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Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 9:45:29 AM
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TheosCentric
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Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani
The most detailed and fascinating explication of Barack Obama's faith came in a 2004 interview he gave Chicago Sun-Times columnist Cathleen Falsani when he was running for U.S. Senate in Illinois. The column she wrote about the interview has been quoted and misquoted many times over, but she'd never before published the full transcript in a major publication.
Because of how controversial that interview became, Falsani has graciously allowed us to print the full conversation here.
Falsani is one of the most gifted interviewers on matters of faith, and has recently published an outstanding memoir called Sin Boldly: A Field Guide for Grace. To get a free download of the audio book, click here.
_____________________________
"Missions exists because worship doesn't." -- John Piper, Let the Nations be Glad
God at the Center
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 9:49:40 AM
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Jhud
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Yeah, another bit of pertinent information that no one heard before the elction. I found these questions and answers interesting:
FALSANI: Who’s Jesus to you? (Obama laughs nervously)
OBAMA: Right. Jesus is an historical figure for me, and he’s also a bridge between God and man, in the Christian faith, and one that I think is powerful precisely because he serves as that means of us reaching something higher. And he’s also a wonderful teacher. I think it’s important for all of us, of whatever faith, to have teachers in the flesh and also teachers in history.
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FALSANI: What is sin?
OBAMA: Being out of alignment with my values.
FALSANI: 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.
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Obama: …There’s the belief, certainly in some quarters, that people haven’t embraced Jesus Christ as their personal savior that they’re going to hell.
FALSANI: You don’t believe that?
OBAMA: I find it hard to believe that my God would consign four-fifths of the world to hell.
I can’t imagine that my God would allow some little Hindu kid in India who never interacts with the Christian faith to somehow burn for all eternity. That’s just not part of my religious makeup.
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FALSANI: Do you believe in heaven?
OBAMA: Do I believe in the harps and clouds and wings?
FALSANI: 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.
Again, one has to wonder why we didn't see this before the election?
_____________________________
Jack
I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.
- C.S. Lewis
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 9:58:50 AM
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TheosCentric
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Yeah, those were the same points that stuck out to me.
The reporter has just NOW released the full transcript.
A basic rundown...
Obama believes that sin is what goes against HIS values.
There are multiple ways to God.
He's close friends with Jeremiah Wright and Michael Phleger.
Some evangelicals supported this guy?!?
_____________________________
"Missions exists because worship doesn't." -- John Piper, Let the Nations be Glad
God at the Center
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 10:01:27 AM
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blue1914
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Jhud
Yeah, another bit of pertinent information that no one heard before the elction. I found these questions and answers interesting:
To be quite honest, I don't know what change this info would have made to the election-especially since MUCH of what Mr. Obama said would line up almost 100% with a large group of American Christians according to the Barna research that I have seen. Sad - to be sure (that the understandings of the BASICS of faith in Jesus Christ are so sadly spun and tourtured until in some cases they are beyond recognition), but just another indicator of our time. I've seen MANY professing Christians who would have NO problems with many of the stances Mr. Obama advocates.
The most memorable for me was when a Jehovah's Witness came to my home and told me that she became a Jehovah's Witness because after over 20 years (and many leadership positions) in a large well know evangelical denomination, someone told her one day that Christians believe Jesus is God and explained the Trinity to her. Since that did not "jive" with her personal theology, she sought out the Jehovah's Witnesses and was converted. Sad indeed, but not surprising (to me anyway).
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 10:46:13 AM
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jazzact13
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No wonder Sojo and the emergents fell for this guy.
_____________________________
there is no justice in the rhetoric of class hatred
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 3:47:24 PM
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phreddy
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Another interesting response was to the question what book he found inspiration from. He mentioned a few things but not The Bible.
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 4:01:59 PM
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Lapidoth
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This information about a "fake" christian wouldn't have made any difference.
All the "fake" christians would vote for him anyway.
He has no concept of "God's Justice," or, God Himself for that matter.
His God won't send people to hell,
but MY God will allow those who reject His Word to go there.
God provided the way in Jesus Christ, the ONE and ONLY way
to God. All paths lead to hell, only one path leads to God.
_____________________________
Why does He keep quoting Torah? Doesn't He know He's about to abolish it?
http://www.tedpearce.com/Videos/TheForgottenpeople.html
BARUCH HABA BASHEM YAHUAH
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 4:05:09 PM
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Lapidoth
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quote:
FALSANI:
What do you believe?
OBAMA:
I am a Christian.
So, I have a deep faith. So I draw from the Christian faith.
On the other hand, I was born in Hawaii where obviously there are a lot of Eastern influences.
I lived in Indonesia, the largest Muslim country in the world, between the ages of six and 10.
My father was from Kenya, and although he was probably most accurately labeled an agnostic, his father was Muslim.
And I'd say, probably, intellectually I've drawn as much from Judaism as any other faith.
(A patron stops and says, "Congratulations," shakes his hand. "Thank you very much. I appreciate that. Thank you.")
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. That there are values that transcend race or culture, that move us forward, and there's an obligation for all of us individually as well as collectively to take responsibility to make those values lived.
And so, part of my project in life was probably to spend the first 40 years of my life figuring out what I did believe - I'm 42 now - and it's not that I had it all completely worked out, but I'm spending a lot of time now trying to apply what I believe and trying to live up to those values.
_____________________________
Why does He keep quoting Torah? Doesn't He know He's about to abolish it?
http://www.tedpearce.com/Videos/TheForgottenpeople.html
BARUCH HABA BASHEM YAHUAH
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/13/2008 9:48:47 PM
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TMeeks
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The sad fact is that it wouldn't have made a bit of difference to those up here defending him as a Christian either. Race and Politics trump reality when it comes to The One.
It's OK to vote for him anyway. But, to insist that we cannot question the reality of his experience with Christ, as they did, was wrong.... and, this interview is proof.
quote:
ORIGINAL: Lapidoth
This information about a "fake" christian wouldn't have made any difference.
All the "fake" christians would vote for him anyway.
He has no concept of "God's Justice," or, God Himself for that matter.
His God won't send people to hell,
but MY God will allow those who reject His Word to go there.
God provided the way in Jesus Christ, the ONE and ONLY way
to God. All paths lead to hell, only one path leads to God.
_____________________________
Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/14/2008 12:27:21 AM
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iluvatar
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quote:
ORIGINAL: TMeeks
The sad fact is that it wouldn't have made a bit of difference to those up here defending him as a Christian either.
I have yet to see anybody put him or his church up as a paragon of sound doctrine and theological purity. Generally, when the "he's a Christian" defense comes out, it's in response to some nonsensical claim about him being a muslim.
Still, if I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I'd prefer it be one like Obama who, while obviously being a bit off doctrinally, is still thoughtful and conscious of his actions and the big picture rather than one who proclaims "I'm a Christian, I'm pro-life, and I'm anti-gay" and then promptly shuts their brain off (which is the case with FAR too many Christians)
-Dan.
_____________________________
Well, I've been to one world fair, a picnic, and a rodeo, and that's the stupidest thing I ever heard come over a set of earphones.
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/14/2008 3:13:19 AM
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Jhud
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quote:
Still, if I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I'd prefer it be one like Obama who, while obviously being a bit off doctrinally, is still thoughtful and conscious of his actions and the big picture rather than one who proclaims "I'm a Christian, I'm pro-life, and I'm anti-gay" and then promptly shuts their brain off (which is the case with FAR too many Christians)
"...a bit off doctrinally"?
He can't seem to articulate the deity of Christ, he believes the measure of sin is misalignment with one's 'personal values', he doesnt believe in hell and he doesn't know if their is a heaven.
That is about as 'off' of Christianity as Columbus was off in thinking he had landed on the shores of India.
If I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I would rather one whose beliefs vaguely resemble those of Christianity.
_____________________________
Jack
I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.
- C.S. Lewis
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/14/2008 4:34:41 AM
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TheosCentric
Posts: 2036
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quote:
ORIGINAL: Jhud
quote:
Still, if I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I'd prefer it be one like Obama who, while obviously being a bit off doctrinally, is still thoughtful and conscious of his actions and the big picture rather than one who proclaims "I'm a Christian, I'm pro-life, and I'm anti-gay" and then promptly shuts their brain off (which is the case with FAR too many Christians)
"...a bit off doctrinally"?
He can't seem to articulate the deity of Christ, he believes the measure of sin is misalignment with one's 'personal values', he doesnt believe in hell and he doesn't know if their is a heaven.
That is about as 'off' of Christianity as Columbus was off in thinking he had landed on the shores of India.
If I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I would rather one whose beliefs vaguely resemble those of Christianity.
Aw...you beat me to it, Jack.
Yeah, I wouldn't want to get any sort of theology from Obama.
Of course, this begs the question again, should there be a religious litmus test for politicians. As some have said, it wouldn't have mattered with Obama. It didn't matter with me, because there are far too many other issues with Obama that prevented me from voting for him.
That being said, Obama's "Christianity" is not Christianity.
_____________________________
"Missions exists because worship doesn't." -- John Piper, Let the Nations be Glad
God at the Center
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/14/2008 7:29:46 AM
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crownlaurel
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Politician and Christian don't mesh. No one with true faith made it anywhere near the end of the primaries. McCain is no more Christian than Obama, although his character and associations and experience may line up closer, I see no evidence that his faith is any closer.
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.
He's right on this point, you know...
Matthew 6:5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/14/2008 3:53:30 PM
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Jhud
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quote:
Politician and Christian don't mesh. No one with true faith made it anywhere near the end of the primaries. McCain is no more Christian than Obama, although his character and associations and experience may line up closer, I see no evidence that his faith is any closer.
quote:
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.
He's right on this point, you know...
Matthew 6:5 "And when you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, for they love to pray standing in the synagogues and on the street corners to be seen by men. I tell you the truth, they have received their reward in full.
Yes, but he seems to be advocating working for an earthly reward rather than a heavenly one, which would seem to make him the sort of man Christ warned us about.
_____________________________
Jack
I believe in Christianity as I believe that the sun has risen: not only because I see it, but because by it I see everything else.
- C.S. Lewis
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/15/2008 9:08:16 AM
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SonInMe1
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Some say Bush pretended to be christian to win elections. Obama, by his own beliefs and statements directly conflict with christian doctrine. Not fringe elements but core beliefs.....and christians voted for this man calaiming he was a christian.
If those are his beliefs, then he is no christian. That is not my opinion. Its clear from his statements.
If you want a man who is not christian president...fine. That is your right. However, you were fooled by Obama into thinking he is a christian....now what are you going to do?
You wanted Obama..now you have him
_____________________________
You adulterous people, don't you know that friendship with the world is hatred toward God? Anyone who chooses to be a friend of the world becomes an enemy of God.
James 4:4
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/16/2008 9:10:57 PM
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relady
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quote:
Still, if I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I'd prefer it be one like Obama who, while obviously being a bit off doctrinally, is still thoughtful and conscious of his actions and the big picture rather than one who proclaims "I'm a Christian, I'm pro-life, and I'm anti-gay" and then promptly shuts their brain off (which is the case with FAR too many Christians) And once again, Dan presents the breath of fresh air that is a reasoned, thoughtful response. Thank you Dan!
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/16/2008 9:40:55 PM
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TMeeks
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Dan, what marks a Christian in your world? You obviously seem to believe that he is, in fact, a Christian. By what measure do you make that assumption?
quote:
ORIGINAL: iluvatar
quote:
ORIGINAL: TMeeks
The sad fact is that it wouldn't have made a bit of difference to those up here defending him as a Christian either.
I have yet to see anybody put him or his church up as a paragon of sound doctrine and theological purity. Generally, when the "he's a Christian" defense comes out, it's in response to some nonsensical claim about him being a muslim.
Still, if I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I'd prefer it be one like Obama who, while obviously being a bit off doctrinally, is still thoughtful and conscious of his actions and the big picture rather than one who proclaims "I'm a Christian, I'm pro-life, and I'm anti-gay" and then promptly shuts their brain off (which is the case with FAR too many Christians)
-Dan.
_____________________________
Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
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RE: Obama's Fascinating Interview with Cathleen Falsani - 11/16/2008 9:42:47 PM
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TMeeks
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Please, explain how his response was reasoned and thoughtful? What is your measure for such analysis?
quote:
ORIGINAL: relady
quote:
Still, if I'm going to have a Christian in charge, I'd prefer it be one like Obama who, while obviously being a bit off doctrinally, is still thoughtful and conscious of his actions and the big picture rather than one who proclaims "I'm a Christian, I'm pro-life, and I'm anti-gay" and then promptly shuts their brain off (which is the case with FAR too many Christians) And once again, Dan presents the breath of fresh air that is a reasoned, thoughtful response. Thank you Dan!
_____________________________
Galatians 6:7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 The one who sows to please his sinful nature, from that nature will reap destruction; the one who sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.
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