The Bible is out-of-bounds

Now:

ST. LOUIS (AP) -- John Kerry cited a Bible verse to criticize leaders who have "faith but has no deeds," prompting President Bush's spokesman to accuse Kerry of exploiting Scripture for a political attack.

...

"The Scriptures say, what does it profit, my brother, if someone says he has faith but does not have works?" Kerry said. "When we look at what is happening in America today, where are the works of compassion?"

Bush campaign spokesman Steve Schmidt said Kerry's comment "was beyond the bounds of acceptable discourse and a sad exploitation of Scripture for a political attack." (emphasis added by Jeffrey)

Mr. Bush also urged, however, that America remain a "welcoming country" - not polarized on the issue of homosexuality.

"I am mindful that we're all sinners, and I caution those who may try to take the speck out of the neighbor's eye when they got a log in their own," he said, invoking a biblical passage from the Gospel of St. Matthew.

"I think it is important for our society to respect each individual, to welcome those with good hearts," the president said. But, he added, "That does not mean that someone like me needs to compromise on the issue of marriage."