth, GA   October 8th, 2007 2:30 pm ET

Will the unborn be any safer in Obama's kingdom of God than they are now in the United States?

Darrell Grob, St. Louis MO   October 8th, 2007 2:30 pm ET

With their new-found "come to Jesus" and "We represent Christian values" rhetoric, there is one question that all of the candidates need to answer. Jesus himself asked this of His apostles:

"But what about you?" he asked. "Who do you say I am?" Simon Peter answered, "You are the Christ,[b] the Son of the living God."

Look it up. Matthew 16: 15,16

This is the test for everyone.

BTW, what is your answer?

Mia, Stafford, VA   October 8th, 2007 2:28 pm ET

Rev. William Parks – catch up
In the most recent debate he said he would try to have all troops out by 2013. He would start withdrawing immediately, but not all would be out by March 2008. That sounds more like what Gov. Richardson is saying.

Edward, Rock Island, IL   October 8th, 2007 2:28 pm ET

Incredible. "Values" doesn't seem to include killing babies or preserving families. But then what does "values" mean to a Democrat other than a word to lure vacuum minded liberals into his camp.

mike murphy, santee, ca   October 8th, 2007 2:28 pm ET

Obama's people stole court ordered sealed divorce documents to destroy his opponent in his Senate race. Why has this not come up. He had no opponent, except a last minute entry.
Jesse Jackson is behind Obama in the shadows..waiting for his pay off. McD

buford t justice   October 8th, 2007 2:25 pm ET

Right On Obama! We should make the USA the Christian Kingdom and you can lead us! You should start by rounding up all of the homosexuals and getting rid of them. Anyone that has an abortion is murdering and should be killed (eye for eye)and we need to build up our military to destroy all of those Muslim Countries and Infidels!

Jeff, Detroit michigan   October 8th, 2007 2:22 pm ET

Typical liberal pandering by Obama. Talk "like your one of them" so they'll vote for you and once elected do nothing while the community rots from the inside. Four years later repeat.

Ame, Stockton, CA   October 8th, 2007 2:21 pm ET

Perhaps someone ought to note that Obama is currying favor with Christians, while hold the Islamic faith.

Can we have a politician who holds fast to his beliefs, no matter what they happen to be? I'm getting quite tired of listening to the contradictions.

Marcos, Redland, Texas   October 8th, 2007 2:20 pm ET

Any politician or political party who supports or tolerates abortion has no faith in God. Obama is a political and intellectual light weight. The people who support him are thinking with their hormones and emotions and not with any sort of logic or intelligence.

Brian Thousand Oaks, CA   October 8th, 2007 2:19 pm ET

Interesting isn't it that they all talk about 'Faith' yot there is no mention of what their faith is in.

Faith in their own abilities? Faith in leading the people down the rosy path?

Most people have faith in faith and do not know what a real faith is as there is no object of their faith.

If their 'Faith' as they, the candidates, proclaim is in God and that God is the one true God then their evidence of that faith will be in the way they live their lives and the message they bring to the people.

Let them whom proclaim 'Faith' tell us exactly what their faith is in. Faith is only the conduit to God. Faith is not God.

Bruce, Powell Ohio   October 8th, 2007 2:19 pm ET

Obama is a Muslim, people! Also, how can you support a man who refuses to wear the US Flag on a lapel pin? Are you all that stupid down south?

RJDog   October 8th, 2007 2:18 pm ET

Now he thinks he is God

Ruben Sanchez, San Antonio TX   October 8th, 2007 2:17 pm ET

Well, with him not wearing the US flag lapel pin, and him sort of saying "God", without actually saying "God", I'd like to hear him say, "So help me God" in front of a national audience. After all, should he win, he'll have to take the oath and say those words.

Robert, Washington, DC   October 8th, 2007 2:17 pm ET

Interesting that he calls himself a Christian, when Christ Himself said that "His Kingdom is not of this world."

To what kingdom is Obama referring?

Fred, Russell, KS   October 8th, 2007 2:13 pm ET

Why is it that the evangelical wing of the Republican party only considers abortion and gay rights when choosing their candidate? Why pick a candidate only on those issues?

This country needs a strong leader who will address the real issues facing this great nation of ours. Please look at their stand on health care, immigration, and the economy and many other issues before making an informed decision.

We can't afford to let this section of the electorate hijack another election.

Tim, Ohio   October 8th, 2007 2:13 pm ET

How about a candidate who simply follows the constitution with no special claims to being right or wrong on religion?

RON PAUL 2008
http://http://www.ronpaul2008.com/

Phil, Shawnee OK   October 8th, 2007 2:11 pm ET

The harmful and hurtful words that are tossed around really amuse me. Christians that are so hell-bent on decrying a man that is very apparently Christian and has been since the 80's. Shame on all of you, just because he has a different and a different color! Is this really 2007? He speaks of unity and coming together, instead people seemingly only want to separate themselves.

The great majority of you are so misinformed, it's scarey! Obama comes from a broken background, he's stood on his own while his muslim father went back to where-ever he came from, leaving his mother and him to fend for themselves. He rose up as his own man and intelligent person, he became a God fearing man in 89 if I recall correctly. This isn't new to him!

I've typically always voted Republican, but after listening to Obama and doing some research over the candidates I truly believe he is the man for the job. He's approximately the same amount of job experience as Bush and Hillary. I REALLY don't want to see Hillary in office or the leech Rudy Guillani (who is looking like the Republican front runner now). Here's to you, Obama!

Rob, Springdale, Arkansas   October 8th, 2007 2:11 pm ET

Barack is not going to get the evangelical church vote. In the last election – 24 of the 25 states where people gave the highest percentage of their income to others, voted for a Republican president. Conservatives believe that if someone is in need, it is our duty to help them and Liberals believe that it is someone else's duty to help them (i.e. the government). This isn't just an opinion – it's clearly supported by the fact the the states with conservative voting records give higher percentages of their income to charity. It's just a different way of thinking.

Kenneth the sinner, Colorado Springs, Colorado   October 8th, 2007 2:07 pm ET

Hello CNN, Are you afraid to post my comment on the meaning of true love, true Christianity. I read so much hate on this blog from all sides, I think a message of love{I.E.: I Corinthians, chapter 13}, is a message sorely lacking in today's discourse. "All ya need is love," John Lennon, A good man, shot in the back, very sad…

Tom, Fayetteville Arkansas   October 8th, 2007 2:03 pm ET

Fear is a stinky cologne… and you people reek. Obama wants to amend the bi-partisanism that has divided us. Don't be afraid of change, because a hard rain is gonna come.

Terry Centerville, Ohio   October 8th, 2007 2:03 pm ET

Bush says that his favorite hero is Jesus and the left becomes apopleptic…'OMIGOD, the President's a religious freak in the white house!'

Obama extols a 'Kindom on Earth' and it is lauded as good for the country, and should garner him som votes.

Does anyone see the hypocisy?

Melinda S.   October 8th, 2007 2:01 pm ET

You are right H. Ayliffe, Corpus Christi, TX : October 7, 2007 9:00 pm

Obama is a muslim.

Christian, Phila, PA   October 8th, 2007 1:59 pm ET

Barack Hussein Obama is not Pro-Life. Neither is his party. Until the Democrat party is on the same side of the Life debate as God, the religious rhetoric from the left is worthless.

Mati, Seattle, WA   October 8th, 2007 1:59 pm ET

I am totally against Republicans, among other reasons for mixing up Church and politics. Faith is a private aspect of one's life and to show it in public and even more score political points for this, its a disgrace. GOP wins votes by using God's name … how can this resonate with truly believers?

So now, although I support the Democrats, I think Obama got this so wrong. Why did he need this?

Reva, Cincinnati, OH   October 8th, 2007 1:56 pm ET

Are you people on the right so hard hearted that you cannot appreciate Obama's promise of sharing the fruits of this great land with all down trodden people. He will assure that everyone has a home, running water and electricity, food, medicine, clothing and all necessities of life. He will require all corporations to share their bountiful return with the poor. We finally have an opportunity for peace and prosperity throughout the land. Can't you people understand this and want it for everyone. Or are you too greedy!

RightyTighty   October 8th, 2007 1:51 pm ET

The "Great Deceiver"…

WAKE UP! Obama is Muslim. Satan's kingdom is here on earth. Don't be fooled!
– Chuck Sakach, Farmington, MI

Give me a break Chuck..

Tammy, Scottsdale, AZ   October 8th, 2007 1:49 pm ET

Is America really this gullible?

Socialism = totalitarianism.

Totalitarianism = depotism, dictatorship, absolutism, tyranny.

Is this the America that you are truly striving for?

Elisha, Akron and Ohio   October 8th, 2007 1:47 pm ET

Mr. Senator Obama, i respect you but you are wrong to the GOP does not have a firm grim on faith. The GOP stands on conservative values, while the DEMS stand on liberial values. Our forefathers built this country through conservative values, but the liberial democrats are kicking those values to the curb. Fred Thompson, in my opinion stands on conservative and is the right man for America.

Jeff Burnette, Palmer, Alaska   October 8th, 2007 1:45 pm ET

Wonder when the country will repudiate every principle of our constitution and begin enforcing religious laws to bring order to society?

God says His kingdom is not of this world. To bad Obama hasn't accepted that yet.

Coach Haughton NH   October 8th, 2007 1:45 pm ET

PEOPLE ARE EXCEEDINGLY DUMB!

THE KINGDOM ON EARTH COMMENT WAS AN ANALOGY FOR BUILDING UP AMERICA.

HE WAS REFERENCING HOW HIS FAITH IN GOD CAN HELP HIM HELP THE COUNTRY WE LIVE IN!

YOU GUYS WHO ARE SEETHING AND SUGGESTING THAT HE WAS SOMEHOW QUOTING THE BIBLE ARE ABSOLUTE FOOLS!

GO READ A BOOK!

Cayla, Austin, TX   October 8th, 2007 1:44 pm ET

I've got an even better question. How come Muslim children can pray in school but Christian children cannot? To me, that sounds like the government has established a preferred religion.

Lee, Sterling, Va   October 8th, 2007 1:43 pm ET

What exactly is Mr. Obama's faith. That information has been glaringly absent from his campaign rhetoric. Now that he has challenged the GOP on issues of faith, maybe he will expand on his own faith. I have read that he was educated in both Islamic (some fundamentalist) and Catholic schools.

Edmund, Fallbrook, CA   October 8th, 2007 1:42 pm ET

Republican or Democrat, a religious wacko is a religious wacko.

wilma   October 8th, 2007 1:39 pm ET

in reply too this :It is rare to see a politician who is more than just an "in-name-only" Christian. Obama seems to really understand what following Christ is all about. Having a man who seeks to implement the genuine ways of Christ, which are found in most other religions as well, would do much for our country.

Kudos to Obama for standing for God and country with more sincerity than is

umm isnt he islamic ,should'nt he be in a mosque what does obama even remotely have to do with christian regilion

Paul R. Pine Ridge, SD   October 8th, 2007 1:38 pm ET

How odd that a Democrat who wants out of the war in Iraq to stop the senseless killing of our soldiers, supports the senseless killing of babies. Then has the gall to tell us that we have no values. Someone should tell him that Abortion has killed more people than WWII, Korea, Veitnam, Gulf, and Iraq…

Phillip Summers, Lebanon, TN   October 8th, 2007 1:37 pm ET

NEWSFLASH…There is NOTHING Christian or moral about killing unborn babies.

Obama, Hillary, & Rudi are all sickening.

Eric, Denver Co   October 8th, 2007 1:36 pm ET

I hope the christians aren't falling for this sales job. Regardless of his faith, the type of socialistic reforms he and Hillary will try to institute will destroy our economy, our freedom, and our nation. Our excessive gov.t spending and intrusion into our lives is the real threat, not that the christian community won't be allowed to practice its faith. Well, at least be able to practice it in private. I am aware libs are trying to get out of schools. The obvious solution is to dismantle the public school system and create a private voucher system one. Again, the republicans having the superior position.

Steve, Las Vegas Nevada   October 8th, 2007 1:34 pm ET

How come it's okay for Obama to speak at a church; yet, every time a Republican does it, Democrats whine about separation of church and state?

Maybe they ought to revoke this evangelical church's tax-free status.

Spencer, Pittsburgh, PA   October 8th, 2007 1:34 pm ET

I have a very difficult time supporting a candidate on moral grounds that is trying to win over the Religious "right" while simultaneously remaining pro-choice. Killing babies is the current American atrocity and human rights violation that needs to be remedied.

Rev William Parks, Jacksonville FL   October 8th, 2007 1:33 pm ET

The man who wants to be the first black US president has pledged to withdraw US troops from Iraq by March 2008, a timetable I believe is dangerous.

I think that would just encourage those who wanted completely to destabilise and destroy Iraq, and create chaos and victory for the terrorists to hang on and hope for (an) Obama victory,” Mr Howard told the Nine Network.

If I was running al-Qaeda in Iraq, I would put a circle around March 2008, and pray, as many times as possible, for a victory not only for Obama, but also for the Democrats.

He also said that 10,000 people died in the Kansas tornado?

Really

How many did he claim died when Katrina hit New Orleans?

10 million

This guy is a fool who refuses to wear the Flag as apin. He has no chance.

You live by the sword, you die by the sword.

Obama has been running for Red-Cross-Chairman-In-Chief , showing up at disaster sites, making ridiculous claims, and blaming everything on Bush.

He doesn't know the difference between ten victims and ten thousand victims. It all sounds like political opportunity to him.

I am starting to like the sound of a Gore/Obama ticket. Gore can scream "global warming" and Obama can scream "Katrina".

R. Lying   October 8th, 2007 1:32 pm ET

Libavenger – Funny how he couldn't tell me that himself. Typical neo-COMMIE coward.

Jo Mell   October 8th, 2007 1:32 pm ET

Obama is getting a little too EXTREME for me and a lot of other Americans.

He is starting to sound like a Nut Bag.

Chris, Atlanta, Ga   October 8th, 2007 1:31 pm ET

If some republican were to say this, bedwetting libs would be calling for his withdrawal from the race.

What a bunch of two faced hypocrites!!!!

gp burdell, alpharetta, ga   October 8th, 2007 1:31 pm ET

Is anyone voting for the half of Obama that is white?

Bill T, Brandon, FL   October 8th, 2007 1:29 pm ET

Same old politician stink… just a different party (pile) this time. When will naive Americans wake up and face the world as it is… not as we wish it to be ?

Dave, Ephrata PA   October 8th, 2007 1:29 pm ET

Setting up a kingdom on Earth is what Jesus will do, not Obama. Merely going to the church of "W'as happnin' now" does not make Obama a man of faith. Typically, black churches vote Democrat. How is he reaching out beyond his usual constituency? Ever try speaking to a mostly white congregation Obama? Thought so.

Chuck Sakach, Farmington, MI   October 8th, 2007 1:25 pm ET

The "Great Deceiver"…

WAKE UP! Obama is Muslim. Satan's kingdom is here on earth. Don't be fooled!

DR SLC UT   October 8th, 2007 1:22 pm ET

Another good reason Obama wont win!

I will not be a part of a party that has Evangelicals!

Robert, Kansas City, Mo   October 8th, 2007 1:21 pm ET

Our founding fathers would be appalled that a presidential candidate is talking about creating a kingdom.

Remember, he is a Democrat and when a Democrat talks about building a kingdom, regardless of where he says it, he is never refering to religion.

Socialism sucks!

Warrior07, Mililani, HI   October 8th, 2007 1:20 pm ET

Poor America, If all we have to look forward to is the Evil Goddess Hillary or Barac al Obama we are really heading into the end-of-days. Who is riding the Pale Horse?

Richard R, Austin, Texas   October 8th, 2007 1:19 pm ET

This obama is a whack job from the word go. Does he think he is a messiah?
A false one more like who belongs to a racist cultish church (black centric, how racist is that?) and had a muslim education.
People are so easily fooled its sad.

Megan, Atlanta, GA   October 8th, 2007 1:18 pm ET

733 comments on this one topic. What's the deal?

JC, NC   October 8th, 2007 1:18 pm ET

First let me point out, of what faith is he exactly? He is playing the voters, leaning one way but going another way. Telling people what they want to hear. That is a politician. Look at President Bush, I know everyone hates him and for what? Doing what he feels is best for the country. Keeping to his morals and principals. President Bush is a very religous man. If you ever met him in person, you can sense this. Let us keep in mind what our for fathers thought when building this country. They were thinking of God first above all else as it says on US Currency "In God We Trust" If it is in God We Trust, listen to him and he will guide you in who to vote for. As for me? I will not vote for someone who talks a talk just for a vote but someone of action and conviction because he knows it is right in his heart that is led by God.

Jeff Carroll, Winona Lake, In   October 8th, 2007 1:17 pm ET

As long as you atheistic Dems keep religiously taking the human lives of unborn children, and keep demanding that we accept SODOMITES, the GOP will have a lock on the Evangelical vote. It is just that simple-Jeff Carroll

Bob N - Massachusetts   October 8th, 2007 1:16 pm ET

Just what we need, another religious fanatic in the White House!
This man is a disgrace to the senate and the United States of America!

Dan, Mountain View, CA   October 8th, 2007 1:15 pm ET

Nice strategy from Obama to get some votes from Evangelical Christians. He knows there are at least 54 millions evangelical christian votes (those who voted for Bush in 2004 election), what a huge number!

Don't get fooled! Once he owns the White House, he will stab from the back and kill all of us the Christians. Because Obama's true faith is Islam and not Christian. Once he becomes the President, he will use this country not only to promote Islam but also to eliminate Christianity slowly but sure. That's his main agenda.

andrew bonnette Alexandria,LA   October 8th, 2007 1:15 pm ET

fake, fake, fake. This guy is so ridiculous its almost funny. Fred Thompson is the only true candidate. And you can take that to the bank, because he will be our next president. All you liberals can chew on that for a while.

brett, illinois   October 8th, 2007 1:14 pm ET

Politicians are not leaders. Obama and all the other candidates (Dem and Rep) feed on the vulnerabilities of people for gain of power. It's lesson #1 in any political science class: Tell the people what they want to hear in an effective way. Hillary is the worst. Why can't a true leader run for office?

Charles S., Agate Beach, OR   October 8th, 2007 1:14 pm ET

To: Intolerant Christians. Open your eyes. Look
around you here in the US. There ARE other faiths and religions. It's time for you to get with reality instead of shoving your version of it down peoples' throats. The US is a "big tent," and that includes
non-Christians.

Anonymous, New Mexico   October 8th, 2007 1:13 pm ET

Barack is out of touch with the Christian faith. Why does he go into churches to hype political agendas? The church is the house of God, a place to pray for your enemies. Separation of church and state was to protect the church from the state, and not use it as a pedestal for personal gain.

I'm disgusted by how close minded the democrats are to what Christianity is really about, and how they use these churches as a means for political gain…. disgusting.

John, Fargo ND   October 8th, 2007 1:13 pm ET

He's a sleeper – trying to take democracy and Christianity down from within.

Have you studied his background? Study, people – study!!

Patrick, Marietta, GA   October 8th, 2007 1:12 pm ET

The implication that this is a conservative church is not true. That is a fallacy made up by the media to have people believe that he is transforming conservatives into liberals. Liberal churches believe that the state (the government) should take things from one person through taxes and help others through welfare. That is not what Christianity advocates. Christians are responsible for taking care of the poor, sick, and widows with tithes given to it freely by its members. Christianity never advocates taking from someone and giving it to another.

L, Phila PA   October 8th, 2007 1:11 pm ET

Obama, maybe you better read your Bible again. God is the only one who is going to establish a Kingdom on Earth, when he returns for His believers.

Nanette Kastraveckas, Gloversville, NY   October 8th, 2007 1:11 pm ET

Bankers and lawyers are funding the Obama campaign. If that's OK with you, then expect more of the Bush-Clinton cabal policies.

http://www.opensecrets.org/pres08/contrib.asp?id=N00009638&cycle=2008
BARACK OBAMA (D)
Top Contributors

Goldman Sachs $311,228
Lehman Brothers $226,550
Exelon Corp $189,350
Sidley Austin LLP $187,750
Citadel Investment Group $168,650
JP Morgan Chase & Co $156,580
Citigroup Inc $152,750
UBS AG $136,000
Jones, Day et al $133,325
Skadden, Arps et al $112,650
Harvard University $109,100
Kirkland & Ellis $102,601
Jenner & Block $101,772
University of California $97,108
Time Warner $92,400
WilmerHale $91,060
UBS Americas $90,480
Morgan Stanley $87,000
Viacom Inc $80,200
Mayer, Brown et al $80,130

Emery, Atlanta GA   October 8th, 2007 1:11 pm ET

Ha Ha. That is funny. So a liberal Democrat talks about religion and that is good. But a conservative Republican does and that is bad? I noticed how CNN is pushing the whole we are holy too crap for the democrats. I'm just waiting for the day Hilary's prayer warriors take over the country. Now that is scary. Obama is a pathetic joke. So is his progressive faith. Anyone that falls for that is an idiot. Keep murdering those babies liberals.

Jim - Neputne, N.J.   October 8th, 2007 1:10 pm ET

What a bone head Obama is…pandering to groups because he is way behind Hillary. The entire Democrat Party is morally bankrupt of both values and ideas

Kevin, Indianapolis, IN   October 8th, 2007 1:08 pm ET

Oh, good grief. Can't you people recognize a snow job when you see it? He's paying lip service to Christians just like the Republicans have done for years. Heck, he's using the SAME ARGUEMENT. He uses the same, tired rhetoric the Republicans do for religion, sticks his foot in his mouth when it comes to international policy and has already angered some of our mid-east allies. The only candidate LESS qualified than Obama for office is Hillary.

Face it, the Republicans have left their conservative values and the Democrats think we're stupid enough to believe they HAVE them. It's time for a 3rd party to rise.

Jay, Newport Beach   October 8th, 2007 1:08 pm ET

Anonymous, please don't be ignorant. Obama is not a muslim. I know you guys post and repost that lie for people to read it and believe. If anything, he was raised seqular by his mother, who didn't trust religion, yet exposed him to all religions so he could learn and be the well rounded individual he is now. READ HIS BOOK and get the answers there. If you still don't like him then don't vote for him and go and vote for your favorite blood thirsty republican.

M. D. White   October 8th, 2007 1:03 pm ET

It's pathetic how the Dems play whatever card is needed at the time to blow smoke in everyone's face…the race card, the gay card, the "Choice" card, the gay card, the "save the children card," and now the religion card. If a Republican speaks at a church, there's a howl of self-righteous indignation about the so-called "separation of church and state," but bobble-headed sycophants glow and nod in approval when Clinton or Obama or whoever does the same. What hypocrasy. BTW, other than invading Pakistan, what stance has the genius Obama taken on anything. He speaks in vaporous sound-bites and is nothing but a designer suit..

dave, phila. pa.   October 8th, 2007 1:01 pm ET

how can a so called christian nation be so full of hate? the hate on this board alone would make anybodys god vomit!

Matthew, Charleston, SC.   October 8th, 2007 1:00 pm ET

Obama gives one speech and then becomes a presidental canidate. He is given praise and credentials from only the words he speaks. And now invokes god and talks of unity as if he is a prophet himself. I believe in unity but he has done nothing but divide this nation. And it seems to me that there is something in the bible about the antichrist being a master of CONversation. Yes democrats, vote barrack "the new messiah" and see his policies put into place. Don't dare do any research into his past or really think about how his policies will affect the world. No lets just pull out of iraq and start war with pakistan and saudi arabia and see if we can insight the whole muslim world against us. I understand things are bad now and I don't claim that Goerge Bush has done a great job. But Obama's foreign policies are naives and dangerous. American must be strong and united or we will fall. And when we do, do not think that our enemies around the world will not take the opportunity to punish us. It will only fit to cement the false idea that we are to blame for their troubles, not their own corruption and negligence.

Steve Mills, Sandia Park NM   October 8th, 2007 1:00 pm ET

Too bad most politicians throw religion in to their campaigns to just get votes. Obama is a good guy but I want to hear someone say that they will help our elderly population and stop wasteful GOV't spending. Not religion.

LIBAVENGER   October 8th, 2007 1:00 pm ET

R. Lying
R.J. didn't say Bush, he said "neoCONs LIKE SHRUB". Typical CON, twisting peoples words.

John, Charlotte, NC   October 8th, 2007 12:58 pm ET

Hysterical…the party that has spent a vast majority of its time fighting to push religion out of every aspect of American life…now claims to be its champion. Great comedy!

Me, Fullerton, CA   October 8th, 2007 12:56 pm ET

No one said that faith is belonged to GOP, Obama. I know you are trying to get votes from Christian community. You might get some, at least from the black Christians, because race usually more preferable than faith. We will see how many Christians voters you can get after all of your efforts.

The same thing happened to John Kerry in 2004 election. He tried to get some portion from Christian voters, but was he success?? You think you can fool God?? You think you are smarter than God?? If you think go to hell with my God, then why you talk about Christian faith?? You are a big hypocrite!

I challenge every one who wants to bet with me, this man will never become the President of The United States of America because he is not the annointed one. Period. You may not trust me, it's up to you, and you will see that I'm true.

Anonymous   October 8th, 2007 12:55 pm ET

Has anyone pondered the fact that Obama is a devout Muslim who, by Islamic law, cannot pledge allegiance to anything or anyone except Allah? Shouldn't a US President at least pledge allegiance to the country he is in charge of? I have yet to find any reference on his website to his religion other than he attends a Christian church but I know that he prays to Mecca several times a day. I think he should explain this to the public instead of hiding this "small" detail from America.

Chuck, Henderson, KY   October 8th, 2007 12:55 pm ET

Rudy…Clinton…Obama…has it actually come to this? God help our country!

Ted, Phoenix, AZ   October 8th, 2007 12:55 pm ET

If we have a "kingdom," Obama will be its King Herod. He is an enthusiastic supporter of abortion on demand, for any reason, at any time, even up to the moment of birth. Sen. Daniel Patrick Moynihan (D-NY)correctly called partial birth abortion infanticide. But worse, as state senator, Obama blocked a bill to require medical care for babies who were actually born alive and healthy despite the best efforts of the abortionists to kill them. http://thehill.com/campaign-2008/abortion-foes-target-obama-because-of-his-vote-record-on-illinois-legislation-2007-02-15.html

Dave N Hoodsport WA   October 8th, 2007 12:55 pm ET

Getting the evangelical vote is not based on talking about religion, but what your view is on the important worldview issues that Christians hold to. So far I have not heard Mr. Obamma display my beliefs in his statements. Maybe he will but for now he is striking out.

Nate, Orange, CA   October 8th, 2007 12:54 pm ET

The man is a Muslim, not an evangelical. He is flip-flopping and will do anything to get into power. If he is willing to forsake his own faith…what else is he willing to forsake?

Bill Handle   October 8th, 2007 12:53 pm ET

Who beleives anything that CNN publishes anymore? They have lost all credibilty in reporting the news and their general programming.

Rach M Oklahoma City, OK   October 8th, 2007 12:52 pm ET

I am afraid that neither party has a claim for religion or true Christianity. They are both corrupt. I don't,however, remember any republican saying that they had a "lock" on religion.

However, a party that supports the death of innocent children will not be smiled kindly upon by God..pretty simple.

Personally, I think we are severely lacking for decent candidates in this campaign
that want to talk REAL issues. Religion isn't one of them.

Texas Annie, Plano, TX   October 8th, 2007 12:52 pm ET

What kind of "Kingdom" is Obama talking about? WHO will be the "King"? Does he even KNOW what he is talking about? This man is extremely foolish or naive or both. May God (the true King) help us all!

Rich, Philadelphia, PA   October 8th, 2007 12:51 pm ET

Chances of Democrats becoming the party of the religious anytime soon = zero. The Democratic party is the most hostile to the religious. It is the party of abortion, radical gay movements, and the ACLU (which is actively engaged in rewriting history to erase our Christian heritage).

This is pandering at its purest and anyone with at least two brain cells sees it as such.

By the way, why bring a photographer and camera man to the church? Aren't leftists always complaining that religious people should keep religion private, to themselves?

Abe Jefferson   October 8th, 2007 12:51 pm ET

Obama has no chance to be President.

Marcus, Portland, Oregon   October 8th, 2007 12:50 pm ET

Hey, all you holy rollers out there, here's one for you! "Judge not, lest ye be judged."
Practice what you preach.

Neil Edwards, Atlanta, GA   October 8th, 2007 12:48 pm ET

Democrats have faith and values? They never talk about them.

Open, Your, Mind   October 8th, 2007 12:46 pm ET

Trying to force a rigid set of rules like christianity into a democratic government, is like trying to mash a square peg in a round hole. As long as we all agree that we all have seperate faiths and beliefs, lets all agree to keep them the heck out of politics and focus on what's best for the country. Ignorance and narrow minded thoughts have no place in a progressive system like our government. Keep church and state seperate!

Anonymous   October 8th, 2007 12:45 pm ET

Spoken like a true anti-christ. "Kingdom on earth" references Satan's rein on earth. There is only one kingdom and that is in God's heaven with Jesus. Wait a minute, isn't Obama a Moslem portraying a Christian.

R. Lying   October 8th, 2007 12:44 pm ET

R.J. you are a liar. Produce one quote where Bush attacked Obama's faith.

You liberals have really got to stop stating your opinions as if they were fact.

DHW   October 8th, 2007 12:42 pm ET

Barack HUSSEIN Obama is going to lecture us on Christian faith?! Would that be the faith of his father(s) Islam or the faith of his politically active, white-hating megachurch? Just askin'.

Brian Cranford, nj   October 8th, 2007 12:41 pm ET

God Bless you Obama. Maybe now we can indeed get a kingdom and do away wiht all this republican stuff.

Tim, Round Rock, TX   October 8th, 2007 12:35 pm ET

Obama and TD Jakes both understand something about black churches: they're full of suckers just waiting to be taken.

Jakes is using Obama to gain notoriety and more contributions. Obama is using Jakes and his congregation to gain votes and more contributions. The losers are the congregation who empty their pockets for nothing more than speeches full of words they don't understand and promises that they'll never see fulfilled.

Allan Erickson, Newberg, OR   October 8th, 2007 12:33 pm ET

Following Christ is not about politics, as Judas supposed. It is not about making people feel good, as so many people assume. Following Christ is about recognizing your sin, and humbly asking Him to help you overcome it. Everybody wants to hijack the Lord and enlist Him in support of their temporal, meager political machinations. He is far above and beyond our petty politics.

Fed-Up, Maine   October 8th, 2007 12:32 pm ET

Wow, nothing gets the nuts to come out of the wooodwork like pulling out the religion card! People of faith need to go back and hit the books if they go around preaching "every life is sacred" and "forgiveness in the only way", and then go on to vote for capital punishment and the right to use force and bomb Iraqi civilians into oblivion. You think politicians are the only hypocrites, but take a look in the mirror. Until every single citizen can believe in whatever they want to at home and in their church, but put it all to the side and REALLY think about the issues before they pull that lever, then this country will never be any better off.

R.J.   October 8th, 2007 12:31 pm ET

Right-wing neoCONs like Shrub claim to be christian, and they smear Obama for making the same claim. Jesus said to love your enemies, and not to kill, and to turn the other cheek, and to give to the poor(not millionaires). The CONs have fooled the sheeple, but not God. Christ said, "Many will come to me on the last day and say, didn't I cast out demons in your name, and didn't I prophecy in your name? And Christ will respond, I know you not, you are workers of iniquity."

Cayla, Austin, TX   October 8th, 2007 12:30 pm ET

Lioness denigrates Republicans when they speak of faith yet applauds a Democrat when they speak of their faith, despite the fact that she is a self-professed atheist. Liberals don't have positions, they have labels. What Lioness is saying is: Some are more equal than others. No thank you. That is a dangerous idea.

Larry, Atlanta, GA   October 8th, 2007 12:29 pm ET

Someone needs to explain to Obama (as well as most politicians who use the word on both sides of the aisle) that 'faith' is not a stand alone concept. Faith is only as good as the object in which it's placed. ALL faith is a 'particular brand of faith' there's no such thing as generic faith and no true Christian would promote such an idea. Christianity is faith IN Jesus Christ alone as the one true way to be reconciled to God with all other 'faiths' being recognized as conterfeit, something I seriously doubt Obama would affirm.

Bill Rummel, Charleston, SC   October 8th, 2007 12:29 pm ET

For the answer as to how/why Obama is permitted to politic inside a 501c(3)church you must know who owns him. Here are his top campaign contributors:

http://www.opensecrets.org/pres08/contrib.asp?id=N00009638&cycle=2008

Bill Rummel, Charleston, SC   October 8th, 2007 12:28 pm ET

To answer all your questions as to how/why Obama can bring politics into a church without penalty, see who his top campaign contributors are! He's just another CFR log on the presidential heap.
http://www.opensecrets.org/pres08/contrib.asp?id=N00009638&cycle=2008

JJ in Georgia   October 8th, 2007 12:26 pm ET

To EMC:

Would that be a course at Columbia per chance?

You gotta love it when a Dem gets all churchy and you lefties praise him like he's the second coming.

But a Rep mentions the word God and you all start screaming separation of church and state.

Wayne, Tulsa, Oklahoma   October 8th, 2007 12:25 pm ET

Edited away by the CNN Blog Trolls earlier. I will repost again and again until the censorship ends. No Profanity in either post, giving my Real name and a valid email account that I check regularly. so here goes again;

Kingdom of God, sure, he wants to establish a Caliphate. I believe this weasle will capitulate to the Muslims Fascists and help them establish their global Caliphate. Never trust this person. Or for that matter, CNN.

3rd time posted, Why delete my comments? afraid of the truth or afraid of free speech? What rule am I breaking? I will reposyt when this is removed as well.

CNN = Fascists and censors

DR.Parker, Birmingham Alabama   October 8th, 2007 12:24 pm ET

Who does Barack Obama think he is God? Give me a break Kingdom on Earth!

Jeff, Ponce, Puerto Rico   October 8th, 2007 12:23 pm ET

You've got to be kidding me…there's so-called Christians supporting Obama? The guy is pro-abortion…that invalidates him completely as someone a Christian can support.

Ethan, Los Angeles, CA   October 8th, 2007 12:22 pm ET

Obama, if and when you take office, your oath is to defend the US Constitution, not to preach. You are not experienced enough to handle the office of the US President. Do not go into a church and tell me you are doing God's Will. Is the other candidate doing the Will of the devil?

I was initially excited about you running for president, but then I got wise. I have just changed parties to support Dr. Ron Paul. He is the champion of the US Constitution.

Brian, Knoxville TN   October 8th, 2007 12:21 pm ET

To David in Arizona,

I couldn't agree with you more. ALL of the candidates, democrat or republican, would fail in God's eyes. These postings are truly sad and disgusting.

Tony, Centreville, VA   October 8th, 2007 12:20 pm ET

Obama's "values" are clear. Use the force of government to rob Peter to pay Paul.

Charlie, Denham Springs, La   October 8th, 2007 12:19 pm ET

I feel sorry for all you Hussein Obamma tag a longs. This is nothing but a presidential hi-jacking by a mole islamist.

Gary Lee, San Francisco, CA   October 8th, 2007 12:18 pm ET

It's disgusting that a pro-abortion (death cult) like the democrats, can speak freely in an "evangelical" "church". None of those in that church have any idea what Godly actions are – what would be the reaction of these people if a republican pro-life candidate spoke in a church? I'll tell you what the result would be: that church would lose its non-profit statis..o well, politics as usual

Chet, Los Angeles, CA   October 8th, 2007 12:18 pm ET

"We can build a Kingdom right here on Earth"? A charismatic young leader from nowhere who believes in world government, who swore in on a Quran, in a Christian Church, trying to align himself with Christian leaders?

Sounds Beastish to me… know what I mean? Rev. 13 anybody? haha…

No, I'm not saying it's Obama, but it is kinda scary no? Definitely tripped my alarms!

Kent, Hercules, CA   October 8th, 2007 12:18 pm ET

Liberation Theology, pure and simple. We bring in the kingdom through liberal politics, allegorizing Scripture, highly subjective approach to the Bible. Biblical terms given new meanings. Salvation equals redistribution of wealth.

larry henderson   October 8th, 2007 12:18 pm ET

He supports GAY MARRIAGE and ABORTION.
His father was a MILITANT MUSLIM. ALLAH!

Mia, Stafford, VA   October 8th, 2007 12:17 pm ET

In case you forget, parents name their children. Barack did not chose his name his parents did.

Many people were raised in the faith of their parents, and then as adults made the choice of what faith they would be. In case you didn't know, Barack spend most of his upbringing with his grandparents from the heartland of America, not his African father, who left the family, nor his Indonesian step-father.

I cannot believe the ignorance. He is the anti-christ, because he wants us to UNITE AND WORK TOGETHER?

Is there anyone truly happy with the direction our country is going, or currently in? Our Congress can't get anything done, based on this blog racism is alive and well.

We need someone who thinks this should be part of the platform. Not putting their head under a pillow and not acknowledging how messed up we (the USA) are, with all this hatred, intolerance, and selfishness/greed (sending all the jobs to other countries for larger profits). At some point we have to look inside and decide what kind of person do we want to be, do we want to make a difference, and do we want our country to be a place that claims our foundation was built on Christian beliefs, but spew more hate then the devil himself.

Blayze Kohime, Columbus OH   October 8th, 2007 12:17 pm ET

Actually religion doesn't own moral values at all. I know plenty of alternate religion or non religious people that have equal or better values than many mainstream religious people. Because of that, to me it is really irrelevant which politicians are using religion to control the masses and which are not.

Nancy, Marshall Minnesota   October 8th, 2007 12:17 pm ET

First Amendment: addresses the rights of freedom of religion (prohibiting Congressional establishment of a religion over another religion through Law and protecting the right to free exercise of religion), freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and freedom of petition.

State religion (also called an official religion, established church or state church) is a religious body or creed officially endorsed by the state.

So, Freedom of Religion… I think people are getting off course. The political candidates are applying for a job, and we the people, as their employers need to look at some of these facts. This amendment was placed into our constitution for a reason. There should be NO endorsement of a religion by any of these candidates because they are to be STATE REPRESENTATIVES. Yet, here they keep pushing their chosen religion.

Church does not belong in government. PERIOD! The ideals of religion do not always coincide with what is necessary for the health and well being of the nation of people that the goverment is suppose to be protecting. But here we have a candidate pushing for a "Kingdom" in the Religious sense, I really think that if elected, this would seriously violate the constitution. I still stand by the seperation of Church and State. Period!

Christen, SA, TX   October 8th, 2007 12:16 pm ET

I thought Obama's stance was to bring the two parties closer together; it seems he is now intent on drawing lines between democrats and republicans…typical politician.

jerry garcia   October 8th, 2007 12:15 pm ET

He supports GAY MARRIAGE and ABORTION.
His father was a MILITANT MUSLIM. ALLAH!

Dan Tacoma Washington   October 8th, 2007 12:14 pm ET

Unfortunately, Politicians will say opps 'lie' about anything to get elected. The only time you see them with the public is when they need your Vote! The only time they listen to polls is when they are running for office and flip flop their positions based on those polls.

The American people are too stupid to realize this. It's all about Power not about Representation. Once in office the PAC and the special interest lobbyists rules. With 2 lobbyists for every Senator and Congressman in Office, do you really think that the people are actually represented??? Just look at the legislation coming out of Congress.

The Democratic Party has been hijacked by the far Left Liberals in the same way the Republican Party has been hijacked by the Far Right!

Susan Skinner, Ellijay Ga   October 8th, 2007 12:14 pm ET

I will believe in a kingdom on earth ONLY when someone can do something about places like San Francisco and the Folsom Street Fairwhich openly allow gay oral sex in public where children can observe. Where is the outrage from either party? Behind closed doors is one matter but in public, with cops standing around doing nothing, is quite another.

mark mission viejo ca   October 8th, 2007 12:12 pm ET

Kingdom on earth? Matbe he's running to become the Anti Christ, I think Hillary has him beat for that job though.

Joshua, Rochester, NY   October 8th, 2007 12:12 pm ET

Just wondering who Obama thinks is going to be "king" over this "kingdom". He's quite the politician! Just stands up and pushes his agenda under the guise of "faith" (faith in what Obama?) Obama, if you're so interested in social justice then stop supporting those who like to murder unborn babies!!! For once I would like to see someone stand up and say something of substance rather than just flapping their gums and blowing hot air!

Nick Shelton, Nashville, Tennessee   October 8th, 2007 12:11 pm ET

Poor Barack. He is committing political suicide, and he doesn't even realize it. On one hand, he's got liberals who think he's violating the wall between church and state (a concept they don't understand correctly anyway). That's why he's 20+ points behind Hillary Rob'em Clinton. On the other hand, he's got conservatives that see through his religious doublespeak and see him for the phony he is. Here is a pro-abortion, pro-homosexual marriage, pro-embryonic stem cell research, pro-"everything-anti-Christian" candidate trying to preach a "kingdom" on earth. Who's kingdom? His? Ours? What a farce. God laughs at the schemes of men. "He who sits in the heavens laughs; the Lord holds them in derision" (Psalm 1:4). I can hear Him now. At any rate, doesn't anyone realize he's Johnny Cochran without glasses?

Daniel   October 8th, 2007 12:11 pm ET

Bad news for Obama: Iowa has set its caucus date on January 3rd which means there won't be that much college participation. Full analysis of what this means here.

John D Rock Portland, O   October 8th, 2007 12:10 pm ET

We were created as a Judeo-Christian nation, praying for the blessings of God. The stipulation was for the government never to mandate any one religion, as was the case in England with the Anglican Church or the Catholic Church in France and Italy. In those countries following that assertion, any following of any other religion was considered to make you a heretic and subject to death.
The big mistake of our forefathers was the influence of unforseen idiots who read into it so much that was not intended. "Majority shall rule" has given way to every "minority shall prevail in court".

Johnny, Jacksonville Florida   October 8th, 2007 12:07 pm ET

Until Obama and the liberals stop killing god's precious creations, babies in their mothers wombs, has no stature or right to discuss God. His statments amount to nothing but political posturing. He's an empty suit.

Joe, Gaithersburg MD   October 8th, 2007 12:07 pm ET

"I am confident we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

Signed,

Barack (Jesus Christ) Obama

Reva, Cincinnati, OH   October 8th, 2007 12:07 pm ET

Osama Obama is a savior truly sent from God. He will require all of the profits from all companies to go into a national fund to be redistributed to all of us who have so little. We now can all claim the american dream. Everyone can have a home, a car, food, clothing, and all bills taken care of. The fear of doing without will be gone from our lives. Bless Obama and pray for his victory so we can all be without want.

EMC, Buffalo, NY   October 8th, 2007 12:06 pm ET

My dear Brian Garland – your hostile answer doesn't prove anything. I'll take that as an admission that you can't really explain yourself. I think the language of the first amendment is clear and succinct. Surely, one of your intellect and confidence can muster an explanation which would put me in place!

Cheers.

Ken Detroit, Michigan   October 8th, 2007 12:05 pm ET

Would someone please prove their god exists. If not shut up! These politicians are taking advantage of a society weaned on emotionalism, not logic or thinking. Democracy cannot exist alongside fake religious morals – muslim, hindu, catholic, lutheran or sungod. Ask the pope. Religious "leaders" want money and control for emotional handouts. Its hilarious. Supposedly normal people still give money to and adore a liar pope and church. A) The USA is a constitutional republic, not a democracy. B) Any such republic requires thought, not uncontrolled emotionalism to survive. C) The USA is leaning towards socialism. Hello Hillary. D) We still posess a backwards dark age mentality with modern military technology, a very dangerous combination. E0 read AYN RAND – ATLAS SHRUGGED

Chad, Fairhope, AL   October 8th, 2007 12:04 pm ET

Typical Democrat talking about "faith and values" in context of their liberal agenda…cherry picking scripture referencing "the poor," but avoiding homosexual, abortion, and other actions the Bible stands against and identifies as morally corrupt. "Religion" to a Democrat means nothing more than a big group hug…feels good, but is meaningless in a true spiritual sense. "Faith and values" are no substitute for adherence to the teachings of Jesus Christ. And in the end, that is all that will matter.

Seam, Philly PA   October 8th, 2007 12:04 pm ET

All the ignorance and disgraceful comments on this post is unbelievable. People are so out of touch and easily influenced by simple things that become so blown out of proportion. Too often, people mis-read, mis-interpret, and are mis-informed. Most of you people need to get a life, but get an education first!

DS, Ft. Knox, KY   October 8th, 2007 12:03 pm ET

Morals and religion are NOT interchangeable words! Morals and Christianity are NOT interchangeable words. Many people got to thier respective houses of worship every (week, day, whatever) and still come out lying, backstabbing cheats. IF America ever starts voting with thier brains instead of by dogma, perhaps we might get a somewhat effective government. I'm not holding my breath.

BRAD WHEELING WV   October 8th, 2007 12:02 pm ET

Obama told an evangelical church in South Carolina: "I am confident we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

CHECK IT OUT, THIS IS A CULT, NOT RELIGION

Brent, Durham, NC   October 8th, 2007 12:02 pm ET

Obama: "I think its important particularly for those of us in the Democratic Party to not cede values and faith to any one party,"
Me: Haha, very funny. I think ya'll did that a long time ago when your party got jacked by the libs and atheists on the far left. The Democratic party stands for gay marriage and abortion "rights" and you do not deviate from the party line. So you have de-facto ceded the conscience voters to the red side no matter how inept they may be at times. And I wonder who in the world decided to let Obama speak at their evangelical church? Where I come from any Bible-believing evangelical church would condemn his views and call for his repentance, not give him a podium. I think this is the time in history where we're going to start to see more clearly the wolves in sheep's clothing within the church…

AJ; Montpelier; VT   October 8th, 2007 12:01 pm ET

This snake oil salesman makes me sick. Another Bible banging bigot in politics. The more he opens his mouht the moire lies drop out. Obama cares nothing about America. It ia a power and an ego trip with him. Wake up America see this creature for what it really is….

Ralph Highpoint,NC   October 8th, 2007 12:00 pm ET

It doesn't really matter what Obama says or does. The media keeps trying to prop up him and Edwards to try and make this a race. This is Hillary Clinton's race to lose, she's the nominee and likely the next president. She's so far ahead in the polls, and she also has the best ground game. The former President Clinton is still extremely popular with Democrats, these guys don't stand a chance. Even if Hillary loses Iowa, she's the nominee, no question about it.

Kevin, Chicago, IL   October 8th, 2007 12:00 pm ET

Sen. Obama,

It's good to see that you are on board with such values of faith as a baby's right to life and against such anti-God concepts as same sex marriage. You are doing very well to improve the way many Christians view Muslims today. Keep up the good work!

LJ, Massachusetts   October 8th, 2007 11:59 am ET

Those who know the bible are all too familiar with the warnings about relying on any one or anything that presents itself, or in this case himself, as an alternative to the true Savior of mankind. Obama better be careful about talk of setting up a "kingdom" and leave that to God.

EMC, Buffalo, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:58 am ET

Bravo to David from Arizona – I applaud a Republican with a brain and with common sense… Many of you others could learn a lesson from him!

Publius, Richmond, VA   October 8th, 2007 11:57 am ET

This is reminiscent of the "Modern Age" view that Christ's kingdom would be accomplished here on Earth. It is also the sort of madness that feeds pseudo-religious babble.

If Obama is a Christian, why do we never hear him talk about death and resurrection? About salvation from his sinful nature? Why does he always speak in vague generalities about "faith" and "values"? For that matter, he never mentions Jesus except, if ever, to cite some vague historical notions of a really good guy.

Say what you will about President Bush, at least he has a properly robust faith. He isn't really a proper conservative, as we all know from his spending and Wilsonian crusades, but he is certainly an actual Christian whose faith influences his life, not just his politics.

Barack and Hillary are the same – as are some on the right (Fred Thompson's vague faith and Guliani's 'cultural Catholicism' come to mind).

If you all want people of faith in office, and I know some of you do NOT, look at Mike Huckabee, who is an ordained Baptist minister, Sam Brownback, who is a devout Catholic, or Mitt Romney, whose deep Mormon roots give him values much more traditional than many of these so-called Christian candidates.

M.D. IND   October 8th, 2007 11:56 am ET

If he is Christian then walk the walk and talk the talk… he must be against ABORTION, SAME SEX RELATIONSHIPS, AND ALL RELIGIOUS PERSECUTION, such as taking the ten commandments out of the public just because someone else wants to push their pagan beliefs on others. where does he stand on moral issues. you cant compramise on morals and be a believer. Also our bible does'nt say you will get 70 virgins for killing people, i hope he has that out of his system also. so step up to the plate with your own beliefs and lets hear them Hussein. every one wants to head hunt Dr. Dobbson for speaking the truth and you can always tell when he hits a nerve because the Demacrats that are always such strong Christian supporters just fly off the handle every time he points out weak spots in the way we live our lives …of course its always some course of sin that was already talked about by jesus in the bible ( of course no demacrate has ever studied the bible to know what the truth is) every time he tells the truth they just lose it. so maybe Hussein will let us know how he feels on the issues that he is slamming the Republicans for this time.COME ON HUSSEIN LETS SEE WHAT YOU ARE MADE OF ! ! !

Darrell Northam, Woodland, CA   October 8th, 2007 11:56 am ET

I agree with Senator Obama that the Republicans do not own God, but then again neither do the Democrats. Actually no one does. God owns everything–He is the Creator of the Universe, the Heavens and the Earth.

As an Indpendent, I see things more clearly then I did when I was a member of both major parties.

The one thing that is clear is that the Democrats party platform supports abortion and embraces same-sex marriage; two things God does not condone. Also, a member of the Democratic party who is on the U.S. Supreme Court decides to re-write the Constitution from the bench in regards to emminent domain.

So Senator Obama better also make clear that the Democrats do not corner the market on faith, family values and abiding by the U.S. Constitution.

Bonnie, Dayton OH   October 8th, 2007 11:54 am ET

After seeing all of the ugly prejudiced comments on this thread from people who call themselves Christians, I am firmly convinced that we need a new approach to politics in this country.

Go Obama!

EMC, Buffalo, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:54 am ET

I challenge any of the Islamophobic bigots here to take a college course on the history of Islamic civilization and religion.

Stop buying the line given to you by conservative rhetoricists and by bigoted evangelical leaders… Most of you are judging an ancient, complex, dynamic world civilization out of your fear of terrorism. This is wrong, and it's a shame. What's worse yet is that you attach this milieu to Obama!! Give me a break.

Islamophobia, and the lumping of anything remotely Islamic in with Islamism is the mark of a weak mind – or the mark of a dishonest political mind.

Kris K Atlanta, Georgia   October 8th, 2007 11:54 am ET

Obama spent 3 of his formulative, developmental years in a Muslim madrassa. He was a child at the time. I'm sure he learned a few useful "convert or be killed" skills during those 3 years.

Obama has attended a black only, segregated church for close to 15 years. I don't need a divisive, phony Christian mooslem pretending to run my country.

I also do nor support socialism, like those on the Left do. We are a captitalist society, NOT a communist or socialist State (comrade).

I'm praying that ANY republican wins the '08 election- the dems scare the crap outta me, especially Komrade Klinton. God help us all!

CAREY, U.S. ARMY   October 8th, 2007 11:53 am ET

Yes, thank GOD that Hussein Obama-rama keeps showing what a moron he is. All he needs to do is open his inexperienced mouth.

If he gets the DNC nod for President, he'd better try ignoring the absentee ballots coming from Soldiers, like algore did.

Oh yeah – a real brave man, like Billary and the Breck Girl – - too scared to go on FOX News' Presidential debates.

Charles Hamlin, Northborough MA   October 8th, 2007 11:53 am ET

Obama's comments at Redemption World Outreach Center are critical especially for Christian voters. It is especially important at this current and redemptively changing nexus of faith and politics that we return to the core of Christian faith and ask the childlike question, "What would Jesus do?" instead of relying on, "What do I currently believe?"

Jim Galveston TX   October 8th, 2007 11:52 am ET

Obama what a sicko dumocrat will do for a vote ……… are we trying to right of hillaryhaven?

Brian, Charlotte, NC   October 8th, 2007 11:52 am ET

"Create a Kingdom right here on Earth?" What happened to "in this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I (Jesus) have overcome the world." For Christians, it isn't about Earth. It's about eternity in Heaven. Obama's religious beliefs make me wary.

Nancy, Marshall Minnesota   October 8th, 2007 11:51 am ET

I believe that no matter WHICH political party is involved, whoever is running should not be pulling the GOD card out to base their candidacy on. Come on people, talk about leading the sheep.

There is so much corruption in politics and religion it's getting harder and harder to believe in either. Did you ignorant christians believe he is really behind you? Hell every one of these politicians will say WHATEVER the public wants to hear to get their votes. Especially in the bible belt. Get with the program. Look what the last religion toting president did to us. We're how far into debt? How many different contries hate us? How many people are living in absolute poverty? (NOT the pharmacutical or medical insurance companies.)

I have nothing personal against Mr. Obama, heck he could be a great upstanding guy, but I don't approve of the GOD senario, for ANY of the candidates. JMO

EMC, Buffalo, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:50 am ET

Again, in many of the above posts… we see the right telling us that they know what "America needs," or that they may judge which religion is "naive" and which is not… another man links Obama's religion to Carter's "free pass" given to the Iranians (and these are related how?)… yet another fellow thinks he's qualified to say that Obama is making a false presentation of religion, and that it's purely political, as if he knows Obama's heart enough to say that his religion is false…

I see no evidence of insincerity here, and I see no evidence that Obama is doing anything but attempting to convey to America who he really is. Will even the common righties in their houses wage a smear-campaign on blogs such as these?

A lot of fuzzy logic here, and a lot of arrogance.

John, Ware, Massachusetts   October 8th, 2007 11:50 am ET

Who gets to be "god" in the new kingdom on Earth… the government?

Brian Garland, Boise ID   October 8th, 2007 11:50 am ET

"Explain your assertions that Obama is violating the first amendment… or are you guys just blowing hot air?"

Save your breathe. PC imposing, intolerant, Leftist liberal nutroots have no clue what the 1st ammendment is all about.

David, Gilbert Arizona   October 8th, 2007 11:48 am ET

All I can say from reading all these posts is holy wow!

God commanded that thou shall not kill. It doesn't say thou shall not kill the unborn. It says thou shall not kill.

The republicans are shaking their fists screaming the democrats tout abortion so they can't invoke religion and yet at the same time the republican platform includes the death penalty, war in Iraq, and guns for everyone.

Jesus said divorce was wrong. "What God as joined together let man not seperate." Well surprise! Divorce is not just a democrat thing. Republicans get divorced just as often as democrats. Take a good look at your republican candidates.

The Constitution of the United States says there will be no religious test for a candidate running for public office. The reason the Constitution says this is because EVERYONE would fail the test. There is not one single candidate out there that would pass a religious test.

I'm a republican and I could care less what religion a candidate practices. Religion is a private personal matter. No party owns religion, which is obvious by both party platforms.

Matt D., Kansas City, MO   October 8th, 2007 11:48 am ET

Wrong Obama. We do own God. You can keep your Allah or whatever. When you lean the way you lean, you are in direct conflict with God. And please, no one add "He isn't Muslim." We all see through that lie.

Dale, Prescott, AZ   October 8th, 2007 11:48 am ET

I must of miss sometime in Sunday School? I didn't realize that Jesus was a fiscal conservative. I didn't know that he wanted us to turn the poor away from health care, especially children. I didn't realize that we wanted to place everyone over 65 on universal health care then tell the rest of the world that we don't believe in universal health care. Since when did become more important to worship Jesus's example rather than follow his example?

Brian Garland, Boise ID   October 8th, 2007 11:47 am ET

What a transparent hypocrit. In his own statement, he does what he accuses the Republicans of doing.

"on the other hand you had the Republicans (and now Obama) who had a particular brand of faith that often times seemed intolerant or pushed people away"

Jordan Orosz, San Diego, Ca.   October 8th, 2007 11:46 am ET

Halleluiah!! Another Democratic Party Nut Exposed!! Obama,Commander in Chief? Sounds like an Iranian President I heard from recently. Jordan Orosz, San Diego, Ca.

Anonymous   October 8th, 2007 11:46 am ET

Separation of church and state is a must!

Say no to Judeo-Christianity disease!

EMC, Buffalo, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:45 am ET

lol..

I still don't get how Obama's campaign, here, is a violation of "church and state" – of the first amendment clause that prevents the government from making laws that respect an enstablished religion… Obama is not the "state," and he's not making laws to establish an official religion, or a support an exclusive religion.

Explain your assertions that Obama is violating the first amendment… or are you guys just blowing hot air?

Michael, Menlo Park CA   October 8th, 2007 11:45 am ET

Only the whacko lefties are buying this weak religeous act. Oh, and don't make fun of his ears.

John, Greenville, SC   October 8th, 2007 11:44 am ET

Obama is so out of touch with what the American people need it's sad. Do not get sucked in to his play on religion to satisfy his political agenda.

Big Mama's House, Cincinnati   October 8th, 2007 11:42 am ET

When will black leaders stop exploiting their own race. Too many black leaders with any type of power, being it music, movies, or politics uses their race to exploit other blacks into buying/following whatever they say. Look beyond the color and start making smart decisions, just because someone is black doesn't mean they will keep other black's best interests at heart. Don't think for a minute that B.O. doesn't know how valuable the black christian vote would be.

Martin Fishman   October 8th, 2007 11:41 am ET

Obama reminds me of Jimmy Carter,religious but naive.Carter gave Iran a free pass when it invaded American embassy in Tehran.We are living with the consequences of Carter's naive attitude.What will Obama give these terrorists?

Power, NYC   October 8th, 2007 11:38 am ET

Didn't we create the fact of church seperation from State for a reason?

EMC, Buffalo, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:34 am ET

Is the right really that Islamophobic? That uneducated? That utterly intolerant? You're honestly telling me that many of you believe that Barack Obama is an Islamist?

Do you even understand that Islam and Islamism are two different things? Do you grasp that there is a long complex historical development of these ideas which really abberations in Islamic history?

lololol…

Some of you folks really need to open your eyes and your ears – and maybe finish your GED before you make such judgments about decent people and a decent religion which has been hi-jacked by intolerant fascists like yourself. Take some community college history courses. You're all so easily wound up, and your hatred is too easily brought out at the very mention of even an Arabic-sounding name. This is the mark of an irrational fear, which is mixed up with your religion and political views…

Wow. Some of you righties are real pieces of work.

Cindy   October 8th, 2007 11:34 am ET

What a condescending little prick.
If a Republican had made that remark, the ACLU would make moves to have them arrested for violation of the non existent "separation of church and state".
You also have to wonder if is muslim brothers are going to take kindly to these statements or his he really talking about a islamic-fascist state.

Don L.   October 8th, 2007 11:30 am ET

So Obama and the dems want to wear the cloak of religion to buy votes. If they are truly the believers they want us to think then let them walk the walk first. Let them declare themselves unequivically anti-abortion, anti-gay marriage, pro-prayer and Bible in public schools, etc. etc., just like the rest of us real evangelicals. Otherwise their self righteous garments of religion will be seen for what they are – flimsy transparancies of the real thing. Sorry, Obama, you are fooling no one!

Tevye   October 8th, 2007 11:30 am ET

Is this man whistling in the wind or what?
Hillary ate his lunch weeks ago, pandering to the religious right now won't work. Bye Bye Barrack

Todd C Cape Cod, MA   October 8th, 2007 11:29 am ET

Not a whimper about separation of church and state . . . only if it were a Republican doing it

Tim Slagle IL   October 8th, 2007 11:29 am ET

Jesus said: "My Kingdom is not of this Earth"

Obama thinks he's bigger than Jesus!

Alvin Richardson, McDonough, Georgia   October 8th, 2007 11:28 am ET

"I am confident we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."
Christians need to be careful of Humanism. We can’t create a Kingdom here on Earth because we are finite beings. Every man or woman in history who attempted to create “Kingdom On Earth” has failed miserably. Humanism is not the answer. Politicians are not the answer. Isaiah 45:22 says, “Look to Me, and be saved, all you ends of the earth! For I am God, and there is no other.

During the Jena 6 rally, I head Michael Baisden comment that in essence we should not wait for some “deity” to come down and solve our problems, that we need to do it ourselves. Christians need to be careful whom they jump into bed with.

Anyone who supports abortion or that barbaric procedure of partial birth abortion will never get my vote I don’t care how Black he or she is.

Alvin Richardson

Dave G, Sterling, VA   October 8th, 2007 11:28 am ET

It's good that Obama says he's a Cristian, but most left-leaning Christians have lost the 'dual mandate' concept.

'Individuals' are supposed to turn the other cheek, walk the extra mile, give your coat, etc, but not the State.

The State (or government) is supposed to 'uphold good and suppress evil'. To expect the Start to 'turn the other cheek' is dangerous.

Apparently Obama doesn't understand this. As a Christian, I can't vote for someone that will enable the State to cower before enemies.

Mike,Oswego, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:28 am ET

Another politician telling you what you want to hear. Wake up.

Nothing is going to change.

Vote Ron Paul he won't lie to you.

Mike Smith   October 8th, 2007 11:28 am ET

It's appalling to see liberal Dem's calling themselves religous. The right-wing doesn't have a brand of faith….God does. However, you cannot call yourself religous if you kill babies and promote homosexuality….and that is the bottom line when we are talkig about the voting 'Failthful'. I find two things hard to believe 1. truly religous, church-going folks vote democrat even though they do not believe in abortion and 2. the black vote abandoned the party that ended slavery against the very poitical organization that was fighting for slavery in the civil war…the democrats!

Brian, Napa, CA   October 8th, 2007 11:28 am ET

Why is it that if a Republican speaks to a religious group it a viloation of "Church and State," but when a Democrat speaks of has a fund rasing event, No Problem?????

Wayne, Oklahoma   October 8th, 2007 11:27 am ET

Edited away by the CNN Blog Trolls earlier. I will repost again and again until the censorship ends. No Profanity in either post, giving my Real name and a valid email account that I check regularly. so here goes again;

Kingdom of God, sure, he wants to establish a Caliphate. I believe this weasle will capitulate to the Muslims Fascists and help them establish their global Caliphate. Never trust this person. Or for that matter, CNN.

Will Hanza, New York City   October 8th, 2007 11:26 am ET

JESUS WAS A JEWISH LIBERAL.

Help the poor, hungry and sick.

As opposed to the conservatives who want to not have healthcare for America's poor children.

What would Jesus do?

Sam, Greenville SC   October 8th, 2007 11:26 am ET

"We need someone for president who can respect freedom of religion and the separation of church and state, such as presidential candidate Ron Paul."

LOL!!!

Don Weantchee WA   October 8th, 2007 11:26 am ET

What is Obamma's position on abortion? The answer is that he supports abortion, which is killing of the the most helpless and innocent lives.

Also, why does Obama want to attack inside of Pakistan, even without approval from Pakistan? Attacking a soveriegn nation – leading to more deaths and likely another war front?

This is a man of God? He can preach to us about the kingdom on earth?

God save us, for we know not what we do.

Roy   October 8th, 2007 11:26 am ET

The KINGDOM of SODOM and GOMORRAH

HOMOSEXUALITY is REPROBATE SIN Unforgivable Sin!)

Reprobate silver shall men call them, because the LORD hath rejected them. Jeremiah 6:30

Men (and women) of corrupt minds, REPROBATE concerning the faith. 9But they shall proceed no further. 2 Timothy 3:1 – 9.

Likewise also the men, leaving the natural use of the woman, burned in their lust one toward another; men with men working that which is unseemly, and receiving in themselves that recompence of their error which was meet. 28And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge,
God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient; 29Being filled with all unrighteousness, Romans 1:24

They profess that they know God; but in works they deny him, being abominable, and disobedient, and unto every good work reprobate. Titus 1:16

EMC, Buffalo, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:25 am ET

Knaves! I find it abhorrent that just because Obama's father is a Muslim, and because he was given Arabic names, many people here are attaching all the worst things about Islam to Obama. That's cheap, and it has no bearing on reality. Not to mention – haven't you sheep heard that the madrassa story was a fake? Nice job, righties – keep pushing your intolerant, arrogant snake-oil.

Also – Barack has a clear history of being a person of faith. He's not trying to "sell" you anything – he's trying to talk candidly about who he is. What he's talking about is the very attitude I see on this board – that the right thinks it owns religion, and can dictate what is an appropriate Christian attitude and what is not.

On this comment thread and elsewhere – I see more of the same from the right. Intolerance and arrogance. Oy!

jenny   October 8th, 2007 11:23 am ET

He supports GAY MARRIAGE and ABORTION.
His father was a MILITANT MUSLIM. ALLAH!

JP, Atlanta, GA   October 8th, 2007 11:23 am ET

A double minded man is unstable in all his ways.

Shen, Texas   October 8th, 2007 11:23 am ET

Obama IS a Muslim. He was raised a Muslim, and the Quran commands that any Muslim, who leaves the faith … especially one, who leaves to become a Christian or a Jew … MUST be killed. It also commands that Muslims lie, cheat, trick, steal, etc., from Christians and Jews and other "infidels" in order to convert or conquer them. The fact that there has not been an outcry from the Muslim community, nor a fatwa issued for his death means that other Muslims are "in" on the deception and want him elected President of the US in order to turn this into a Muslim country. Just after 9/11, the head Imam in New York said that within 10 years, the US would be a Muslim country. How best to do that than by having a Muslim for President?

Chris, Indianapolis, IN   October 8th, 2007 11:22 am ET

Anyone else tired of candidates itching your ears and only telling you what you want to hear?

"the Caesars too would have believed on Christ, if either the Caesars had not been necessary for the world, or if Christians could have been Caesars …" –Tertullian

Religion and Politics will never truly coincide, they weren't supposed to. This is just a game for them. Tell it to the judge on judgement day.

Rob Velasquez, San Diego CA   October 8th, 2007 11:21 am ET

one quick question to add….why does it really matter what his religious beliefs are? we are electing a president, not a preacher. ones religious moralities have no place in politics, they are hired to represent everyone not jsut one religious sect.

Foo Bar, Saint Paul, Minnesota   October 8th, 2007 11:21 am ET

You guys have got to remember that Mr. Obama is not talking about a 'christian' heaven on earth, he's Muslim.

Enraged, SLC, UT   October 8th, 2007 11:21 am ET

Wow, so much delsion in this thread, and so little time to dissect it. All this talk of what a magical sky fairy and his imaginary Jewish carpenter son demand of humanity makes me want to vomit. Are people in this country really this ignorant?

Here's a thought: why not grow up and focus on the real issues? I'm sick of hearing Republicans whine about the "sanctity of life" when they support the slaughter of innocent lives in the Middle East because they're not Christians. I'm also sick of Democrats trying to pander to religious dolts who believe that the ultimate creator of the universe wants to have a personal relationship with them (if it exists in the first place, which is beyond doubtful).

Dennis Breen, Raymond NH   October 8th, 2007 11:20 am ET

Very Interesting Mr Obama. Creatures creating a kingdom on Earth sounds like the sin of Pride, Satan's sin and man's Original sin.

Studying his party's platform, his many well-spoken positions, Mr Obama's kingdom seems to be the Moloch Kingdom: unrestricted sodomy, perversion, promiscuity; the glorified slaughter of the Innocents (an element of voodoo there); the Robin Hood theft of one citizen's private property to be doled to illegal aliens, et cetera, et alia.

Speaking of evils, it would be interesting to see this never-tested man thwart the true rape of the US Treasury by the likes of Jack Murtha, Robert Byrd, and all their insidious colleagues. Sure he may charm Nancy Versace Pilates, but the real power behind the glowers in the US Congress will laugh themselves to tears.

It would be easy to dismiss this inexperience phenomenon as as-empty a suit as Hillary is truly an empty skirt, unfortunately Biblical admonitions of 'Scribes, Pharisees, hypocrites ..' and "woe to you Lawyers .." are politically incorrect.

The man speaks sweet sounding words but has gall in his soul.

Ratbor McCain   October 8th, 2007 11:20 am ET

Like all good Christians, I believe we should kill all the Iraqis. May George W Bush drink the blood of every man woman and child in Iraq! And Iran. And the gays. And the libs.

monica, rochester new york   October 8th, 2007 11:19 am ET

Thanks KD, Dallas Tx. I was beginning to think no one had a civil or intelligent word to say. It's too bad so many have no respect for Obama's efforts to weave in his faith in a respectful and honest way. As a constitutional law expert, he values and supports separation of church and state. But he shows by example how you can have respect for both in your life. No one can show any evidence to the contrary based on his 8 years in the state legislature and his years as a US senator.
Some of the posters here purport to be "christians" but spew just as much intolerance, negativty and judgment than anyone else. Sure doesn't do much to prove the power of their faith to create loving, understanding people. Some of you even think you have the right to deny Obama the right to his faith, by saying he's muslim, when he's clearly and proudly proclaimed his christian faith. Is there some kind of christian litmus test he's suppose to take before fellow christians accept him into the club? He's your bretheren, yet you verbally stone him any chance you get. You're "I'm a real christian but he's a fake christian" statements are outrageous and extremely unchristian. It's no wonder people are turning away from organized religion, too many of it's members exhibit behaviors that prove there's no power or goodness there.

Ted Smith, Louisville, KY   October 8th, 2007 11:18 am ET

B. Hussein Obama–a good Muslim President.

Matt, Annandale, NJ   October 8th, 2007 11:13 am ET

Religion doesn't "belong" to anyone. God's word is not for sale and it never changes despite what politicians would like you to think. If you want to know God, read the Bible!!!

pl. at the UN for a while.   October 8th, 2007 11:13 am ET

Judging by the number of bloggers, Mr Obama's forey into religion is confusing everyone.
He is not expanding his base, rather he is just carving a niche for himself. And a narrow one at that.

The Republican right is very little about God-speeches. It is about long-term policies about the Bible–not the Koran–right to life, and so on.

I must admit, Mr Obama, that every time you pull a stunt such as this one you leave me scratching my head.

Mike Denver, Colorado   October 8th, 2007 11:12 am ET

If he really wants the faith vote, how is his stand relate to the Democratic ideal of unfettered abortions?
Side comment, I thought the political process was to occur outside of churches (not outside of faith). Why is it Democratics can campaign constantly inside of churches and if Republicans did the same thing a chorus would arise singing how Church and state are to be separate?

gobuckeyes   October 8th, 2007 11:10 am ET

"al in NY, NY": This is where you left wingers make your mistake – which has cost you two elections now. Not all people of faith are "bible thumpers" – just like all people from NYC aren't rude and thoughtless. Don't sterotype.

Kim Zuber   October 8th, 2007 11:10 am ET

The only religion that seeks to create a kingdom on earth is Islam. In Christianity, Christ's kingdom has already come. This is very close to the introduction of Islam to the unbeliever.

Kelly, San diego, ca   October 8th, 2007 11:10 am ET

Yet, at the same time Air America is setting up to broadcast an Athiest Program…all in the name if inclusiveness don't ya know.

Greg Lamb Bakersfield, Ca   October 8th, 2007 11:09 am ET

Why do Dems get a pass on speaking from the pulpit? If a Republican candidate or conservative pastor talks politics from the pulpit people scream 'seperation' and call for revoking tax exempt status.

Observer   October 8th, 2007 11:08 am ET

To Darell S : (above)

Your comments are without a doubt the most asinine and ridiculous attempt at character assasination of Barrack Obama.

Not only have you got your facts seriously wrong (I'd go as far as saying you have deliberately created lies to further your (or the candidate you support) own agenda, but you also show to the world what a narrow minded fool you are!

I feel compelled to write this response to defend Obama, and I'm not even a supporter.

Red, houston, tx   October 8th, 2007 11:07 am ET

This is all a big joke, let me bait the hook and toss it out and see who bits… get a grip people you would think that this man was the next incarnation or something. They say what you want to hear, and you believe what you want. God truly takes care of the Dumb, the blind and the Drunks..

Columbus Ohio   October 8th, 2007 11:06 am ET

we have a lot of racist that post on CNN. and CNN seems very bias towards Barack

Scott,Seattle Washington   October 8th, 2007 11:06 am ET

It is like the old saying goes,"everything old is new again".Obama talking "faith",Hillary spouting off about "faith/morality",& Gore's new religion of "global warming"-These liberals/Democrats are the NEW snake-oil salesmen;phony preachers in a traveling "revival"setting, selling you false"faith"in order for you to buy their product-their product being the omnipotent need to be in power & force their socialist agenda on the American people.All the while stealing your money in the form of higher taxes to fund these agendas, while they smile at you & tell you that "this is in the best interest of everybody,Amen & praise God"

Tom B., St. Paul, MN   October 8th, 2007 11:05 am ET

If a Republican were to suggest the same thing, cries of separation of Church and state would be shouted from the rooftops.

If a Democrat says it, even the atheists support him. Go figure.

My theory is that this is because deep down, people don't believe a word of it. Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton, John Edwards…they all profess to be part of Christ's kingdom, but when push comes to shove it's an empty faith. Their faith ultimately lies in government, the bigger the better, so they can get away with shouting their nonsense from every available pulpit.

You get the government you deserve, and in '08 we'll officially see America sold down the river in a ship of platitudes. Thanks, Democrats.

P. Tenney Newberry, Florida   October 8th, 2007 11:05 am ET

Barack Hussein Obama was taught in a radical islamic school when young, and is now attending a black "Christian" white-hating church, and he is going to create a "kingdom on earth?" Yep, an islamic one. Give us a break!!

Peter, Dallas, Texas   October 8th, 2007 11:04 am ET

Note that Barack Hussein Obama includes no reference to Jesus. He could be trying to disguise the fact that he is referring to his own original faith, Islam.

Les, Orlando, FL   October 8th, 2007 11:04 am ET

Of course the GOP does not "own" God or faith and values. But the Dems have been so shoddy with this area. I consider myself Christian and have been in a Dem family but this is where I have a problem. That's also why I am registered independent. I will go with a candidate who brings the best ideas to the table no matter what party, but they must have some sort of values and must respect the constitution. So far, only Ron Paul has appealed to me.

Brian, Denver, CO   October 8th, 2007 11:04 am ET

1) For Christian conservatives hating democrats is an extension of their faith. I've been consistently confused why the Dems think they are going to change that.
2) I guess he has a point though. Neither party is exactly a great representation of God's will. The Republicans have the Old Testament down. But then there's that whole New Testament thing that their policies directly contradict.

Scotty DuPriest, Lodi, CA.   October 8th, 2007 11:04 am ET

Yes the Republicans do not own faith and values. We just don't cater to the abortion wing of the democratic machine. Sorry folks, Life is Sacred you can play this off anyway you want, but God again will judge not by who you know, what you did, but how you lived. Hold a new born baby in your arms and tell me its all right.

El Gato, Harlem, NY   October 8th, 2007 11:03 am ET

Obama is a secret Muslim in my opinion, and he sure as heck isn't a mainstream Christian. He's as phony as a $3.00 bill. Would you trust ANY black to be the leader of the U.S.? Has the black community handled the problems they have? Of course not, so why would anyone believe they could handle the larger community? Reparations anyone?

Buckwheat   October 8th, 2007 11:03 am ET

Oh, gee whizz! Yesterday, I blogged on this stream and realized later that my "Anti-Democrat" comments (which were not inflamatory) would never be published by CNN because of their bias for the bad guys.
To be brief: If a Republican used a church as a fund raiser . . . guess what the outrage would be by CNN?
My comments weren't posted. Second try!

CNN: "HALF OF THE STORY, ALL OF THE TIME!"

J. Schweitzer   October 8th, 2007 11:02 am ET

Until the Democratic Party removes it's plank supporting unrestricted access to abortion, it cannot lay claim to anything but shame in the moral arena.

Dom   October 8th, 2007 11:01 am ET

What I love about Obama is that he is such a genuine down to earth guy who effortlessly connects with the common man. It comes straight from the heart with Obama and you know what you're getting.

With the others, esp Clinton, they are always weighing, calculating each word, every nuance, every smile – it's all rather fake and distant.

We need a President who is one of our own – that's what the President of the USA is! We're not electing a wanna-be King / Queen.

Obama – Judgement to Lead !

jerry garcia san antonio,tx   October 8th, 2007 11:00 am ET

he is sing ing to the choir.

Gene, Seminole, OK   October 8th, 2007 10:59 am ET

Hitler thought he was tight with God. Helping Him with the “Jewish Question” and all.

Steve Chicago Il   October 8th, 2007 10:58 am ET

Wake Up!
Yeah, Barack Hussein Obama stands for morals and values like: killing the unborn,and sodomy. This guy will say anything to get elected. I guess he will have to be satisfied with being Hillary's vice president.

RODOM   October 8th, 2007 10:57 am ET

I'm wondering how long we'll have to wait before the media wing of the Democratic party runs a story about the "danger" of mixing religion and politics. It's peculiar how the press depict the evangelicals as nothing more than hypocritical bigots–when they're conservative and white. While Jimmy Carter and Jesse Jackson are, of course, "men of faith."

Daryl, Shawnee, OK   October 8th, 2007 10:55 am ET

Be careful what you say. This blog censors comments!!

KJ, Minnesota   October 8th, 2007 10:55 am ET

err, rather he did attend a school that was predominantly Muslim, but also attended a Catholic school as well, neither of which he attended for reasons of faith, just out of necessity.

Mike Port Richey, FL   October 8th, 2007 10:55 am ET

"We're going to keep on praising together. I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

Anytime a politician makes this type of statement a cold shiver runs down my spine.

"What has always made the state a hell on earth has been precisely that man has tried to make it his heaven."
F. Holderlin

Rob Velasquez, San Diego CA   October 8th, 2007 10:54 am ET

Good for him. A few things…some people have posted that he is just rying to play to the religious community, or that hes not truly religious because hes only talking about his faith in church. But isnt this the same thing that the republican party does..mentions their religious beliefs so they can get the vote of the church goers? Also if hes tlaking about his bleifs doenst it stand to reason that he would do it in front of people who have similiar views? Though I have many issues with christianity and catholisms since it seems so many people from that side are intent on forcing thier views on everyone else and are the first to condem someone (as shown here by the words said agasint Obama) I have to say good for him, hes showing that there shoudl be unity and equality and hes not forcing his views on the masses but showing that he is a man with views. The best person is one that will expose themselves and be true to thier faith but not let their faith guide their political actions. Hes got my vote.

Luke, Florence, Mt   October 8th, 2007 10:54 am ET

"You will know them by their fruit" The fruit of politics is anger, division, pride (I am right, you are wrong), hate, strife and so on… I see no love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness or self-control in politics (or in any of the above postings). Christians, why do we think we can force others to do what we cannot do without the help of Jesus? No wonder we are viewed with fear and distain. Politics is not the answer just as the biblical law is not, they can not change people's hearts, only Jesus Christ can. He set up his kingdom 2000 years ago, make Him ruler of your life (I am still taking to christians), He is the answer, put your hope in Him not some political doctrine or person.

JR, Columbus, OH   October 8th, 2007 10:53 am ET

Where is the hatred that the left spews when a conservative talks about faith? So, the left is ok with faith as long as the messenger is from the left? Sure, he'll say, "Let's talk and embrace religion" and then proceed forward as if he never did. Sounds like the same old hypocrisy. His words sound good to the ears, but they are hollow and meaningless in reality and in practice. He is psuedo-everything.

Neil, Colorado SPrings, CO   October 8th, 2007 10:51 am ET

Wow…a Muslim who suddenly found the Christian God and all of you pinheads just eat it up. Please, he is like every politician…will say and do anything and worship whatever god will get him elected.

Wesner, Miami Beach, Fl   October 8th, 2007 10:50 am ET

To all of Obama supporters, I really appreciates you guys take your stands. furthermore, I also acknowledge few Republicans and some few independents who are also taking a stand for Obama, but not yet had made their decision on voting for him which I totally respect.

It is very sad to see in this 21st. century, we have not establish that much of a progress towards respecting someone ideas, respecting someone beliefs, respecting someone ethnicity background and most important of all, respect yourself first before anything.

The issue is that I am a fully devoted Christian, but I want to be. My goal is to strive everyday to be the best I can to accomplish of becoming a fully devoted Christian. And one thing I know for sure is thou shall not put God's name in vain.

Now, I know am going hate myself for doing this, but it is an obligation to defend a great individual. Therefore, I'm going to lower myself to all of you guys chastising, criticizing, and blaspheming Obama on courageous stands on what is right for this country.

To all the idiots that never graduate from high school better yet pre-school due all of us a big favor? GET OFF YOUR MOTHERS BREST, GET A REAL JOB, STOP HAVING SEX WITH YOUR OWN FAMILY MEMBERS, AND STOP HIDING BEHIND THE WHITE SHEETS AND THE KEYBOARD. YOU GUYS ARE WORST THEN ROACHES.

"I GOT YOUR BACK OBAMA!"

Tom Clair, Lynchburg Virginia   October 8th, 2007 10:49 am ET

1 Corinthians 6:9-10:

9 Don’t you realize that those who do wrong will not inherit the Kingdom of God? Don’t fool yourselves. Those who indulge in sexual sin, or who worship idols, or commit adultery, or are male prostitutes, or practice homosexuality, 10 or are thieves, or greedy people, or drunkards, or are abusive, or cheat people—none of these will inherit the Kingdom of God.

Democrats promote the killing of unborn Children – larget percentage are black as a percentage of total population. 40 % of abortions are black , Blacks make up 12% of population. You would think that Obama would cry on his knees to know what a genocide has been laid on the American Black race. Nope , he tows the line for the Democrats.

Democrats say kill all the unborns you want, it is your right to Privacy.

Democrates promote homosexuality, is it wrong, according to the Bible yes, fore God and not Man.

Democrats promote homosexuality, there is no right or wrong, what ever feels good. Some time in the future, the ACLU and the Democrats will be pushing for Beastiality, why not? They have NO MORAL UNDERPINNINGS TO THE CHRISTIAN FAITH.

May God Forgive us……….

Dusty Roop, San Angelo, Texas   October 8th, 2007 10:48 am ET

Obama is no more a Christian than I am a Muslim. He's a new age poverty pimp just like Jesse Jackson. He just has a leg up politically with a bunch of confused supporters looking for a leader. What they may find is the Antichrist…

Justin Niland, San Antonio, TX   October 8th, 2007 10:48 am ET

Obama wants to create a Kingdom on Earth, with himself as King. Heaven help us if he gets elected.

Michael Katsaitis, Franklin TN   October 8th, 2007 10:47 am ET

How would the media act if Fred Thompson went in front of a Baptist Church giving the same exact speech about faith and values? The media would start crying out the same Bovine separation of church and state.

Justin Niland   October 8th, 2007 10:46 am ET

Obama wants to create a Kingdom on Earth, with himself as King, of course.

Chris T Resurrectionville, USA   October 8th, 2007 10:44 am ET

Friends gather round. An old song flows out from the forest, or the bright grass breaking thru the concrete, like a warm safari. Coming home… coming home…

The boy from the story is alive and well. He wrote a book, and one day he'll tell. But for now, there's a dancing kid, back with his family, in the land of Obama's Promise.

Gene, Findlay, OH   October 8th, 2007 10:44 am ET

Are some of you people nuts?!!! Obama doesn't represent christians in any way. He swore into the Senate on the koran!!! Beware of the wolf in sheeps clothes. This SOB is the enemy! I'm a conservative and I would vote for Hillary before I would this guy.

L Green   October 8th, 2007 10:43 am ET

…he is a good eight years away from being ready for the top job. He lacks the maturity for the job for which he seeks. He really hasn't done anything yet. I also think that he is too political; he will say what he thinks people want to hear.

Mike, Minneapolis, MN   October 8th, 2007 10:43 am ET

While I give him an E for effort, he is preaching a false doctrine.

No man can create a Kingdom here on Earth, then again, what type of Democratic kingdom was he refering to?(Sodom ?)

Obama needs to spend more time in prayer with Jesus,and reading the Bible, before he dare put foot on the pulpit.

Only Jesus Christ, upon His return, will provide the type of KINGDOM that we as Christians should desire. HE is the only way to Heaven. "There is no other way.."

Keep you focus on Heaven, put your treasures there, not on the words of foolish men in this world.

Pray for our country.

Repent of your sins and put your faith/trust in Christ before it is too late. Thank you.

Bill Sand Springs, OK   October 8th, 2007 10:43 am ET

Watch out for ANY man or group who claims they can establish the Kingdom of God on earth….Sorry! That is reserved for the King of kings ONLY. It will come but, not by man!

Marcus Atrocious, Des Moines, Iowa   October 8th, 2007 10:39 am ET

His name is Barack_Hussein_Obama… yeah, he's a big-time Christian alright.

Whatever.

Marcus

Bill, from Sarasota,Fl.   October 8th, 2007 10:39 am ET

In the Bible Jesus says "My Kingdom is not of this earth." Scripture also tells us how satan is attempting to establish his kingdom here on earth through the catholic church (1st beast of Revelation).Who's side are you on, Mr. Obama?

SteveD Philadelphia PA   October 8th, 2007 10:39 am ET

Candidates for President shouldn't be speaking in religious terms, this isn’t the Middle East. You're free to practice religion here, but you shouldn't wear it on your sleeve.

unc2plo   October 8th, 2007 10:38 am ET

Why do Democrates get to speak at Churches, but Republicans don't?

larry, boise   October 8th, 2007 10:37 am ET

How are the left-wing fascist Dems going to vote for this guy now? Oh that's right, they know he's lying through his big horse teeth for the church vote.

Nancy, Marshall Minnesota   October 8th, 2007 10:37 am ET

Excuse me, BUT what ever happened to the seperation of church and state? This whole God driven polotics is starting to make me sick.

The people of the united states have lost so many freedoms that our forefathers fought for and all you people quibble about is whether Obama is Muslim or Christian. SHEESH people, get a grip. Try being concerned about things that REALLY matter.

How about the thousands of people loosing their homes, jobs and lively hood because of the "religious" war we are fighting now. That is what religion and politics is bring us now.

Religion has NO place in the presidency of the US. This country is way too diverse religiously for it to be a good thing.

Cory, San Diego, CA   October 8th, 2007 10:37 am ET

There is no such thing as a Democrat who is also a Christian. It is 100% impossible to support mass-infanticide and still call yourself a follower of Christ.

RH, Scottsdale AZ   October 8th, 2007 10:37 am ET

Stick a fork in him, HE'S Done!!!

Kevin, Virginia Beach, VA   October 8th, 2007 10:36 am ET

Can you imagine the out cry from the media if this were a conservative republican speaking at a church? Why is it okay of the Dems to speak from the pulpit and not the Repubs?
Soon Obama will be talking abouy a 1,000 year reign. Lord help us!

ohioredstate   October 8th, 2007 10:36 am ET

Has anyone else noticed that every time you read about this man he's knocking Republicans and the President? Mr. Obama, while you're degrading Republicans, your real competition right now is passing you by, buddy. You might want to start talking about a plan – oh yeah, you dems don't ever have one.

Tom, Anaheim, CA   October 8th, 2007 10:36 am ET

What cracks me up is that over 500 people commented on this topic. Is that a record?

I don't think "God" cares one bit about "Demopublicans" or
"Republicrats".

howie, chicago   October 8th, 2007 10:34 am ET

I thought these left-wing jackals are against mixing religion and politics?

Paul, Cumberland, MD   October 8th, 2007 10:34 am ET

No, the GOP does not and can not have a monopoly on faith in politics. But at the sametime, if a Republican had made the comments Obama made on Sunday, the entire DNC, ACLU and every non-GOP or Christian group would be up in arms.

ben hall, henderson, ky   October 8th, 2007 10:32 am ET

As usual, another politician saying whatever will stir his live audience and look good in the media.

Reynard   October 8th, 2007 10:31 am ET

CNN is a bunch of liberal suck ups.

Gosh, I bet I know what happens to this one. Some guy in a tutu will wet his pants.

Donna L   October 8th, 2007 10:30 am ET

CNN: Thanks for posting the Republican Talking Points so everyone can see clearly what these folks are about.

Joseph Carroll   October 8th, 2007 10:28 am ET

What universe does this snake oil salesmen live on?

I used to have respect for this guy but his ignorance of his opponents knows no bounds.

This guy lives around, walks around and makes all decisions based in shame. What is he so ashamed about that he can't just talk about? Something is really wrong with his shame about patriotism and faith that he has to lash out at others on the topic and manufacture phony victimization about EVERYTHING. Grow up you baby.

Steve, Reading, PA   October 8th, 2007 10:28 am ET

Does any other Christian have a problem like I do when he says "I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."? His statement goes directly against core Christianity principals. To say he wants to create a Kingdom right here on Earth it is a direct challenge that he achieve something comparable to God's own creation. I'm a Lutheran, not an evangelical, but anyone of faith and leadership who says these kind of things concerns me.

Gerald R. San Antonio, Texas   October 8th, 2007 10:28 am ET

To Andrea Taylor of Florida: Your Kool-Aid is now being served.

Steve, Houston, TX   October 8th, 2007 10:26 am ET

Imagine a kingdom on earth. I think I've heard that somewhere before. Oh, this must be it:

Imagine there's no Heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people
Living for today

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people
Sharing all the world

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But I'm not the only one
I hope someday you'll join us
And the world will live as one

Is this the kingdom Obama is thinking of?

Darren, Philadelphia, PA   October 8th, 2007 10:26 am ET

Being that all Christ ever commanded us to do was 'go into all the world and preach the gospel and make disciples'.. I am quite confused by the derailed faith in the country these days.

Christians are to bear with the government as long as it doesnt cause them to sin, they are not asked anywhere to 'be' the government.

And Dobson is a nut case too, because family is the least of the New Testament things that were emphasized… reconsile what Dobson preaches with the passage that says "hate your mother, father and children" and it is better to remain single and marriage is only for those that are week and cannot resist temptation.

Does anyone actually look at all the Bible anymore?

Pickles, Monaca, PA   October 8th, 2007 10:25 am ET

Michael said: "The dems are fooling only other liberal morons, not normal people, not TRUE AMERICANS! They will NOT win."

Well, idiot, you just smeared half the population of the country. Who made you judge and jury anyway? "Judge not, lest ye be judged." Yes, make your gate to heaven as narrow as you can and ignore the human heart. Then see if YOUR morality is good enough for YOU to pass through that gate.

Tony, Atlana   October 8th, 2007 10:25 am ET

Amazing that someone who declared it was a "Dark day in America" when the senate upheld the ban on partial birth abortion, and then bow down at the feet of homosexual stars at the "gay" debates, has the audacity to call on the name of the Lord. Apostle Ron Carpenter in the words of Ricky Ricardo has "got some 'splaning" to do!

Dan, Columbus OH   October 8th, 2007 10:25 am ET

I'm not sure how the party that defends abortion-on-demand (including partial birth abortion) and gay marriage, that screams bloody murder whenever a Christian speaks out (Justices Thomas and Alito, General Pace, Dobson etc) but defends Muslim extremists' rights to call for the death of non-believers, and speaks of moral relativism can claim THEY hold the upper hand on religion.

I DO KNOW that there are many faithful, honest religious people that are Democrats, and that the recent scandals show that certain GOP pols have abandoned their morals, but as a whole, the GOP is still the party that embraces God, and the Dems are still the party that embraces secularism and sometimes tries to shut down anything related to religion — especially Christians.

ABORTION is a key issue here — can you REALLY be a party of God if you defend infanticide? A million dead babies doesn't help their case, that's for sure!

William Hofmeister, Moberly, MO   October 8th, 2007 10:25 am ET

So they think they can hoodwink the religious among us with someone who advocates the secularist, pro-abortion, hollywood moral, socialist agenda. Empty suit, empty suit, empty suit.

Jeff, Wichita Falls TX   October 8th, 2007 10:25 am ET

I find it amazing that dems want to push God out of every corner of our lives, until they need him to get elected. Wake up people.

Alan, Southern California   October 8th, 2007 10:24 am ET

Nice words by Mr Obama, but his values do not reflect a Christian "Kingdom" point of view. So the question is begged…..who's "Kingdom" is he talking about??

Jim, NC   October 8th, 2007 10:23 am ET

America doesn't need generic "faith". America needs to have faith in Jesus Christ.
Most liberals have great faith in the power and capabilities of the welfare state. There is only One who knows exactly where Obama's faith lies.

B.D. Cedar Rapids, IA   October 8th, 2007 10:22 am ET

Interesting…Where did Hussein Obama make these statements? In a Church? What if a Republican made these statements in a church? I don't think we would have the same head line. We would have "Republicans broke the law by campaigning in a Church".

Who is going to create God's Kingdom here on Earth besides God? Hussein Obama? The Government? The later has been tried umpteen times and ended up in the deaths of 100's of million of people. Stalin's promise is just one example.

KD, Dallas, TX   October 8th, 2007 10:21 am ET

After reading many of these comments it's no surprise why our country is heading the direction that we are. People truly believe that a political definition defines whether or not one is Christian. I consider myself a religious Christian and cannot understand how Republicans are deemed more religious by the people on here. To me a Christian looks out for his fellow man, he contributes to the church donating 10% or more of his salary, he has compassion and nonjudgment towards others knowing that people are judged by God in the end. The evangelical Christians that support one party over another have their ideology completely confused. They judge gays, hate Democrats, won't give to others in need as that would be too socialist, and they pretend to be holier than thou supporting Bush's war agenda. Am I summing this up pretty close or is this too stereotyped? These Republican evangelical people voted Bush in for a second term because he presumably supported an amendment making it illegal to have gays marry never once looking at the big picture. Look at what your support for a candidate due solely to his "gay stance" political agenda has done to our country. Do evangelicals only follow the old testament, the eye for an eye mentality? That sounds much more like the terrorist vision than those who follow Jesus teachings that I was brought up to believe in. Let's let go of our political assumptions and listen for a change. We should not be the supreme empire in the world making rash judgments about other countries with the hidden agenda of controlling their natural resources.

Religious fanatics judging Democrats solely on abortion rights consistently support this war agenda. Who is it killing???? Innocent children and others who had no desire to get in it's way. NO…many of these innocent people did not cast the first stone as is often professed by the fanatic rightwing.

Where is it written that Democrats are responsible for separation of church and state? The people commenting as such need a refresher in our country's history lessons. This was put into our constitutional rights by our forefathers who realized our country was founded on religious freedom so that all could worship in his/her own way. I being a Democrat wish there were more involvement of the church practices in our daily lives as I feel it keeps us going in the right direction in life. However, I also love the freedoms that our forefathers and others have fought for our country. We can't have that both ways either.

One last comment, my religious beliefs have taught me to try to understand others and to live peacefully with my fellow man/woman. Where did that ideology go to with many of the comments on here? It's so easy to be harsh and make rash judgements when invisible on here. Is that really what Jesus would want though?

I happen to believe Obama is the one person that is in politics that understands all of this nonsense. Too many others use it for agenda purposes only.

Danny Sayer, Bossier City, La   October 8th, 2007 10:21 am ET

This comments says it all! If the atheists approve of Obama what does that tell the Christians? Wise up people!

Bravo Obama – don't let those right wing fascists claim that they are the only ones who own the "moral" truth.

I'm an atheist, but I get your message: it is one of unity, and you have my vote!

First Dem to really call on the GOP to stop hijacking the "values" discussion. That's a MAN for you! No wimp is he.

Posted By Lioness, Washington DC : October 7, 2007 8:13 pm

matt, winnebago, nebraska   October 8th, 2007 10:20 am ET

The Democrat Part does not 'cede' values and faith? Interesting choice of words. Apparently Mr. Obama thinks the dems already hold the ownership to those things. What ever happened to the 'separation of Church and State' the dems complain about every time a Republican mutters anything about religion?? Does Barack want a theocracy?

Jerry Giddens,Sylacauga,Alabama   October 8th, 2007 10:20 am ET

Obama doesn't really have any type of faith. He as learned the art of knowing what people want to hear him say.
We have not learned yet what his real agenda is.

Steve, CT   October 8th, 2007 10:19 am ET

Two things.

1 – The fact that there are so many that are willing to swallow this guys Kool-Aid on demand just shows how far gone we are as a country.

2 – The fact that so many left wingers are supporting Obama's religious "kingdom" nonsense just shows that lefties don't really mean it when they talk about the separation of church and state. What lefties really mean is the separation of those that disagree with them.

p8riot   October 8th, 2007 10:19 am ET

Obama is the anti-christ

Christopher Hodachok, Washington, DC   October 8th, 2007 10:19 am ET

This is exactly what Democrats have failed to capitalize on in the recent past; the strong spiritual and political culture of a major constituency of the Democratic Party and a natural ally to progressive liberal values. The precedent of the 1960's is not in the pot-smoking sexual adventures of privileged whites; it instead lies in the enlightenment values of equality, health and liberty before the law. "Values" and the nurturing of a society that hopes of a more humane ethics.

Dan, Bismarck   October 8th, 2007 10:18 am ET

What a bunch of crap! It scares me that so many people are falling for this blatant pandering. (Not to mention borderline blaspheny.) And it bears repeating, what would the media and these left-wing bloggers be saying if a Republican, or George Bush said such things?
And finally, Phyllis from Dallas says,
"I have never understood why the Dems have allowed the Reps to use the religous theme like they have for so many years."
That's easy: Socialism eshews religion, "the opiate of the masses." You can't condone immorality, ie. abortion on demand, homosexual marriage, and espouse the non-judgemental philosophy of life that Secular-Progressives do, and still obey the Laws of God.

Mr.Cin Fort Worth, TX   October 8th, 2007 10:18 am ET

He shall establish a Kingdom here on earth. The only law shall be God's Law. How does Michelle look in a burka?

Leon, Dale City, VA   October 8th, 2007 10:18 am ET

How come Democrats can give political speeches in church and nothing is done about it but let another political party do it and the Democrats would raise holy hell about it. DON”T do as I do but do as I say. More double standards from the left.

joe chicago il   October 8th, 2007 10:17 am ET

lololololololololololol
A left wing nut job talking about religion, morals and values. The, “say anything, do anything for power regardless of consequences” democrat party never ceases to amaze me. Even more amazing are the lost souls who buy into this crap.

TheOne, Hiddenplace, NM   October 8th, 2007 10:16 am ET

quote: "I am confident that we can create a Kingdom (of God??) right here on Earth"

When throughout history has a single man, a people or mankind ascended so high to claim such a role for themselves??

Doug David, Fullerton Ca   October 8th, 2007 10:16 am ET

I do believe cried the rich young King
That you believe most anything
But sire cried the servant fair
Can you not feel it in the air?

I know not this feeling that rides the wind
But sire tis always bin
Silence peasant tis riddles ye speak
Ah than sire for you I shall weep

GUARDS! GUARDS! cried the king in rage
Remove this peasant from my royal stage
Lest ye peasant would change thy mind
Speak for I shall give you but one last time

Many have offered this same advice
Some have conceived I would accept a price
But your earthly wares are but earthly dues
And your kingly rules are but kingly views

Now I shall speak and you shall listen
There will come a day when all will glisten
And when that day come my words will ring clear
But a trifle late for your saddened ear

Lest ye king would change thy mind
TO THE GALLOWS PEASANT I’VE NOT THE TIME

Then I shall go and I shall die
But I shall never leave your eye
For surely as we speak in rhyme
You surely do not have the time

Author
D.David

jwright   October 8th, 2007 10:14 am ET

he truly isnt be clear about his faith,a little islam ubbringing they never forget it"bunch of nonsense'I wont use my pencil to mark your box for president,heck no!

Grant in Scranton   October 8th, 2007 10:14 am ET

can I get an amen?

please visit…

http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/theWhitneys

Michael   October 8th, 2007 10:11 am ET

What church was he at??????? NOT the one, TRUE Church, that is for sure. What a complete phony the anti-American dem libs are. Its ok to SLAUGHTER 4000 BABIES A DAY, and support gays as normal, and he and has the gall to speak of morals!!!!!!!!!! This is why I laugh when they cry about helping children. I guess if they cant SLAUGHTER them in the womb, they figure they might as well look like they care. The dems are fooling only other liberal morons, not normal people, not TRUE AMERICANS! They will NOT win.

George, Alexandria, VA   October 8th, 2007 10:11 am ET

"I am confident we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

Sounds like the anti-Christ to me.

Garrett Smythe Brown, II   October 8th, 2007 10:10 am ET

When Republicans invoke G_d, the CNN and the drive by media get all upset about them exploiting religion for political gain. When the Dems do it, it is somehow a sign of good values. How does that work?

I will pray, though. I will pray that Hillary and Obama do not become pres and vp for the US because that would be a tragedy of biblical proportions

Jim Noble, Atlanta GA   October 8th, 2007 10:09 am ET

He is the same ole politician just wrapped in pretty paper. He does not have ANY experience in foreign affairs, domestic issues, and such. Plus going on the Tyra Banks show and telling us what is on his Ipod isn't going to get my vote.

LeeAnn, Orlando, FL   October 8th, 2007 10:07 am ET

I have an idea. Instead of praying for Obama, how about praying for the unborn children that his party allows to be murdered. Yeah, that's real Christian-like. Gay marriage…I'm sure the bible says that's okat too, right? I am so sick of the hypocracy!

Josette, OKC   October 8th, 2007 10:06 am ET

It is good to see Sen. Obama making this point. Democrats have varied religious backgrounds and are as faithful and devout as anyone else. Republicans have presented themselves as the only choice for people of faith; almost implying that any other choice is against God. That is ridiculous. Jesus didn't own an oil company, or drive a Hummer.

This GOP exploitation of religion is narrow,divisive and arrogant. If you don't agree with my views than you have not beliefs worthy of my respect, you are un-American. It is good to see Democrats confronting the naked emperor with truth and reason.

Eliot , NY,NY   October 8th, 2007 10:05 am ET

What hypocrisy. He is for Gay rights, abortion, etc…. people are so much like sheep…..Wake up people!

Andrea Taylor, Pensacola FL   October 8th, 2007 10:04 am ET

He was just making an expression. He was not flat out saying he is going to create a Kingdom on Earth. People, you are trippin'.

Some of you are acting really crazy on here. If anyone is scary, it is all the people on here making such crazy remarks.

Number one — Obama is not Muslim. So what, and if he was? Get real. There is nothing wrong with being a Muslim. Stop putting people down for their religion. That's stupid, grow up.

Number two – Obama is running in an election. Politicians campaign many places, including churches — so get over it.

Number three – For all of you complaining about Obama, can you do better? Can you raise as much money as he has? Can you graduate from Columbia and Harvard? Can you organize very successful political campaigns? Can you create a movement of change?
Do you want to change the world and make it better?

Stop throwing stones and go out their and try to make this world a better place. Just like Obama! I suggest you register to vote and vote for Obama as well! TOGETHER we can change this world — not attacking each other all the time.

Ron, Hagerstown, MD   October 8th, 2007 10:04 am ET

Barack still can't overcome the scorn and ridicule that the radical left democrats have for those of faith. It seems those radicals have disregard for anything seen as traditional and moral. I'm an independent and these leftists and their agenda are pushing me away from the democrat party.

Nathan, New York, New York   October 8th, 2007 10:02 am ET

Another left-wing fascist.

Ron Paul for President   October 8th, 2007 10:02 am ET

A 'KINGDOM' huh?

I don't care if you are a Democrat, Republican or whatever. When there is a 'kingdom' there is a 'king' and a whole bunch of 'serfs'.

This country was founded as a 'republic' with a 'constitution'.

A 'Kingdom'? NO THANK YOU.

Cathy, Bryan, TX   October 8th, 2007 10:01 am ET

"I am confident we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth???"

That's SCARY!!!

Lioness, Washington DC   October 8th, 2007 10:01 am ET

This thread is the closest I have ever come to experiencing pornography: watching all of you furious, politically bitter right wingers come out with your Jesus and God weaponry to rant and libel Obama gives me a perverse pleasure.

In tennis, when you lose you are supposed to shake your opponent's hand. No such etiquette here, I see.

If I believed in God I would be forced to pray Hail Marys for two months straight or appear on a Christian talk show to confess to a sinning soul.

This is too much pleasure for a Protestant to experience and for a Catholic to admit to.

I have my morals too, though. It's wrong to gloat over others' tantrums.

So I will take my leave. See you on Election Day. Can't wait to get the Constitution back.

An revoir, mes amis.

(Oops, that's FRENCH – how Un -American!)

Good-bye my fellow Americans.

Take a warm bath, have a drink and relax. Or go to church and pray for yourselves.

Eddie, Brooklyn, NY   October 8th, 2007 10:00 am ET

Amen, Barack!

Keep being pro partial birth abortion you hypocrite!

Thou Shalt not kill

Michael R. Hicks, Wilson, NC   October 8th, 2007 9:58 am ET

WE in the "evangelical community" have been in the trenches dealing with AIDS and poverty for years! Obama and most democrats have only been interested in TALKING about it. They refused to get in the trenches with us because we hold dear radical beliefs like our opposition to having babies chopped up in their mother's womb and flushed down a drain!!!

"Obama noted that he was pleased leaders in the evangelical community like T.D. Jakes and Rick Warren were beginning to discuss social justice issues like AIDS and poverty in ways evangelicals were not doing before."

eopedaw, Little Rock, AR   October 8th, 2007 9:58 am ET

"I don't talk about it all the time, but when I'm in church I talk about it." In other words, I say what I need to say to fit the audience I am in front of.

Florence B Marlboro NJ   October 8th, 2007 9:56 am ET

Am I missing something?
Isn't Obama a muslim? Whats he doing at a church of another faith preaching about God? Some people will do anything to win an election

Jen   October 8th, 2007 9:54 am ET

Politics don't belong in church, especially at the pulpit.

Joseph, Indianapolis, IN   October 8th, 2007 9:53 am ET

1st. Obama is a MUSLIM! Not a christian!

2nd. Do you want to be ruled by someone who wants to be a king??? He's not just saying this for political expediency, he means it. And he wants you to be his subjects and pay homage (and your taxes) to him.

You all are blinded by race and hatred! Get a clue and really look into what this guy wants to do!

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   October 8th, 2007 9:51 am ET

To Rusty in NY:

The Christian right tried to do a number on Kennedy by claiming the Pope would move the Vatican to Washington if Kennedy got elected.

The fact that Kennedy was a Catholic was a central issue in the election – and most of the garbage came out of Nixon's camp. Character assassination at its best!

Hmmm, a precursor of things to come – just ask the Muskie family about that humorous little ditty called the "Canuck Letter" which was also courtesy of the Nixon camp.

Steve, Doylestown, PA   October 8th, 2007 9:50 am ET

It sure is amazing that with the way today's media is set up that a person can claim that the GOP has hijacked the values discussion. You can't hijack an issue, the D's just refuse to talk about values because if they do, they have to present all of their values and most are not pleseant or winning values. The bottom line is that Barack is the first Liberal to state his position on faith and I do admire that. However, he doesn't state his firm view on the other issues that drive elections. He has now said that he won't pull troops out of Iraq when he said he wants to end the war and he also conveniently doesn't say that he believes in a Socialist form of Government and raising everyone's taxes for the "greater good". Which means forcing private citizens to take care of their neighbor regardless of the choices that the other person has made. It sure would be nice if the "bleeding hearts" would actually practice what they preach. Clinton and Obama should not be saying taxes need to be raised when they take tax breaks themselves while making millions of dollars. If you want to pay more taxes, then don't take tax breaks. Don't ask/force others to conform to your stance when you don't even practice it.

Larry   October 8th, 2007 9:49 am ET

You are all naive. This guy is a know nothing phoney .

R. Stevens Fredericksburg, Virginia   October 8th, 2007 9:48 am ET

Will anyone ask this "man of faith" about the murder of over a million innocent, unborn babies each year in this country and why his party does nothing to stop it and in fact promotes the slaughter in the name of "choice"?

What kind of "kingdom" would a man who has said he has no objection to the reading of "King and King" (the story of two gay "princes" who meet and fall in love) to second graders create? The kingdom of Sodom?

Do not be deceived by this snake.

Hooligan, Everywhere, America   October 8th, 2007 9:45 am ET

Personal to Bronte:

Bush has wrapped the religious zealots tightly around his waist and catered to their every wish!

Where have you been?!

Bil, Oklahoma CIty, OK   October 8th, 2007 9:45 am ET

Is there any doubt that this man panders to his audience? Typical Democrat, trying to be all things to all people for no other reason than to get their votes. Trouble is, so many people fall for it.

Carole Dallas, TX   October 8th, 2007 9:45 am ET

Obama has a "third-world dictator mentality" that is dangerous for our country. Talk of "creating a Kingdom here on earth" is heresy. It is direct opposition to what the Bible says that only God will create a Kingdom on earth. Obama is not God.

JRoDDz, NY, NY   October 8th, 2007 9:44 am ET

Kingdom on Earth? He should be seeking the Kingdom of Heaven.

Andrea Taylor, Pensacola FL   October 8th, 2007 9:43 am ET

To get something straight:

Obama is saying that he wants to do good and noble works. 'Kingdom on Earth' means he wants people to embellish the teachings of God — like exhibiting more love, peace, giving, togetherness — all the good things that God stands for.

God represents all loving and caring religions — God is love and goodness.

Obama is basically saying that he wants to to good works for his country.

People stop being so mean and cynical. Open your hearts and minds — then you will be able to understand things that you were not able to grasp before.

Brendan H., San Antonio, TX   October 8th, 2007 9:42 am ET

Obama is making clear sense here, and that has the ring-wing both puzzled and concerned!

It's ok to speak of faith as long as you butter up to the established, zealot, right-wing faction in this country. But, don't ever attempt to rationalize the subject from the other side of the aisle unless you are a recognized right-wing, religious zealot of some standing!

CLINTON/OBAMA – 2008!!!

Bob, Atlanta GA   October 8th, 2007 9:42 am ET

Well, you Democrats are right on time. It's about a year before the election, time to start telling evereyone how much you love God and are faithful. It seems to me that you never mention abortion or gay rights when you are speaking about your 'faith'. Sounds like Obama wants a theocracy. Don't you Dems all hate Bush for that? It's sometimes hard to keep up with you liberals and Democrats. You're always changing.

Mary, St. Louis, Missouri   October 8th, 2007 9:42 am ET

I thank God everyday for Barack Obama and pray that American will begin to see what a person who truly lives his/her faith looks like. I am not in favor of abortin. But as a person of faith, I support Barack Obama because he respects those who disagree on this issue and everything else he works for and embodies a truly pro-life leadership!

Ryan Allendale MI   October 8th, 2007 9:40 am ET

I liked this article until Obama said lets create a kingdom on earth which is defunct

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal".
Matthew 6:19 (NIV)

Instead one should be looking to building an eternal home

Terry, El Paso, TX   October 8th, 2007 9:40 am ET

What ARE those Republican values? Republican Congressmen pursuing relationships with teenaged interns with the knowledge of Republican leadership? Lobbyists for powerful industries writing laws that favor their own interests and Republicans passing them unchanged? Republican leadership demanding that the House and Senate pass legislation that hasn't been read yet by the membership of either party? Filthy understaffed hospitals for our veterans? Kinky sex photos of prisoners of war circulating the globe to our eternal shame (and the response of our government was to forbid cameras in the prison). A single Republican administration running up more national debt than all the presidents from Washington to Reagan combined? The famous Republican bridge to nowhere? The notorious toe-tapping Republican Senator from Idaho? The Abramoff scandal, where laws were bought and sold like pork chops? The Indian casino scandal in which Abramoff and Ralph Reed took millions in bribes from one Indian group to support their application to build a casino and simultaneously took millions from a competing Indian group who wanted the application turned down? The nomination and re-nomination of America's worst president at a time when leadership was desperately needed? Historians may now debate whether or not Bush was even more incompetent than Republican President Grant, previously believed to be the most incompetent president. They can also debate whether his administration was even more corrupt than Republican President Harding's, previously thought to be the most corrupt administration?

Which of these typifies the core values of the values party? Which of them are your proudest of? Which of these accomplishments will our grandchildren praise us for, as we praise the accomplishments of the generation of World War II?

Republicans had a chance to show us what Conservatism could really do for the country. They controlled the courts, the White House, and both houses of Congress. They sold their power to the highest bidders. They made us the object of world-wide ridicule and scorn.

Values indeed!

belter blythe ca   October 8th, 2007 9:39 am ET

sounds like the anti-christ

A. Connor, Suwanee GA   October 8th, 2007 9:38 am ET

If you believe in Jesus Christ, the words spoken by Obama are truly terrifying. The way that was said, he sounds like he wants to be the lord over his own kingdom. Daniel 2:44
"In the time of those kings, the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that will never be destroyed, nor will it be left to another people. It will crush all those kingdoms and bring them to an end, but it will itself endure forever."

Mitch, Pensacola, Florida   October 8th, 2007 9:38 am ET

I am over politicians talking about religion as if the Constitution was a religious document. They all seem to spit in the face of the architects of the Constitution by saying that religion was a part of it. If people really wanted to know the intent of the document, all they have to do is read the writings of some of the founders to understand that. They can also read the Treaty of Tripoli where JOhn Adams, and the Congress(a vast majority were christian)stated and signed that the US was not a christian nation and was not founded on christian principles. They seem to have a better grip on what our Nation is founded on than our more modern president and congress. Welcome back to the dark ages everyone.

Michael, Milwaukee, Wisconsin   October 8th, 2007 9:37 am ET

You can always spot a drudge link by the number of morons that post inflammatory comments.

Tom Bahel Kennett Square, Pennsylvania   October 8th, 2007 9:37 am ET

Dear Mr. Obama, If you would be so kind as to answer one question and perhaps clear up exactly what faith you have. Who do you say Jesus is ?

Marco, Novato CA   October 8th, 2007 9:37 am ET

"social justice issues like AIDS and poverty " – how are AIDS and poverty "social justice" issues? What exactly does "social justice" mean in the context of a disease that is spread by careless unprotected sex, deviant practices, and drug use? It's about consequences of choices. Much of the same can be said about poverty: again, consequences of poor choices , for the most part. I resent the implication that these conditions are the result of some sort of conspiracy or inherent problem with society in general. It's all about personal responsibility. But sadly this type of journalism can be expected from the Communist News Network.

Steve, Memphis,TN   October 8th, 2007 9:36 am ET

Interesting, Isn't this the same man that had to take the oath of office on the Koran? Now he is christian?

Jon, USA   October 8th, 2007 9:33 am ET

>> I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth.

Obama is dismissing GOD and states that 'we' can create this kingdom, without God. That's NOT faith, that's politics.

The devil is in the details.

VL, FTW TX   October 8th, 2007 9:32 am ET

Obama is an empty suit. The ONLY reason he is considered a "top tier" candidate is because of his skin color. PERIOD! He has no experience, no experience leading anything, and no backbone. If he were white, he'd be right there with Dodd in the polling. And please, spare me any remarks that I'm being racist. I'm telling it like it is.

Sterling, VA   October 8th, 2007 9:31 am ET

Where is CNN's outrage over Obama calling for a Kingdom of God on Earth?Oh that's rght, he's a Democrat and not a Republican, so it's A-OK.

Tony G, Virginia   October 8th, 2007 9:29 am ET

I know religious people are a huge, massive portion of this great country of ours, but "do service to God"? Does that mean he'll be serving as President to God, or President to the People? Kinda scary when you think about it. And isn't there supposed to be Seperation of Church and State? Or does that not exist anymore?

Supercoupe, Detroit, Michigan   October 8th, 2007 9:27 am ET

I thought Obama was raised a Muslim?

Andrea Taylor, Penscola FL   October 8th, 2007 9:26 am ET

To be honest, I truly believe Mr. Obama is going to become one of our great leaders. Like a JFK, MLK, Abraham Lincoln. Mr. Obama is a God-send to us. He is destined for great things.

His campaign is simply Beautiful.
The movement he is creating is inspiring and loving.

I am voting for Mr. Obama in the primary. Let's all support this once in a lifetime candidate by voting for him in our primaries.

I know it is hard for some of you to accept goodness, when you are used to politicians like W. Bush and H. Clinton. Their days of reign are coming to an end. It's time to open a new door to American politics, ecomomic growth, world influence, and important domestic issues. Obama can help us get the things accomplished that will lead to this country being a lot better off than it is today.

Vote for Obama and let's go change the world!

kevin naples   October 8th, 2007 9:21 am ET

When are we going to stop using the house of God to campaign?

Duane Palm Coast FL   October 8th, 2007 9:20 am ET

Obama will or hopes to having all the females wearing Berkas. What else could one expect from a EX MUSLIM.

Ken, Tampa, FL   October 8th, 2007 9:19 am ET

Wow, just wow…I love this, you get to see conservatives in all their bigoted glory. Gee how many references did I read to Obama's race? How many of you conservative's actually believe Obama is a Muslim? Because you heard it on Fox?

And I'm just amazed at how many of you cons think we're fighting Islam. I don't recall Congress declaring a holy war on Islam.

As a liberal, I can assure you that I have never complained about a candidate campaigning in a church. I don't particularly like it, but it is a generally accepted part of American politics.

Cons seem think that all liberals are alike and walking in lockstep. In reality liberals are so independent minded that for candidates like Obama, it’s like herding cats. In contrast, it seems like all it takes to herd republicans nowadays is to yell "911″, "terror, terror, terror". They're scared rabbits who are always looking for monsters under their bed. I must have read a half a dozen references to beheadings or some other gruesome method of death at the hands of Muslim conquerors. In the con mind, they seem to have this fantasy that somehow our enemies are going to take over the country and force us to bow down to Communism, Socialism, or Islam.

It comes down to this folks; the cons are just rehashing the same garbage that they always do when attacking people who don’t think like them. Instead of discussing how to fix our health care system, they just call Democrats communists. Instead of discussing how to get out of Iraq, they call Democrats traitors or worse. What I have learned about the cons is that they just want to shove their ideas down everyone’s throat. They don’t want discussion, they don’t want debate, they just want anyone who doesn’t agree with them to shut up and go away.

Anonymous   October 8th, 2007 9:18 am ET

You can be a man of faith and a politician. Seperation of church is critical but a prayer for being an instrument of God is not intolerable. The God of the church he was speaking to is a God of light yokes and hope for humanity not condemnation. This nation can find balance between our Judeo Christian roots and our secular society.

Mark, Yardley, PA   October 8th, 2007 9:16 am ET

Dear Editro:

Can government do the work of God (Charity)?

What I have read and understood from the Bible is that God and Jesus wants us to help each other by using our own time, treasure and talent and to give from our hearts ("Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." – 2 Corinthians 9:7). Nowhere have I found anything along the lines of "Go out and institute huge bureaucracies that will take money from some people at the point of a sword and give that money to other people as a politician sees fit."

Our Founding Fathers were Christian and very pious men. They founded this country under strong Judeo-Christian tenets and reflected on their religious beliefs on all their decisions. They wrote nothing into the Constitution of any type of government "aid" to help the poor, children or anyone else on purpose. They wanted a very limited government for good reason. Limited government is the best way to ensure that freedom will be preserved. The Scottish philosopher Alexander Tytler, who lived during the time of the American Revolution and writing of the US Constitution, summed these views:


"A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves money from the public treasure.

From that moment on the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most money from the public treasury, with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy followed by a dictatorship. The average age of the world's great civilizations has been two hundred years.

These nations have progressed through the following sequence: from bondage to spiritual faith, from spiritual faith to great courage, from courage to liberty, from liberty to abundance, from abundance to selfishness, from selfishness to complacency from complacency to apathy, from apathy to dependency, from dependency back to bondage."

There are many interesting questions if citizens rely on government to do "God's Work."

If a government takes a portion of a man's wages and does good with it, has the man also done good? If a government takes away a portion of a woman's property and does evil with it, has the woman also done evil? When a rich man pays more in taxes than a poor person, is he more Godly? If the government then does evil, is he more to blame? A woman works for the government and uses other people's tax money and does "God Work" with it, is this government woman now a good/Godly woman? If I legally try to avoid paying taxes, does that not make me an "Ungodly" man?

Today, the US government (federal, state and local) takes nearly 50% of a middle-class person's paycheck after all taxes are factored in (income taxes, Social Security, sales tax, real estate taxes, gas tax, death taxes, phone taxes, highway tolls, sad etc.). Uncle Sam will spend more money in just this year (2004) than it spent combined between 1787 and 1900 – even after adjusting for inflation. I cringe at those numbers. The Founding Fathers wanted nothing like the tax-consuming monster that we have as a government today. I also think of all the good work that could have be done if people were allowed to keep more of their own money and give it to organizations/people that they believe in their heart are doing God's work. Maybe it comes down to trust. Will people do the right thing with their own money or must a government take a huge chunk of it to do the "right things?"

Except government rarely does anything right except for those tasks that were explicitly outlined in the Constitution as the Founding Father intended. I could cite many examples (such as where would you rather put $10,000 in retirement money – in Social Security or in your own 401k plan?) but the plight of black America illustrates this failure beyond comparison.

In 1965, the US government was going to wipe out poverty by the "Great Society" programs, in which to date over 3.5 trillion dollars has been spent. These federal programs were designed to "help families and children" or "buy votes" depending on your political viewpoint.

At the beginning of the 1960's, the black out of wedlock birth rate was 22%. In the late 1975 it reached 49% and shot up to 65% in 1989. In some of the largest urban centers of the nation the rate of illegitimacy among blacks today exceeds 80% and averages 69% nationwide. As late as the 1970's there was still a social stigma attached to a woman who was pregnant outside marriage. Now, government programs have substituted for the father and for black moral leadership. The black family and culture has collapsed (and white families are not that far behind).

Illegitimacy leads directly to poverty, crime and social problems. Out of wedlock children are four times more likely to be poor. They are much more likely to live in high crime areas with no hope of escape. In turn, they are forced to attend dangerous and poor-performing government schools, which directly leads to another generation of poverty.

Traditional black areas of Harlem, Englewood and West Philadelphia in the 1950s were safe working class neighborhoods (even though "poor" by material measures). Women were unafraid to walk at night and children played unmolested in the streets and parks. Today, these are some of the worst crime plagued areas of our nation. Work that was once dignified is now shunned. Welfare does not require recipients to do anything in exchange for their benefits. Many rules actually discourage work or provide benefits that reduce the incentive to find work.

The black abortion rate today is nearly 40%. Pregnancies among black women are twice as likely to end in abortion as pregnancies among white and Hispanic women.

The "Great Society" programs all had good intentions. Unfortunately, their real world results are that they have replaced the traditional/Christian models of family/work with that of what a government bureaucrat thinks it should be.

I could make an excellent argument that if the US government had hired former grand wizards of the KKK to run the "Great Society" programs, and if they had worked every day from 1965 to today without rest, they could have hardly have done better in destroying black America than the "Works of God" that the government has done or is trying to do.

I have visited many countries in which the government "guarantees" that everyone has a job, a place to live, education, health care and cradle to grave "government help" for all children and families. It all sounds great except that the people in these countries are/were miserable. They wanted to escape but were forced by their governments, at the end of a gun, to stay. The "worker's paradises" of socialist and communist counties are chilling reminders of letting governments do "God's Work."

The Bible clearly states that we are to help those in need. The question is "Who should help those in need?" I firmly believe that scripture and the historical evidence strongly support that individuals, private organizations and churches should be the ones doing the heavy lifting. Government help should be the last resort. "Charity," enforced by the government, is not charity, it is extortion. "Charity," delivered by the government, is not charity, it is a bribe which corrupts both the giver and the receiver.

Very Sincerely,

Mark W
Yardley, PA

Joe Rogowski , Tema, Ghana, W. Africa   October 8th, 2007 9:16 am ET

Why doesn't that church have it's tax-exemption removed for supporting candidate Obama as the ACLU always threatens churches who sponsor Republican candidates. Remember so-called "separation of church and state?" It must not apply to Democrat churches.

Josh in Fort Worth   October 8th, 2007 9:15 am ET

How can you say your a Christian and at the same time support abortion.

This is against Scripture and therefore against God.

Obama is not a Christian

Rodney Dallas TX   October 8th, 2007 9:12 am ET

Ding Ding Ding……I knew if I read enough comments, I'd find one where Hillary was mentioned. It's sad that a story about Obama and the Evangelical Church still manages to bring Hillary's name into the equation. Repubs must be worried or they wouldn't be mentioning her name so often.

Suzan, Russellville, AR   October 8th, 2007 9:10 am ET

He just needs to join ranks with the party and support Hillary.

Paul, Chicago, IL   October 8th, 2007 9:08 am ET

Obama's comment about "creating a Kingdom on earth" is not only unbiblical (which should alert those that he was trying to pander to), but it is a something that if a Republican candidate had said, he would be blasted all over the mainstream media for.

Almost as bad as Edward's comment about all young black men in America being dead or in jail.

Amazing how much Democrat candidates/politicians get away with. Simply amazing.

slinkymalinky   October 8th, 2007 9:07 am ET

Oh…, theres whats left of the Democratic partys soul. And who says Obama isn't black enough??

Philip, Baldwin City, KS   October 8th, 2007 9:05 am ET

"Sounds a lot like the muslin extremist that are killing our brave men & women in terrorist attacks. They also believe that they are "destined to create their style of Kingdom on Earth". You people are soo stupid…obama seeks to destroy capitalism and replace it with socialism, or worse, islam.

Posted By Billh : October 7, 2007 9:03 pm"

Bigot.

Bob, Burlington, ON.   October 8th, 2007 9:04 am ET

Religious belief just has to be the most awesomely delayed, or impeded aspect of human development. It really ought to be patently obvious — even to believers — that the stuff you believe in depends almost entirely on where you live, the stuff you've had put in front of you, your family background, etc. This alone ought to be more than enough to raise patently obvious questions about religion, how it works, and just who is working it, but alas, it is not.

Justin, Falls Church, Virginia   October 8th, 2007 9:04 am ET

Two thoughts. One, if Bush said anything like this "wanting to create a kingdom" routine, the left would be scream "he wants a theocracy."

Second, the democrats are not going to win the faith issue until and unless they show some evidence that faith guides their policies, rather than them just trying to wrap up the usual mini-marxist routine in terms that the jesus types would love.

The truth here is that there is a long, ugly tradition of dems saving all their "God talk" for black churches–in short, demonstrating that the dems apparently think that it is only appropriate to mix faith and politics when black people are involved. That says alot about how the dems view race and religion, doesn't it?

Of course, Obama was not in a black church, but he is a black man, so he gets the exemption all the time. Let me know when and if Hillary talks about God to a predominately white crowd (and uses a silly fake accent to boot), or any of the other dems. In the meantime, I and most Christians are going to believe this is all a come on.

Hano,boston,ma   October 8th, 2007 9:03 am ET

I see cherish the fact he appeals to evangelists and wants kingdom on earth, yet ignore his stance on foreign policy…which he will surely not differ from any other candidate guaranteed

DH, Lumberton, NC   October 8th, 2007 9:01 am ET

Campaigning in a church? Isn't that a violation of the "separation of church and state?" I expect Barry Lynn and Americans United will have a problem with this. See http://www.commondreams.org/news2000/1030-07.htm

Brian, Knoxville TN   October 8th, 2007 9:00 am ET

These postings are really scary. I'm a Christian myself but I see, from both parties, that they both want the Christian vote and they will do anything to get their votes. Let's please not let any major party hijack your faith. If we've learned anything since Newt, it's that politics and religion do not mix. Think for yourself and vote for someone who you think can govern this country the best and not someone who would praise Jesus at every photo opportunity but couldn't walk and chew gum at the same time. THINK FOR YOURSELF!!!!

Wes, Frankfort, Kentucky   October 8th, 2007 8:58 am ET

Obama is a big fake. Nothing has changed. He fits right in with the left. They are and have always been big fakes regarding "religion".

JC Topeka, KS   October 8th, 2007 8:53 am ET

Funny how born agains find religion after they do something that would land them in you know where.

However in keeping with my stance that religopn belongs in church and real world politics don't, I hope that this little speak was not connected with the regular services in any manner.

JT, Jay, Florida   October 8th, 2007 8:53 am ET

Of course this "Kingdom on Earth' is the global antichrist system that republicans and democrats here in America are striving for. Open up your eyes, people.

Ken, Peachtree City, GA   October 8th, 2007 8:53 am ET

Who is this guy kidding? How often has this guy been to Sunday services in the last 3 years when it wasn't: a) Wedding b) Funeral c) To give a speech or to campaign. He and John Edwards seem to be in a race to be declared the biggest phony.

Furthermore, the history is riddled with wreckage of people who thought they could create a 'kingdom on earth'. Do he even understand human nature? This guy should go back to passing dog barking ordinances in Illinois.

Patrick McKillip, Puyallup, WA   October 8th, 2007 8:52 am ET

Let a Republican sound off like this guy and there would be hell to pay from the athiestic liberal majority. So if you're a "D" you get a pass? The double-standard/hypocrisy never ceases to amaze.

Stephen, Moore, OK   October 8th, 2007 8:50 am ET

Don't be fooled by his religious language. A Christian with an understanding of the bible knows that the Church plays no part in establishing a Kingdom. The Kingdom is a spiritual one and has already been established by Jesus, the risen King.

pl. at the UN for a while.   October 8th, 2007 8:50 am ET

I am not American. I cannot vote.

Mr Obama, I fear the backlash that will come your way because of your infantilistic stance you took yesterday.
The epithome of confusing Faith and politics is Iran. Did you not think before you opened your mouth?

Dr. Van A. Harmon   October 8th, 2007 8:49 am ET

Barak HUSSEIN Obama is NOT a Christian! His supposed Christian church membership is a "front", a "shill." Would a Christian, when sworn in to the U.S. Senate swear his oath on a Koran,instead of a Bible, as Obama did? It was in all of the newspapers. Can't some of you people read?

His Arab father was a Muslim, Later his Stepfather was a Muslim, of the same sect that has caused 911, and all of the terrorist murders since. Obama attended this sects religious teachings of violence ever since he was a child in Hawaii.

Janet Estep, Abingdon, VA   October 8th, 2007 8:48 am ET

"Would the Lord Jesus Christ want us to be pitted against each other like we are now? NO! Christ encouraged harmony, and Obama encourages harmony."
Christ wants us to have peace, but he brought us truth, which often causes disruption. This is what Christ said in Matthew 10:34-35…"Think not that I am come to send peace on earth: I came not to send peace, but a sword. For I am come to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law." Christ was more about bringing truth and salvation, and the peace he brings is a personal, inward peace.

Geoff Walsh, Boulder, CO   October 8th, 2007 8:46 am ET

This guy reminds me of Bush being an "instrument of god"! What happened to seperation of church and state. I want freedom from religion in a president, not a fanatic under delusions of religion.

Bruce, Lebanon CT   October 8th, 2007 8:45 am ET

That is just too phony for words……what kingdom does he think he is going to create????….social kingdoms are fataly flawed from the start. Faith is not about what you have, it's about what has you…..and if he can choose when to "let it out" as when he is in church, it doesn't have him, but is merely a prop he uses for personal gain……

Dr Atomic   October 8th, 2007 8:41 am ET

Rusty, good heavens man, get a grip. Obama has publicly renounced Islam. You know what they do to heretics and renegades. No muslim would vote for him now.
There are dozens of reasons to object to Obama's campaign, but saying he's muslim is just plain uninformed.

steve   October 8th, 2007 8:39 am ET

How can a church host a presidental candiate as a speaker – who speaks about the election and not be in violation of campaign laws? Is is because he is black or a democrat?

The lamestream media would go crazy if a republican did this.

Mary, Beaver, PA   October 8th, 2007 8:35 am ET

Obama's right, and I fail to see any moral superiority within the GOP ranks. However, the Democrats, in their effort to be "politically correct" and not hurt feelings by appearing exclusive, ceded the moral high ground to the GOP years ago when they failed to explain how their platform was consistent with the Christian faith (and whether you like it or not, most of the people in this country call themselves Christians).

Some of us remember how Jimmy Carter was nearly laughed out of town for declaring that he was a born-again Christian in 1976.

If the Democrats want to claim the moral high ground again, they have years to make up for their ignoring this issue.

Tamoa, FL   October 8th, 2007 8:34 am ET

Dems showing their virulent hypocrisy once again….Bush speaks on faith you foam at the mouth, Obama does it…and you'd think he was the second coming…LOL

Frankly as a pagan conservative I think you're all nutcases…

"Joe"   October 8th, 2007 8:32 am ET

I think its so rich on Mr. Obama talk about faith. On who side does the aclu side with..democrats.
The man has voted for on the side of abortion everytime..would Christ vote to keep abortion legal..NO!!
The want both ways..to keep abortion legal,give equal status to gay couples like regular marriage and claiming to build a kingdom here on earth. Obama read your Bible, it cleary states that the kindgom of God is WITHIN YOU!!, not in this world.
You are known by your fruits and his are ROTTEN.

Scott Thomas, Tampa, FL.   October 8th, 2007 8:32 am ET

When Republicans and conservatives use the pulpit, they're attacked for injecting religion into the political debate.

Democrats and liberals use the pulpit (Obama, Clinton, Gore) and…no problem. Not a sound.

Revs. Falwell and Robertson were/are attacked for being involved in politics — Revs. Jackson and Sharpton can run for office and become full-blown political figures and the media is silent.

The Democrats/Liberals/Media attack Evangelicals and Christians (never southern Black Baptists churches, which are equally conservative; never Muslims) as racist, intolerant, backward, hate-mongers eager to create a theocracy.

Now, come election, the Dems want to "take back" religion and morality after spending about three out of every four years marginalizing and spitting upon it.

Hypocrisy is the nicest word that can be used to describe the Democrats/Liberals/Media.

Bill, Wenham MA   October 8th, 2007 8:26 am ET

Why is it OK for Democrats to rally their base from a Church pulpit? I thought that was illegal?

He should read his Bible, only Christ Jesus can create a "Heaven on Earth". Man is sinful and will always be sinful…

Frank, Dayton, Ohio   October 8th, 2007 8:25 am ET

Those of you are concerned about his "Kingdom here on earth comment" should read his book "The Audacity of Hope." If you read his book, you will realize that he has acquaintenances who are members of various faiths. He has learned a respect for all of them, while believing firmly in God and Christ.

This is the guy we need as president.

Bill Carroll, Columbia, SC   October 8th, 2007 8:24 am ET

"Kingdom on Earth"? Hmmm…sounds like the anti-christ. No Christian in their right mind would claim to create a kingdom on Earth. Jesus said that his kingdom is not of this earth. Christians are of Christ and his kingdom and therefore would never want to create a kingdom on earth.

David, Encinitas, CA   October 8th, 2007 8:24 am ET

Nodack from AZ:

Amen!

I don't particularly care much about a candidate's religious views. It's only an issue when they're obviously exclusive or divisive about them, or wish to govern based upon them. Then it becomes worrisome. A good president will make decisions based on what's in the best interest of all Americans. A great one will make decisions based on what's in the best interest of those American's grandkids. (and I'm not referring to the abortion debate for those who think that way!). I think several of the candidates have it in themselves to be at least good presidents, Obama being one of them.

Numine, Maple Grove MN   October 8th, 2007 8:20 am ET

This man is the furthest thing from 'an instrument of God'. Any man that wants to lift the "don't ask, don't tell" policy from the military clearly cares little for morality. And don't start with the whole "morality is a matter of opinion" crap, because the moment you start talking about God, you assume some fixed moral law. When you support killing unborn children, start condoning unnatural and sinful unions between 2 men or 2 women, and lying to the public more often than telling the truth, you don't care about God or any set of moral standards is the moment you cease to be elligible to call yourself an 'instrument of God'.

bws   October 8th, 2007 8:19 am ET

He's Muslim. If he gets in the White House, you can watch America's support for Israel fall to the way side. If you claim to be a Christian then Obama in the White House should raise a red flag. In the last days "all" nations will turn their back against Israel. This includes America. The pieces are falling into place people.

Don Longmont, CO   October 8th, 2007 8:18 am ET

I couldn't agree more with the comment, "what is best for America".

This is why there is suppose to be selparation between church and state. People are so rapped up in their religious viewpoint they don't even consider what is good for the country.

What about immigration, healthcare, and the economy. These are the current issues impacting most of middle America. The lack of health care is killing far more people than abortion and that is the only issue that is talked about.

dee moon nc   October 8th, 2007 8:03 am ET

a true christian talks about anytime the call comes….not just 'in church'….

Ed,Ellenville,New York   October 8th, 2007 7:57 am ET

Chris-Eugene,don't try to speak intelligently,it doesn't suit you well.Ignorant that your party is riddled with people that an MRI would deem unsuitable for positions of responsibility? Ignorant that the fable of delusion can not prove that your martyr is white? Or black? Or olive skinned? Please don't vote,you're obsolete. Dobson will put his support behind anyone he thinks can make him money and posters here are living testaments to their hatred of blacks. Haven't you red them? I'm going to continue to degrade your intellectual standing by destroying your faith until faith no longer threatens our secular democracy. If you don't like it or it is too offensive for you,I'm glad to be of help. Perhaps it's time to have your head examined. Put your support behind moderates like Rudy or Hillary or get lost,this nation is through with you.

Ricardo Maxwell, Orange Park FL   October 8th, 2007 7:19 am ET

"We now have a generation rising up that's only known more conservative philosophies for most of their adult lives. " Kevin Jones, Omaha, NE
Kevin, While I agree with your premise that liberalism (and/or Socialism)is a failed and bankrupt philosophy, I cannot agree with your statement above.
The last time our country experience any true conservatism was Ronald Reagan era. Newt Gingrich also presented an effective and successful conservative legislative agenda (that Clinton signed into law) but he was fought tooth and mail by Dems in Congress. We seem to lack true conservative leaders and policy today. Part of this is perception, however, due to the extreme left wing bias of the MSM. Our country slips more and more to the left as time marches on. A sure path to destruction.

James B., Eden Priarie, MN   October 8th, 2007 7:07 am ET

Where's the liberals crying out and fearful of Obama's "Kingdom" will become a "theocracy"? I dare the media to rip his religious beliefs as equally and forcefully as they ripped President Bush.

Ricardo Maxwell, Orange Park FL   October 8th, 2007 7:04 am ET

Clever ruse by Obama in an attempt to steal votes of some disenchanted Christian Republicans and black Conservatives. Unfortunately, his far left philosophy and past affiliation with socialists and Communists will turn off ANY and all conservative voters and this pandering to Christians will turn off the left wing kooks. Great to see him trying to please everyone. It is the earmark of a potential failure. Ask Hillary.

Rusty; NY. NY   October 8th, 2007 7:00 am ET

Two things immediately come to mind:

1. Why would anyone consider voting for a practicing Muslim when we are fighting against Islam for our very existence? Bin Laden and his gang are probably jumping in anticipation at that one. And for those who claim that Obama being Islamic is the same things people said about Kennedy being Catholic– not the same thing–we weren't at war against the Vatican in 1960.

2. His comments and behavior are exactly the ones I'd expect to hear from the coming anti Christ–a man talking of a "kingdom on earth" and claiming to be of peace.

I have some bad gut feeling about this guy…..feelings that don't go away.

Ed,Ellenville,New York   October 8th, 2007 6:57 am ET

I think Obama's job is done now,unless he wants to work for Dobson.Judging by the blatant bigotry on this blog,I don't think they like the color of his skin. Lots of nastiness.

deroy   October 8th, 2007 6:51 am ET

when does our religious invasion of pakistan begin?

deroy   October 8th, 2007 6:48 am ET

what religion is he selling.

this guy is a con man.

he could be an opening act.

Simon R. Rabinowitz   October 8th, 2007 6:47 am ET

Let us all pray that as Americans we unite together beyond party boundaries to insure that NO MUSLIM shall ever take ANY office within our government. We have identified our enemy of the 21st century – it is MUSLIM.

I understand, Miami FL   October 8th, 2007 6:46 am ET

I won't vote for anyone thast has a Muslim grandmother, father and stepfather. Forget it! I'm not interested in the Muslim worldview and how we can come to understand it. I saw the Twin Towers fall. I understand it all too well.

pete, London   October 8th, 2007 6:45 am ET

This is very disappointing. God is great Obama vs God is great Osama?
The world doesn't need another American President spouting Christian evangelism as the basis for US policy around the world.

retiredcopper, Lexington KY   October 8th, 2007 6:43 am ET

It's funny how Democrats will find religion right around election time.

Nodack, Phoenix AZ   October 8th, 2007 6:39 am ET

You are all scary people.

I'm agnostic.

If there is a god he is either laughing or crying right now after reading these comments.

I don't subscribe to any religion because from my point of view they are all dangerous cults.

Why is almost everybody in the mid east a Muslim?

Because their mothers and fathers were Muslim and raised them to be Muslims.

Why are most people in the US Christians.

Because their mothers and fathers were.

How many different religions are there?

A lot.

Which is the true one?

Forget I asked.
Enough with the abortion speeches. I get it. You guys won't vote for anybody that would allow abortion because it's killing. Gotcha. I guess the other issues in the world don't matter to you. You don't mind if your leader kills half the people on the planet because god told him to as long as they vote against abortion.

I don't care about religion. The ten commandments were a nice set of guidelines to live by. I don't think God burned then into a rock and handed them to moses. I'll believe some smart man wanted better for his people and came up with the ten commandments as a guide to follow and then to give it muscle told everybody that god did it.

I just want you people to get along with another and stop killing or hating each other in the name of whatever god you happen to believe in.

Muslims and Christians… it's all the same to me. If there is a god, then he can see into your heart and mind to know how you have lived your life regardless of the religion you have chosen to follow.

If Obama wants to create a Kingdom on Earth then I'll take it. A Kingdom in heaven would be a place without wars and everybody treated everybody the same and got along.

By the way, I'm sick of the Republican / Democrat bashing crap. You guys have all come up with a million fancy unflattering names for each other, but it makes you look silly in the process.

What ever happened to just being American?

Democrats VS.Republicans and vice versus.

Muslims against Christians

Palestinians against the Jews

Shiites against Sunni

Never mind your parents made up your minds for you long ago and you will make up your children's minds for them too and this will all keep going on like always and people like me will hope that you guys don't destroy the world in the name of God while I'm still around.

Everett Tracey Spring Hill Tennessee   October 8th, 2007 6:33 am ET

Obama is no different than any other politician—he works all the angles trying to sway the weak and uninformed. When he decides to proclaim a belief and acceptance in Christ in public then I will listen to what he has to say. He won't do it though because his liberal constituency would abandon him for fear of being perceived as caving into right wing theology and beliefs.

Greg, lexington, Ky.   October 8th, 2007 6:33 am ET

It seems to me that all the democrats talk about faith when it fits there purpose. The only kingdom on earth will be set up by God not by Obama or anybody else. This is all for show and how about the churches tax-exempt status???

Nancy Ruckersville Va   October 8th, 2007 6:32 am ET

It must be election time cuz it's time for the dem's to head for the black church… Now it's Obama's turn… I wonder if he'll head down to the white church????

Dan, Peoria, IL   October 8th, 2007 6:29 am ET

If Obama's such a good Christian why is he pro-choice? These people will say anything to get elected.

Brett, Palmdale, Ca   October 8th, 2007 6:28 am ET

"Those of us favoring the left-wing values are far more than willing to take the truth Obama promises and move on, not live in the past.

Posted By Bradley Schaubs, Greeley, CO : October 7, 2007 9:00 pm"

Left Wing Values? Isn't that an oxymoron…..Look.. Obama, Hilary, Edwards are socialists. Socialism has in the history of man, NEVER worked. It can't…it always brings financial ruin. You accuse President Bush of being a tyrant. Simply because you don't agree with his decisions. But socialists are government nannys and tyranny always results. Grow up kids and smell the personal responsibility.

Brian, Maryland   October 8th, 2007 6:25 am ET

I will say anything, or do anything that may get me elected. Praise be to Allah. Hussein OBAMA.

OmarK, Franklin, Me   October 8th, 2007 6:24 am ET

You go girl….!!

Paula Valkenburg Cape Coral, Florida   October 8th, 2007 6:24 am ET

Has he not heard of people like Mother Teresa. Perhaps he needs to attend biblical churches more often and he will find that they all are involved in serving the community in various ways. I think it's great to only talk about faith when you are in church – that's a Chameleon Christian with faith that is only skin deep. Go Barak! Perhaps you can start the First Chameleon Christian Church if you are unsuccessful at your presidential bid.

Tom Romano Stuart Fl   October 8th, 2007 6:17 am ET

when did conservative evangelical start band music and hip hop music in a worship service.

in the christian community that we live in, that is called liberal christianity with the emphasis on the individuals and not the spoken words from the pupit.

a conservative christian worship service puts the emphasis on the word spoken about God and our Savior Jesus Christ. Not some musical show.

HABU, Camarillo, CA   October 8th, 2007 6:04 am ET

Nothing new here, a politician using whatever it takes to gain some political traction. Can't blame him for doing it, but it further illuminates the already obvious. He's a politician, just like all the other candidates from both parties, and any of them will say, do, or promise anything to win. You can bet they're all willing to lie, cheat, and steal and he's no different at all.

Steve - Nashville, TN   October 8th, 2007 5:20 am ET

JRC….yes, there are Christians out there concerned about his comments. He is doing nothing more than pandering to the Christian votes…but for those of us who KNOW what the Word of God says, we know that he is in lost in left field. I stopped listening to him when he said (concerning same sex marriage) "And there are some folks who coming out of the church elevated one line in Romans above the Sermon on the Mount."…..What he obviously has forgotten is that …IT'S THE SAME MESSAGE….both speak against sexual immorality. I challenge you to go read it for yourself. This guy is a fake. I for one would like to see someone stand up and speak the truth. I for one thank God that Obama is making such statements….it helps me to take him off the list of who I will vote for…

Gus,NY   October 8th, 2007 5:07 am ET

Instead of commenting other peoples lifestyle Lynn,let them be and live their life and has their beliefs,rather than demand them to have your beliefs… And as you said they will have to answer to God,not you or this blog…

Pog Mahone   October 8th, 2007 4:53 am ET

This is utterly ridiculous! If this is to be believed, then you simply have to entertain the thought that there really are TWO Democratic parties in this country operating under the one umbrella. Almost any resident of Berkeley California, as but one prominent example, would be horrified to read this article, as there is a relish there with which they ridicule religion in general and Christians in particular. This is NOT the sort of thing that the new "take-no-prisoners" elements of the Democratic party want to hear at all. Which leaves one to wonder what sort of a game is being played here by Mr. Obama and others who take out the God card every now and again. Methinks they speak with a forked tongue to appease those who the Berekeley California types rudely and condescendingly like to call "red staters" or "rubes".

James , Jackson ,GA   October 8th, 2007 4:49 am ET

It's easy to talk 'faith' in a church where you are merely a cheerleader or a celebrity. Where are the Politicians values when facing reality.
Per example: Would they force a daughter to abort or would they sacrifice popularity and encourage their daughter to keep and raise the child?

Chris, Fresno, CA   October 8th, 2007 4:46 am ET

How about being a instrument of your country? What end is served by making religious beliefs known?

Brother Robert   October 8th, 2007 4:31 am ET

Another worthless black church. There are so many, but why then is the black culture (in America) the most corrupt, the most deadly, the most foul? It's because of worthless "Christian" churhces like this that have Rock & Hip Hop and ranting emotionalism, and no commitment to truth or Christ. Black skin isn't the problem, but a corrupt black culture is. He's pandering to thier worhtless faith. They can't even get that killing babies is wrong, even while they are being born (partial birth abortion). The left's religion is false and self-serving. The black community needs truth and light not more pandering and worthless hedonistic churches.
Be discerning! Don't fall for every candidate that comes to your church.

Charles, Evansville, In   October 8th, 2007 4:31 am ET

So if Obama is such a God fearing man how can he justify the abortion of the innonce life of children? Just another one that will say anything to get a vote.

Morrisongs   October 8th, 2007 4:26 am ET

And u call me crazy for making a politically CONSERVATIVE MUSIC CD! After all the Christian bashing! I say it in song–for the right! Hillary, Edwards and many others get their due–to music. Don't cry–we get one to answer the 'left only' Hollywood.

http://www.conservativemusiconline.com

Quentin Beck   October 8th, 2007 4:06 am ET

Which faith is he referring, too? Because I'm not praying five times a day and I'll die before I join 'The Nation'

Michael M, Lebanon, TN   October 8th, 2007 3:53 am ET

"Would the Lord Jesus Christ want us to be pitted against each other like we are now? NO! Christ encouraged harmony,"

"Some of you right-wingers are free to follow your beloved liar into oblivion. Face it, the truth is beyond your little minds."

Um….

Way to encourage harmony.

You people crack me up.

ROBERT CATES, BYHALIA, MS   October 8th, 2007 3:50 am ET

Sen. Barack Hussein Obama,

In order to be used of God one must first submit himself to God. That is to agree with what He says about Himself and what He tells us in the Holy Bible, which is His written word. This would include accepting what He says about all of mankind and what one must do to be accepted by Him in order to become His child. He has much to say about what is and is not acceptable in His sight. Killing unborn babies is not acceptable to Him nor is having sex with another of the same sex or with anyone outside of a Godly marriage between a man and a woman. Submit yourself to the Lord!! Then you may ask for God's blessings and God will bless out of His abundance according to His will. Continue to espouse views contrary to God's word and you are cursed; not blessed.
And that is the way it is!!

Chris, Dallas, TX   October 8th, 2007 3:48 am ET

Republicans never hijacked faith and values from anyone- they were the ones standing up for faith and values when the Democrats were busy tearing them down. It has been the Democrats who have shoved faith and values out of schools and the courts. It is the Democrats who attack other Republicans for their faith and values. It is the Democrats who use the faith and values of Supreme Court nominees to derail their nominations. It is the Democrats pushing the homosexual agenda, same sex marriage, abortion, easy sex, and so on… It is the Democrats whose mantra is that you cannot legislate morality. It is the left that derides people of faith when they stand up for what they believe in. This is such a transparent attempt to try and win over the independents and evangelicals who are not happy with the Republicans. Who was it that defended Clinton's philandering- the Democrats. How about Barney Frank and the prostitution ring he ran from his apartment? Have we forgotten Gerry Studds having sex with a 17 year old male page? Or even good ol' Kennedy and his sordid history… The political left in this country doesn't have a leg to stand on when it comes to real values and real faith- they don't have the works to back their words. Its disingenuous to say that the Republicans have ever taken faith and values from Democrats… when all they have done is defend what many people on the right hold dear and true.

Joe, Anniston, AL   October 8th, 2007 3:41 am ET

Liberals were hysterical about the influence of Christianity in elections. After bashing Christians for years, they suddenly have found "religion." Well, lets hope so, but we're not going to be fooled at the voting booth. God and abortion don't mix. Won't work.

Charlie, Kings Mountain, NC   October 8th, 2007 3:41 am ET

Don't believe people who tell you that THEY own religion, that THEY own morality, or that THEY have an answer for all your problems. Doesn't matter who it is, those people are lying to you. Those people are fixated on POWER and the pursuit of power, and they will tell you ANYTHING if you will contribute to their quest for power. They will lie to you, they will use you, and they will ultimately betray you. Every time. Don't be a pawn, don't be a rube. Educate yourself, arm yourself, and become a leader, not a follower.

Nicholas, Grand Rapids, MI   October 8th, 2007 3:30 am ET

"When in Rome, do as the Romans." This is why Obama is a powerful speaker. He is merely putting his ideas In linguistic terms in the language that they most closely relate to. To the things that they hope for. Yet if you pay attention to what else he says in this speech you will see that he is also preaching tolerance. This can all be easily confused as pandering to the crowd and many times it is. Lincoln was a great speaker for this reason as well. I think that perhaps Obama is Lincoln come full circle. A man of policy and not party, someone willing to get his hands dirty at great expense to himself.

pacifica1, Los Angeles, CA   October 8th, 2007 3:27 am ET

Mainstream media will do anything to denigrate Obama, as they have consistently done, just as they have coronated Hillary prez.

After all, don't forget that the consolidation of media occurred during Bill Clinton's presidency, and now we have 7 mega-corporations owning everything we see, hear and read. That is why we must access independent media to find out what is really happening, and I recommend buzzflashDOTcom, as it is a progressive news site with links to all world and US newspapers, government links and also White House propaganda sites like Faux News and Drudge, for example.

I tune in to CNN when I want to see what they are under-reporting, not reporting or misreporting. Period. It used to be GREAT when Ted Turner owned it and Bernard Shaw was the senior journalist…now it mired in superficial coverage and plainly biased towards Hillary, a clear violation of the tenets of our democracy.

Anonymous   October 8th, 2007 3:25 am ET

LOL – with 95% of blacks mindlessly voting democrat, support at a black church is a victory?

You libtards are fools.

Bronte   October 8th, 2007 3:16 am ET

MORE PROOF THAT LEFTISTS ARE HYPOCRITES:

Leftist cartoonists almost always portray President George W. Bush with "jug ears” even though his ears are perfectly normal.

BARAK HUSSEIN OBAMA HAS GOT ENORMOUS JUG EARS, YET, THERE IS NEVER A REFERENCE TO HIS “JUG EARS.”

You want more???

How about the fact that President George W. Bush is OFTEN portrayed as a “monkey.”

BARAK HUSSEIN OBAMA LOOKS EXACTLY LIKE A TEEN-AGED CHIMP, YET, THERE IS NEVER A REFERENCE TO HIS “MONKEY” LOOKS.

ThirstyJon, Freedomville, IL   October 8th, 2007 2:54 am ET

It does not matter what "faith" a person claims to be a part of. It matters what policies one advances. It matters what character a candidate lives.

On Social and Moral policies regarding abortion, marriage, and education, the Republican Party has often attracted better candidates.

I will continue to vote for candidates who oppose the slaughter of innocent children through abortion. I will continue to support candidates who stand against the agenda to force Americans to acknowledge "gay" marriage via the law.

I will also continue to stand against candidates who advance a socialistic like agenda that threatens the right to private property and basic freedom. High taxes, oppressive big government, and lots of regulation are all evils that we need to stand against.

When God made a country (ancient Israel) there was no king until His people insisted on having one. I think God is into freedom from oppressive government. Socialism doesn't fit.

The Democratic party is often socialistic in its views. I don't by it.

There is nothing "Holy" about the Republican party. But for as long as a third party is unable to rise up to real prominence, and for as long as the Democratic party is in the hands of dangerous socialist and socially immoral thinkers, I will be voting most of the time as a Republican. Of course, there will be exceptions only when the Democrat who is running opposes abortion being legal, opposes the "gay" marriage agenda, and opposes oppressive big-tax and high regulation government.

ThirstyJon
freedomthirst.com

God, Everywhere,Universe   October 8th, 2007 2:53 am ET

…Sigh……

Faith without works is dead……

Night, kids.

Bronte   October 8th, 2007 2:51 am ET

IF GEORGE W. BUSH SAID THESE SAME WORDS, HE WOULD BE CONDEMNED.

"Sometimes you can become fearful, sometimes you can become vain, sometimes you can seek power just for power's sake instead of because you want to do service to God. I just want all of you to pray that I can be an instrument of God in the same way that … all of you are instruments of God."

GEORGE W. BUSH WOULD BE CALLED EVERY NAME IN THE BOOK IF HE SAID:

"We're going to keep on praising together. I am confident that we can create a Kingdom right here on Earth."

GEORGE W. BUSH HAS NEVER, EVER, EVER, CALLED ON AMERICANS TO WORK TOGETHER TO CREATE A KINGDOM RIGHT HERE ON EARTH. IF HE DID, HE WOULD BE MOCKED, CONDEMNED, EXCORIATED, AND HATED!!!!!!!!!

Leftists are never honest and never fair.
That is why they are hypocrites.

Superpower - Houston, Texas   October 8th, 2007 2:48 am ET

When in Rome…

Chris,Eugene,OR   October 8th, 2007 2:45 am ET

In reference to the post by Ed of Ellenville NY, "If Obama steals their faith,who's going to pay Dobson's bills? Maybe the right has found their savior.This time it's going to be hard to deny he's black." I have two questions.
1. It is simply ignorant of you sir to make such an uneducated comment about this man's Lord and Saviour nor to even remotely think its funny to reference this man as the "right's" saviour. Jesus or Yeshua was a Jew. A Hebrew. He was not white nor was he black. He was most likely of an olive complection. What does your comment have to do with the nature of this article? To me it seems that you simply want to perpetuate racism and cultural hatred.
2. If you are referring to Dr. James Dobson of Focus on The Family, don't you think that Obama would possibly and probably does, support him? Its comments like this that frustrate the situation and cause an unhealthy and uneducated form of dissent. You waste everyones time by irrationally typing the first thing that comes to mind, and expect the readers of this article to somehow agree with you.

I am NOT voting for Obama, but I'm sure as heck not going to sit here while someone ignorantly makes comments in reference to this mans faith as well as try and make some halfbaked dig at MY PARTY.

Go repugs!

Bronte   October 8th, 2007 2:44 am ET

HYPOCRISY IS ALIVE AND WELL IN AMERICA.

If Republicans even VISIT a church-owned university they are castigated for mixing "church and state."

Yet, DEMOCRATS are free to visit ACTUAL CHURCHES and nothing is said.

If it weren’t for DOUBLE STANDARDS, Leftists wouldn’t have any.

Mick in Los Feliz California   October 8th, 2007 2:41 am ET

So what morals is Mr. Obama espousing?
Abortion, maybe before the second trimester only?
Gay marraige? hmmm ??
Me thinks the world is turned upside down.

Don, Yuma, AZ   October 8th, 2007 2:37 am ET

Based on the fact that in his book he said the family member he admired most was his Muslim grandfather, I fear for America under his EXTREME leftist policies and his exotic brand of Christianity!! To paraphrase moveon.org on Petraeus/BetrayUs, I am afraid that under a Barack presidency, this country could become a total ObamaNation!!

Sam   October 8th, 2007 2:34 am ET

If a Republican had said what Obama did in a Church, the liberal media would have total fits, reporting it 24/7 for weeks on end, demanding an apology. The attack would be relentless.

The left is full of hypocrites and snakes and vipers. Power and money are their true religions!

Zulu, Jamaica, New York   October 8th, 2007 2:29 am ET

THANK GOD FOR SENATOR OBAMA. HE WILL BE THE FIRST BLACK US PRESIDENT AND THE BEST PRESIDENT OF THEM ALL.

BHZ Antioch California   October 8th, 2007 2:28 am ET

Obama seems to have put himself in a box by campaigning in a Christian church. If he tries to pander to other faiths (read that Judaism,Islam etc.) he will be distanced by the Orthodox followers of other faiths. He is still relying on the liberal fringe and would need to do so in a Temple or a Mosque. Swinging to the eastern religions with their idols would cause further division in his following.

Houghton Coleman   October 8th, 2007 2:28 am ET

Lioness, You are an IDIOT!
He gets your vote on ONE issue and that's intelligent?
Wy not because of his eye color or because he is thin? Makes as much sense.
This is a Politician telling you what YOU want to hear >>> ON ONE SUBJECT and you are 100% for him now.
Such immature foolishness!

Michael, Greenville, SC   October 8th, 2007 2:27 am ET

I attended this morning's service, and for everyone who didn't attend (I believe that includes everyone who has posted), I think a little context is necessary.

First, I am a religion major at a liberal arts university, and I am neither a registered Republican nor Democrat (though I am registered to vote). I attended the service out of curiosity – I am interested in learning more about both Senator Obama's campaign and Redemption World Outreach Center.

RWOC is probably the most socio-economically and racially diverse congregation in Greenville County (maybe in South Carolina). The church is charismatic, which is not nearly as easily labeled Republican as "evangelical." The church's stated vision begins, "As a multi-cultural church, we are a magnificent tapestry of people uniting together…" Through various facets of the church, assistance is provided to many of "the least of these" in Greenville that Jesus kept talking about.

Jesus also talked a lot about the kingdom of God, or "Βασιλεία τοῦ Θεοῦ." In fact, many Biblical scholars and theologians agree that the kingdom of God was Jesus' central message. In announcing the kingdom of God, he drew from the prophet Isaiah calling the people to be "a city on a hill" (John Winthrop, anyone?), which is quite an inclusive vision. Obama drew from this prophetic tradition for his comments (invoking the memory of MLK). This is not a vision of a strict theocracy – it is instead working for the vision Jesus announced at the beginning of his public ministry. "The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor" (Luke 4:18-19).

Obama spoke of binding the nation's wounds, and of bringing Democrats and Republicans together for common goals. His only political statement (if it can be called political) was when he asked the congregation to pray for him and his family.

The Pastor in no way endorsed Obama – he just made it clear that the Senator was the congregation's guest, and that he should be made welcome (as would any politician who asked to attend services). I doubt any other candidate will take him up on the implicit offer.

If anyone would like further clarification about the service, I'll try and help, though I doubt I'll be reading this blog as incessantly as some. :)

Jim, Bremerton, Wa.   October 8th, 2007 2:26 am ET

"The blind leading the blind" He is scary. If you call yourself a Christian, and condone and vote for abortion, you are a hypocrite. End of Story.

mike, yorba linda, ca   October 8th, 2007 2:25 am ET

Now… if it was a Republican speaking in a church… they'd call him a hypocrite or religious zelot!

Patty, Pikeville, Ky   October 8th, 2007 2:23 am ET

Can you imagine the media coverage that would result from a Republican saying that we can make a "kingdom [of God] on earth"…