NBC's Gregory: Romney's Mormon Faith An 'Issue' Because It's 'The Core of Who He Is'
On Wednesday's NBC Tonight Show, host Jay Leno asked Meet the Press host David Gregory if Mitt Romney's religion would be fair game in the general election: "...with Obama....you know, 'Oh, he's a Muslim. He's not a Christian.' Do you think that Romney will get the same thing about his faith that Obama got?" [Listen to the audio or watch the video after the jump]
While Gregory acknowledged Romney potentially becoming the Republican nominee would be "a huge moment for religious tolerance in the country," he then argued: "But I think it's an issue, I mean, I think a lot of people have questions about the Mormon faith. There's a lot of ignorance about the Mormon faith. And let's be honest, this is the core of who Mitt Romney is....And yet, he doesn't talk about it."
Gregory detailed Romney's Mormon activism over the years: "He was a missionary in France for two years. He has been a bishop in the church, which, in the Mormon church, is effectively like a priest. Philanthropically, he's made huge contributions. He's had a big impact on the church."
Further urging Romney to discuss his faith, Gregory proclaimed:
It's the core of who he is, and yet he doesn't feel like it's safe to talk about....I've seen some polling that suggests even more Democrats than Republicans are uncomfortable with the notion of a Mormon president. I think he's got to talk about that at some level....the Mormon faith this is a tremendous commitment that he has. And yet, I think he feels apprehensive about talking about it openly.
Later, Leno asked about Obama and Romney accusing each other of being out of touch and Gregory touted the President's strategy of attack: "...he basically is going to tear down Romney as being a guy who's going to take you back to the old, you know, Republican ways of cutting important programs and cutting taxes and helping out the rich. And he's sort of making him out to be sort of weird and out of touch. You know, he went after him for saying, as you said, the word 'marvelous.' Like, who uses that word?"
Barack Obama uses that word, that's who.
Here is a portion of Gregory's April 4 exchange with Leno:
12:04AM ET
(...)
JAY LENO: Now something that has not been brought up to this point is Romney's religion. Like, with Obama, first he was a – I saw someone call him an atheist Muslim, which made me laugh. I couldn't figure that out.
DAVID GREGORY: Yeah, exactly.
[LAUGHTER]
LENO: I heard one guy go "He's an atheist Muslim!" I didn't even know what that means.
GREGORY: Right.
LENO: But, I mean – so, you know, "Oh, he's a Muslim. He's not a Christian." Do you think that Romney will get the same thing about his faith that Obama got?
GREGORY: Look, this is a significant moment. I mean, we have the first Mormon Republican nominee, if everything gets formalized, in the country's history. I mean, that's a huge moment for religious tolerance in the country.
But I think it's an issue, I mean, I think a lot of people have questions about the Mormon faith. There's a lot of ignorance about the Mormon faith. And let's be honest, this is the core of who Mitt Romney is. He was a missionary in France for two years. He has been a bishop in the church, which, in the Mormon church, is effectively like a priest. Philanthropically, he's made huge contributions. He's had a big impact on the church. And yet, he doesn't talk about it.
LENO: Right.
GREGORY: It's the core of who he is, and yet he doesn't feel like it's safe to talk about. We – I've seen some polling that suggests even more Democrats than Republicans are uncomfortable with the notion of a Mormon president. I think he's got to talk about that at some level.
LENO: But we've had breakthroughs. We had the first African-American president.
GREGORY: Yeah.
LENO: We had the first Catholic president. So there's got to be a first for everything, really.
GREGORY: Absolutely, and I don't think it's-
LENO: The first woman president, hopefully someday.
GREGORY: Yeah, and I don't think it's prohibitive, by any means. But I do think it's a question of what moves you, you know? And particularly in the Mormon faith this is a tremendous commitment that he has. And yet, I think he feels apprehensive about talking about it openly. Which I thinks is, you know, sort of keeps him reined in a little bit.
(...)
LENO: Let me ask you something else. This kind of made me laugh. Because I – first, I watched Mitt Romney, "President Obama is out of touch with the people." And then, I watch Obama go, "Mitt Romney, he's out of touch." Are either of these guys in touch with the people?
[LAUGHTER]
GREGORY: Yeah, well, yeah. I mean, this is – you know, who can be more down with the middle class in America?
LENO: Yeah, yeah.
GREGORY: This is the big fight. And again, if you're – you know, these – if you watch what Obama's doing, he has watched President Bush's 2004 re-election very carefully. Where he basically is going to tear down Romney as being a guy who's going to take you back to the old, you know, Republican ways of cutting important programs and cutting taxes and helping out the rich. And he's sort of making him out to be sort of weird and out of touch. You know, he went after him for saying, as you said, the word "marvelous." Like, who uses that word? I think it's kind of like what Bush did to Kerry. That, you know, he was the guy – the wind surfer in Massachusetts. You know, out of touch. And I think – yeah, I think he's trying to do that to him now.
(...)
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Comments
Let me present Gregory's
Submitted by Beukeboom on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:17pm.
Let me present Gregory's words with a small change and see if it sounds familiar:
"But I think it's an issue, I mean, I think a lot of people have questions about the Catholic faith. There's a lot of ignorance about the Catholic faith. And let's be honest, this is the core of who Kennedy is....And yet, he doesn't talk about it."
Hmmm...history repeating itself?
No, this isn't history repeating itself. At all.
Submitted by Mike Bratton on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 5:35pm.
Catholicism is a subset of Christendom, for starters.
And to be honest, John Kennedy wasn't exactly the most die-hard adherent, as history has demonstrated.
So it's not exactly an apples-to-apples comparison.
--Mike
Harry Reid is a Mormon
Submitted by hardrock01 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:18pm.
Harry Reid is a Mormon. Are there more than 1 Mormon religion? Do I sense hypocrisy here?
Yes there are many different
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:43pm.
Yes there are many different types of Mormon sects who disagree about a great many things.
Two Basic Forms Of Mormonism....
Submitted by bigdaddy on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:53pm.
...One is Liberal Mormonism, which is open, honest, transparent, fair, accepting, etc.
Then there is Conservative Mormonism, which is hideous, evil, overbearing, enslaving, sexist, etc...
HAHAHA
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:15pm.
Now that was funny.
We Are The 53%
In That Case
Submitted by HardRightTurn on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:25pm.
Obama's religions are subject to debate. First, he was raised Muslim in Indonesia by his adoptive father. Then, supposedly, he converted to Christianity. Why he converted has not been questioned to my knowledge.
Do we know if Obama practiced Islam in the United States? Did he attend prayers at a mosque in America? When did he convert to Christianity?
Why don't we know the answers to these questions? Inquiring minds want to know.
To more fully comprehend the Left, one must read “Leftism As Psychopathy” by John Ray, M.A., Ph.D. Caution, it might scare you a little bit.
http://jonjayray.tripod.com/psycho.html
So much for "religious tolerance in this country"
Submitted by Galvanic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:26pm.
GREGORY: Look, this is a significant moment. I mean, we have the first Mormon Republican nominee, if everything gets formalized, in the country's history. I mean, that's a huge moment for religious tolerance in the country.
But I think it's an issue, I mean, I think a lot of people have questions about the Mormon faith. There's a lot of ignorance about the Mormon faith. And let's be honest, this is the core of who Mitt Romney is. He was a missionary in France for two years. He has been a bishop in the church, which, in the Mormon church, is effectively like a priest. Philanthropically, he's made huge contributions. He's had a big impact on the church. And yet, he doesn't talk about it.
that thine alms may be done in secret
Submitted by Slyrr on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:33pm.
Of course he doesn't. No self-respecting person who practices true religion likes to talk about such thing. Because they heed the Savior's warning in the New Testament. 'When thou doest thine alms, let not thy left hand know what they right hand doeth. That thine alms may be in secret. And thy Father in Heaven, who seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.'
Contrast that teaching with the phony-baloney preachers who do exactly what the Savior said NOT to do - literally sounding trumpets on street corners by appearing on national TV to brag about how much they donate.
The hypocrisy and the hate
Submitted by Galvanic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:13pm.
GREGORY: Look, this is a significant moment. I mean, we have the first Mormon Republican nominee, if everything gets formalized, in the country's history. I mean, that's a huge moment for religious tolerance in the country.
OK.
GREGORY: But I think it's an issue, . . .
Well, 'religious tolerance' in Gregory's dialogue didn't even last long as an NBC public service ad for religious tolerance.
GREGORY: . . . I mean, I think a lot of people have questions about the Mormon faith. There's a lot of ignorance about the Mormon faith.
There's tons of information on it by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and by their enemies. Google "Mormon". Go to Wikipedia.
Or call a local LDS ward. They'll be more than happy to talk to you about it. :-)
GREGORY: . . . .And let's be honest, this is the core of who Mitt Romney is. He was a missionary in France for two years.
Not unusual for Mormon youth. They serve all over the globe.
GREGORY: He has been a bishop in the church, which, in the Mormon church, is effectively like a priest.
You mean he's more like REVEREND Al Sharpton and REVEREND Jesse Jackson? That kinda priest?
GREGORY: Philanthropically, he's made huge contributions.
As do many Mormons and non-Mormons.
GREGORY: He's had a big impact on the church. And yet, he doesn't talk about it.
In other words, he's a man with strong religious convictions who humbly keeps his contributions private.
So, looking at what Gregory listed, we already know far more about Romney's religious practice than we know about Obama's. And yet, Gregory predicts that it will be an issue.
What specifically does Gregory think we need to know about? Secret societies within the LDS? Human sacrifices? Membership in the Illuminati?
I'm sure Obama doesn't want to open up that can of worms and revisit his 20 year relationship with Rev. Jeremiah Wright, but if that's what NBC wants, go for it.
Black Theology of Liberation
Submitted by d1carter on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:27pm.
Black Theology of Liberation for twenty years at Jeremiah Wright's church is not the core of BHO? The legacy media will not touch this because it is so close to Marxism and that would be bad for Dear Leader...
Black Liberation Theology is
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:51pm.
Black Liberation Theology is a made up fabrication by Conservative talk hosts. Mr. Obama is a Congregationalist; which tends to be more liberal than say, Presbyterianism. At least though, Congregationalists do not believe that God personally talks to their Pastors like the old time Prophets, as the Mormons believe
I don't care what Obama or Congregationalists believe in
Submitted by Galvanic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:03pm.
I don't care if Obama is an atheist, though it would be rather awkward for that to be the case considering he first touted and then dismissed his 20 year relationship with Wright.
But I think that personal relationship is at least as important to understanding Obama as Gregory's claim about the LDS being the "core" of Romney. Wright mentored Obama for 20 years, and yet Obama insists that he'd never heard Wright spew out the anti-American sentiment that was recorded in his church.
And regarding God personally talking to pastors, do you have any observations on the Pope that you'd care to share?
About the Pope.... He's a
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:12pm.
About the Pope.... He's a Nazi.
I believe the Nazi party has
Submitted by killa37 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:20pm.
I believe the Nazi party has endorsed the OWS bowel movement and Baraka Obama.
Whereas, the Pope was
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:26pm.
Whereas, the Pope was actually a member of the Adolph Hitler’s Nazi Party!
way past time to stop feeding this Troll
Submitted by Free Stinker on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:43pm.
Way way past . . .
/// Sarah Palin Fan since July 11, 2007 /// خال
Pope
Submitted by Schofield Kid on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:47pm.
The pope was not a member of the Nazi Party, he was basically forced into being in the Hitler Youth as were all kids at that time. Big difference, but I think you already knew that.
Hmmmm
Submitted by Galvanic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:01pm.
Ow-ee.
I believe the Pope, like most German children of the time, was a member of the Hitler Jugend (Hitler Youth). To my knowledge, being a youth member of the Hitler Youth was not synonomous with membership in the Nazi Party.
You cannot say that; those
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:05pm.
You cannot say that; those years when he was running around in a little brown shirt where formative years. In all fairness, I consider George Soros to be a Nazi too.
But I did say it, HC, and I stand by it
Submitted by Galvanic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:18pm.
I have no idea how that experience may or may not have shaped his thinking. I'm just saying that I don't believe he was a member of the Nazi Party.
Are you claiming to be a mind reader?
Submitted by cocodrie on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:23pm.
Judgemental little fool aren't you?
Jesus Loves You so much He died for you
more fabrication by Conservative talk hosts
Submitted by Agnostic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:11pm.
NPR - Cone explains that at the core of black liberation theology is an effort — in a white-dominated society, in which black has been defined as evil — to make the gospel relevant to the life and struggles of American blacks, and to help black people learn to love themselves. It's an attempt, he says "to teach people how to be both unapologetically black and Christian at the same time."
Cone's books include Black Theology and Black Power, God of the Oppressed, and Risks of Faith. He teaches at Manhattan's Union Theological Seminary.
Aldred, Joe Preaching With Power London: Continuum, 1998 - Modern American origins of contemporary black liberation theology can be traced to July 31, 1966, when an ad hoc group of 51 black pastors, calling themselves the National Committee of Negro Churchmen (NCNC), bought a full page ad in the New York Times to publish their 'Black Power Statement',..."
Gayraud S. Wilmore, “Black Theology at the Turn of the Century,” in Black Faith and Public Talk: Critical Essays on James H. Cone's Black Theology and Black Power, ed. Dwight N. Hopkins (Maryknoll, NY: Orbis Books, 1999), 234. - James Hal Cone (born August 5, 1938) is an advocate of Black liberation theology, a theology grounded in the experience of African Americans, and related to other Christian liberation theologies. In 1969, his book Black Theology and Black Power provided a new way to articulate the distinctiveness of theology in the black Church
Sterotypes
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:18pm.
Give me a break. African-American ministers are not spouting violence at the pulpits as Hannity and Limbaugh would have you believe. 90 percent of the Urban Preachers in this country spend every Sunday talking about the Gospel. Furthermore if Reverend Wright was so evil, why did George W. Bush invite him to a Faith seminar right after 9/11?
H. Clay and the Religion of Obfuscation
Submitted by Agnostic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:44pm.
These quotes are from NPR and a writer espousing if not the virtues then at least the unique qualities that give BLT a place in US society (the last is a critical look but does give reference to the origins of BLT being outside of the realm of Conservative pundits).
It wasn't invented by Conservatives and I spoke of nothing about evil or violence but simply listed quotes. Perhaps there is some violence being preached but I doubt it is much in the church but there are some unusual and tentative affiliations that do make you wonder if the message of violence is tuned out because it is church. However that is a matter of opinion and conjecture. The real violence being 'preached' in the US is in the Mosques but not all.
Are you really asking me why Bush would invite one of the most influential pastors in the nation, one who has influence in Africa (where Bush did much work) and in African-American communities, to a seminar on faith? Please don't!
When Jews start kneeling in Mosques, Mormons go to Synagogues, Catholics go to Kingdom Hall, and Muslims sit week after week in Catholic Cathedrals perhaps then you will have a point that Obama is not influenced by the admitted and recognized theology of the minister of his church. How that applies to the individual now residing in the WH is also conjecture and depends upon one's attitude toward religion, Marxism (as the root of BLT), the African-American community and the person who is President Barak Obama, himself.
I'm guessing that the 90% 'fact' is an OTA figure and can be ignored - however, I don't doubt your point except that you may be a little low.
Oh my goodness gracious! I
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:18pm.
Oh my goodness gracious! I did not know I was talking to someone who went by the name Agnostic. Hopefully, you are politically agnostic and not a coward religious agnostic. For at least with atheists they have the spine to take a side on the issue of God.
On faith and cowards
Submitted by Agnostic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 4:46pm.
BTW, denial is not taking on an issue - it is pitting faith against faith. God is and can be many things to many people but the need for faith, while often a two edged sword, has kept people and nations strong and surviving for generations. Not all agnostics just shrug their shoulders and claim a lack of interest or knowledge. Some just lack the ability to manifest a faith in God without openly opposing that ability in others.
Technically I'm an atheist but I believe that faith is an important part of the human makeup and therefor not something to be sneered at by self righteous people that only have faith in their own perceived superiority to those they look down upon.
Politically I am somewhat agnostic in that I'm not real fond of either party and I do believe that if done properly with pre-written and legal restraints there is a place for social programs in a Capitalist society.
Socially, generally I'm opinionated but not a fan of federal government getting involved.
Many a coward raise their hackles and sneer at what they can not perceive, like faith in a God, because it challenges the self image they have as an 'intelligent thinker' beyond the bourgeois needs of such superstitions - truly a mask to hide the need for control one cannot own when you have faith in something other than one's own lofty ideas.
Agnostic
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 5:22pm.
Excellent, a thoughtful cogent statement delivered with class and pathos. If only we can separate the distinction between the two faiths described in your writings; as you so eloquently pointed, atheists have a high degree of zeal towards the tangible. It is a reverence of self and of the human condition. Many a Christian though comes to the conclusion that atheists have faith in knowing that there is no supreme deity. I belong to another school of thought. It is my understanding that the common atheist has not experienced a transformational awaking that would lead one to determine that there is a higher power beyond man’s self. This could be amplified over several generations within a family; did the father have an experience, did the grandfather have an experience; and if so was it articulated to the child. Was the atheist brought up in a religious backdrop and then experienced disillusion towards the institutions to question the wickedness of men?
On your second point, totally agree with you about the homogeneity of a moral code to keep nation states strong and united. A solid nation has more than a simple moral code to be not only united but also just. For years I have been arguing with my peers about the strength of China. Out of the many arguments that I hear, the focus has come down to both American cultural decline and the rise of Chinese domination both economically and culturally. Again, I often deviate from most and point out that China lacks the moral code of a nation to be a true hegemonic power. History has shown us that nations where any type of religion is persecuted tend not to have the same staying power as tolerant nations. Although pre-dated before the Nation-State; Edward Gibbon gave Christianity in Rome the role of causing the Empire’s decline. With the persecution of Christians, Rome lost the moral authority ultimately within the eyes it’s civilians. The same can be said about the old USSR as well. China will ultimately succumb to a cultural breakdown because religion is forbidden. Without the structure of religion, laws will ultimately become more harsh, one child policy, demonstrations, food shortages, ect. Recently, if you recall the world was aghast at the video of a little girl being run over by a car on a busy Chinese street. It took hours for someone to help her. This is a byproduct of a weak faithless nation; where life is not valued and charity is scarce. How can a nation influence others if the callousness of the citizenry cannot help the most weak of their own society?
~Ignorance of Chinese culture
Submitted by Wrathful Brunette on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 7:33pm.
The failure to help the wounded stems from centuries of Chinese culture, which dictates that if you save someone's life, you are then wholly responsible for that person till their natural death. As in, fully supporting the person financially, even if they choose to squat in your house and eat and drink you into indigence.
Nonsense woman, stop watching
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:41pm.
Nonsense woman, stop watching Jackie Chan movies; if the child was a boy he would have received medical attention within seconds of being hit by a car. The Chinese do not value the lives of women in their Godless culture.
➚Q Twilight Zone music
Submitted by Cool Arrow on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:47pm.
Sounds eerily like the Democrat attitude toward African Americans.
~Making dumb@ss assumptions, as usual
Submitted by Wrathful Brunette on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 10:11pm.
I got my knowledge firsthand from my godfather, who has a decade of experience living in China, both being posted there while a Navy pilot, and years later when he went back as a missionary. He speaks Mandarin and is well versed in Chinese culture and history.
But, now we know where you got your knowledge of Chinese culture. Jackie Chan movies.
Henry once again shows his ignorance.
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:30pm.
China will ultimately succumb to a cultural breakdown because religion is forbidden.
Religion is not forbidden in China. It is regulated just like it's economy and laws, but people are free to be religious as long as they don't go against the communist state.
We Are The 53%
I think the hundred of
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:47pm.
I think the hundred of thousands of persecuted Christians in reeducation camps would disagree. Or maybe you never heard of a gentleman referred to as the Dali-Lama. Regardless, I never thought I would be the most anti-communist person on this web-site. I suppose like most bullies it is easier to pick on the little guys like Cuba and North Korea; after all, to hell with the religious persecution in China; I need my I-Pad at a reasonable price.
Ignorant trolling fool
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 10:21pm.
Did I say that they didn't persecute people? No. I pointed out your ignorant statement about religion being FORBIDDEN in China.
Gee it looks like the Catholics have a few dioceses in China after all.
We Are The 53%
Henry's ignorance is astounding.
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 10:27pm.
It's not the 90% of normal preachers that spend every Sunday preaching the gospel that happen to be black that anyone is talking about. It's the small group of hateful race baiting "Reverends" like Wright, Sharpton, and Jackson that are dividing the country and promoting racism and violence.
We Are The 53%
Put your pants out fraud
Submitted by Tomorama on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:13pm.
Black liberation theology is EXACTLY what Rev Wright teaches and preaches.
I get it a-hole, you don't agree with mormons religion, fine, I don't agree with Obysmals and Wrights brand of hate.
Tomorama
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:21pm.
Okay, here is an argument. Father Flager (sp?) spoke at Reverend Wright’s congregation. Does that mean all Catholics believe in Black Liberation Theology? Also, I do not hate Mormons- If anything I love them… If I did not love them, I would keep my mouth shut and let them continue to believe their false teachers and burn in hell for eternity.
Religion in the Campaign
Submitted by Agnostic on Mon, 04/09/2012 - 1:09pm.
President Obama - See, there are many 'oddities' in the Mormon religion and Romney is a supporter of those 'weird' beliefs.
Romney - I can see where there are facets of the Mormon religion that seem unusual to people but you will never see a member of our church stand up and Damn America. No Mormon church will accuse the USA of deserving the attacks of 9-11. I won't sit in any church which condones the pitting of one race against another for any reason.
Tomo
Submitted by Blonde on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:26pm.
Here's an excellent video which explains Obama's thinking....he's a "Christian" merely because it furthered his political career.
Not that Hank Mud will bother, you understand. But a fascinating fifteen minutes. If you haven't seen it yet, take the time to watch (now or later).....good stuff.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
I'll refer you to this of a
Submitted by d1carter on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:30pm.
I'll refer you to this of a conservative talk show known as the NPR...a Prog talk show...http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=89236116...but you knew that didn't you.
fabrication by Conservative talk hosts from the '50s?
Submitted by kg on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:57pm.
"Black liberation theology is a theological perspective found in some Christian churches in the United States. It is an instance of the liberation theology which originated from Catholic Theologians in the 1950's" - Wikipedia
"The Rev. James Cone is the founder of black liberation theology. In an interview with Terry Gross, Cone explains the movement, which has roots in 1960s civil-rights activism " - NPR
Again, "a made up fabrication by Conservative talk hosts"? Really?
"DumbAssity of Dope"
Okay, a million apologies.
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:08pm.
Okay, a million apologies. Considering your above post; we can now blame this on the Catholic Church.
God talks today
Submitted by jfc1068 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:51pm.
God personally talks to all of us if we will but only listen. Only a fool thinks that God no longer wants his children to hear his words and wisdom.
Warren Jeffs Prophet?
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:10pm.
God has given man complete access to his words and his wisdom. That gift is called the Bible. Everything you need to know about this life and the afterlife is in that book. Any man who claims that he talks to God is a charlatan and wicked. The Apostle Paul wrote about his vision of Jesus, and how it would be the last any man would see of him until his arrival. Biblical fact. The LDS Church promotes this heresy of prophetic visions. It is wrong and it is leading their church into the pits of hell-Warren Jeffs although an excommunicated member of the LDS Church, promoted the idea that he was a prophet in his fanatical sect for control and power. It is plain wicked.
~Incorrect
Submitted by Wrathful Brunette on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 7:31pm.
1 Corinthians 12:7–11
7 To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. 8 For to one is given through the Spirit the utterance of wisdom, and to another the utterance of knowledge according to the same Spirit, 9 to another faith by the same Spirit, to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, 10 to another the working of miracles, to another prophecy, to another the ability to distinguish between spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, to another the interpretation of tongues. 11 All these are empowered by one and the same Spirit, who apportions to each one individually has he wills.
Tell James Cone that his theology is made-up.
Submitted by drsamherman on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:42pm.
http://www.utsnyc.edu/Page.aspx?pid=353
Faculty page of Rev. Dr. James Cone, the founder of black liberation theology. Note the book title from 1970. Did he make that up too?
Black liberation theology was
Submitted by east tennessee john on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 10:53am.
Black liberation theology was founded by the Rev. James Cone, currently of Union Theological Seminary, if facts were of any concern to you. The church headed by Rev. Wright was the most preeminent force within the BLT movement with Rev. Wright being "my most active follower" according to Rev. Cone. It was the reason BO joined the church. A fabrication it is not. Mr. Clay you are either misinformed or are a liar. Which is it, troll?
Obama's 'Muslim faith'?
Submitted by Slyrr on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:29pm.
At least Romney won't have to have reporters come screaming to his rescue like Obama did when he declared on national TV that there was nothing more important that his 'Muslim faith', and that the most beautiful sound to his ears is a 'Muslim prayer bell'.
No right answer...
Submitted by Chulio on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:31pm.
Evidently Gregory wants presidential candidates, at least Romney anyhow, to bring their faith front and center so that the media and the people can inspect it. At that point though the objection would be a lack of distance between politics and religion, and how come Romney is forcing his Mormon religion on people.
The wind-up monkey smashes his cymbals in delight
Submitted by SickofLibs on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:31pm.
over Obama's 'who says marvelous?' insult.
The wind-up monkey thinks we haven't seen those numerous examples of Emperor Ming using the same word.
LDS Church and Abortion
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:37pm.
Being the Newsbusters resident expert on theology; I do believe it is fair game to ask Mitt Romney about his religion. After all, the President has had to answer numerous questions, and he is a Congregationalist. I think a lot of orthodox Christians have a lot of questions about the LDS Church. Does he believe that life begins at conception? It is my understanding that many in the LDS Church do not believe that the soul enters the physical body until after a woman gives birth. This is why a great many LDS Church members are pro-choice. I wonder when he will answer the question….
That's funny Hank Mud
Submitted by sentry_99 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:53pm.
Using the word "expert" in any description of you is hilarious. "Resident" applies though if you are refering to a mental institution or "of mother's basement".
Expert????
Submitted by desert3030 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:04pm.
I was told is someone who can tell you ten ways to make love, but doesn't know another person?
OMO....
Submitted by Blonde on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:30pm.
here's your real expertise, Henry.
Stop beclowning yourself.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
Romney's been asked these questions . . .
Submitted by Galvanic on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:57pm.
. . . in the debates and on TV news programs. Gregory may be too lazy to pay attention.
Obama's religion wasn't questioned in 2008. The questions centered on whether or not Obama agreed with the anti-American rants of his pastor -- a perfectly legitimate question for a prospective Commander in Chief. Obama hestitated to distance himself at first, but then publicly broke his relationship with Wright.
Hasn't our resident trolled overstayed his welcome yet?
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:40pm.
It is my understanding that many in the LDS Church do not believe that the soul enters the physical body until after a woman gives birth. This is why a great many LDS Church members are pro-choice.
You understand wrong.
We Are The 53%
If Romney's religion becomes
Submitted by celator on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:50pm.
If Romney's religion becomes an issue, it will be because Gregory and the other MSM parrots will ensure that it becomes an issue.
Gregory may want to revisit Article 6 of the Constitution of the United States:
"...but no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States."
Nike Running Shoes
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 12:58pm.
So you are totally fine with let’s say a member of Heaven’s Gate becoming President? I’m just saying…
Nah, he's just swell..............
Submitted by Tomorama on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:21pm.
Are you fine with the head of the Senate a-hole?
I believe Harry Reid is
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:24pm.
I believe Harry Reid is practicing a false religion. At least he is pro-choice. Although, I disagree about his stance on guns; he is far to pro-NRA.
Provide us with a list of true religions, Master Thespian.
Submitted by SickofLibs on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:32pm.
I wouldn't vote for a faker.
SOL
Submitted by sentry_99 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:44pm.
I'm also curious which religion Hank Mud practices that saves him from burning in hell, is not a false religion and also allows him to be proudly Pro-Choice.
I am pro-life.
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:10pm.
I am pro-life.
Does not compute Hank
Submitted by sentry_99 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:21pm.
"I believe Harry Reid is practicing a false religion. At least he is pro-choice. Although, I disagree about his stance on guns; he is far to pro-NRA."
It's the "At least he is pro-choice." part there Hank Mud, like it's a good thing. Typo or inability to keep your BS straight?
Thanks for correcting me
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:29pm.
Darn it… I meant to say pro-life. I am juggling a million things right now. I’ll fix the typo.
Henery
Submitted by cocodrie on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:31pm.
Write your lies down as an alphabetical list so you can keep track,
Jesus Loves You so much He died for you
A lesson on proofreading....
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:37pm.
Stupid Website- It will not allow me to edit that post for some reason. It was a typo… I am not pro-choice. Oh well, I guess I have no one to blame but myself. My arrogance got the better of me for not proofreading.
Your ignorance did get the better of you
Submitted by cocodrie on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:19pm.
you can be more convincing if you take lies and deceptions 101 at your local DNC headquarters
Jesus Loves You so much He died for you
Keeps you honest
Submitted by Model850 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 4:01pm.
Stupid Website- It will not allow me to edit that post for some reason.
Member for 2 years and 7 weeks and you still don't know how things work around here?
You can edit your post until a reply to it is posted. A reply "pegs" your post and makes it unalterable (by you). Whatever other technical reasons there may be for that, it works to keep posters honest.
You can't write a big load of hooey, have someone post a reply calling out the lies, and then go back and erase/edit the lies to make it look like you never spouted BS. One's lies live forever for all readers to see once someone else replies to them.
SickofLibs
Submitted by Henry Clay on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:15pm.
You just have to accept Jesus as your Savior and realize the only way to the Father is through the Son. Whereas Mormons believe in works base salvation.
On a side note, check out this article: http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2011/october/survey-bible-reading-li...
We're not fine with you, Hank.
Submitted by drsamherman on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:36pm.
You have a little problem with attention seeking behavior that you should address. We are not fine with liberal trolls who keep stirring the pot simply because they want the attention that it brings.
Deal with it.
Treat it like Obama
Submitted by desert3030 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:03pm.
Yes, let's treat the Morman side like the press did for Obama when he ran. NOTHING, NO Vetting just a non story? NO won't happen.
I wonder how many dead there wouuld be if they spoke of Islam like they do other religons?
Davy just showed what he shows on everyone else...he is idealog bigot.
They "already covered" Obama's religion
Submitted by JeffC... on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:10pm.
If the press gets asked if they investigated Obama's religion, they'll say they already addressed it and it's time to move on.
Even though they never really investigated his church. They'll say that they already investigated Rev. Wright and Obama's claim that he wasn't in the pews for Wright's inflammatory sermons over 20 years of attending. After all, everyone has heard of Rev. Wright, right? That's good enough for the press.
What was it that President Clinton said that he addressed and won't discuss it anymore, and the press went along with it even though Clinton never addressed it? I think it was a bimbo eruption, but I can't remember the specific bimbo.
I think it was the
Submitted by killa37 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:15pm.
I think it was the motel-lounge torch singer, although it may have been the aardvark....................
The aardvark
Submitted by Blonde on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:30pm.
Good one, killa.
Handy Reference Guide to Obama's Gaffes and Goofs ~ Currently Numbering 200 (and Counting)
The problem , Gregory...
Submitted by CobraMan on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 1:30pm.
"I think he's got to talk about that at some level."
The problem, Gregory, is that you and the rest of the media will, invariably, be the ones doing all of the talking. You will scrutinize, analyze, and categorize everything Romney says, until your "reporting" doesn't match anything Romney actually says but, instead, has been twisted into something else, something that you want it to be, just as happens with every "controversial" statement made by just about anyone publicly, especially if they're running for office.
You will bring in legions of "experts," cite armies of "some people," broadcast libraries worth of statements of what "some say," and, of course, tell everyone within earshot what "most people" believe, or feel (just as you already have done) while you cite numerous "public polls" as a justification for what is no more than media generated conjecture, and you'll do this while you pimp yourself and your newscast as the Fifth House of Government, the Stewards of Democracy, the only thing standing between us and social, or economic, or political tyranny. This what you like to call "objective reporting."
Oh, and by the way, Gregory, he doesn't have to "talk about" anything as personal as his religious beliefs if he doesn't want to. "Personal beliefs" are just that: personal. What makes you the authority of what people have to talk about publicly? Who died and made you the King of What May Be Spoken of Publicly?
The Citizens of each State shall be entitled to all Privileges and Immunities of Citizens in the several States. The US Constitution
Unless you're a fetus. The US Supreme Court
Or Anwar al-Awlaki.
Big Daddy
Submitted by ferv888 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:13pm.
Hmmm, did you flunk the Bishop's interview or what? I love people who have never stepped inside an LDS chapel, never really asked questions of a member of the church, but can make such outrageous statements. Get to know a member, ask the questions, do a little interviewing around, you might be surprised.
FERV888
Some of us have done more than a little research.
Submitted by Mike Bratton on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 7:23pm.
When you do that, the results are agitating for those who don't want to scratch beneath Romney's surface.
Obama backers in 2008: "Don't vet our guy."
Romney backers in 2012: "Don't vet our guy."
Notice any similarities?
--Mike
Comprehend much?
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:48pm.
Mikey: Romney backers in 2012: "Don't vet our guy."
While replying to a post saying "Get to know a member, ask the questions, do a little interviewing around, you might be surprised."
We Are The 53%
More than enough, thanks.
Submitted by Mike Bratton on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 10:03am.
And "get to know a member" is a little different than "objectively vet a candidate."
You have heard of groups that will say one thing in public, and another amongst themselves?
--Mike
It will backfire
Submitted by TSM on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 2:23pm.
In my personal opinion, nothing will get people to defend Romney more than if the press starts to attack his religion. Most of the people in this country defend religious freedom and really have no stomach to listen to a person being personally attacked because of their religious beliefs. And despite what the press would have you believe, the Evangelical conservative base of the republican party will have no taste to listen to the liberal press attack Romney's religion either.
It's also ironic that Gregory mentions Romney should talk about his religious beliefs more, when Santorum gets critized by the press for talking about his religious beliefs too much.
The question for Christians
Submitted by gregfahey on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:08pm.
The question for Christians is "can we, in good conscience, vote for a Mormon?"
Mormonism, by every measure of the Bible is indeed a cult. Sorry but, it's the truth. I've read about this for years and most people think "Donny and Marie" about Mormons. Now, in fairness and all honesty, most Christians should walk the walk like Mormons do. They are perfect but, I admire the way their live their lives. However, the Bible is clear that the only way to Heaven is trusting on the finished work of Jesus on the Cross. Not on works.
So, can a Mormon be a good President and have the blessings of God almighty on this nation? God can indeed use people of any faith for His purpose and the purpose of a nation. Still, I have trouble seeing beyond Mitt's Mormonism.
It seems to be an "issue" for the MSM but, Harry Reid's Mormonism isn't.
Truth be told, I'll have a hard time voting for Mitt and suppose I'll hold my nose and vote for him. Mormon or Muslim president? I truly believe Obama is indeed a Muslim by his actions and "slipped" choice of words. IMO, for most Bible believing Christians, it'll be a tough choice to make considering there is no real Christian now that will be the next president.
Sad but true. It's all a moot point anyway. The soon and imminent return of Jesus Christ for His church is at hand and the unsuspecting world is pre-occupied with politics, the Kardashians and other distractions. It will happen suddenly and without warning. Iran and Israel conflict will happen and Damascus will be destroyed. Egypt, Libya and Turkey are now very much militant Islamic nations that the Bible made clear would form an alliance to attack Israel along with Russia, A few months ago, they were not. Things are happening fast. Watch Israel. Vote but, don't be distracted from the bigger picture which the fallen one, Satan, has the world focused on right now.
Don't want to get into an "arguement". . .
Submitted by rickbren on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:23pm.
. . . with you, greg, but the Christian world has been taught a doctrine about the LDS Church that is unequivocally, absolutely, without foundation untrue. Latter-day Saints do NOT believe you can work you way into Heaven. We believe as James taught in James 2:20. Our leaders teach us that works alone are of no efficacy to our salvation. We MUST have faith.
As far as cults go. . . Look up the definition of a cult. Catholics, Jews, Methodists, Jehovah' Witnesses, Baptists all qualify as "cults".
Judge Romney by his faith AND his works. Have they been good or not??
Judge Obama by his works AND faith. Have they been good or not??
Thankfully, Obama is not the standard.
Submitted by Mike Bratton on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 7:36pm.
Works, apart from faith in Christ, are worthless. Filthy, even, in God's sight.
And we've been over this before, but at the risk of more flak, Mormonism and the Jehovah's Witnesses are both cults, in that they are pseudo-Christian organizations attempting to bluff people into thinking they're part of Christendom. Neither group believes the Bible, and neither group directs its adherents to faith in the Christ of the Bible.
Before the hate bombs get tossed, here's a suggestion: Ask a Mormon if he or she believes that Jesus is both the Son of God and God the Son. That's what the Bible teaches. But any adherent LDS member cannot answer that question with a "yes," and as such cannot be considered a Christian by any stretch.
Or, if that one doesn't float your boat, ask a Mormon about the doctrine of the Trinity. That's another non-negotiable of the faith. One God, three Persons. The first time they refer to God the Holy Spirit as "it" or a "force" or a "power" you'll have the same answer. Trinitarianism is a fundamental Christian doctrine, as well.
I sought not to bring this up again, but when Mormonism is the issue and another poster provides misleading information, it's important to address it truthfully.
As far as Romney is concerned, though, the best deflection for any question about Mormonism is to respond with the phrase "ethnocentric liberation theology." Ask Obama about what he believes, and do the vetting that should've been done four and five years ago before talking to Romney about his belief system.
--Mike
When another poster provides misleading information.
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 10:13pm.
Which is what stuffed shirt does whenever talking about the LDS church.
1. Works, apart from faith in Christ, are worthless. Filthy, even, in God's sight.
LDS do not believe that works alone are what is needed. "Faith without works is dead" means that just Faith is not enough. Just having faith in Jesus Christ but not living your life in a Christian way will not get you passed the pearly gates.
2. Neither group believes the Bible, and neither group directs its adherents to faith in the Christ of the Bible.
BullCrap. The LDS use the King James Version and they will even send you one for free if you simply ask.
3. the doctrine of the Trinity. That's another non-negotiable of the faith. One God, three Persons.
No, that is a non-negotiable of your interpretation. Trinitarian is the belief of the Christian Trinity. Christian is the belief in Jesus Christ as the savior.
We Are The 53%
Again, personal junk from people like Denny in lieu of...
Submitted by Mike Bratton on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 10:09am.
...actual discussion.
Twice now, in one thread.
Other books, in both Mormonism and with the Jehovah's Witnesses, seek to supplant the Bible as written. And to contradict it.
And Trinitarianism is a core belief of Christianity. They are inseparable.
--Mike
better to have a Christian hating, American hating president?
Submitted by ohio granny on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 4:58pm.
Are you saying it is better to have a communist or marxist or muslim in the white house than to have a Mormon? That is really just too stupid to even contemplate. You may not believe in Mormonism but Mormons are not haters and definitely do not want to destroy the USA. If you believe a Mormon is worse than Obama than you are an idiot. And NO, I am not a Mormon, I am Catholic.
Sorry, dude, but "Anybody But Mormon" is a death sentence.
Submitted by SickofLibs on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 5:00pm.
I'd vote for an atheist over Obama, and I'm Catholic.
End of the world
Submitted by rusino on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 5:16pm.
Greg, if it ends it ends. It is to expected. No use wring our hands. Just live the best life we can.
There is no religious test to
Submitted by cristo on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:24pm.
There is no religious test to be president of the United States, as long as you went to Harvard, you can be president.
That's not true
Submitted by Denny Crane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:52pm.
Going to Yale qualifies you too.
We Are The 53%
Davie boy. . .
Submitted by rickbren on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:27pm.
. . . will you apply the same standard to Barry?? Of course not. If he tried to explain his religion, he would lose most of the vote of PRACTICING Christians.
Davie, have you ever read the Scriptures? Check out Matthew 6:1-4
I agree - the ideologies that
Submitted by usinkorea on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 3:38pm.
I agree - the ideologies that form the core of the candidate should be open for discussion to educate the voters.
Of course, that means Obama's dedication to Rev. Wright's ministry was important last time, but you had people in the media of the caliber of Russert declaring "Rev. Wright Free Zones" when interviewing Obama.
Exactly. But the media's job
Submitted by mattm on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 8:53pm.
Exactly. But the media's job is to rake Republicans over the coals while doing PR for Democrats.
Catholic
Submitted by rusino on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 5:11pm.
I am Catholic, I like Mitt, I will vote for him with no reservations.
Talk about it
Submitted by rgallegos on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 6:23pm.
I say Romney should talk about his faith. He has nothing to be ashamed of and as far as I can tell he is a good man who married and stayed married, treats his kids well, gives to his church freely, and is basically a good man who cares about this country. If his faith makes him the man he is then it is a good religion.
I don't understand why being a Mormon is sich a big deal
Submitted by katiejane on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 7:14pm.
when the media told everyone last election that Obama sitting in a race baiting, white hating church shouldn't be held against him. That helistened to the venom of Rev Wright didn't mean that he hated like Wright did. Now we're supposed to be concerned because Romney is a LDS but it was paranoia when people questioned whether Obama actually had any principles of faith other than black reparations and the victimhood of the black community.
When was the last time a
Submitted by mattm on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 8:51pm.
When was the last time a Mormon hijacked a plane and flew it into a building?
➚ How close are we
Submitted by Cool Arrow on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:09pm.
Doesn't the Antichrist break a peace pact with Israel 3.5 years into his rule?
I know he doesn't exactly fit the description, unless you believe he was born in Kenya, once part of the Assyrian empire.
Hi Cool,
Submitted by dyardley on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 11:06pm.
It wouldn't surprise me in the least. I've actually had the same thought myself.
The Core of the POTUS
Submitted by AR72 on Fri, 04/06/2012 - 9:36pm.
By this reasoning, BO is either a complete fraud as a self-proclaiming Christian after sitting through "Reverend' Wright's sermons for 20 years without being affected or he truly is an extremist by being a member of his church because it is at the very core of who he is. Which is it?
Does David Gregory care what
Submitted by Semus on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 5:47am.
Does David Gregory care what is at Obama's core?
Does David Gregory care what
Submitted by Semus on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 5:47am.
Does David Gregory care what is at Obama's core?
Good morning Semus
Submitted by cocodrie on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 6:22am.
The core of Obama'w heart is his muslim faith. He told us that in his own words.
Jesus Loves You so much He died for you
BLT and Obama's core
Submitted by metaphorsbwithu on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 6:18am.
Despite attempt earlier in this thread to confuse the issue about Obama's religious "core", he attended Trinity United Church of Christ for almsot 20 years and it does indeed espouse Black Liberation Theology (BLT), an interpretation of Christianity that grew out of the 60s.
If David Gregory thinks Mormonism is an issue for examination he must also examine the rather controversial aspects of Black liberation Theology as well.
The person of Jesus, the resurrection, salvation, redemption, grace, etc. are all interpreted in ways that are quite different from traditional Christianity even though the language and terminology can make it seem like BLTs are talking about the same thing.
A moral mormon
Submitted by cocodrie on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 6:26am.
A moral mormon trumps an immoral muslim.
Jesus Loves You so much He died for you
Morman
Submitted by billb on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 11:09am.
If being Mormon explains who Romney is, how then do we explain Harry Reid?
LOL
Submitted by StarAZ on Sat, 04/07/2012 - 12:52pm.
Good one! What I want to know is how did Gregory get the idea that he can mind-read these people or that they have to somehow answer to him? Very odd. On MTP he peppers them with the same question and finally answers it himself and moves on. The worst!