Michelle Obama: “Don’t trust bloggers … because people lie”

posted at 7:17 pm on June 2, 2008 by Allahpundit

Given the likely impetus for this remark, I can’t say I blame her.

Long after the general election is over, Americans are going to have to stay engaged if the country’s political environment is to change, Michelle Obama told a Billings crowd Monday.

The wife of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama told a few hundred supporters gathered at the Billings Hotel and Convention Center they had to remain active in their communities and do their own research on issues in order the change the country’s political path.

“The way this campaign has been run is the way we need to be forever,” Obama said. “Don’t trust bloggers or someone else’s opinion, because people lie.”

Steve Gilbert has your exit question, and it’s a good one. Since I’m momentarily defending the Obamas, let me go ahead and say I think the Prince of Peace is getting a bad rap at The Corner for this, too. He defines “sin” as “Being out of alignment with my values,” which Jonah Goldberg takes to be an awfully narcissistic definition of the term. Sounds to me like by “my values” he simply meant “my Christian values,” per the extended exchange from the original interview:

GG:
Do you believe in sin?

OBAMA:
Yes.

GG:
What is sin?

OBAMA:
Being out of alignment with my values.

GG:
What happens if you have sin in your life?

OBAMA:
I think it’s the same thing as the question about heaven. In the same way that if I’m true to myself and my faith that that is its own reward, when I’m not true to it, it’s its own punishment.

That seems like a fairly pedestrian (if a tinge New Age-y) way to think of it, but leave it to the atheist to shrug these things off. Anyone want to take issue? Go nuts!

Blowback

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Comment pages: 1 2

Do freakin screaming racist holy men lie ?????

JonRoss on June 2, 2008 at 7:19 PM

Pot meet Kettle. Geesh….

coffee260 on June 2, 2008 at 7:20 PM

Don’t trust bloggers or someone else’s opinion, because people lie. — Michelle Obama

Finally the great giver of truth has arrived !!

sarc/off

Maxx on June 2, 2008 at 7:21 PM

OBAMA:
I think it’s the same thing as the question about heaven. In the same way that if I’m true to myself and my faith that that is its own reward, when I’m not true to it, it’s its own punishment.

Barry is an atheist.

JonRoss on June 2, 2008 at 7:22 PM

Michelle Obama: “Don’t trust bloggers … because people lie”

But, as a person, I’m lying, too! So don’t trust me! Heh.

I tend to agree with Jonah on this on. Sin, to the Christian, is being out of alignment with God’s values, not man’s.

alacrityfitzhugh on June 2, 2008 at 7:22 PM

I tend to agree with Jonah on this on. Sin, to the Christian, is being out of alignment with God’s values, not man’s.

alacrityfitzhugh on June 2, 2008 at 7:22 PM

Yeap

JonRoss on June 2, 2008 at 7:23 PM

The woman is a gold mine.

tomk59 on June 2, 2008 at 7:23 PM

As any Christian knows sin in mainstream Christian doctrine means literally “separation from God” Sunday school 101. His Christian values are suspect right now. At some point in the past he told people if they wanted to understand his Christian beliefs they should attend Trinity. Hum…haven’t heard too much in the way of Christian mainstream thought coming out of that place. If he means his values are the same as he learned at Trinity and to go against those values it is Sin, I would have to beg to differ. His understanding seems very limited when it comes to doctrine.

thatcher on June 2, 2008 at 7:25 PM

He defines “sin” as “Being out of alignment with my values,” which Jonah Goldberg takes to be an awfully narcissistic definition of the term. Sounds to me like by “my values” he simply meant “my Christian values,” … Allahpundit

Nope, if he would have meant his Christian values that’s what he would have said. He meant HIS values, whatever they are.

Maxx on June 2, 2008 at 7:25 PM

Don’t worry Missus Obama, I stopped trusting DU, DailyKos, Sully, Greenwald, Slate, NYT Editorial Blog, and Huffpo long ago for objective analysis.

BKennedy on June 2, 2008 at 7:26 PM

“Don’t trust bloggers or someone else’s opinion, because people lie.”

For the record, have the Obamas heard of DKos? I’m sure Markos will be thrilled.

amerpundit on June 2, 2008 at 7:27 PM

She’s simply a vapid person. I don’t like her.

SouthernGent on June 2, 2008 at 7:27 PM

YOU ARE A HUGE LIAR ALLAH!

:)

terryannonline on June 2, 2008 at 7:30 PM

Sounds to me like by “my values” he simply meant “my Christian values,”

So, would these then be the same values he learned from Rev. Wright? Those oh so Christian values?

Dudes agnostic at best. No talk of Christ, no talk of God… no talk of the gospels… no talk of anything except HIS values…

Problem is that those values, not being based on anything etarnal, or from an outside source, are malleble.

Yep, he’s a lib… everything is realitive to HIS beleifs and HIS values…

Romeo13 on June 2, 2008 at 7:30 PM

His values? Well now…that’s pretty darn special, ain’t it?

He probably would backtrack and say that yeah, of course what he meant was his Christian values, but I agree with Maxx…when you practice Burger King religion you can have any values you want and it’s all cool.

Until the end, anyway. Sooner or later, like it or not, there’s an ultimate standard that we all have to measure up to.

/sorry AP :)

Bob's Kid on June 2, 2008 at 7:30 PM

Nope, if he would have meant his Christian values that’s what he would have said. He meant HIS values, whatever they are.

Maxx on June 2, 2008 at 7:25 PM

Well he is the Messiah to some….

William Amos on June 2, 2008 at 7:31 PM

…leave it to the atheist to shrug these things off…

AP

Indeed. His theology, as stated, amounts to – if it felt wrong, it must be sin, and if my acts and thoughts were in “alignment with MY values”, they must be righteous.

I don’t know what church teaches this, but it certainly is not the Christian Church of the Holy Bible. Duh.

Jaibones on June 2, 2008 at 7:32 PM

Man, America is a mean country. Community Organizer™ BO’08!

mred on June 2, 2008 at 7:33 PM

Actually, it sounds like a pretty good atheist theology to me. No higher power; no definitive right or wrong, other than what I define.

1960s – if it feels good, do it.

Jaibones on June 2, 2008 at 7:34 PM

She’s simply a vapid (and nasty) person. I don’t like her.

SouthernGent on June 2, 2008 at 7:27 PM

I don’t either. I can’t imagine her in the White House or representing America abroad.

Connie on June 2, 2008 at 7:34 PM

GG:
What is sin?
OBAMA:
Being out of alignment with my values.
GG:
What happens if you have sin in your life?

Sin is being out of alignment of God’s values and causes a separation between us and God. We are all sinners and the wages of sin is death: the payment of sin is spilt blood in sacrifice. Jesus Christ, who was the perfect lamb of God, was sacrificed for our sins. Because he was the perfect sacrafice, having no sin in him, he eternally removes sin from those who claim he died in their behalf. Only in that way are our sins removed and we are reunited with God.

Not that he has to prove anything, but since Barry likes to talk about “his Faith,” I’d like to hear him talk about Jesus’ purpose on Earth and about his redeeming sacrifice.

Mallard T. Drake on June 2, 2008 at 7:35 PM

She’s simply a vapid person. I don’t like her.

SouthernGent on June 2, 2008 at 7:27 PM

Arrogant, entitled and vapid.

Maxx on June 2, 2008 at 7:35 PM

That seems like a fairly pedestrian (if a tinge New Age-y) way to think of it

It certainly isn’t a Biblical definition of sin.

ORrighty on June 2, 2008 at 7:36 PM

I guess that statement means Larry Johnson was right (or Wright). There is a tape. With Michelle Obama screaming about Whitey(tm).

whiskey_199 on June 2, 2008 at 7:36 PM

Given the likely impetus for this remark, I can’t say I blame her.

Yeah if it’s that Larry Johnson BS she’s referring to I dont blame her for this one.

Dash on June 2, 2008 at 7:40 PM

GG:
What is sin?

OBAMA:
Being out of alignment with my values.

Is she some kind of Imam or something?

MB4 on June 2, 2008 at 7:41 PM

And its comments like these that are the reason Hillary will suspend, but not end, her campaign.

He is finally being vetted, and he is not ready for prime time.

Romeo13 on June 2, 2008 at 7:42 PM

Obama is a Humanist

jp on June 2, 2008 at 7:42 PM

I deserve to be shot. I missed a VIDEO of Michelle on site when I sent this in.

William Amos on June 2, 2008 at 7:43 PM

I guess that statement means Larry Johnson was right (or Wright). There is a tape. With Michelle Obama screaming about Whitey(tm).

whiskey_199 on June 2, 2008 at 7:36 PM

It ain’t “whitey” it is Whitney. Mrs. O! has Whitney Houston issues.

mred on June 2, 2008 at 7:44 PM

He defines “sin” as “Being out of alignment with my values,” which Jonah Goldberg takes to be an awfully narcissistic definition of the term. Sounds to me like by “my values” he simply meant “my Christian values,” per the extended exchange from the original interview:

Allah, I know your not a Christian. But you don’t pick and choose Christian values. All Christian values come through Christ from God. I have never, ever, heard even a liberal Christian define sin as going against “my” values. It is always defined as going against God’s values.

Now I have not hung around Obama’s church and maybe they define it differently there.

In any case, for a Christian believer, what Obama said jumps out at you as just plain wrong.

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 7:44 PM

Why Does Anyone Believe Larry C. Johnson?

Hope.

thirteen28 on June 2, 2008 at 7:45 PM

Obama is a Humanist

jp on June 2, 2008 at 7:42 PM

Seems like it

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 7:45 PM

Michelle Hussein Obama should be grateful for the breaks she’s gotten. Without the benefit of affirmative action, her speaking opportunities would be limited to “would you like fries with that?”

Cicero43 on June 2, 2008 at 7:47 PM

because people lie

Fake but Accurate…

Dan Rather..

Chakra Hammer on June 2, 2008 at 7:47 PM

I tend to agree with Jonah on this on. Sin, to the Christian, is being out of alignment with God’s values, not man’s.

I’m curious, is there anything you (not you specifically, alacrityfitzhugh, anyone) would consider a sin, that isn’t named as such specifically in the Bible?

Does beating up your wife trump coveting your neighbor’s ox, on the sin chart?

(That was flip, but I’m not trying to be antagonistic. The idea that your values should match God’s exactly is unusual to me.)

Tanya on June 2, 2008 at 7:50 PM

I deserve to be shot. I missed a VIDEO of Michelle on site when I sent this in.

William Amos on June 2, 2008 at 7:43 PM

A husband and his wife, both with disabilities, plus a child to raise and all 3 maxed out their contributions to Obama? It brought tears to Michelle’s eyes? Maybe instead of tears, she should have said, “Thank you, but I think you need this money more than my husband does.”

Connie on June 2, 2008 at 7:53 PM

So, I’m rooted in the Christian tradition. I believe that there are many paths to the same place, and that is a belief that there is a higher power, a belief that we are connected as a people.

So, let’s break this down. He says also that he takes a lot from Judaism. Let’s look at the first commandment:
1)”You shall have no other gods before me.”
Or how about what the New Testament says: “Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.’” John 14:6
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved.” Acts 4:12
I could be wrong, but Christianity and Judaism sound pretty exclusive to me.

Send_Me on June 2, 2008 at 7:53 PM

liberal christian theology is nothing other than humanism using theological terms, its always been like that. TUCC is part of that, an interesting part given their linkage to the Nation of Islam and the theatrics of it. alot different than the uppity white guilt variety.

its not True Christianity of the bible and gospels.

jp on June 2, 2008 at 7:58 PM

That seems like a fairly pedestrian (if a tinge New Age-y) way to think of it, but leave it to the atheist to shrug these things off. Anyone want to take issue? Go nuts!

Your desire to give the Obamas the benefit of the doubt, which stems partly from this rumor floating around, skewed your conclusion on Obama’s answer of what is sin, by calling it “pedestrian.” The word sin, carries with it, almost in its entirety, a religious connotation. Whenever a purely humanistic social ethic is discussed, the word “sin” is almost never used, because of the very reason that it has such “religious” baggage. Words like, “wronged” “offended” and “intolerance” come into play instead. Even at a purely “pop” understanding of “sin” the same religious weight is present. I write all this to point out that, when asked, “do you believe in sin” and “What is sin” nearly every “pedestrian’s” definition will have some sort of “theocentric” import. Even if the person is not a theist, as you point out, would answer, “Well, Christians say…Well, Muslims say…” Very few Christians would ever point to falling short of one’s own values, as sin. For every Christian is quite aware of the doctrine of the Fall, and as such is equally aware that “their” values could not have originated with them, and would rarely, if ever, phrase sin as being out of alignment with his own values. After all that, however…who cares? I’ve read enough Chicago Sun Times articles, wherein Barack gives us his understanding of the Christian faith, to know that he is not a Christian. And yes, I’ll go ahead and be the judgmental bigot in saying that.

Weight of Glory on June 2, 2008 at 7:59 PM

GG:
What is sin?

OBAMA:
Being out of alignment with my values.

It’s poorly stated, but as I read it in that context, Obama is saying that he forms his personal values from Christian teachings, and to not act in accordance with those values is, for him, the definition of ‘sin’. I don’t have a problem with that.

Socratease on June 2, 2008 at 7:59 PM

He is saying that his sin is different from the sin of other people.

We have seen a little of his values and that he imparts to his children and it is not the same as my values.

Is lying against his values?
He lied about taking oil money.

He doesn’t want his children “punished with a baby?”
Is that his value system?

He thinks it is perfectly okay to tear a baby apart the day before it is to be born.
Is that part of his values?

His answer to this question and his obvious relationship with TUCC shows his understanding of Judeo/Christian beliefs is superficial at best.

EJDolbow on June 2, 2008 at 8:01 PM

I don’t trust much of the media because they lie, as do plenty of bloggers.

Her point?

JammieWearingFool on June 2, 2008 at 8:02 PM

(That was flip, but I’m not trying to be antagonistic. The idea that your values should match God’s exactly is unusual to me.)

Tanya on June 2, 2008 at 7:50 PM

Sins against nature are sins against nature’s God’s values. Sins against Natural Law are sins against the Creator of Natural Law (aka God). No there is nothing that is not intrinsically grave that is not against God’s values. It doesn’t matter if they are explicitly spelled out in the Bible or not. However it is very difficult to find a sin, even a sin that mondern man says they invented (say blowing up innocent civilians) without finding something in the Bible that speaks out against it (e.g., Thou shalt not murder). Sin is a morally bad act that you knowingly commit. For something to be morally bad it has to go against God’s law. Therefore you cannot define sin outside of God’s law.

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 8:02 PM

Her point?

JammieWearingFool on June 2, 2008 at 8:02 PM

I think she was trying to say “think for yourself.”

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 8:02 PM

It’s poorly stated, but as I read it in that context, Obama is saying that he forms his personal values from Christian teachings, and to not act in accordance with those values is, for him, the definition of ’sin’. I don’t have a problem with that.

Socratease on June 2, 2008 at 7:59 PM

Boy, you sure read a lot into those 2 lines.

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 8:03 PM

Tanya on June 2, 2008 at 7:50 PM

I think you’re missing the point.

You may not value a fetus as a human life and you can go ahead and have an abortion. Now, you were true to your values and by BO’s definition, committed no sin but if you are a Catholic for example, you have indeed.

See how this works now?

TheBigOldDog on June 2, 2008 at 8:04 PM

GG:
What is sin?
OBAMA:
Being out of alignment with my values

That seems like a fairly pedestrian (if a tinge New Age-y) way to think of it…
ALLAHPUNDIT

Wow, you nailed it Allah! IMHO it is totally New Age-y to claim that sin is a personal and purely subjective judgement. Someone should ask Messiah Obama if he and Rev. Wright have re-written the Ten Commandments to include that little pearl: “Thou shalt not… if it is out of alignment with my values.” Oy vey!

NightmareOnKStreet on June 2, 2008 at 8:04 PM

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 8:02 PM

Nicely put, bnelson44

Weight of Glory on June 2, 2008 at 8:04 PM

I see . . . do they lie as much as mainstream journalists? Do they lie as much as radical, bigotted preachers? Do they lie as much as parasitic politicians? And finally, do they lie as much as Michelle Obama?
What nonsense . . . how stupid can this woman be?

rplat on June 2, 2008 at 8:05 PM

Why Does Anyone Believe Larry C. Johnson?

Hope.

thirteen28 on June 2, 2008 at 7:45 PM

Clang! We have a winner!

Buford Gooch on June 2, 2008 at 8:06 PM

OK found Full video of Michelle Obama

Go to about 16:45 in video

William Amos on June 2, 2008 at 8:08 PM

I deserve to be shot. I missed a VIDEO of Michelle on site when I sent this in.

William Amos on June 2, 2008 at 7:43 PM

I’m sorry I watched it … aint she sweet?

ORrighty on June 2, 2008 at 8:10 PM

Finally the great giver of truth has arrived !!

sarc/off

Maxx on June 2, 2008 at 7:21 PM

lol!!

jerrytbg on June 2, 2008 at 8:10 PM

It’s poorly stated, but as I read it in that context, Obama is saying that he forms his personal values from Christian teachings, and to not act in accordance with those values is, for him, the definition of ’sin’. I don’t have a problem with that.

Socratease on June 2, 2008 at 7:59 PM

This is not the point of view of the religious right, or, for that matter, of a very good portion of the religious left and religious center. It’s still “his personal values” instead of God’s values. I do have a problem with that.

Buford Gooch on June 2, 2008 at 8:13 PM

So now we’re going to have competing definitions of “sin,” are we? The definition of “sin” is always subjective. Who’s to say that Goldberg’s definition of “sin” has more authority than Obama’s? Regrettably, our various holy books are open to wide interpretation…

Enrique on June 2, 2008 at 8:18 PM

That seems like a fairly pedestrian (if a tinge New Age-y) way to think of it

No it’s not “New Age-y”, it sounds like an answer from a hardcore existentialist who on his quest of authenticity found a “black value system” he could choose.

He’s a liberal Christian. If they talk about sin it is usually with regard to systems in society.

Regardless, people shouldn’t harp on these answers.

ninjapirate on June 2, 2008 at 8:18 PM

So now we’re going to have competing definitions of “sin,” are we? The definition of “sin” is always subjective. Who’s to say that Goldberg’s definition of “sin” has more authority than Obama’s? Regrettably, our various holy books are open to wide interpretation…

Enrique on June 2, 2008 at 8:18 PM

But it’s not “our various holy books” at issue here. Senator Obama professes to be a Christian. The only holy book involved is the Christian Bible. Sin is fairly thoroughly defined there, and almost every Christian poster on this thread has defined it the same way.

Buford Gooch on June 2, 2008 at 8:20 PM

Buford Gooch on June 2, 2008 at 8:13 PM

Is it possible that he’s REALLY starting to think of himself as a prophet or the Messiah? nah…right?

jerrytbg on June 2, 2008 at 8:21 PM

First:

“Don’t trust bloggers or someone else’s opinion, because people lie.”

Ummmm. Yikes! Sounds kinda cultish.

Second:

I think it’s the same thing as the question about heaven. In the same way that if I’m true to myself and my faith that that is its own reward, when I’m not true to it, it’s its own punishment.

C’mon folks, this isn’t too hard to figure out. He obviously meant the values that he outlined when he gave the Sermon on the Mount.

But seriously folks…. from what I’ve read, this is the core of Black Liberation Theology. Faith is worthwhile if it is useful. The object of the faith isn’t important, the usefulness of the faith itself to achieve some personal goal is what really matters.

29Victor on June 2, 2008 at 8:23 PM

Yeah! And don’t judge whole groups by the actions of a few…

…wait, what? Whoopsie.

And y’all are missing another obvious interpretation of Barrack’s “my values” quote – dude thinks he’s God.

Merovign on June 2, 2008 at 8:23 PM

. . . if we continue to do this . . . then we will regain the power in our own country . . .

See, with the leftists, it’s all about gaining power. Then they can force their collectivist agenda down our throats.

Mallard T. Drake on June 2, 2008 at 8:26 PM

Since I’m momentarily defending the Obamas

Now theres a real shocker

Capitalist Infidel on June 2, 2008 at 8:27 PM

Big Mo gives good advice. Too bad it hurts her husband, a candidate for the Presidency who says that sin is that which is “out of alignment with my values”.
Barrack Obama is a callow young man with little state or national political experience. Nonetheless this “clean” back politician has been groomed for this nomination within the Dem. Party and the liberal media establishment.
He has run an excellent campaign from out of the blue. As Rush says, “Obama says “nothing” better than anyone else’”. He is being propelled by cultural forces on the left who have decided it’s the black guy’s turn, and since the Party has no real choice other than to alienate the black vote – a suicide choice – Barack’s the Dude!!
The Election is McCain’s to lose, and he just might wrest defeat….

Randy

williars on June 2, 2008 at 8:28 PM

Sorry. That previous quote was from Michelle’s speech following her “liars” comment.

Mallard T. Drake on June 2, 2008 at 8:28 PM

Seems like a perfect definition of “moral equivalence” if I’ve ever heard one. It does so define the man.

JimK on June 2, 2008 at 8:34 PM

OBAMA:
Being out of alignment with my values.

You have got to be kidding me. Sin is based on what this guy values. Sin literly means to “miss the mark” and what is the mark “the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. WHo is this guy the false prophet?

mjkazee on June 2, 2008 at 8:34 PM

Does anyone believe if bho was running for pres. in the 70′s or early 80′s any of this stuff would be brought to the voters attention? We got what the msm thought we ‘needed’ to know about the candidates. bho and his wifeee would have just been good ole boys, just what the U.S. needed to fix things. The ‘church’, endless hateful things said by wifeee, bho’s numerous political deals would have never been seen by the voters. The blogs are keeping everybody informed as to what these slugs are. Thank you, HA, MM, Rush, Hannity, LGF, etc etc etc. Please keep looking and keep us all informed.
L

letget on June 2, 2008 at 8:46 PM

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 8:02 PM

That’s a good answer. I’ll have to think about it. There are things that I would assume would preclude getting into Heaven (whereas, I don’t necessarily think that coveting your neighbor’s ox should), that I don’t recall being specified — even tangentially — in the Bible. I’ll do some research.

Thanks for taking the question seriously. :o)

Tanya on June 2, 2008 at 8:50 PM

Please please please keep her on the stump. We lost some of the best material now that he’s divorced himself from the racist, anti-American hate church, I’d hate to see him seem moderate and acceptable, and by shedding these land mines he becomes stronger…she’s all we got left.

Alden Pyle on June 2, 2008 at 8:53 PM

Michelle, do you include yourself in the catagory known as “people” or are you nonhuman?

CynicalOptimist on June 2, 2008 at 8:54 PM

I absolutely do not trust Lawyers or Politicians.

I reckon that covers the Clintons and Obamas completely and explicitly.

The Truth is not to be found in them.

old trooper on June 2, 2008 at 8:54 PM

“The way this campaign has been run is the way we need to be forever,”

Keeper, on how clueless this woman is. This has been the worst it’s ever been, on both sides, and it’s by far not over. They lie through their teeth, or they’re completeley delusional.

On the sins, to each’s own. None are ever going to win the argument.

That seems like a fairly pedestrian (if a tinge New Age-y) way to think of it, but leave it to the atheist to shrug these things off. Anyone want to take issue? Go nuts!

Like I said yesterday, wit and grit; HA’s AP’s got both.

I love that we can call the contestants just about anything, and not be locked up. There was a time in my life when we couldn’t even tell a joke about ours to our own cousin/s.

Entelechy on June 2, 2008 at 8:55 PM

Obama’s values obviously don’t include the Commandment: Thou shalt not kill. He is more than okay with letting late-term babies who miraculously survive abortions to be shunted off to the nearest utility room to die a lonely and ignominious death without human touch or sustenance. I know I am a one trick pony about this, but c’mon. Some of these babies are perfectly normal, just unwanted, and the Obamessiah is perfectly okay with letting them just slowly languish, with no rights and no legal protection. He is amoral. He has no true Christian orientation whatsoever.

Also, Michelle Obama’s: “Don’t trust bloggers or someone else’s opinion, because people lie.” I see Michelle Obama as the consummate “someone else,” and I don’t believe a word she says. I’d sooner believe bloggers, who are held to a “higher authority”…us.

marybel on June 2, 2008 at 9:00 PM

I love that we can call the contestants just about anything, and not be locked up. There was a time in my life when we couldn’t even tell a joke about ours to our own cousin/s.

Entelechy on June 2, 2008 at 8:55 PM

Can you elaborate?

jerrytbg on June 2, 2008 at 9:01 PM

I would encourage everyone to read that entire interview. Beyond questions of Obama’s “faith,” there are also interesting statements like this choice nugget:

It’s interesting particularly now after this election, comes with it a lot of celebrity. And I always think of politics as having two sides. There’s a vanity aspect to politics, and then there’s a substantive part of politics. Now you need some sizzle with the steak to be effective, but I think it’s easy to get swept up in the vanity side of it, the desire to be liked and recognized and important. It’s important for me throughout the day to measure and to take stock and to say, now, am I doing this because I think it’s advantageous to me politically, or because I think it’s the right thing to do? Am I doing this to get my name in the papers or am I doing this because it’s necessary to accomplish my motives.

Yes, I can just bet Obama has trouble telling the difference.

There’s also this little gem:

IT’s interesting, the most powerful political moments for me come when I feel like my actions are aligned with a certain truth. I can feel it. When I’m talking to a group and I’m saying something truthful, I can feel a power that comes out of those statements that is different than when I’m just being glib or clever.

There really is something for everyone in that interview.

Missy on June 2, 2008 at 9:02 PM

Michelle Obama: “Don’t trust bloggers … because people lie”

Well thank you Michelle. Please don’t ever stop yapping, because, you’re an idiot gift, that just keeps giving!

byteshredder on June 2, 2008 at 9:05 PM

Here’s an exit question: Who lies more often bloggers, politicans or politican’s wives?

As for Gilbert’s exit question, I didn’t get the impression anyone believed Johnson but that a whole lot of people were watching to see how big a train wreck it was going to be.

Dusty on June 2, 2008 at 9:14 PM

I am screwed now and for evermore. I don’t align with any of his values.

Rod on June 2, 2008 at 9:21 PM

GG:
Do you have people in your life that you look to for guidance?

OBAMA:
Well, my pastor is certainly someone who I have an enormous amount of respect for.
I have a number of friends who are ministers. Reverend Meeks is a close friend and colleague of mine in the state Senate. Father Michael Pfleger is a dear friend, and somebody I interact with closely.

Hmmm. Can he no more disown Father Pfleger any more than he can disown the Reverend Wright?

Mallard T. Drake on June 2, 2008 at 9:21 PM

GG:
Do you ever have people who know you’re a Christian question a particular stance you take on an issue, how can you be a Christian and …

OBAMA:
Like the right to choose.
I haven’t been challenged in those direct ways. And to that extent, I give the public a lot of credit. I’m always stuck by how much common sense the American people have. They get confused sometimes, watch FoxNews or listen to talk radio. That’s dangerous sometimes. But generally, Americans are tolerant and I think recognize that faith is a personal thing, and they may feel very strongly about an issue like abortion or gay marriage, but if they discuss it with me as an elected official they will discuss it with me in those terms and not, say, as ‘you call yourself a Christian.’ I cannot recall that ever happening.

Well then Barry, recall this sometime: How can you call yourself a Christian and vote against the Born Alive bill in the Illinois Senate?

Mallard T. Drake on June 2, 2008 at 9:24 PM

GG:
Do you believe in heaven?

OBAMA:
Do I believe in the harps and clouds and wings?

GG:
A place spiritually you go to after you die?

OBAMA:
What I believe in is that if I live my life as well as I can, that I will be rewarded. I don’t presume to have knowledge of what happens after I die. But I feel very strongly that whether the reward is in the here and now or in the hereafter, the aligning myself to my faith and my values is a good thing.

When I tuck in my daughters at night and I feel like I’ve been a good father to them, and I see in them that I am transferring values that I got from my mother and that they’re kind people and that they’re honest people, and they’re curious people, that’s a little piece of heaven.

Sorry Barry. You don’t get into Heaven by being a “good guy.” Trying to earn your way in won’t cut it. Only by the Grace of God through the redeeming sacrifice of Jesus Christ will you be able to enter Heaven.

If this politician thing doesn’t work out, you could make a good writer for Hallmark: “Daughters, they’re a little piece of Heaven.”

Mallard T. Drake on June 2, 2008 at 9:29 PM

But seriously folks…. from what I’ve read, this is the core of Black Liberation Theology. Faith is worthwhile if it is useful. The object of the faith isn’t important, the usefulness of the faith itself to achieve some personal goal is what really matters.

29Victor on June 2, 2008 at 8:23 PM

Hammer meet nail. Never, ever, ever forget this, folks.

baldilocks on June 2, 2008 at 9:31 PM

Remember, AP, at first you didn’t think that the Reverend Wright issue would be a big deal. :::gently said:::

baldilocks on June 2, 2008 at 9:35 PM

Here’s another one:

Part of the reason I think it’s always difficult for public figures to talk about this is that the nature of politics is that you want to have everybody like you and project the best possible traits onto you. Oftentimes that’s by being as vague as possible, or appealing to the lowest commong denominators. The more specific and detailed you are on issues as personal and fundamental as your faith, the more potentially dangerous it is.

Well we know where he falls on that one. The vague, safe route is his chosen path. Obama has a deep and abiding need to be adored – can’t be jeopardizing that with any honest faith talk, now.

He is such a wuss.

Missy on June 2, 2008 at 9:57 PM

The oft-repeated refrain in the Old Testament book of Judges is:
the people did what was right in their own eyes“.
Obamarxist would consider that a compliment, but it was intended as a “slam”.

jgapinoy on June 2, 2008 at 9:58 PM

Ubama, like all non Christians, will be tortured for eternity in the lake of fire.

SaintOlaf on June 2, 2008 at 9:58 PM

Funny part is that my belief system is pretty close to Obama’s…

Problem is that I don’t call myself a Christian, because of that belief structure.

Romeo13 on June 2, 2008 at 10:07 PM

“Don’t trust bloggers or someone else’s opinion, because people lie.”

No, no, no, she’s in Montana, she said loggers, not bloggers. It’s a typo.

labrat on June 2, 2008 at 10:17 PM

WOW our first atheist and black candidate for president.

THIS IS A BIG DEAL for Christian. BO should come out now and tell the truth and say he is NOT A CHRISTIAN.

BroncosRock on June 2, 2008 at 10:30 PM

GG:
What is sin?
OBAMA:
Being out of alignment with my values.

Funny, I though God had something to do with it. Apparently Obama believes his own press and does indeed believe he is the messiah.

katieanne on June 2, 2008 at 10:39 PM

There really is something for everyone in that interview.
Missy on June 2, 2008 at 9:02 PM

Yes there is! Much has already been pointed out, but this speaks to the vanity Jonah Goldberg sees (as do I):

OBAMA:
Well, I think it’s the power of the recognition of God, or the recognition of a larger truth that is being shared between me and an audience.

Buy Danish on June 2, 2008 at 10:54 PM

… and maybe they define it differently there.

bnelson44 on June 2, 2008 at 7:44 PM

but then, by definition, it is no longer sin.

For the atheists in the crowd, this is the definition of sin that us frustrated Bible clingin’ gun-toters use

From the Dr. Charles Ryrie –

“In the Hebrew there are at least eight basic words that describe sin: “ra, bad (Genesis 38:7); rasha, wickedness (Exodus 2:13); asham, guilt (Hosea 4:15); chata, sin (Exodus 20:20); avon, iniquity (I Samuel 3:13); shagag, err (Isaiah 28:7); taah, wander away (Ezekiel 48:11); pasha, rebel (I Kings 8:50). The usage of these words leads to certain conclusions about the doctrine of sin in the Old Testament. (1) Sin is, fundamentally, disobedience to God. (2) While disobedience involved both positive and negative ideas, the emphasis was definitely on the positive commission of wrong and not the negative omission of good. In other words, sin was not simply missing the right mark, but hitting the wrong mark. (3) Sin may take many forms, and the Israelite was aware of the particular form which his sin did take.”

“The New Testament uses twelve basic words to describe sin. They are: Kakos, bad (Romans 13:3); poneros, evil (Matthew5:45); asebes, godless (Romans 1:18); enochos, guilt (Matthew 5:21); hamartia, sin (I Corinthians 6:18); adikia, unrighteousness (I Corinthians 6:9); anomos, lawlessness (I Timothy 2:9); parabates, transgression (Romans 5:14); agnoein, to be ignorant (Romans 1:13); planan, to go astray (I Corinthians 6:9); paraptomai, to fall away (Galatians 6:1); and hupocrites, hypocrite (I Timothy 4:2). From the uses of these words several conclusions may also be drawn. (1) There is always a clear standard against which sin is committed. (2) Ultimately all sin is a positive rebellion against God and a transgression of His standards. (3) Evil may assume a variety of forms. (4) Man’s responsibility is definite and clearly understood.”

AZ_Redneck on June 2, 2008 at 11:53 PM

Ubama, like all non Christians, will be tortured for eternity in the lake of fire.

SaintOlaf on June 2, 2008 at 9:58 PM

What if you’re wrong? Wouldn’t that be something?

a capella on June 3, 2008 at 12:00 AM

While I don’t think that Obama meant to say that he is the ultimate moral anchor for the universe, that is what he said.

AbaddonsReign on June 3, 2008 at 12:11 AM

I tend to agree with Jonah on this on. Sin, to the Christian, is being out of alignment with God’s values, not man’s.

I’m curious, is there anything you (not you specifically, alacrityfitzhugh, anyone) would consider a sin, that isn’t named as such specifically in the Bible?

Does beating up your wife trump coveting your neighbor’s ox, on the sin chart?

(That was flip, but I’m not trying to be antagonistic. The idea that your values should match God’s exactly is unusual to me.)

Tanya on June 2, 2008 at 7:50 PM

Only through the Atonement of Jesus Christ can men again be in the presence of God. To simply answer your question “Does beating up your wife trump coveting your neighbor’s ox, on the sin chart?,” both sins require the Atonement of Christ. All sins from simple lust without action to murder require the Atonement of Christ.

If I repent of beating my spouse, but not of coveting my neighbor’s ox, will the Atonement still work for me? The Bible states that I must repent of all my sins, and God will remember them no more.

What are Christians? Christians are people who are disciples of Christ. Disciples are students studying under the Master. The Master is Christ. Therefore for one to be a Disciple of Christ, one must activly work to emulate Christ in all that he said and did. Therefore, if my neighbor is in need, and I walk away, I have sinned. When I have followed my own will and not God’s will, I have sinned. God’s will is for me to help my neighbor, treat my spouse with respect and honor, and to tell my neighbor how lucky he is that God has blessed him with such a fine ox.

PrettyD_Vicious on June 3, 2008 at 1:21 AM

Just think, if Barry wins we’ll get to listen to all this great positive, uplifting tripe from Michelle every time she speaks. Just another positive change Barry!

tazmebro on June 3, 2008 at 4:56 AM

If Republican poohbahs have their way the tape will remain on ice until October.

I don’t know how credible roger stone is but he swears his sources are nearly unimpeachable and are saying they’ve seen the tape. Allah has always had a soft place in his heart for barry. barry is a ny kind of guy.

peacenprosperity on June 3, 2008 at 6:24 AM

Bob Beckel mentioned rumors of a damning material on Fox & Friends this morning, saying he’s heard enough to be worried. Of course he said ‘it’s coming from Republicans’.

He also said the Vanity Fair hit piece on B.J. with all its unnamed sources reminded him of “right wing bloggers”.

Buy Danish on June 3, 2008 at 7:12 AM

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