I’m really looking forward to watching this tonight. For some reason I’m as interested in what questions Rick Warren will ask as I am what the answers will be. Feel free to leave your post interview comments right here!
I’m totally excited to hear what all goes down at this forum as well. I’ll be checking back to see what others have to say about it after its all over. Enjoy watching it!
OK, not nuts about “We don’t believe in a seperation of faith and politics because faith is nothing more than our world view which we all have” of some sort. Not the same definition of faith that I have or Hebrews has.
I’m pleased that he was asked about abortion.
I like Russel MOore’s response (posted on facebook), “Someone who claims an American infant’s human rights are “above his pay grade” is not qualified to be President of the United States”
I think either candidate will come out better if he looks like he’s answering honestly and forthrightly, not pandering. Obama just came across on the honest and sincere side with his answer to the faith-based question of discrimination – he didn’t bow out of making sure federal funds didn’t go to something that might be discriminatory. I hope McCain looks and sounds as forthright.
I have been pleased with some of Obama’s answers, but there have been some that he has tried to explain himself out of, and to me it comes across as “I am trying to convince you this is what I believe” – I don’t think he has firm stances on some issues and therefore he wants to say the right thing as not to lose voters – I missed the first 20 minutes, so I cannot comment up to that point. I am pleased so far with Rick’s questions, they are very straight forward and tough. There’s been some funny parts too.
One thing I am listening for in both Obama and McCain is how they speak towards some of these issues, are they speaking with passion, or is it a rehearsed answer. I know who I am voting for based on all the issues, but I am still interested in the candidates answers on faith issues.
Pete said: A little bummed that Obama was not more clear about how he would support federal funding for faith-based organization.
I say: A little bummed that Obama is never totally clear on any issue… ever. I always walk away from listening to him thinking, “huh he’s a smoother talker and he sounded good but what did he say?”….. I never know 100% what he agrees with or not. He’s so middle ground and smooth and grey….a great politician in that way I guess..
P.S. I would have LOVED if Rick Warrnen opened up or closed with prayer… OR I would have LOVED if he asked Obama to pray. obama says he wants us to know him — but I wonder – does he know himself?
I was hoping Obama would have been more direct in his answers. I still didn’t feel like I understood his positions on several issues after sitting through the entire hour.
I liked what McCain just said about after 9/11, we should not have been telling people to go out and shop, but to join the peace core, join the military, etc…
McCain’s education answer was very good. Sobering fact…my 3 week old is laying on the bed beside me…she is who I am voting for! Policies will be made that will affect her as a teen and adult.
McCain used 2 words that are so so key that I LOVE and that we need more politicians to say:
YES and NO
woah he like answered questions with a definite yes or no and then explained. There was no grey area, there was no wiggle room, there was no room to backtalk or explain later. It was what it was….
my impression: McCain is his own man, sure of his beliefs and answers. That’s why he blew threw them. Obama was trying to give the ‘right’ answer. A little fuzzy.
Since it was not a head to head debate, I cannot say one won over the other, but I think McCain did better. Great stories, I liked the straight forward answers. I think he had a little more humor, but Obama had some funny points too.
“my impression: McCain is his own man, sure of his beliefs and answers. That’s why he blew threw them. Obama was trying to give the ‘right’ answer. A little fuzzy.”
I agree both candidates did very well, but I was really impressed with Rick. I love the way he handles himself and represents Christ. I watched someone interviewing Rick for this, and the reporter was a little challenging when Rick said he was going to try to get the candidates to answer specifically by asking questions forcing them to do so. I think the questions were really good. I especially liked the what is rich question – and Obama’s response!
Pete, I noticed your post about the Saddleback Forum right after I posted a message on my blog about it as well. My blog is a new one with only a couple of readers right now. It is at sunlife.wordpress.com. And, for what it’s worth, I thought both men looked very comfortable in that conversational forum tonight. However, with that said, I must say that I stand with McCain much more than Obama, especially after hearing their answers tonight.
@Billy Chia …McCain has just had a longer time to practice his answers then Obama. Wait until Obama is as old as McCain and maybe he’ll have his answers a little more polished!
I was bothered that Obama said that rather or not human life started at conception was above his pay scale and then talked about protecting the importance of human lifeon stem cell. Seemed a little inconsistant.
I have to admit I was leaning toward voting for Obama until tonight. Unless something comes out I’m not aware of, I think McCain now has my vote. I thought he was direct, thought out, and really showed how experience takes things deeper than the right things to say alone. A lot of going deeper in stories and examples that gives a deeper understanding to his positions.
Obama bothers me. Immensely. I feel like it’s all political circular speaking without clear concise answers. I agree with Randi that I always am left wondering what he really believes. I am a firm believer that we aren’t to speak out against our leaders and I am so thankful that God still reigns because this election neither of the candidates fill me with confidence.
contrary to what many people seem to be feeling, i thought it was a great discussion. i think we were able to see (even past the political rhetoric) a little bit more into each candidate. i thought the questions were great and am happy that rick warren brought up important social issues that get overlooked often such as genocide, human trafficking and the amount of orphans in the world.
I missed Obama, unfortunately. I was impressed with McCain. I loved that he answered each question without having to think and decide what the best answer would be. He seemed genuine.
As a member in the ‘studio’ audience, I have to say that the applause was very even. I think Obama didn’t really answer definitely and McCain told too many stories. However, McCain was much more witty and entertaining than I thought he was.
My brother made this comment, “Obama is running for the office with the highest pay grade. If he can’t answer that question because it is above his pay grade then it is one of many reasons he does not need to be President.”
It was a great opportunity for Christians to understand the issues and to allow each candidate to dialog with Rick.
I am proud of Rick’s leadership on this.
I was amused by the way both of them would take a swipe at an answer and then move right into something they wanted to talk about. Typical of politicians.
Is it my imagination or are the lines a little more blurred this time?
I believe the Obama answer concerning abortion pretty much sums up his whole candidacy…he basically said….”Ummmm…I don’t want to say what I really think in a church building…I might lose some votes.” Pander, pander pander…I especially liked that he wouldn’t have appointed Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court becaues he “lacked experience.” Really? Who is really lacking expereince here?
I really enjoyed it and watched it several times. Both did really well. Not sure why some previous posters had trouble understanding Obama’s views, they seemed really clear and well thought out to me. I thought the program was well paced, unique, thought provoking …and even contained a few laugh out loud moments.
I’m hoping this finally quells the Obama “muslim/propagandist/scare tactic” emails that have been flying around. I can’t tell you how many I’ve received from fellow Christians who never bothered to check them out.
Can’t wait for the debates!
I’m totally excited to hear what all goes down at this forum as well. I’ll be checking back to see what others have to say about it after its all over.
Enjoy watching it!
OK, not nuts about “We don’t believe in a seperation of faith and politics because faith is nothing more than our world view which we all have” of some sort. Not the same definition of faith that I have or Hebrews has.
I thought Obama’s answer to the Jesus question was a good one.
A little bummed that Obama was not more clear about how he would support federal funding for faith-based organization.
I’m pleased that he was asked about abortion.
I like Russel MOore’s response (posted on facebook), “Someone who claims an American infant’s human rights are “above his pay grade” is not qualified to be President of the United States”
I think either candidate will come out better if he looks like he’s answering honestly and forthrightly, not pandering. Obama just came across on the honest and sincere side with his answer to the faith-based question of discrimination – he didn’t bow out of making sure federal funds didn’t go to something that might be discriminatory. I hope McCain looks and sounds as forthright.
I think he is doing a good job, but I think he could be doing better and he didn’t answer the question on education
I have been pleased with some of Obama’s answers, but there have been some that he has tried to explain himself out of, and to me it comes across as “I am trying to convince you this is what I believe” – I don’t think he has firm stances on some issues and therefore he wants to say the right thing as not to lose voters – I missed the first 20 minutes, so I cannot comment up to that point. I am pleased so far with Rick’s questions, they are very straight forward and tough. There’s been some funny parts too.
One thing I am listening for in both Obama and McCain is how they speak towards some of these issues, are they speaking with passion, or is it a rehearsed answer. I know who I am voting for based on all the issues, but I am still interested in the candidates answers on faith issues.
It was nice to hear Obama give Bush a little credit for his “aids” initiatives.
I will give Obama a A-
I thought Rick was about to ask everyone to stand for a word of prayer
– He was just asking them to stand to thank Senator Obama
@ncarnes, Ha, I was thinking the exact same thing! I thought for sure we were about to bow our heads.
How about the Obama/McCain hug? Not a whole lot of love there but I appreciate the try.
Pete said: A little bummed that Obama was not more clear about how he would support federal funding for faith-based organization.
I say: A little bummed that Obama is never totally clear on any issue… ever. I always walk away from listening to him thinking, “huh he’s a smoother talker and he sounded good but what did he say?”….. I never know 100% what he agrees with or not. He’s so middle ground and smooth and grey….a great politician in that way I guess..
P.S. I would have LOVED if Rick Warrnen opened up or closed with prayer… OR I would have LOVED if he asked Obama to pray.
obama says he wants us to know him — but I wonder – does he know himself?
I was hoping Obama would have been more direct in his answers. I still didn’t feel like I understood his positions on several issues after sitting through the entire hour.
I liked what McCain just said about after 9/11, we should not have been telling people to go out and shop, but to join the peace core, join the military, etc…
I really appreciate McCain’s openness regarding his marriage failing.
@Krista — exactly. I just can not follow him.
@ncarnes – I agree!
I really liked McCain’s energy answer… it’s a national security issue to send money to nations that don’t like us. interesting way to look at it.
I think McCain is doing a great job of lightening up and being relaxed and chill instead of so serious
mccain doesn’t look as old as i thought he would look
Mccain is not telling us whether or not he is a christian unlss i missed it
McCain has some amazing POW stories. It’s hard to compete with those.
true pete, but he can’t go to that well too often.
Pete, you just love sturring up stuff,dont ya
@Pete – I was typing the same thing! You can see the crowd engaged as he is sharing them. They are very touching.
@Andy – there’s your answer
I’m glad Phelps isn’t going to be on until after this so I can catch both
Andy: i thought he did. he said that being a christian to him was that he was saved.
the veitnam cross story just gave me chills.
@Randi your right
am I the only one that thinks that Warren enjoyed (liked) Obama more?
@Randi, I’m looking forward to watching Phelps after this as well.
Loving how straight forward Mccain’s answers are. The cross story from his POW days was very cool.
I really like the clarity of McCain’s answers. That “old-dud” is quick.
McCain’s education answer was very good. Sobering fact…my 3 week old is laying on the bed beside me…she is who I am voting for! Policies will be made that will affect her as a teen and adult.
great answer on education
I agree Pete about McCain’s answers being direct–I stayed lost with Obama’s answers AND I liked McCain’s theories about education.
I think Warren is auditioning for Tim Russert’s old gig on meet the press
McCain wins!
I thought McCain’s answer to, “What is rich?”, was a little weak. Didn’t really know how to answer that one.
My answer: We’re all rich. If you own a car your in the top 6% of wealth in the world. If you own a house your in the top 3% of wealth in the world.
great forum. we need more of these types.
McCain used 2 words that are so so key that I LOVE and that we need more politicians to say:
YES and NO
woah he like answered questions with a definite yes or no and then explained. There was no grey area, there was no wiggle room, there was no room to backtalk or explain later. It was what it was….
@ Pete — awesome points. I didn’t know those percentages… wow
Man, he just flew through those questions. Are we sure that nobody was texting those questions backstage to him?
I’ve got to spend some time with my message and get some sleep. I look forward to continuing this conversation tomorrow.
the questions are pretty predictable… knowing the audience and host
Good Night Pete and I will probably be at the 11:00 service
ok again with the chills on the adoption story
I give Mccain a A
my impression: McCain is his own man, sure of his beliefs and answers. That’s why he blew threw them. Obama was trying to give the ‘right’ answer. A little fuzzy.
Since it was not a head to head debate, I cannot say one won over the other, but I think McCain did better. Great stories, I liked the straight forward answers. I think he had a little more humor, but Obama had some funny points too.
“my impression: McCain is his own man, sure of his beliefs and answers. That’s why he blew threw them. Obama was trying to give the ‘right’ answer. A little fuzzy.”
beyondJEMS That’s my take as well.
I agree both candidates did very well, but I was really impressed with Rick. I love the way he handles himself and represents Christ. I watched someone interviewing Rick for this, and the reporter was a little challenging when Rick said he was going to try to get the candidates to answer specifically by asking questions forcing them to do so. I think the questions were really good. I especially liked the what is rich question – and Obama’s response!
Pete, I noticed your post about the Saddleback Forum right after I posted a message on my blog about it as well. My blog is a new one with only a couple of readers right now. It is at sunlife.wordpress.com. And, for what it’s worth, I thought both men looked very comfortable in that conversational forum tonight. However, with that said, I must say that I stand with McCain much more than Obama, especially after hearing their answers tonight.
@Randi …watch Rob Bell’s Nooma Rich!
And
@Billy Chia …McCain has just had a longer time to practice his answers then Obama. Wait until Obama is as old as McCain and maybe he’ll have his answers a little more polished!
I was bothered that Obama said that rather or not human life started at conception was above his pay scale and then talked about protecting the importance of human lifeon stem cell. Seemed a little inconsistant.
I have to admit I was leaning toward voting for Obama until tonight. Unless something comes out I’m not aware of, I think McCain now has my vote. I thought he was direct, thought out, and really showed how experience takes things deeper than the right things to say alone. A lot of going deeper in stories and examples that gives a deeper understanding to his positions.
Now, if he would just stop running dumb ads…..
Obama bothers me. Immensely. I feel like it’s all political circular speaking without clear concise answers. I agree with Randi that I always am left wondering what he really believes. I am a firm believer that we aren’t to speak out against our leaders and I am so thankful that God still reigns because this election neither of the candidates fill me with confidence.
contrary to what many people seem to be feeling, i thought it was a great discussion. i think we were able to see (even past the political rhetoric) a little bit more into each candidate. i thought the questions were great and am happy that rick warren brought up important social issues that get overlooked often such as genocide, human trafficking and the amount of orphans in the world.
The Religious Right is always right. Because The Lord is white.
I missed Obama, unfortunately. I was impressed with McCain. I loved that he answered each question without having to think and decide what the best answer would be. He seemed genuine.
As a member in the ‘studio’ audience, I have to say that the applause was very even. I think Obama didn’t really answer definitely and McCain told too many stories. However, McCain was much more witty and entertaining than I thought he was.
My brother made this comment, “Obama is running for the office with the highest pay grade. If he can’t answer that question because it is above his pay grade then it is one of many reasons he does not need to be President.”
It was a great opportunity for Christians to understand the issues and to allow each candidate to dialog with Rick.
I am proud of Rick’s leadership on this.
I missed it so I’ll have to go through your comments to try and get some prospective on how it all went. Thanks for having this!!
I was amused by the way both of them would take a swipe at an answer and then move right into something they wanted to talk about. Typical of politicians.
Is it my imagination or are the lines a little more blurred this time?
I believe the Obama answer concerning abortion pretty much sums up his whole candidacy…he basically said….”Ummmm…I don’t want to say what I really think in a church building…I might lose some votes.” Pander, pander pander…I especially liked that he wouldn’t have appointed Clarence Thomas to the Supreme Court becaues he “lacked experience.” Really? Who is really lacking expereince here?
I posted my review on my blog today..
(Shameless blog plug ahead)
http://thewardrobeandthewhitetree.com
My post review comments…
http://rkumpf.blogspot.com/2008/08/barack-obama-0-john-mccain-1.html
Obama is never a good speaker without his trusty teleprompter. Even with lots of preparation I think McCain destroys him in the debates.
I really enjoyed it and watched it several times. Both did really well. Not sure why some previous posters had trouble understanding Obama’s views, they seemed really clear and well thought out to me. I thought the program was well paced, unique, thought provoking …and even contained a few laugh out loud moments.
I’m hoping this finally quells the Obama “muslim/propagandist/scare tactic” emails that have been flying around. I can’t tell you how many I’ve received from fellow Christians who never bothered to check them out.
Can’t wait for the debates!
“I’m hoping this finally quells the Obama “muslim/propagandist/scare tactic” emails that have been flying around.”
I agree!
It is beautifully turned out .. I liked ..) would be continuously zahazhivat to you.
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