Even evangelicals have turned their back on this man!

Who cares about this clown, why is he making the news?

Obama won't win anyway so I fail to see what all the fuss is about.

As a Christian, I find Dr. Dobson's comments offensive. Senator Obama was sharing his beliefs. Certainly each of us interprets the Bible as it speaks to us. Few among us are Bible scholars, but as Christians we rely on the words of Jesus who teaches us through the word that we are to "love God with our whole heart and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves."

Dr. Dobson's ridicule of Senator Obama's remarks are disturbing and sad.

Just ignore the guy! He is cpompletely nuts!!!!!!!

Dobson doesn't seem to care that people are being killed in Iraq needlessly by his "pro-life" president. Check the bible on that one Dobson and see who's twisting the bible to suit their own world view.

What an idiot!

Once again the right winged IDIOTS spread hate and BIGOTRY and hide behind the constituation…..I say take away their tax staus and see what they have to say…Really pissed off at them.

Obama is correct. But what Dobson doesn't want you to know is the bible is to be taken literally, but you have "rightly divide" it. In the old testament it barred the Israelites from shellfish, to separate them from the other religions and people, not because it was evil.

Now, in the New Testament God told Peter to eat these same foods, even though he is jewish, and not supposed to eat them. The point, it's not a sin, it's a matter of distinction between groups of people.

I think Dobson is an idiot. What Obama said was correct. This coming from an evangelical Christian, who voted for G. Bush.

Christian folks are some of the worst most racist, egotistial, inhumane people, but there are many, like myself, who just want to spread the gospel of Jesus, and make sure others know his love.

You can't govern based solely on the bible, but you can add bible beliefs that help govern.

Well, I'm sure that is what Jesus would have done

Hey! Sharon Minnesota:

Dobson has for may years attempted to shove his religion down peoples throats. Does it ever occur to you that millions of good Chritian people in this country differ with his so-called Christian ideology. Please remove your blinders and embrace others outside the Dobson narrow-minded world.

WAY TO GO REX!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Glad to hear you escaped and are now thinking clearly and in control of your own mind. Those republicans and evangelicals are a dangerous bunch!

Welcome back!

In John 8:7 (New International Version) it states But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. 7When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, "If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her."

James Dobson and Focus on the Family had an avid listener in me until I listened to them devote the majority of today's broadcast to bash and defame the character and spiritual beliefs of Barack Obama.
James Dobson is an old psychologist that's trying to get his last 15 minutes of fame and he used his radio show to try and hurt the Obama campaign.
Dobson is hurting Barack Obama's campaign just as much and maybe even more than Rev. Wright!
Dobson admitted today that he's not even a minister so why in the world is he so concerned about Obama's opinion of the Bible!
James Dobson needs to use all his psychological training and do a psychological evaluation of his own sick twisted mind and leave Obama alone.
To everybody agreeing with Dobson, you need to remember two words "Obama 08!" You are going to see change we can believe in…

Anyone that reads into the Bible more than "this was a good story" is distorting it. It is a book. It may be the most published, translated, and recited book in history, but that is only because it has a history and people follow that history (pardon the pun) religiously.

The Bible is as physical as the Church is. I'm not one for spirituality or God either, but if I was, I feel like ANYTHING physical, be it book or organization, would only serve to limit the "limitless".

All you religious nut jobs need to go bless someone else for a while. We're trying to live and you're not helping.

Wow. Way to go Dobson. Pot. Kettle. Black.

Thank you, Dr. Dobson. Obama's fruitcake is more nourishing to our conscience than your half-baked plate of hateful cookies.

What makes anyone a "leader in religion" anyways? I have my own thoughts on faith and fairy tales so if I were to ask 300 million people to send me a buck or I'm going to be taken by "God" and half of them did it, would that make me a leader? New Testament, Old Testament. Whatever. Let's get real and deal with our issues as a nation without talk of who interpreted a fairytale wrong people.

Right here is a perfect case of evangelicals picking and choosing scripture they want to follow. They'll quote Leviticus until they're blue in the face to denounce homosexuality, yet strangely avoid the other laws handed down in the Old Testament. Obama was right, maybe people should actually read their Bibles for a change before they open their mouths.

People who believe in religion should swing from the gallows. Then maybe humanity would finally make some progress…

READ THIS! As a Christian I know for a fact that Dr. Dobson has twisted the Bible himself. He indorses women as pastors, (now I don't want to get into womens lib, just stating the facts) when the bible forbids it. His grandmother was a preacher. Also what is he a Doctor of? This guy is a hypocrate. Anyway as for the two candidates, same old sh_t, differant piles.

If it weren't for people like Dobson, most Americans would consider evangelicals to be reasonable fair-minded people rather than dangerous religious extremists.

..

Dobson, being a evangelical leader, failed to realize that by expressing judgment with criticism regarding someone else's faith, shows that Dobson knows little about the Bible.

But again, a person like Dobson may never know, no matter how many times he reads it.

Why is CNN reporting on this?

Dobson has his own radio show for which to spout off his opinions. The people who listen to Dobson are mostly people who will not cross party lines and vote democrat.

Honestly though, the speech Dobson is talking about was one of the major reasons I decided to support Obama. He has it right that decisions should not be made solely on religious beliefs.

Finally, Some that will call Obama for what he is. Plain and simple. By November, the people of this country must realize 4 years of Obama Nation would be devestating in many, many ways.

America was formed due to the providence of Almighty God. It was allowed to prosper and flurish for 200 years due to the desire of its people to honor and worship the Creator. As we have taken our eye off of Him and focused on our own self interest, we now see what a mess we are in. Just reading the hateful, hurtful, condescending, venom spewing comments, gives me good indication of our future discord with the future. Dr. Dodson is correct in his comments and offers it as a warning.

Do people still care what big bucks Evangelical preachers say about anything? Haven't we found enough of these closeted freaks to be as corrupt and dishonest as anyone they ever pointed their judgemental finger at?

My goodness this coming out now after two years?? First of all Obama is running for president of the United States. He did not claim that he is running as a theologian. Dobby is trying to smear Obama so the bible thumping red necks will not vote for him.

David Higgins, you hit the nail on the head! Did Jesus STOP being a Jew? Why isn't Dobson a Jew?

There are a lot of people praying that Obama doesn't win! Nevada!!!

Dodson is the "fruitcake".

Many of you speak of supporting Obama and want an end to war and want our country to return to it's place of honor in the world and yet in the same breath you lambaste a guy (in this case, Dobson) and call for his head because he has a DIFFERENT opinion. How is that attitude going to help return our country to a place of honor? If you honor the Constitution and the Bill of Rights you'll allow him to speak his opinion just as you do. It seems that intolerance is NOT just found in the religious camp; on the contrary, I find more hate and contempt and intolerance in the non-religious sector that keeps calling religious (Christian) people "zealots", "nutcases", "intolerant", "bigotted", etc. How can you stand there and call someone these things when in order to do so, you're exhibiting the very behavior you seemingly claim to abhor? If you want to see hypocrisy, look no further than a mirror if you feel that the best way for America to move forward is to SILENCE those who oppose you. Seems to me Hitler did that too.

This guy is a total nut…along with Karl Rove and the rest of the "the boys"! Wake up America…is this really news or just another Republican ploy to divert our attention from "CHANGE".
GO OBAMA in 2008!!!

all I see is a bunch on scared children, using big words to puff out their chests. You call for separation of church and state, yet you call for the silencing of a private citizen.

Dobson purchased this airtime and as such, is free to speak, just as Obama is free to speak.

There is a way which seems right to a man,
But its end is the way of death.
Proverbs 16:25

If we only spent more time loving as Christ loved us and less time trying to match the hate of those who hate us. Change is coming and unfortunately, I highly doubt any of you will be happy with what you get.

You decide what side I'm on.

I think the only sensible point, which neither person, Obama or Dobson, seem willing to make, is that the Bible is utterly useless as a moral guide.

Obama is right that Leviticus calls for bigotry against gays but also calls eating shrimp an abomination and contains rules that condone slavery. So if Dobson wants to persecute gays based on the Bible, he must also picket Red Lobster and buy slaves.

But here is the conclusion that both should admit but will not; the Bible is the product of primitive humans, has nothing to do with a god and is not divine. It's just another book and not even a good one when it comes to ethics.

I have been a Christian for over 50 yrs., of the Southern Baptist denomination. I cannot believe what I am hearing from Dr. Dobson! It would be interesting to know how many times he has quoted and taught from the book of Leviticus or how many times he has used the 10 Commandments in his sermons. I do not understand his position on the relevance of the Old Testament to the New Testament-it's all the word of God. I have always believed that a man called to preach is supposed to lead people to Christ-not drive them away from him. I HAD a great deal of respect for Dr. Dobson-not anymore.
Pat, Greenville, SC

James Dobson is the fruitcake. Interesting how we are often talking about ourselves when we criticize others–

Every Christian group reads the bible differently, and interprets the bible's meaning differently. Translations over years that have varied, and been changed to meet the needs of individual Religious groups, have also made interpretation of the bible suspect.

Dobson and his group believe in a Fundamental Belief that the Bible is the absolute word of God, with no variance, with no questioning allowed. For most Christians, the bible represents a tool, with important messages and teachings in it. However, a small, but growing group of Fundamentalists, believe that only the Bible's Rules and Laws, are what moral standards should be set by.

Simple enough… except, NOT all Americans are Christian, and most don't believe the same way Dobson and his group do.

Keep your personal beliefs to yourself Mr. Dobson… teach to those who will listen… and love all others, whether they believe in your belief's… or not… it's not the job of Christian Groups to condemn…

Only the Lord can do that… And fundamentalists have a hard time understanding forgiveness, and love… and continue to condemn those that don't believe as they do.

An insane evangelical calling somebody else out for supposedly distorting the bible is hilarious.

Like only he will know!

Wow!
The string of comments here in response to the article and obvious allegence sure do paint a picture… dark and bitter come to mind.

People will do anything for press.

Please show me the "Separation of Church and State" in the Constitution!
The first amendment says, "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof"

Congress may not establish a religion - we are all free to worship as we please, but "Separation of Church and State" is an idea put forth by Jefferson in a letter - not part of the Constitution!

Hey, OBAMA RULES ALL THE WAY TO WHITE HOUSE, you don't think Obama is rich???? Obama is a dangerous man, he will lead us to conflict if he gets in the White House. Some of the ignoramous out there think he's just like JFK, I think he's going to be a lot more like Jimmy Carter and it's going to take us years to clean up his mess. What is Obama going to do so you're not a "STRUGGLING AMERICAN"? Is he going to hire you to do something? I wonder what, perhaps clean his office from all the BS that comes out of his mouth.

It is time for a leader who is capable of recognizing the importance of incorporating acceptance and the separation of church and state. Focus on the family is one of many, many, fundamentalist groups who preach hate and discord to anyone who will listen. They are of course, entitled to their beliefs, but anyone with a brain won't isten.

OBAMA FOR CHANGE!!! Get the religious right outta here!!!

I'm getting a kick out of you people who take this stuff way to serious. I'm in tears laughing at some of these comments. Really, no one cares who you're voting for. This is for comments you psycho. Stop crying in your beer.

After reading some of these comments, I've come to the conclusion that some of y'all just need jesus period.

The phrase separation of church and state is generally traced to a letter written by Thomas Jefferson in 1802 to the Danbury Baptists, in which he referred to the First Amendment to the United States Constitution as creating a "wall of separation" between church and state.
Research, people…the phrase "separation of church and state" is NOT in the Constitution. Those of you who want separation of church and state are totally ignoring the fact that the founding fathers were God-fearing men. They didn't want a theocracy, but they also didn't want to cut God out of the government.
As far as Dobson, everyone has the right to express their opinions. Why is it that when right-wing Christians do it, it's unacceptable?

He's like "Blah blah blah Obama doesn't understand the Bible, Leviticus and Deuteronomy aren't relevant any more." But these are the same people that quote Leviticus when they say that gay sex is a sin. Talk about a "fruitcake" interpretation: it's okay for Dobson and those like him to pick and choose what THEY want to recognize from the Bible, but not for Obama.

The sole reason for this is to defame Obama's religious beliefs and make him a scapegoat. They just want to put another religious right-winger in the White House.

Not again!!!!

Add one more "whacko" Evangelical fool to the pile.

James Dobson deserves a place right up there with Sharpton, Jackson, Wright, Ralph Reed, Falwell, Robertson, etc. etc. etc.

They are getting out of hand, just like any city with a nasty rodent problem. Someone please call the exterminators!

Anyone ever heard of "Separation of Church and State?" Apparently, James Dobson hasn't!!! He appears to be a "fruitcake" himself!

Dobson just called a man who is a Constitutional Scholar and Professor, a constitutional fruitcake……

code word, yes…

credibility in that statement…. ZERO

I'm a Catholic, but come one, we all know that Focus on the Family are nutters if they believe this country should make all laws in accordance with the Bible.
Which was what Obama was saying in a more diplomatic way.
I don't care if Dobson feels he can discount the Old Testament, which he wouldn't, btw, if he had studied the Bible more closely, but that doesn't matter. it still doesn't mean the New Testament should be the standard for legislation.
You do realize that when you support McCain, you support this lunacy, don't you?

Actually, Obama's right. There are plenty of Christians out there who would implement Old Testament, Ten Commandments law instead of Christ's "Two Commandments" (Love God, Love your neighbor) Law.

People haven't been reading their Bibles, and that's why we have things like the war in Iraq, neglect of the environment, social injustice, and inaction on terrible situations like Darfur. We're all guilty.

I am amazed at the amount ot people on here who have no idea what the separation of church and state is. Try researching it before you use it as your defense.

God did not change his mind. And Obama is no expert on the Bible, that's evident. He is just proving beyond the shadow of a doubt he is just as ignorant on the bible as he is about running the county.

This is perfect Mr. Dobson, while you mobilize the left Obama can work on the independants!

Oh please….Dobson…you don't represent GOD….you represent YOU…..

Obama has a great sense of the Bible and of Religion. His historic "Call to Renewal" Keynote speech (this one that is being critcisized by this Dobson fellow) was, and still is, meaningful and authentic.

I challenge all those who question Obama's faith to actually take a second to look up this speech and read it through.

Dobson, YOU HAVE NO CLUE.The so called conservative party has been hijacked and is controlled by Satan. WAKE UP before you lead our churches to destruction

What else can be said that hasn't already been echoing for decades? It's sad to think that this country was founded on the basis of freedom from religious persecution, and now we are creating the same hate and building the same walls our forefathers sought and fought to relieve their sons and daughters from.

Until we can actually separate the biased and prejudiced theocratic mindset from Government, we'll never have a Democracy. And that's shameful.

THERE IS THIS MOSIC OF OBAMA THAT IS COMING THROUGH.

AN SLIP AND SLIDING IVY LEAGUE LAWYER WHO DOESN'T EVEN NO WHO HE IS. A PERSON WHO'S CORE VALUES ARE IN THE MAKING. THE EYES OBAMA SEE'S THROUGH ARE NOT OF AMERICANS. A PERSON WHO SHOWS BRILLANTS AND YET NIEVENESS OF WHAT THE REAL WORLD IS.

OBAMA COMES A CROSS AS A PERSON WHO IS DEALING WITH PAINFUL ISSUES OF HIS OWN.
SINCERELY, JIMMIE W BECK

Per Dobson Obama is quoting the old testament that is not folowed anymore…….but he still favors and make all his followers pay Tithes????

The Lord will see you in the last day.

So only Dobson can make a correct interpretation of the Bible ? This guy isn't even going to vote for the President of the U.S.. I say keep religion out of all politics ( see Iran )!!!

why is religion election issue in US while if islamic leaders talk about religion, even in their own country, we tell them to separate the two. why cant we lead by example?

(divide).. sorry

James Dobson should read HIS bible! The "antiquated dietary code" is part of the Jewish dietary code in force today. Only seafood with scales are "kosher". Shellfish (shrimp, etc) are not kosher. Shellfish are not eaten by muslims either.

Dobson and the evangelicals distort the bible all of the time to justify their deranged proficies

"I think he's deliberately distorting the tradition understanding of the Bible to fit his own worldview, his own confused theology," Dobson said.

Pot…Kettle….etc etc.

Dobson is just another "has been" trying desperately to get back into the spotlight…just like Karl Rove. Two geeks trying to be popular!

I'm not a Dobson fan, but as a Catholic, I remain dumbfounded how anyone who identifies themselves as christian can vote for a pro-abortion candidate for president. For things like local sheriff or state governor, yeah, other priorities can get the nod, but the president appoints the Supreme Court Justices. Do the pro-abortion fans want to discuss those casualty rates?

Well, looking who is calling a fruitcake a fruitcake…..

James Dobson is probably right about this particular issue, but it's irrelevant now 2 years later. Why bring it up?

Otherwise, Dobson is an idiot much of the time. I listen to Christian radio on my commute, and every day they play one of his "Real Family Life" tips. He essentially believes most people are sheep to be led and he can't stand the thought of intellectuals challenging tradition or religious authority. If it was up to him, we'd all be living as the Amish.

Texas Trail Dog - get a real life!
Sharon Minnesota - sweetie, Obama didn't criticize dobson, dobson critized Obama. You people are so filled with hate you can't even listen or get your facts straight.
OBAMA 08 & 12

I think we all know who the real fruitcake is. Dobson is only upset because Obama's criticism is apt and fits Dobson and his kind to a tee.

It's OK. Now that the design for the presidential seal is complete, it's time to go to work on the Obama bible.

As a Canadian, I cannot imagine why you Americans allow small-minded, creationist-thinking, non-taxpaying parasites like the evangelical cadre to hold such significant sway over your place in the 21st Century.

As hard as it might be for you to accept, there ARE lessons that you can learn from the rest of the world. Europe, for example (who's currency is now much stronger than your own), has largely rejected any role for religion in politics.

Go to church every day if you so desire, but for God's sake keep the religious mothpieces away from the halls of power if you want to prosper in this millenium.

It's interesting to finally see how Rev. Wright's gutter misinterpretation of Christianity has influenced Obama's religious and political views.

Now that James Dodson is campaigning for John McCain, he is trying to distort the reality and attack Obama for no reason. Shame on you Dodson! We evangelicals are not fools who are so indulged in the type of attacks that you have promised to wage for the McCain Campaign. You are not different from Senator Joe Liberman. You are a hypocrite and you will one day account for what you are doing.

Patrick.
Madison, Wisconsin

If the "Old Testament" is irrelevant, at least we can stop arguing about whether the Ten Commandments belong in public places.

I couldn't agree more with Obama. In fact, I wish he'd make that same speech today. A lot of people could stand to hear it again.

Thanks for giving Christianity another black eye, Dobson. Your comments and attitudes towards those different than you are not at all similar to the Christian church in which I was raised.

What is wrong with these people? They are really struggling with the thought of a Black man being president. Unbelievable.

Do not judge, or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.
Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye.

I think Jesus was refering to you, Mr. Dobson

To fulfill the whole law of the Old Testament, Jesus said to "Love the Lord thy God with all thy strength, with all thy soul, with all thy heart and with all thy might, and thy neighbor as thy self". Everyone born of God will apply this law to themselves. We would then have a perfect world.

Politics will not save you, nor any person running for office. One person, one vote. The rest is just hot air.

Yes y'all. The above comments point out that this is CNN not the national enquirer. why print tabloid drivel?
Dobson supports McCain, the life long woman chaser?

Excerpt from Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, written in 1779 by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, the basis for the religious protections guaranteed by our Constitution.

“That therefore the proscribing any citizen as unworthy the public confidence by laying upon him an incapacity of being called to offices of trust and emolument, unless he profess or renounce this or that religious opinion, is depriving him injuriously of those privileges and advantages to which in common with his fellow-citizens he has a natural right.”

Therefore, it should not matter to any true American if Obama was a Muslim, which he is not, but still it should not matter. Why does it seem that the true enemy is EXTREME fundamentalism coming from a variety of religions, especially Islam and Christianity.

Mr. Dobson we can all read the bible for ourselves. That is what we all should be doing. Not leaving it up to anyone elses interpertation.

Dobson and his gang has been distorting the truth of the holy word since he started. He outta be ashamed of himself! I know in my heart that the devil is stoking up the fires for Mr. Dobson when he finally gets to judgement day.

Bravo to Bart, from Terre Haute, IN for spotting the hypocritical nature of what Dobson said. Dobson is a hack who selectively quotes the Bible as a literal evangelical work when it supports his world view, and just as quickly dismisses a literal interpretation when it does not. Wouldn't want Leviticus 11:11 to interrupt your Surf 'n' Turf at the Ponderosa, would you now Jimmy?

Dobson is just another one of these holier-than-thou nutjobs who, any day now, will have some scandal that he's gay or some kind of perv that hides behind his "religious convictions". How many times have we seen it?

Who cares what he thinks?

Dobson is a fool.

This is why we have a separation of church and state. I think my imaginary friend meant this and you think he meant that. It is easy to cherry pick what you want from the bible and justify almost anything. If Mr. Dobson likes I can find a lot of examples in the New Testiment that most sane people would not want to base public policy on. (Divorce, women ministers, interest rates, criminal justice, etc.)

You can help McCAIN bomb bomb bomb Iran for the Bible Dobson.You have blood on your hands already for backing Bush last time out .

It is absolutely fascinating that all of you talk about hate, but seem to some of the most hateful, beligerent people I've seen on the web. Just look at the words you are typing.

Also, I'm astounded by the number of people here that think they understand the Bible and have no idea what they are talking about. There are new and old covenants in the Bible. The new covenant doesn't change the sins, it just changes the consequences. Leviticus is applicable in stating that being a homosexual is a sin. However, the new covenant changes the repercussions. Try actually READING your Bibles.

I believe homosexuality is a sin. However, I am commanded to love my neighbor and I will do so. It isn't my place to judge them. That DOES NOT mean that I have to accept or condone the actions of my neighbor. Also, as a Christian I am commanded to share my beliefs with the world. Whether or not you accept or listen is your choice, but we do have a duty to God.

When are people going to wake up and see these "fruitcakes" for what they really are-bigoted, judgemental, know it alls. I am sick of these religious "zealots" sticking their noses in where they don't belong. Obama is 100% right. For once, we have someone who can tell the difference, see the difference, and make a difference.
Go Barack Obama! The Republicans are going to get everything they deserve for bringing down this wonderful country like they have. It's shameful, it really is, what they have done.

Shame on you for giving attention to this fraud. So, McCain's campaign strategist, who lobbies for terrible dictators, says a terrorist attack in US would be good for McCain and his chief economic adviser sponsored the bill that created the Enron scandal and likely caused the surge in oil prices, and all CNN can do is talk about whether Obama flip flopped on flap pins and now what this charleton says about the bible.

Have you no shame??????

Um, Nancy, the Constitution never mentions "seperation of church and state". Not once.

Ah yes Dobson…

Dobson did not directly take on Obama's comments - rather he used the old (very old) method of attacking the messenger.

Come on Dobbie - certainly you should be able to actually argue point by point rather than throwing stones.

Or, are you afraid to get into a real discussion about the bible and Christianity on the facts instead of on talking points and throwing stones?

Dobson Is a nut but Obama is no better.

Hey Dobson,
Who died and made you the sole interperter of the bible?!? Man this is the crap that gets under my skin. I hope America is smarter than this fool.

yes. dobson and his ilk are the only ones allowed to pull random phrases from the bible as long as they support their narrow views…

all the rest are heathens…..

Wow. They had to dig a speech from 2 years ago. Keep digging repubicans, still not going to win. Its funny how the Dems aren't doing this to Teflon John.

Besides, What did Obama say that was bad?

take your bible thumping elsewhere dobson. no one cares about that cursed tome anymore.

I think it is great that we have, excuse me, will have a President that speaks on religion directly. I think the fruit cake comment is being taken out of context. The comment to me sounds like he meant there is a cake with only fruit, you are excluding many things that are good for all man. So when you think of something that includes as many people as possible that want to also contribute good things are bound to result. Also the fact that he is open to cross religious barriers and have relations with people of other faith is great. But with that comes great responsibility to know the person your dealing withs customs. Personally I think it should be taught in schools about different religions just so that we can have a basic respect for one another. I have been reading my bible often the last year and each time I read, I learn something, or I can relate a past event to what I read and can see it from a different perspective.

So, if the Old Testament is antiquated and no longer relevant, the question is just how relevant is the "New" Testament which is nearly 2,000 years old? Face it, both book were written, edited, and selected by mortal men. They were irrelevant before the ink dried in the original draft. Follow teh goodness in your heart and soul not the words and deeds of other men.

I am a devout Christian, but I truly believe that overzealous preachers like Dobson may become America's ayatollahs one day if enough of their kind take over the reins of our government. Now, that's scary.

They need to stay out of politics altogether and tend to their churches and their flock.

Hahahah, Dobson's more like a "fruitcake interpretation" of the constitution and a distorted view of the bible, huh? I love these guys. To all good christians: Follow your nose, not nutballs like this. The man upstairs sees all. That includes you , Mr. Dobson.

James Dobson has been distorting my Bible for years.

Honestly, Barack Obama's rise to prominence has led me to be sadder and more depressed about America than ever before. At a time when we should be celebrating the chance to have a drop of diversity in presidential politics, we are instead regressing to our most vicious and ignorant tendencies. I see much of the attack on Obama as out-right racism. When you hear people say things like "they're is something about him," or "I just don't know about him," those are euphemisms for saying "I don't like the idea of a black man in the White House." Hearing people talk about his candidacy has been a reality check for me in terms of where we are as a country. As for Dobson's comments, well there isn't much to say besides that they are clearly coming from an ignorant man. Obama was simply making the point that the Bible should not guide policy or dictate our actions. To emphasize the point, he referenced a few instances in the Bible that couldn't possibly be implemented in our society. Doesn't seem like he's distorting the Bible to me. Unfortunately, some will agree with Dobson and his vile opinion, just like some mindless dregs believe Obama is still a muslim. We just aren't ready yet as a nation…… ***sigh***

CNN you won't post this — last time I'll bother to read your "news."

Why is this "news" and how does it enlighten the electorate and advance the discussion about the candidate best suited for the presidency?

Why didn't the article fail to put Dobson's foolish comments in the context of "separation of church and state?"

Do you have a copy editor? This article's headline on your homepage is misleading. A mistake?

Isn't Dobson PROVING Obama's point here? …that the bible SHOULD NOT be used in politics because EVERYONE INTERPRETS IT DIFFERENTLY.

…oh, but wait, I forgot, Lou Dobson is God and knows everything.

Shame on you Mr. Dobson. You have just stepped into the political fray. If your organization is tax exempt, that privilege should be revoked immediately.

Thomas Jefferson said, "Believing that religion is a matter which lies solely between man and his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legislative powers of government reach actions only, and not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their Legislature should "make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof," thus building a wall of separation between Church and State" (Letter to the Danbury Baptists, 1802).

I agree with Obama's words.

Here is the message to Dobson, ever heard of separation of church and state?

Men and women like you are hypocritical in nature and I am surprised you got a say in politics!

The Bilble is a distortion. So it is a distortion of a distortion.

Wait.. so he is accusing Obama of distorting the bible because two years ago Obama pointed out that our government is not run by the bible and that there are some stupid laws in the bible that no one follows???

Dr. Dobson; maybe you need to read the Bible again yourself. Try a page out of the New Testament…. lets look at…. say….. Matthew 7:1-5

1 “Judge not, that you be not judged. 2 For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you. 3 And why do you look at the speck in your brother’s eye, but do not consider the plank in your own eye? 4 Or how can you say to your brother, ‘Let me remove the speck from your eye’; and look, a plank is in your own eye? 5 Hypocrite! First remove the plank from your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.

You got a big plank in your eye "Dr". How about you remove that before you go picking sawdust out of other people's eyes?

The bible?? Ok, how about the part that says a woman should not speak in church? That's new testament, mr dobson, do you advocate that women should be seen but not heard?

dobson is a religious nut !!!

Obama's position, essentially, is that we do not live in a theocracy and views such as Dr. Dobson's cannot be imposed on America any more than views hostile to religious faith can be imposed on Americans. Dobson is frustrated because many evangelicals are thinking for themselves and supporting Senator Obama.

If Jesus was on earth right now, TODAY, spreading the same message that is portrayed in the Bible, Dobson would be railing against him, saying that he was "distorting" the Bible. You know what that makes him? A PHARISEE, exactly like the ones who said Jesus himself was distorting religious law. Who made this guy the authority on what parts of the Bible to cherry pick and declare them as the "genuine" Christian law? This guy is an absolute MORON, as is anyone who seriously listens to him!

Dobson is an idiot. Why do we pay any attention to an idiot?

Don't those same Old Testament reading that Mr. Dobson says are antiquated provide the basis for the Christian right's views on gay marriage and abortion? Does't this seem a bit hypocritical?

This is the greatest compliment Obama could have ever received…

I guess we should all be most grateful to this man Dobson for letting us know that some parts of the bible are no longer relevant. What a scoop! I for one had not been notified of that but no surprise because obviously I do not have his inside track. Perhaps he knows of other parts which have become irrelevant and can now be ignored. When he gets down off the mountain, maybe he would be kind enough to use this medium to provide Americans who do read the bible, with a comprehensive listing of all of the parts which can now be disregarded as irrelevant. Lets face it, nobody wants to waste his time reading stuff you are no longer required to believe.

How dare Dobson refer to the laws of Kosher as "antiquated dietary codes". The biblic dietry laws are not antiquated. They are still fresh and practiced by Jews (and even Muslims).

It is just that government should be run on bibalic interpretation of some self-righteous moron like Dobson.

I demand an apology.

Dobson's more of a man then Obama can ever dream of being. Obama's nothing more than a power hungry liberal.

Maybe Dobson should read the bible as well. Last I checked you were not the final authority on this. Maybe he can explain why we then have many interpretations of the word.

i am christian and am wise enough to know that the country doesnt entirely agree with my views- this is what obama was saying -dobson is nitpicking and looking for attention

It's idiots like Dobson who serve to verify my opinion that man created God and not the other way around and make me comfortable with the realization that when I die I simply cease to exist. Just look at the money I save not being tricked into sending these con artsists all my money.

It is clear that the politicians who distance themselves from biblical principles do so because of one reason: they refuse to acknowledge their true standing as sinful men and women before the Lord and Creator of the Universe.

Here is a fact that can be verified through the AMA and other accepted sources: fewer than 3% of all abortions are performed to save the life of the mother. The rest are for the sake of avoiding responsibility. The bottom line: it is more convenient to destroy a human life than care for one. All things considered, any individual who adopts the idea that it's acceptable to tear a human fetus to shreds for the sake of convenience is terribly decieved and unfit for the office of the presidency of the United States.

In biblical days, there were pagan societies that sacrificed infants by casting them into the rocky cliffs to appease their contrived gods. Obama, Clinton and McCain do nothing less.

Dennis John Hart
Corona, CA

okay, someone answer me this. WHY is he commenting on something that happened two years ago? does anyone notice that they are really trying to dig up stuff? I mean REALLY trying. If you are going to criticize the man of something, can it be from something he did this year? Maybe this month even? If no one said anything about his comments TWO YEARS ago, why are they bringing it up now?

What is so wrong about showing Obama giving his speeches showing how he really feels before people decide who they will vote for? Is there a reason to withhold this from the public unless you are taking sides?

And this is news because paying 4.50 for a gallon of gas isn't news anymore?

As a HRC supporter I need to say this regarding Senator Obama. What is it with people who focus on the past? Can we please deal with the present and really important issues like, the war, $5.00 a gal. gas, 1000's of people loosing their homes, jobs being sent to anywhere that isn't the U.S. Dobson needs to get a grip, and a clue. Obviously, Senator Obama isn't a far right Christian, rather he's a thinking man. Dobson might want to try that…thinking.

Obama spoke the truth. The bible is a guide for spirituality, not a rule of law. Dobson and friends are nut jobs.

And he's not voting for McCain??? What a loser!!!!

Not one person here had any defense to what Obama said. You just want to sweep it under the carpet like everything else. Some of us ARE NOT looking the other way.

Why didn't the reporter ask Dobson why he felt is was appropriate for him to comment on matters government when the Constitution call for the separation of Church & State?

Dobson is the "fruitcake". First of all, Obama has a degree in Constitutional law, I think he knows what he's talking about. Secondly, there ARE Christian sects who claim that the Old Testament laws are still in effect, indeed the controversy stems from the New Testament because some Gospels and Paul say that the "old laws" have been abolished by a new covenant, yet Matthew says that you have to follow every single one of the old laws. So, Obama's point is quite valid, that there is no clear definition of what is correct and not correct even among Christians, which was his whole point, there are theological differences, which is why its best for government to just stay out of it all, and that was also the point of the Founding Fathers as well and why we have Separation of Church and State.

The clip that is being played evidences Obama discussing what the Constitution requires. What is McCain's Closet Preacher talking about?

I'm a Christian. An evangelical one from the Churches of Christ. And I would say, in spite of all of Dr. Dobson's books and shows, that Obama understands the Bible better than he does. If anything Dr. Dobson needs to look at how he reads the Bible and ask whether his interpretations of the Bible are a result of his own conservative roots.

We are all biased, come on Dr. Dobson you should know that as a psychologist.

This guy is what's wrong with America. He should listen to George Carlin. You don't like what you're hearding, turn your radio or television off. Don't push your BS views down our throat…

And who is this Dobson? There's only ONE interpretation of "the bible"? Then why are there so many versions of it?

All the crackpots come out of the woodwork during elections, don't they?

Who in the media appointed Dobson as a representative of what's true in the Christian faith? I know that Dobson is upset only because the media covered it. Hasn't the media learned that Dobson and his cronies pick and choose what they want out of the Bible for political reasons and then use their pulpit as a fear platform to beat anyone over the head who stands in their way of their political objectives. Otherwise they wouldn't pay any attention to Obama no matter what he said.

Maybe the media should pay more attention to what denominations and leaders are not speaking out vs. the one who is.

I'm not all that happy with Obama going into this territory himself, because he's not any sort of exclusive purveyor even his own faith, but he doesn't claim to be either. He is entitled to speak out about how he sees the Christian faith in the context of governing if he wishes and many would agree with his views. Most Christian members and many other Christian leaders (besides Dobson) are far more careful in claiming being Christian means one knows how to govern in a better and more just way. If the last 7 years have proved anything, it's that those that claim to be in touch with God's will often are not. And worse - they know they are not - they are just using religious faith like they use fear of terrorism - for political reasons.

The ones that distort the Bible are those that who pick and chose from what they call the "Old Testiment."
And that encludes James Dobson.

So, why doesn't every radical liberal who makes a nasty comment about McCain's ideas warrant a CNN article? This is a lousy excuse for journalism. More of the same "some people say" bull crap, and it's always pointed at the dems. You're rewarding conservative bullies and trash talkers by writing articles about them. Do you think people can't tell that? Thanks for contributing to the dialog, CNN.

Why don't you focus on the tangible differences between the POLICIES of the candidates, rather than all this sensationalized, worthless trash talk? I don't give a crap what this guy thinks and neither do 99% of the rest of your readers (as evidenced by the previous comments). If I wanted a brainless soap opera, I'd be watching daytime TV.

I am a Catholic like the late JFk and like the late JFK I agree that a woman has a right to choose. In addition, I would never impose my religion on anyone.

Lets go America!
Lets Barack the Vote!

Obama/Bloomberg 08
Obama/Hagel 08
Obama/Webb 08

Whether or not there should be, there is absolutely nothing in the constitution about the separation of church and state.

Only fools listen to Dobson

"I think he's deliberately distorting the tradition understanding of the Bible to fit his own worldview, his own confused theology," …"dragging biblical understanding through the gutter." Er…isn't that what Dodson and many "Evangelicals" do daily? Or is the pick-and-choose aspect of religion (as opposed to a faithful, rational mind) reserved for those who add the reverend title to their name?

I hope all the ugliness of the Obama's is able to come to light before the elections in Nov. KEEP DIGGING

I'm becoming so annoyed with this new rule that seems to be taking hold in America - apparently you can say anything you want about Obama as long as it is positive.

I wonder where did that man Dobson get what he say about Obama distorting the bible. What does he mean? What verse in the bible talk against many different faith which is what Barack said that America is a land of many faith. If Dobson has nothing to say, he need to seat somewhere and watch.

Church and State Separation……the Bible, whatever verison, doesn't resolve the dilemina that faces this nation. It only provides one the opportunity.

I see… so it's okay for the religious freek-toids to pick and choose which portions of the Bible are relevant to their world view, but anyone else who does it is out of line. It's all or nothing freek-toids, and a lot of you need to start stoning your children (and particularly you Dobson).

Odd that Dobson would say using the antiquated Old Testament should be set aside. Isn't that the exact text that he uses to preach that homosexuality is wrong? Once again, the Christian "right" picks and chooses what should be used and interpreted from the Old Testament. I don't think anyone is shocked. How pathetic. Again.

So if the Old Testament is "Antiquated", "and no longer relevant"as Dobson suggests , then shouldn't Dobson reject that part of the Bible?

Of course he won't he will use the Old Testament to "prove" his point at some later date.

Thats called "cherry picking" in everyday language.

Come on CNN - we need to hear more about how an attack will help McShame. Do the news, not this gossipy drivel.

Who is Dobson anyway? Where was he on the issues of poverty? And who told him the Old Testatment is no longer relevant. This are the same right wing nut-jobs that have high-jacked religion and pushed us to tis un-ending war in Iraq.

First of all, all you anti-Dobson skeptics don't have a clue to what you are saying. Dobsin is right. By the way this nation was built on Christianity by our forefathers. Also, there never was supposed to be separation of church and state. That was overridden by individuals who rejected God. Those who are speaking about Christians and the Bible will be held accountable. You have to override your conscience and ignore God to post those worthless comments. How about pray and seek God for the right person in office this year. Also ask Him to save you.

Now who do you suppose wrote this?

"Of all the systems of religion that ever were invented, there is none more derogatory to the Almighty, more unedifying to man, more repugnant to reason, and more contradictory in itself, than this thing called Christianity."

"We can know God only through his works. We cannot have a conception of any one attribute but by following some principle that leads to it. We have only a confused idea of his power, if we have not the means of comprehending something of its immensity. We can have no idea of his wisdom, but by knowing the order and manner in which it acts. The principles of science lead to this knowledge; for the Creator of man is the Creator of science; and it is through that medium that man can see God, as it were, face to face."

That would be Thomas Paine! Of which John Adams said:

"Without the pen of Paine the sword of Washington would have been wielded in vain."

How I wish general knowledge of our founding fathers and their thoughts and principals was better understood in this great country they founded.

Ok where the Dobson come from?? This was a speech given back in 2006… actually the point is we can not frame public policy around the bible… and i am a catholic stating this!!!! Funny anthing for 2 min. of fame! CNN why are you reporting this again?! Didnt some soliders die today? Didnt my pockets just get low because i had to buy food and gas?

OBAMA 08

My goodness, what a hypocrite! This is the person that uses the "antiquated" old testiment to bash gay and lesbian citizens.

Well, true colours and all that…

I think all of you should read Michelle Obamas essay that she wrote while she was in college .

Obama was not interpreting the Bible for anyone. We all have our own views of the Bible. There are some religion that goes by the old testiment so Dobson cannot say that the old testiment no longer matters to modern day believes. This is why Obama said that we need to read our Bibles…for better understanding. He never said he was an authroty on interpretation og the BIble.

As usual, I find the comments more troubling than the article. Obama's speech was, as always, political and in that speech he shows his ignorance of Christianity. That is not surprising since he did not go to a Christian church as a child; then when he began attending, his church was outside of the Christian norm. (He didn't go to church until he began attending the Trinity Church 20 years ago.) It seems to me that is what Dobson said. Of course, the Bible is always interpreted by all readers; it is just that Obama's interpretation does not fall within the same parameters as most Christian theologians. The Trinity Church is not a typical Christian church.

Keep it up Mr. Dobson.
Drive more and more people from the right wing.

Anybody want to remind Dobson that there is a group of people for whom the dietary laws are not antiquated, and the Old Testament is still relevant? They are called Jews. Some of them even live in the US, and deserve equal protection from our government's interpretation of the Constitution.

Chris from NY,

My dad, an independent baptist minister, use to have a simple saying:

"You'll be surprised at who you see in heaven, and, you'll be even more surprised at who you DON'T see in heaven."

How desperate is the GOP? Last night I watched Sean Hannity connect everything the Hannity and Colmes on Barack Obama including every war the happened prior to WWI.

Now they attacking Obama on faith issues? I thought faith was part of the GOP expertise.

Obama was simply diving the word of God like the bible tells you do(Line upon line, precepts upon precepts).

Obama '08

"he's deliberately distorting the tradition understanding of the Bible to fit his own worldview, his own confused theology".

This statement, coming from Dobson, is so ironic and hilarious that I am almost paralyzed in disbelief.

Am I correct . . . This was 2006? Why comment now? I think any rational person, religious or not, would side with Obama on this one. Not familiar with Dobson but the first impression is not a good one.

Since people who don't vote Obama are automatically considered racist, what about the minorities who don't vote McCain why aren't they considered racist too? The only reason they didn't vote another race in before was because that wasn't an option then.

Get these kooks out of politics.

I am afraid Mr. Dobson speaks for the "Republican Faith", no Christian church I am familiar with.

McCain buddy spreading more types of "fear" - isn't this what we've grown used to the last 8 years?

Think, people.

Black said another attach would help McCain. That's the news - not this religious nutcase.

Are we surprised by Dobson's comments? Timing is everything. Is he trying to help McCain gain support with evangelicals because last week's news story was that Obama was fairing well with evangelicals? Obama has an extensive outreach for evangelicals within his campaign. The problem with Dobson's criticism of Obama's speech is due to there being multiple Christian sects with varying views of "what is right and what is wrong", he's asking for a slew of rebuttals.

Dobson has a right to say what he wishes, no matter how distorted and rooted in evil and hate. What I can't believe is why so many followers actually listen and beleive what this guy espouses. Listen to God, not Dobson; you'll be better off.

"BALANCED REPORTING PLEASE" RIGHT ON !
You hit the NAIL on the head. Too bad there isn't a reporting station that supports women. Hillary sure could have used some good press.
I agree that religion doesn't belong in the campain, however as a united nation we are "UNITED UNDER GOD" and "IN GOD WE TRUST" ! Ahmen

VOTE the right CHOICE - We are in a mess. T repub's arn't exactly the right choice however they won't get us any deeper or worse off than we already are. VOTE CAREFULLY - you are going to get what you ask (VOTE) for