PS. to allyou bible scholars, could you tell me what happened to the souls of those people that lived in places like outer mongolia or the native americans before the gospel of jesus made it to thier part of the world? was it only those visigoths who were preached to my missionaries a hundred years after jesus rose from the grave who had a chance?

Wow, this is really quite scarry. I did not know that there were so many people in this country that were chosen by god to pass judgment on others. I guess all that talk in the bible about judging not and not removing a speck from your neighbor’s eye was just part fo the optional text huh. Even more scarry is how so many of you are great at focusing on a presidential candidates biblical qualifications let me lay down the gospel of the only text with any real authority on this subject, my gospel the US Constitution, without wich you could very well have your religous beliefs dictated to you by the state.

Article VI
All debts contracted and engagements entered into, before the adoption of this Constitution, shall be as valid against the United States under this Constitution, as under the Confederation.

This Constitution, and the laws of the United States which shall be made in pursuance thereof; and all treaties made, or which shall be made, under the authority of the United States, shall be the supreme law of the land; and the judges in every state shall be bound thereby, anything in the Constitution or laws of any State to the contrary notwithstanding.

The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the members of the several state legislatures, and all executive and judicial officers, both of the United States and of the several states, shall be bound by oath or affirmation, to support this Constitution; but no RELIGIOUS TEST shall EVER BE REQUIRED as a qualification to any office or public trust under the United States.

Now just why do you think the founding fathers put that in there hmmm? Maybe because they knew that there were plenty of hysterical types out there that would pull these sorts of tantrums when someone had the gaul to believe anything diferent from them!

I think most of these comments are funny. Look, the issue is not that O is being judged good or evil because of his beliefs. The issue is that he claims to be a Christian and he is not. Period. Is this good, bad, or non-issue? Depends on the person. Personally, I wish he would not call himself a Christian when he is not one, but spiritually that is between him and our Maker. On a political view, I see it as a point against him because he claims inclusion to something he does not belive in just for the votes.
I would vote for a Jew, Moslem, Pagan, Wican, or any other person as long as their political / social views were compatible with mine.

To Chris Kokkola - indeed we do have thousands of manuscripts of the various books contained in the bible, and NO TWO OF THEM are identical! There are literally thousands of discrepancies in those bible copies you mention. The reason why there is no fuss over the authenticity of Homer is simply due to the fact that there isn’t a worldwide power structure threatening billions of people with eternal torture for not believing in him. The writings of Homer may very well NOT be his complete or original writings (I’ve read very few historians who even suggest that they are), but there are no threats and intimidation being done in Homer’s name. Look at poor old Cal here - has anybody ever made this much of an idiot out of themselves over Homer? No, it takes something genuinely wicked like God and religion for that.

There is so much mis-information floating around here it is unbelievable!
If you really want to understand please read the “New Testament” It is the word of God and is QUITE CLEAR on the subject!
No amount of apologist argument can deny the facts without denying the Bible also!

Why should we care what Obama believes as long as his beliefs don’t lead him to support policies that work against the common good? All religions are created by mankind to help make sense of our existence. Religious fundamentalism is one of the biggest threats to our peaceful existence. Keep religion out of politics!!

Finally! I feel some ounce of relief that so many people think and believe the way I do. There are alot of people who can not fathom that God is Love And He is specific in the Word of God about salvation and our path to salvation through Jesus Christ. We are in a dangerous time.
As a Christian-your faith is a very empowering tool and not a political one.

Well, it seems to me that Cal is simply stating a fact that is seen by a comparatively small group of Christians worldwide, i.e., Evangelicals.

Cal’s right. From the doctrinal POV of the Fundies and Evangelicals, Obama’s not a “Christian.”

However. Much of the rest of mainline Protestant Christianity (not all), Greek Orthodoxy and Roman Catholicism do not subscribe to the total born again package. So, maybe in Obama’s and their eyes, he is indeed as much a Christian as those Evangelicals.

Evangelicals can argue the right or wrong of it till their the Prodigal Son comes home; those are the facts.

In an civil election, we must deal with the facts.

The Bible is the word of God. Jesus Christ is the savior of mankind. The Holy Spirit is the voice of God and speaks only the TRUTH.
The KINGDOM of God will have no place for anything not righteous. In HIM there is NO DARKNESS at all.
All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God. Not one is righteous, NO not one!
Jesus Christ paid the price for all who are willing to accept him as savior.
A Christian is one who has accepted Jesus Christ as LORD and SAVIOR.
For someone to call themselves a Christian and not know they are saved or where that salvation comes from is an oxymoron and no apologist can deny it.

Having said that, Ironically, Obama’s stated beliefs just might make him more qualified to be the President of our USA. The fact that we are spirit beings having a soul and living in a body does not disqualify one from a position of power in this Physical world we live in.

I will not vote for Obama or Clinton and will ONLY vote for McCain because of his ideas of what kind of Supreme Court Justices he would nominate.

I am amaze that so many people care. So Barack is a “nominal” Christian. What are his positions on issues. Weigh these issues out. Your faith can be the perspective you come from but does the candidate need to agree with all the tenets of your faith. Are you Pro-Life, support the War on Terror, and agree climate change is man-made then McCain is your man. If you are Pro-Choice, want to get out of Iraq, and agree climate change is man-made then Obama is your man. They even share some views. Are you a one issue voter? That I think is what gets us in trouble with politics.

On the other hand, He doesn’t believe what is clearly stated in the Bible. Good works do not lead to salvation as someone stated before according to the Bible. Eph. 2:8-9 says it is by grace that you are saved not as a result of works. If you could be good enough then why did he come down and die. Where is the line then for determining good enough? Or does everybody go to heaven? There are logical inconsistencies with this logic.

The greatest gift God gave us was Free Will. He loved us so much he gave us the choice to believe anything we want to. Our choices do have consequences though, in this life and the next.

Wow, brave man. Very interesting. I think this is good enough to pass along…

It’s meaningless whether or not someone calls themselves a Christian. I was told by my boss once that I was “the finest example of a Christian he knew.” I didn’t burst his bubble by telling him I am an atheist. It’s not what you call yourself, it’s how you live your life. Cal, are you ready for the type of scrutiny you so freely give to others? I’ll bet you’ve got a thing or two in your past that might not be the finest example of “Christian.” For more examples of people who are not “Christian,” let’s take a look at our (mis)leader, Mr. Bush, who lied us into war; or Mr. Rove, who didn’t leak Plame’s name, but, oh yeah, he did; or Rev. Bakker; Oral Roberts; ad nauseam. We should either accept it at face value when people give themselves a label, or we can pretend like we are God and look into their hearts and condemn their wickedness. But then, that’s a sin, Cal, and that means you are not a “true” Christian either.

We are electing a president, Cal, not a pastor. Read your constitution - congress shall establish no religious test… Your editorial is inflammatory and insulting….and you call yourself a Christian.

I’m a Christian, a Christian that is based on the definition in the Bible, John 14:6, the definition Cal Thomas has given in this article. I want to know how Obama CURRENTLY defines it. In 2004, he was not Saved, period, based on this VF artical. But, it’s now 2008 - WHEN WILL A JOURNALIST ASK HIM?????

Many years ago, I was taught that Jesus is the bridge between man and the Father. We must all cross that bridge to get to heaven. It is also clearly taught in Catholic theology that we do not judge how God will accomplish His work of salvation. There is no legitimate Catholic argument which excludes non Christian faiths and beliefs from being a pathway to heaven. I can easily see a faithful practicing Bhuddist, for example, standing at this “theoretical bridge” (ie Christ) at the end of his or her life, and based on the life led, making the decision to cross or not.

The question at hand is not to attempt this theological discussion, but to examine a person’s professed beliefs in the light of his statements. This goes to credibility and also to being able to set expectations regarding what a candidate’s actions will be if elected. I would be much happier with a candidate clearly reflected his or her views consistently with actions. I don’t have to believe as the candidate does, but I do expect him to believe what he himself professes.

Sorry, maybe this shoule be in Fr. Jonathan’s blog.

Anyone who believesn that the bible has been re-written evedently doesn’t know there facts. We have 1000’s of written evidence both religious and secular that the bible is accurate. When we look at Homer’s writings and trust the history in it (and there are only about 40 ancient copies that are hundreds of years after Homer wrote them), and yet we don’t believe in the authenticity and the correctness of what has been translated or passed down even though we have 1st century manuscripts only a few years after Christ, seems to be a little unbelievable that people doubt the accuracy of the translations and/or the authenticity of the scriptures. Why is it we believe something that has little evidence and that which we have was written hundreds of years later but don’t trust something that we have thousands of copies written or copied just shortly after the event? Jesus does say that he is the only way to God and anyone preaching anything but is a false prophet/teacher and must be rebuked, and Senator Obama is no different than anyone else. His comments clearly show that he is not Christian and doesn’t know what it means to be Christian if that is what he believes.

Thanks
CK

we are not electing a pastor that is correct ,but we are scrutinizing the candidate to see if he is able to lead , and from what I can see he has flip and flopped so much he is worse then Kerry. he surrounds him self with bad people and that is enough for this voter, he is not getting my vote ,as for the rest of you vote as you wish and bon appetite ! being a Christian is a personal thing and it is between the person and God and yes we can’t say that someone is not a Christian and it would make no difference any way as it is personal and not between us and them and God, but he claims to be one so that puts a different light on seeking the truth of is he or not ,. politicians might even lie to get votes you think.

I’m sorry, but I have no desire to be part of Cal’s “Christianity” of arrogance. That is a shame how you have tried to demonize Obama based on his comments to Falsani. “Universalism, heathen! ” Get real Cal. My God will judge oneself by the life you have lived and how you have treated your fellow man.
God Bless Obama

I think Christ actually came to warn us against false righteousness of the kind demonstrated in this article. Fortunately judgement belongs to God and not to journalists.

I think our friend Cal just doesn’t like Obama for political reasons and is trying to justify his politics with religion. I hope Christianity finally is about more than just who is “in” and who is “out”. I have to believe Christ wants people of varying faith’s to get along.

You probably accomplished what you intended with this article with the inflammatory headline. i.e. feeding the Obama is Muslim rumor mill. You apparently know exactly what it takes to be a Christian, and in your judgment Obama falls short. I guess you haven’t read where it says “Judge not >>. You simply wade in make your judgment anyway. Many people a conflicted about their religion don’t pretend to have all the answers. You apparently have no such reservations

Obama is not a “good” Christian if that’s what he calls himself. Good Christians do not stay in a church where hatred is so deep. Radicals follow Obama where ever he goes. Birds of a feather, flock together. We will not and cannot let Obama be the leader of this Great Country!

Cal,
Your right on the money. The Scriptures are the sole authority by which truth is determined. This is very enlightening about Obama. I would like someone to ask the same question to McCain. It must be very specific, “Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the only way to heaven and that all other religions/faiths go to hell?” After all they are both politicians.

A fool though he be a wayfaring man can understand the simple plan of salvation, is it to be a fool if you can’t understand it ,no it means you are less then a fool because you can’t grasp the idea the the Lord Jesus Christ is the only way to God . Obama is a splintered type of person who in his own mind has set the rules for salvation , if I am good enough or if I am a good person that will do it or if I give to charity that will be enough , no! there is only one way and that is through the Son. Of course he sat in the church for twenty three years and heard nothing but hate and liberation theology preached to him and maybe with an occasional scripture to make it seem some what real . Obama should lose this election by a landslide but I wonder about the people that have been blinded so badly that they reject any criticism of Obama , it is scary that so many have been taken in by this hack .

Right on. Jesus told Nicodemus to be saved that he must be born again in the spirit (John 3:3). Romans 10:8-10 pretty well deals with being born again in the spirit.

You are right about Obama but I dare say that because the above verses served to delineate between saved and unsaved, believers and unbelievers, that we probably do not have a christian running for President in either party. John McCain, might believe in the name Jesus but so does Satan and when Satan hears it, he trembles. John McCain lost my confidence when he commented that he thought that Samuel Alito was a little too conservative for him. Do you think John McCain will push for another true conservative on the supreme court if he gets the chance? I wonder.

Very few religions today practice “being born again in the spirit”. Catholics don’t. Mormons don’t. Most mainline protestant religions don’t. We have a lot of christians in name only.

Anyway, good call on Barack. I was wondering if anyone was going to bring up religion versus christianity.

Respectfully,

Mike Konkel

Cal: One of the first things a Christian learns is, “Thou shall not judge”. Who makes you god so you can decide if anyone is a Christian? One of the huge problems with “Christian” fundamentalism in my opinion, is that they are too quick to judge and label anyone with whom they have a disagreement. It is in one’s heart that one knows his religion has to align with God. It is not some other person’s opinion especially those with narrow minds. Christianity does not demand you check your brain at the door! It is open to everyone.

I am always amazed how mere mortals can depict who is Christian and going to Heaven/Hell etc.
I am Christian and my views tend to be close to Obama’s. My God is a very loving God. The only real concern I have is that I am a staunch Republican.

If we are going to base our answer on scripture then we should give the total scripture and not a twisted version. You may be speaking about this scripture: Matthew 7:15-20
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
Jesus also wanted us to be discerning of men. Yes, we are to be like Jesus to the best of our abilities. We are to continue through this life striving to be like HIM. It’s amazing just how many Christians are all for free speech until it starts stepping on their toes. It’s amazing how many Christians only want to take part of the scripture to satisfy themselves and make themselves feel more comfortable. Start Loving….you may want to repent as well…..we all need to daily.
I applaud those who are not afraid to be discerning of men…..Jesus was. After all, he pulled no punches throwing out the money changers from the temple.

Start Loving:

Your comments do not reflect biblical Christianity. I can’t help but wonder if you simply skimmed the article. You missed the John 14:6 reference in Cal’s column, that very plainly teaches that faith in Christ alone is our salvation.

You state “Your faith has saved you” The Bible states that it is the object of our faith (Jesus) that saves. Simply having faith doesn’t do it. Everyone has some sort of faith: whether in themself, in Islam, Judaism, in luck, etc. You also quote John, that if we claim Jesus, we ought to live as He lived, which is true. But the Bible makes very clear that we can’t, as sinners. That’s the whole point of Christ’s coming to redeem us, because we can’t live perfectly and save ourselves.

Loving one another is Christ’s command to demonstrate our Christianity. But that’s not enough to save us. Only faith in Him, as our Redeemer.

Wow, what an appropriate topic for a so-called “Fair and Balanced” media outlet. Let’s analyze a person’s walk with God. Obviously we all know that someone should have to pass the religious litmus test in order to become president, because after all, this is the land of opportunity, as long as that opportunity is for WASPs.

I’m white, I’m Christian, I’m a war veteran soldier, and I have a family, and if I cannot help elect Colin Powell or Ron Paul, I will help elect Barack Obama. I couldn’t care any less about the man’s religion, and neither should other voters.

Amen Mr. Thomas. The Bible is very clear. There is only one way to the Father. Jesus was very clear. “No man comes to the Father except through me.” Can’t get any clearer than that.

To the man who thinks we as Christians shouldn’t decide whether another person is Christian needs to think again. The Bible say “By their fruits we shall know them”.

Mr. Obama may think when he tucks his children in at night that is a piece of heaven. However, if he expects to get to Heaven he had better read his Bible again. Jesus said, “You must be born again.” The Bible also teaches us that salvation is a gift of God and not of works lest any man should boast. How good do you think you have to be to be good enough to enter Heaven?

We have all sinned and fallen short of the glory of God. How is that sin washed away? Through the blood of Jesus.

This is NOT about the journalist bringing this to light, it’s about the subject of the article, which is Obama and Christianity. Focus on that. Nick, it does not matter “how many of these people would agree with Obama”, Christ clearly states the parameters to gain entry into His Kingdom. He does not give a hoot as to how many humans declare their own way. By claiming his strength comes from his faith, one is left to wonder exactly what he has faith in and where that is guiding him. I for one do not want an individual as luke warm as Obama steering the ship of state for this country. God help us in our desert of unbelief.

Comment by Kenny Deeds
June 2nd, 2008 at 4:53 pm
Isn’t anyone who believes in Jesus Christ a Christian? The whole bible was re-written by the Romans anyway. Only One knows if we are Christians or not, and He asks we leave that up to Him and not men. I’ll be the guy who wrote this thinks Bush is a Christain. Funny stuff.

Even the demons believe in Jesus and they are definately NOT Christians. One must believe He is the son of God and ACCEPT him as Lord and Savior to be a Christian. The ONLY path to Heavon is thru Him.

To correct Laura B who states This term “Christian” is used by many to describe anyone who believes in God, and belief in God is a starting point, but without following what the Scriptures say, it is not the final word! It is not what man believes, but what God in His word says that determines the outcome for anyone who says they are a Christian.
A Christian is one who believes that Jesus Christ is the Son of God, who came to Earth, died on the cross for our sins and has risen from the dead and has ACCEPTED him as Lord and Savior.. The scripture clearly states that “even the demons believe and tremble!” So just believing in God doesn’t make you Christian, if so then Jews and Muslims would also be Christians…
With that stated, although I do not support Obama, I cannot say whether or not he is a Christian. I know plenty of people who say they are and show no fruit. No change in lifestyle or attitude towards their fellow man, whom we are called to LOVE! That aside, if words come from his own mouth that make it OBVIOUS he isn’t one isn’t reason to condemn someone else for stating that fact. I hear all the time that how we judge we will be judged, that is completely different than calling sin, SIN!
Thanks Cal for sharing some truth about a person we don’t know. We as a nation better be praying for a President we NEED not one we TRULY DESERVE!!!

Thank you so much for pointing out these obvious flaws with Obama’s “theology”. One characteristic of liberals is that they think they can call a pig a duck and it becomes one just because they said it. Insisisting that he is a Christian when his “beliefs” violate the major tenets of Christianity is absurd. But, according to Obama, it’s true because he said it. I would love to visit this universe where anything you say becomes true because you say it…”I’m a millionnaire…I’m a millionnaire…I’m a millionnaire…”

President is supposed to manage the country. I am not sure about where it says that you have to believe in JC to run this country. In a secular society one may rule by principles that are closely related to a particular religion. The most important aspect, I believe, is if citizens are able to meet their daily needs. One can believe in one religion and still have different opinions. What has Mr. Thomas that gives him power to declare that Mr. Obama is not a Christian?

Dear Mr. Thomas.

You wrote, “I hope some national journalist or commentator with knowledge of such things asks Obama about this and doesn’t let him get away with re-writing Scripture to suit his political ends.” i ask you, are you not hat very person with the qualifications you cite? i think we need more action and less hoping!

That which Jesus says in John14:6 is the crux of the matter. What Obama is quoted as saying is directly contrary to the teachings of our Lord. As several of the respondents to your article have pointed out, what people who claim to be Christian actually believe is at great variance with the teaching of Christ. It is called relativism and this false teaching prevails in almost every segment of the so called Christian society. What is forgotten is that not only is the gate to salvation narrow like the “eye of a needle” but the path that we must follow is also very narrow and one from which we cannot stray.

May God blesse you, Cal, and bestow upon you the courage and clarity to continue to speak the truth.

P.S.

I don’t agree with Mr. Thomas in judging Obama’s discipleship of Christ. It’s not my place nor in my capacity to know that.

However, it IS my place and in my capacity to judge whether to vote for Obama or not, and so I feel no hesitation in judging whether Obama’s words and actions seem consistent and aligned with MY BELIEF of Christ-like teachings.

The words as selectively presented in this article don’t give me a positive impression, but as a member of a much persecuted and maligned church I’ll only file this information away until I see more clear and complete statements from Obama.

I appreciate Mr. Thomas’ efforts to bring this interview to light and hope to find a more complete picture of Obama before the elections.

PEOPLE DON’T TRY TO MAKE GOD’S WORD BE WHAT YOU WANT IT TO BE. FOR THOSE WHO THINK THE BIBLE SAYS NOT TO JUDGE OTHERS READ ALL OF THAT CHAPTER. IT REMINDS YOU THAT THE SAME STANDARD THAT YOU JUDGE OTHERS BY YOU’LL ALSO BE JUDGED BY. SO TREAD LIGHTLY. WE FORGET ABOUT THE VERSE THAT SAYS YOU WILL KNOW THEM BY THEIR FRUITS (WORKS). SO YOU CAN KNOW IF SOMEONE IS A CHRISTIAN. THE EARLY CHRISTIANS HAD PEOPLE TRY TO GET INTO THEIR RANKS TO TURN THEM INTO THE ROMANS SO THEY COULD PUT THEM TO DEATH. THEY HAD TO INSPECT THE FRUITS OF THESE PEOPLE’S LIVES. WE MUST TOO BEFORE WE PUT PEOPLE IN OFFICE IF WE EVER HOPE TO SEE OUR COUNTRY RECOVER. AND THOSE WHO BELIEVE THAT YOU JUST HAVE TO BELIEVE IN GOD TO BE A CHRISTIAN WELL THE BIBLE SAYS THAT THE DEVILS IN HELL BELIEVE IN GOD. DOES THAT MAKE THEM CHRISTIANS. NO IT DOESN’T. TO BE A CHRISTIAN YOU MUST REPENT OF YOUR SINS BELIEVE JESUS HAS SAVED YOU FROM YOUR SINS (THIS IS THE BELIEVE) AND THEN THE LAST PART IS TO TURN AWAY FROM YOUR SINS AMD NOT DO THEM ANYMORE. THIS IS A TRUE CHRISTIAN.

I’m intrigued by some of the comments as to what it means to be a Christian.

In particular, “believe in Jesus”, intrigues me. Perhaps, I’m taking this out of context, but “even the devils believe…”

I’ve always considered “Christian” to imply a “follower” or “disciple” of Christ. In other words, know His teachings, know His example, believe His teachings, do your best to act in accordance with His “way”.

So, when Jesus proclaimed Himself the Only Begotten Son of God and the only way to the Father, does a Christian believe Him or not?

Is it possible that people really believe Jesus to be divine but that he didn’t tell the truth about himself and his teachings? In other words, he taught great truths mixed with the greatest of lies?

Seriously, is someone able to reconcile such a strange belief system?

The teaching of the “wheat and tares” parable warns believers to be cautious in assuming that those who “talk the talk” also “walk the walk” so, yes, there are many sitting in the pews who are as clueless as Obama concerning what it means to be a Christian. Several examples appear in the earlier postings.

In Obama’s case, assuming the excerpts of the interview are accurate, it is clear that he doesn’t even “talk the talk”, so there is no danger of confusing him with an authentic Christian. In this he does not appear to be materially different from the other two major candidates - - - neither Hillary nor John are likely to be mistaken for Christians by any close inspector of their words and walk who understands what the word means. This observation may be offensive to those who confuse the statement “so-and-so is a Christian” with the statement “so-and-so is a good person”. Such offense is clear evidence that they do not understand what the term means.

“No one comes to the father but by me.” Does that mean Christ can’t judge someone who hasn’t heard his name? Read Romans 2:12-16. Maybe Matthew 12:46-50 will be helpful.
Christ’s innocent blood was shed for all, but not all will receive forgiveness for various reasons.
As for universal salvation, I think Matthew 7:13-14 &21-23 would settle that.
As a 62 year old who was raised in the christian church I have come to two points. (1) God wants to be honoured as GOD. (2) He wants us to admit our mistakes (lots of denying out there), confess them, be sorry for them. That process is called repentance. The repentant sinner receives forgiveness and in turn salvation.
Thanks for your time,
Marvin Vik
P.S. Since Viasat took fox off their programming here in Norway, I haven’t had the pleasure of listening to you and your buddies.

Cal I’m don’t know if Obama is or isn’t but I do know the one who does, I also know that the Kings heart is in the Lord hands, like rivers of water He can turn it which ever He wills (Prov 21:1) If its God will for Obama to be President He will be. I trust God , knowing that He never makes mistakes. Abraham wasn’t perfect and neither was Moses, so the half of this story has’nt been told yet.

There is a biased and careless article. If the definition of “Christian” would be based on the Bible “Word for Word,” I wonder how many Christians would there be left in the world. This is cherry picking. I know Cal is not very fond of Sen. Obama because they are opposites as far as the political spectrum is concerned. Otherwise, why doesn’t he write on the “Christian-ness” of Pres. Bush and Co. or Sen. McCain? This is also a dishonest attempt on Cal’s part to attack Sen. Obama politically in the facade of religion. By implying that Sen. Obama is not a Christian and by claiming that Sen. Obama is using religion for political points, Cal Thomas is indicating the readers not to vote for Sen. Obama in November 2008, now that the latter has more or less won the Democratic nomination. Tell me, where am I wrong?
There is little doubt that Cal Thomas is rooting for Sen. McCain in 2008 Presidential race. Do you want to persuade others to do the same, Cal? Maybe you do, and that is fine. But at least be straightforward about it and give better reasons for the “unconvinced” and the “swing-voters” to align themselves with you. Or is it just that you are preaching to your choir with such a below par assessment (politically motivated attack) on Sen. Obama?

I don’t care what religion Obama claims to be a part of. I still will not vote for him. If Hillary can’t pull this off, McCain, here I come…check book and all.

John 3:3 - No one shall enter the kingdom of God unless he be born again.

How can one be born again? By simply asking Jesus Christ into your heart. He is waiting right now for you.

SINCE IT IS GOD WHO OFFERS AND IS THE ONLY GIVER OF SALVATION, ONLY HIS RULES APPLY. HE HAS NOT KEPT HIS RULES A SECRET. THEY ARE ALL IN GOD’S WORD. MANY OR THE FOREGOING SEEM TO MAKE UP THEIR OWN RULES. LIVIIN BY ONE’S OWN RULES IS HEADED FOR HELL, EVEN IF THEY ARE LOVING THOUGHTFUL AND KIND. JESUS SAYS: “IT IS THE SPIRIT WHO GIVES LIFE; THE FLESH PROFITS NOTHING. THE WORDS THAT I SPEAK UNTO YOU ARE SPIRIT, AND THEY ARE LIFE. SINCE OBAMA IS LISTENING TO HIS OWN WORDS AND NOT THE WORDS OF JESUS HE IS NOT A CHRISTIAN.

Well Said.

Rev. Wes Weller, BA, MA, ThM

You mean “Barack Obama is not a _fundamentalist_ Christian.” I think we all can agree on that. I would say George Bush is not a Christian, judging by how he doesn’t seem to care about dead Iraqis or innocent people who get mistakenly caught by his secret police (see this ).

You know who else was definitely _not_ a fundamentalist? Thomas Jefferson, who edited his own version of the bible to suit his tastes (see this )

Great people question their faith, thus strengthening it. Those who cling to faith blindly are farther from God than they could ever imagine.

Cal,

You are usually right on . But wow! You think McCain is going to say, ” yes , as a Christian, I must submit
that all non-Christians are going to hell. Maybe you believe that. That would be sad. As a Jew, although we are hardly Universalists, we do not believe that it is the obligation of Non-Jews to do as we feel we are commanded to do. Biblical proscriptions, such as murder and theft are universal but hardly make me more or less Jewish whether I choose to commit them or not.

While true that God is the only person who knows one’s eternal home, it is possible for those living to examine other people’s faith to see whether or not it stacks up with orthodox Christianity. There are many people out there who claim to be Christians (or Buddhists, Muslims, etc), but their lifestyle does not abide by the faith they profess. Jesus, in John’s Gospel, states that you shall know them by their fruits–the actions of their day-to-day life.

Kenny Deeds made an interesting point about the “Romans” rewriting the whole of Scripture. Pray tell, Mr. Deeds, how many original manuscripts have you examined? What is your degree of speciality in textual criticism? For the number of manuscripts still present and the variety of both age and geographical location for them, the Scriptures are still very accurate to what was orginally written in the first century.

I won’t say that Obama isn’t a Christian; however, I will say that he isn’t an orthodox Christian. He can call what he believes Christianity, but it doesn’t line up with the historical faith. It would be the same as if I walked out and stated that I was a Muslim but didn’t believe that Allah was the only god and Muhommad was not his only prophet. Christianity claims exclusivity on Truth, just as Islam and several other religions do. It’s a simple matter of logic that “a” and “not a” cannot both be true. Two mutually exclusive ideas co-existing is an impossibility. Think of a “square circle.”

Wow, I have to admit I’m surprised at some of the first few posts. We have some who say “Christians can’t say who is and isn’t a Christian” and other’s who are willing to post as fact without evidence basically that “the Bible was rewritten by the Romans so who really knows anyway?” It’s true that I don’t personally know Obama, and can’t know anyones heart, but “Christian” means “Christ Follower”, not “Christ Knower” or “Christ Recognizer”. Pretty well every Christian denomination, save a very select few, theologically agrees that Jesus is THE way to God, not just A way to God. To our current culture that sounds incredibly harsh and unloving, who is God to judge anyway, right? Just a purely theological exorcise, Obama’s words are not in line with what practically every Christian denomination teaches, regardless of what a casual church attendee might assume. To sum up in crude terms what I think Cal is trying to say I quote my former youth pastor, “Sitting in a church no more makes you a Christian than sitting in a McDonalds makes you a happy meal”. Christianity is about a relationship with who we truly believe is the Son of God, the only way to God. As to the Bible being rewritten thing. There are a lot of old copies of certain books of the bible (usually old testament) which have been found over the years in their original languages that shows the modern books had not really changed one iota. Do some fact checking before letting your fingers do the talking.

Please don’t leave your brain at the door. Please, follow my argument. Don’t separate your religion from your logic. Don’t spout rhetoric. Don’t let your emotions speak louder than my words.

Caution: the author of this comment assumes that the Bible is the infallible Word of God.

If I say that I am a Democrat but have never voted according to the Democratic platform, am I a Democrat? No! I am either a liar or I am self deceived.

If I say that I am a Christian but bear none of the marks of a Christian am I a Christian? No! “But why do you call Me ‘Lord, Lord,” and not do the things which I say?” (-Jesus, Luke 6:46) “What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works?” (James 2:14)

Just because someone identifies him/herself as something does not mean that that person is truly that thing unless the person is indeed that thing. But how can we tell whether a person is indeed the thing that he says he is? Well, there must be some criteria that must be met. If the criteria are not met, then it must be concluded that the person is not what he says he is.

So, can we know whether a man is saved or unsaved? Yes. 1 John presents at least 4 general criteria.

Christians:
1. Do not live a lifestyle of sinfulness nor love sin (sin is transgression of the law of God), but rather hate their sin and repent of it regularly. (1 John 1:8-9; 2:15; 3:6)
2. Live a lifestyle of loving God expressed by keeping His commandments (the commandments given in the Bible) and doing so joyfully, not as if they were burdensome. (1 John 2:3, 5:2-3)
3. Love other Christians—not superficially, but self-sacrificially. Not according to society’s definition of love, but according to God’s definition of love. (1 John 2:10; 3:16-18)
4. Believe in Jesus Christ as the only Savior of sinners and Lord over all. (1 John 3:23; Philippians 2:11)

I hope you still have your brain with you and have not dropped it while juggling some anger and indignation at what I am saying.

If a person does not measure up to these criteria, he can claim whatever he wants, but just like the “Democrat” who never votes according to the Democratic Party’s platform, the “Christian” who does not bear any of the marks of a Christian is either a liar or self-deceived.

Cal, you’re absolutely right. Anyone who can’t acknowledge that Jesus Christ is the King of kings and Lord of lords is an imposter. No man can serve two masters. If Obama can’t say ‘Jesus Is Lord”, then he has another master whom he serves. And this other master is not in the business of salvation. Jesus is our only salvation.
I was fascinated by some posts above which attempt to distort and dilute the Gospel message so as to justify Obama’s ‘Christianity’. I’m sure sorry, but his positions are not supported by the Bible. Also, I’ve lost all credibility in the guy. He’s got a lot of cards up his sleeves he ain’t showing. His slip-ups, along with his wife’s and associate’s, have revealed quite a few.
Thank you, Cal Thomas, for your journalistic integrity on this matter. BTW, I suspect that the Obama zealots above are from his selfsame Trinity Church.

Well written and biblically correct opinion piece…….It’s truly amazing to me how liberals will rewrite history or twist the scriptures to suit their narcissistic needs.

Obama not a Christian!? Now I feel even more eager to vote for him. We need a president not in the clutches of the fundamentalist Christo-fascists.

The more one tries to get to know Barack H. Obama, the more mysterious he becomes! As for me, I’m tired of trying to figure out what makes him tick . . . John S. McCain for president in 2008!!!

I am always amused by people who argue that, to be a Christian, one must blindly accept a particular church’s rigid interpretation of a translated Scripture - that one must accept there is only black and white, only heaven and hell, no shades of grey, no room for personal judgement.

That’s not true Christianity. It’s Christian bigotry or, if you like, Christian Fundamentalism. (Yes, Mr Thomas, I’m referring to you.)

It’s an attitude extraordinarily (frighteningly) similar to Islamic Fundamentalism.

Thank God for moderates on all sides.

It is true Christianity is a personal relationship with a living God, not a religion. God says obey His Words (the Bible), and you will be blessed; disobey - judgment. Christ died for all, but not all accept Him. It is one’s choice. I don’t understand why people are so afraid of Christianity or God…it is the best thing that could ever happen to a soul. Life is transformed and burdens lifted. True Christianity, the Christ-kind, is a faith of love and peace, toward God and one another. I am not the judge, but wonder about those who claim to be Christians and spew hate from the pulpits, who are prejudice towards anyone, or who kill in the name of God. Those people are not believers in the God of the Bible.

I will not judge Sen. Obama, however, it appears that he has been in churches who have not truly fed him spiritually from The Word, and maybe he has not grown to know who God really is, and what God expects of him. It has concerned me that Sen. Obama would not use the Bible at his swearing in as a senator.

It is our responsibility though in choosing any leader to look at what he/she says, what he/she has done in the past, who they surrounds themselves with, because as president, we have to be concerned who they choose to place in power. God gave us this nation and if we aren’t alert and informed about our leaders and what they are doing or not doing, our freedom can easily be taken away. It may be closer than we think.

I have never seen so much HATE from people like I have seen from the Obama people. His supporters are Hate full.. everyone that I have seen around him is so filled with HATE.. Am I the only one that can see that??
I believe he is a terrible man.. and God help us if he gets elected. He really scares me. Why can’t people see that??

The priest that stood in the pulpit and totally disrespected a former First Lady.. really made me sick.. and people accepted it.. Obama came out and said he was leaving his church.. because he didn’t want the media to cause anymore problems for the church.. not because the church has been so disrespectful..
I really don’t know how I am suppose to vote in the general election.. I can’t agree with either McCain or Obama.. but I feel somewhat safer with McCain… Atleast I know I may not always agree with McCain, but atleast I can respect him.. I believe he Loves America..

Obama is anything you want him to be. The one-man band of religion.