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{{Short description|American Christian leader (born 1934)}}
'''Bill Gothard''' (born ], ]) is a conservative ] conference speaker and founder of the ] (IBLP) (formerly known as "Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts), based in ]. Despite being certified as a ] tax-exempt religious or charitable organization by the IRS,<ref>], (last accessed 8/30/06)</ref> the progressive tabloid, ], says that IBLP "brings in an estimated ] of at least $63 ] annually."<ref name="ITT">] '']'' January 9, 2006</ref>
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'''William W. Gothard Jr.''' (born November 2, 1934) is an American ] ], speaker, and writer, and the founder of the ] (IBLP), an independent ] organization.<ref name="chicago-mag">{{cite news | work = Chicago | title = The Cult Next Door | url = https://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/July-2016/Institute-in-Basic-Life-Principles-Hinsdale/ | first = Bryan | last = Smith | date = June 20, 2016}}</ref>
==Biography==
His ] teachings encourage Bible memorization, large families, ], aversion to ], familial ], the submission of wives to husbands, and ] attire.<ref name="chicago-mag"/><ref name="wapo-2014"/>
In 1964, Gothard's alma mater, ], invited him to design and teach a course based on his work with youth. The course was given the name Basic Youth Conflicts; two hours of upper-division undergraduate and graduate credit were awarded to students completing the course. Forty-six students, youth pastors, and teachers registered for that first class. The next year 120 students enrolled in Basic Youth Conflicts.


At the height of Gothard's popularity during the 1970s, his Basic Youth Conflicts seminar was regularly filling auditoriums throughout the United States and beyond with attendance figures as large as ten thousand and more for a one-week seminar.<ref>{{cite book |last1=Bockelman |first1=Wilfred |title=Gothard: The Man and his Ministry: An Evaluation |date=1976 |page=35}}</ref> In this way, he reached many in the ] community from the ] generation during their teen years and young adulthood. Other seminars during this time included an Advanced Youth Conflicts seminar, as well as seminars for pastors, physicians, and ]s.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2015-09-30 |title=Rep Gunning For Boehner's Job Has Long History With Fringey Duggar Ministry |url=https://talkingpointsmemo.com/cafe/dan-webster-speaker-running-iblp-bill-gothard |access-date=2023-06-24 |website=TPM – Talking Points Memo |language=en-US}}</ref>
Gothard gained popularity in the 1970's due to his calls for strong authority in a time of social unrest. His calls were a product of deeply conservative ]. He was ordained by LaGrange Bible Church in suburban Chicago. Since then the Basic Youth Conflicts (later referred to as Basic Seminars) grew and attendance averaged between 10,000 and 20,000. Yet, according to a one of Gothard's most ardent critics, because of alleged sex scandals, "at one time the seminars could attract capacity crowds to major indoor sports arenas even twice in the same year, now they can hardly fill all the seats in local church auditoriums."<ref>] '']'' 2006</ref>


In 2014, he stepped down from IBLP after 34 women accused him of ] and molestation, with some incidents allegedly occurring when the victims were minors.<ref name="wapo-2014">{{cite news | newspaper = Washington Post | title = Conservative leader Bill Gothard resigns following abuse allegations | url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/national/religion/conservative-leader-bill-gothard-resigns-following-abuse-allegations/2014/03/07/0381aa94-a624-11e3-b865-38b254d92063_story.html | first = Sarah Pulliam | last = Bailey | date = March 7, 2014}}</ref> In 2016, Gothard and IBLP were sued by a group of alleged victims.<ref name="wapo-2016">{{Cite news | newspaper = Washington Post | title = New charges allege religious leader, who has ties to the Duggars, sexually abused women | url = https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/acts-of-faith/wp/2016/01/06/new-charges-allege-religious-leader-who-has-ties-to-the-duggars-sexually-abused-women/ | date = January 6, 2016 | first = Sarah Pulliam | last = Bailey}}</ref> The lawsuit was dismissed in 2018, as the ] had been exceeded.<ref name="radaronline.com">{{Cite web |url=https://radaronline.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/duggar-family-minister-sex-abuse-lawsuit-dismissed.pdf |title=Motion to Voluntarily Dismiss |access-date=May 22, 2018 |archive-date=August 21, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180821223400/https://radaronline.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/duggar-family-minister-sex-abuse-lawsuit-dismissed.pdf |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref name="Stankorb">{{cite news |last=Stankorb |first=Sarah |date=June 15, 2018 |title=The Daughters' Great Escape |url=https://www.marieclaire.com/politics/a21345667/stay-at-home-daughters-christian-patriarchy/ |magazine=Marie Claire |access-date=2018-08-22}}</ref>
In 1996, Character Training Institute (CTI) was started, with help from businessman ], in ] and helps instill the value of respect of authority into hundreds of elementary, middle and high schools, state and city offices, corporations, police departments and jails.<ref name="ITT" /> This includes a "Police Dymanics class," which "in a nutshell, is biblical wisdom that's been packaged into a law enforcement message," is what CTI instructor Ray Nash told Rev. Mark Creech in a November 2004 article for Alan Keyes' RenewAmerica Web site."<ref name="ITT" /> Currently "160 cities ranging from Compton, California, to Hamburg, New York, 31 counties, and seven states—Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Ohio, Oklahoma and South Carolina—have now passed "character" resolutions and proclamations based on CTI's teachings and materials."<ref name="ITT" /> Current board members include Texas Republican Representative ].<ref name="ITT" />


== Biography ==
His seminars teach that unmarried children should honor their parents even if they are adults and that unmarried adult children should continue to live at home until marriage.{{fact}} If they never do marry they should remain with parents until death. This was true of Gothard (who has never married, and who lived with his parents until their deaths). Similarly, divorce is never acceptable for any reason, and a person who is divorced should seek (if possible) to reunite with their spouse—even if the divorce took place ''before'' the person became a Christian—and if not possible should never remarry.{{fact}}
Bill Gothard received his BA in biblical studies from ], 1957 and then his MA in Christian education in 1961.<ref>{{cite web |title=Biographical Sketch |url=http://www.billgothard.com/about/bio |access-date=2011-01-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110101182202/http://billgothard.com/about/bio |archive-date=2011-01-01 |url-status=dead}}</ref> He completed his Ph.D. in biblical studies at ] in 2004.<ref>{{cite web |title=Outstanding Alumni |url=http://lbu.edu/outstanding_alumni.htm |access-date=2012-06-12 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120718184429/http://www.lbu.edu/outstanding_alumni.htm |archive-date=2012-07-18 |df=mdy-all}}</ref>


In 1961, Gothard started Campus Teams,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://news.google.com/newspapers?id=3UcdAAAAIBAJ&pg=6930,2526281&dq=bill-gothard+campus-teams&hl=en |title=Clergyman-Novelist Links Wit, Theology |last=Cassels |first=Louis |date=June 23, 1973 |work=The Pittsburgh Press |access-date=2010-01-27 }}</ref> an organization which changed its name to the Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts (IBYC) in 1974. The organization's name changed again in 1989 to the ] (IBLP),<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2003/march/35.77.html |title=A Matter of Basic Principles: Bill Gothard and the Christian Life |last=Poll |first=Rich |date=March 1, 2003 |work=Christianity Today |access-date=2010-01-27 }}</ref> of which Gothard was the president and a board member until his resignation in 2014.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.suntimes.com/news/28159812-418/story.html |title=Ex-head of religious group acted inappropriately, not criminally: investigation |last=Knowles |first=Francine |date=June 18, 2014 |work=] |access-date=2014-07-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714182848/https://www.suntimes.com/news/28159812-418/story.html |archive-date=July 14, 2014}}</ref>
Gothard discourages the listening to ], encourages ], and his group publishes its own homeschool material{{fact}}; and, according to one follower, claims borrowing money for ''any'' reason, even a home mortgage, is wrong.<ref>], (accessed 30 August 2006)</ref> According to one critic, Gothard protested against the ] because Cabbage Patch Kids or Treasure Trolls could lead to difficulties in conceiving or giving birth to a child<ref>G. Richard Fisher, ", Personal Freedom Outreach, 1998 (a critical group)</ref>, and has discouraged the use of contraceptives or other ].<ref>Bible Discernment Ministries, , 2004</ref><ref>Medical Training Institute of America, '''' p. 43. Institute in Basic Life Principles. </ref>


In 1984, Gothard founded the Advanced Training Institute (ATI), a homeschooling program with a curriculum based on the ].<ref>{{cite web |title=IBLP Educational Programs |date=September 7, 2012 |url=http://iblp.org/about-iblp/what-we-do/educational-programs |access-date=2013-02-13}}</ref>
As a part of the Institute in Basic Life Principles, Gothard organized the ''Medical Training Institute of America'' (MTIA), run by Director Dean I. Youngberg, M.D., whose states the purpose of MTIA is to "train men and women to assist families in making wise decisions about health care issues."<ref name="MTIA Message">Dean I. Youngberg, M.D., '''' (last accessed 30 August 2006)</ref> The institute publishes ''Basic Care Newsletters''. In example of one of its recommendations comes in CARE Bulletin #7 where it says, "A couple who is contemplating a VBAC ] should ask the Lord to give them a specific portion of Scripture that they can claim for the birth. Both the father and the mother should memorize and meditate on this passage and use it to conquer any fear that may come during the pregnancy or delivery."<ref name="MTIA Message" /><ref>Medical Training Institute of America, '''' (last accessed 30 August 2006)</ref>


Gothard had many political connections with Republican political leaders, including ], ], and ]. His ministry was also popular with the reality TV ] and others.<ref name="wapo-2014"/> He has never married.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Menzie |first1=Nicola |title=Bill Gothard Denies 'Sexual Intent' in Hugs, Foot Contact With Young Ladies in Statement Following Resignation |url=http://www.christianpost.com/news/bill-gothard-denies-sexual-intent-in-hugs-foot-contact-with-young-ladies-in-statement-following-resignation-118207/ |access-date=August 10, 2014 |work=] |date=April 18, 2014}}</ref>
In 2004, Gothard received his Ph.D. from ], a ] that is ].


== Teaching ==
==Controversies and criticism==
Gothard's primary teaching, his "Basic Seminar", focuses on what he refers to as seven "Basic Life Principles". He claims that these principles are universal, and that people will suffer consequences for violating them.<ref>{{cite web |title=Resolving Conflicts |url=http://iblp.org/seminars-conferences/basic-seminar/resolving-conflicts |access-date=2013-02-13 }}</ref> Gothard's principles are called Design, Authority, Responsibility, Suffering, Ownership, Freedom, and Success.<ref name="Basic Life Principles">{{cite web |title=Basic Life Principles |url=http://iblp.org/seminars-conferences/basic-seminar/basic-life-principles |access-date=2013-02-13 }}</ref>
===Teachings===
Gothard has been criticized by two groups devoted to the "counter-cult and apologetics ministry". One group is called ] (MCO), a group consisting of 5 board members, including president Don Veinot and his wife. Don Veinot wrote a book that was critical of Gothard. MCO publishes a quarterly journal that has criticized Gothard on occasion. Another critical group is ] (PFO), a group devoted to the exposing what it believes are cultic movements. PFO consists of 10 people that publish a quarterly journal.{{fact}}


The "umbrella of authority" is the idea that in order to be protected from the devil, one must have absolute obedience to those above them in the chain of authority.<ref name= "LA Times 2023" >{{cite news|url=https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/tv/story/2023-05-30/shiny-happy-people-duggar-family-highlights-amazon-studios|title=What 'Shiny Happy People' reveals about the Duggars: 'We were taken advantage of'|newspaper=LA times}}</ref>
PFO published criticism about Gothard in three basic areas: a view that Gothard's views are ] teachings and interpretations of Scripture, a belief that IBLP and its adherents exhibit a "cult-like" mentality, and concern about Gothard's application of ] within his own organization.<ref>G. Richard Fisher, "A Study in Evolving Fadism: The Cultic Leanings of Bill Gothard's Teachings", '']'' Quarterly Journal, April-June 1996.</ref> Gothard was also accused by some of being hyprocritical for not practing what he preaches about conflict resolution.<ref>] '']'' 2006</ref>


Gothard teaches that ] is morally dangerous and that ] is the better alternative. Gothard encourages parents to be involved in their children's courtship, and that a father should be involved in his daughter's relationships, and should at the very least have the right to say "no" when a man asks to marry his daughter. Gothard also advocates conservative dress.<ref name="wapo-2014"/> Gothard's teachings discourage dating and ], including ]. He has warned that ] dolls are idolatrous.<ref name="chicago-mag"/>
Dr. Ronald Allen, Professor of Bible Exposition at Dallas Theological Seminary, attended a Gothard seminar in 1973 and wrote of his experience that "In this seminar, I was regularly assaulted by the misuse of the Bible, particularly of the Old Testament, on a level that I have never experienced in a public ministry before that time (or since)."<ref>Don Venoit. ''A Matter of Basic Life Principles: Bill Gothard and the Christian Life'' ] (2002), page 64</ref>


Gothard has been the subject of much debate in Christian circles, and occasionally in mass media.<ref>{{cite magazine |title=Religion: Obey Thy Husband |url=http://content.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,944839,00.html |magazine=Time |date=March 20, 1974 |access-date=2014-01-25 }}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Chandler |first=Russell |title=Moral, Morale Questions Rock Gothard Ministry |newspaper=Los Angeles Times |date=April 5, 1982}}</ref> Various books and articles have challenged Gothard's teachings on ], law, and ], and questioned his handling of the IBLP ministry.<ref>{{cite book |title=A Matter of Basic Principles: Bill Gothard & the Christian Life |year=2002 |publisher=21st Century Press |first1=Don |last1=Veinot |first2=Joy |last2=Veinot |first3=Ron|last3=Henzel}}</ref><ref name="Chicago Tribune, 1992">{{cite web |last=Bradbery |first=Angela |title=Minister's Kingdom Not Without Foes |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/1992/12/29/ministers-kingdom-not-without-foes/ |date=29 December 1992 |newspaper=Chicago Tribune |access-date=February 18, 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Gothard Staffers Ask Hard Questions |url=http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2003/marchweb-only/3-3-33.0.html |publisher=Christianity Today |date=February 6, 1981 |access-date=September 5, 2013}}</ref>
===Medical advice===


== Sexual harassment allegations ==
Gothard has attempted to bring his legalistic teachings into all areas of life. Gothard's teaches that he holds absolute authority: use of cosmetics, clothing, beards, sleep schedules, homeschooling, courtship and marriage, and even medical advice."<ref>Don Venoit. ''A Matter of Basic Life Principles: Bill Gothard and the Christian Life'' ] (2002), Chapter 10, Bill Gothard - Medicine Manpage.</ref> Gothard's institute has a "medical training institute"<ref> by Ron Henzel </ref>, which is no licensed as a medical school.<ref></ref> The ] notes "Bill Gothard also pushes the evils of hospital births. One should give birth at home with a midwife. Gothard wants to train future doctors by watching other doctors, not by going to medical school which is wrong."<ref></ref>
On February 27, 2014, the board of directors of the ] placed Gothard on indefinite ] while it investigated claims that he sexually harassed several female employees and volunteers.<ref name=worldMag>{{cite web |title=Bill Gothard placed on administrative leave |url=http://www.worldmag.com/2014/02/bill_gothard_placed_on_administrative_leave |work=] |access-date=February 28, 2014}}</ref> No criminal activity was uncovered, but an investigation found that Gothard had acted in an "inappropriate manner".<ref name="worldMag" /> The claims had been publicized on the ''Recovering Grace'' website, which is a support group for former followers of Gothard's teachings.<ref>{{cite news |last=Knowles |first=Francine |title=Leader of Oak Brook religious group resigns amid sex harassment allegations |url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/26056414-418/leader-of-oak-brook-religious-group-resigns-amid-sex-harassment-allegations.html |access-date=March 26, 2014 |newspaper=] |date=March 7, 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140717015029/http://www.suntimes.com/news/26056414-418/leader-of-oak-brook-religious-group-resigns-amid-sex-harassment-allegations.html |archive-date=July 17, 2014}}</ref> As many as 34 women who worked for Gothard have claimed that he harassed them.<ref name="wapo-2014"/> Gothard denied the allegations and admitted no wrongdoing but announced his resignation from the Institute in order "to listen to those who have ought against him".<ref name=Smith>{{cite news |last1=Smith |first1=Warren Cole |title=Bill Gothard defends himself on new website |url=http://www.worldmag.com/2015/06/bill_gothard_defends_himself_on_new_website |access-date=17 April 2016 |work=] |date=7 March 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160417111410/http://www.worldmag.com/2014/03/bill_gothard_resigns_from_ministry|archive-date=April 17, 2016 |url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="wapo-2014"/>


On June 17, 2014, IBLP issued a statement,<ref>{{cite web |title=A Time of Transition: A Statement From the Board of Directors |url=http://iblp.org/news/time-transition |publisher=] |author=<!--Staff writer(s); no by-line.--> |date=June 17, 2014 |access-date=August 1, 2014}}</ref> summarizing the investigation conducted by "outside legal counsel". They asserted that although no criminal activity was uncovered, Gothard had acted in an "inappropriate manner" and so "is not permitted to serve in any counseling, leadership, or Board role within the IBLP ministry". In July 2015, Gothard re-launched his website, including testimonials from several women.<ref name=Smith /><ref>{{cite web |title=Testimonials |url=http://billgothard.com/testimonials/ |access-date=27 September 2015}}</ref>
Marty Butz explained, "addition to much of what might be construed as practical, educational, and informative medical advice, Mr. Gothard also presents diagnoses and cures for medical problems which, in some cases, could possibly cause serious harm."
<ref> by Marty Butz</ref> Butz offers "examples of Mr. Gothard’s advocacy of a mystical approach towards resolving health problems," and explains why western medicine is more reliable than Gothard's diagnosis.<ref> by Marty Butz</ref>


In 2016, Gothard and IBLP were sued by a group of alleged victims who accused him of sexual harassment and assault.<ref>{{cite news |last=Bult |first=Laura |date=January 7, 2016 |title=Bill Gothard, Christian counseling ministry leader with ties to TLC's Duggar family, target of sexual assault lawsuit by 10 women |url=http://www.nydailynews.com/news/national/twn-women-filed-sexual-assault-lawsuit-bill-gothard-article-1.2488543 |newspaper=New York Daily News |location=New York, NY |access-date=August 22, 2018}}</ref> The plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed their lawsuit in 2018, citing "unique complexities" with the ], but emphasized: "We are not recanting our experiences or dismissing the incalculable damage that we believe Gothard has done."<ref name="radaronline.com"/><ref name="Stankorb"/>
===Sexual misconduct===
Much of the criticism of Gothard originated from Don Venoit's book ''A Matter of Basic Life Principles: Bill Gothard and the Christian Life'' ] (2002). Venoit's book also alleges three different instances of sexual misconduct. The first being Gothard himself had indecent contact with some of his female staff, and "admitted in staff meetings that these actions were 'moral failures' on his part.<ref>Don Venoit. ''A Matter of Basic Life Principles: Bill Gothard and the Christian Life'' ] (2002), page 54</ref> Secondly, Venoit notes that in 2001 a sex scandal took place at IBLP headquarters, shortly before the group's annual homeschooling conference in Knoxville, Tennessee. Venoit alleges that Jim Voeller, an intended keynote speaker at the upcoming conference and the director of Bill Gothard's homeschooling curriculum, left his wife and seven children after an ongoing affair with his secretary was exposed. Venoit alleged that employees and volunteers serving at the facilities in Oak Brook were asked to keep silent on both matters, leading to criticism that Gothard was attempting to "cover up" the issues.<ref>Don Veinot, Ron Henzel, and Joy Veinot. ''A Matter of Basic Principles: Bill Gothard & the Christian Life''. 21st Century Press, 2002. ISBN 0-9717009-2-3</ref> Lastly, controversy appeared when when Bill Gothard's brother admitted to having affairs with a number of secretaries in the IBLP ministry. <ref> Rich Poll, . '']'' March, 2003.</ref>


===Social issues=== == Books ==
* ''Advanced Seminar Textbook''. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 1986, {{ISBN|0-916888-11-8}}
Gothard was also criticized in a song by Christian rock musician ]. Gothard preaches against modern Christian musicians and specifically he had mentioned negative things about Taylor.{{fact}}
* ''Basic Preparation for Engagement''. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1971
* ''Basic Seminar Textbook''. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 1979, {{ISBN|0-916888-05-3}}
* ''Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts: Research in Principles of Life''. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1981, {{ISBN|0-916888-05-3}}
* ''Men's Manual, Vol. 1''. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1979, {{ISBN|0-916888-04-5}}
* ''Men's Manual, Vol. 2''. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 1983, {{ISBN|0-916888-09-6}}
* ''Nuestro Dios Celoso/Our Jealous God: El Amor que no me deja ir/The love that doesn't let me go''. Editorial Unilit 2004, {{ISBN|0-7899-1215-5}}
* ''Our Jealous God''. Life Change Books, 2003. {{ISBN|1-59052-225-7}}
* ''Rebuilder's Guide''. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1982. {{ISBN|0-916888-06-1}}
* ''Research in Principles of Life: Advanced Seminar Textbook''. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts 1986. {{ISBN|0-916888-11-8}}
* ''Rewards of Being Reviled''. Life Change Books, 2004. {{ISBN|0-916888-30-4}}
* ''Self-Acceptance''. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1984. ASIN B0007270AO
* ''The Amazing Way''. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 2010. {{ISBN|978-0916888497}}
* ''The Power of Crying Out''. Life Change Books, 2002, {{ISBN|1-59052-037-8}}
* ''The Power of Spoken Blessings''. Life Change Books, 2004. {{ISBN|1-59052-375-X}}
* ''The Sevenfold Power of First Century Churches and Homes''. Life Change Books, 2000. {{ISBN|0-916888-18-5}}
* ''Why Did God Let It Happen?'' Institute in Basic Life Principles, 2011. {{ISBN|978-0-916888-54-1}}


==References==
Gothard has "warned" that "if your daughter has a Cabbage Patch doll she could become mentally ill because their middle names are demonic."<ref></ref>
{{reflist}}

==Books==
* ''Basic Preparation for Engagement''. ], 1971, ASIN B00073AKU0
* ''Careers Guidance in Context''. ], 2002. ISBN 0-7619-6906-3 (co author)
* ''How to Evaluate Music''. ], 1989, ISBN 6052230010 {{invalid isbn|6052230010}}
* ''Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts: Research in Principles of Life''. ], 1981, ISBN 0-916888-05-3
* ''Men's Manual, Vol. 1''. ], 1979, ISBN 0-916888-04-5
* ''Nuestro Dios Celoso/Our Jealous God: El Amor que no me deja ir/The love that doesn't let me go''. ] 2004, ISBN 0-7899-1215-5
* 'Our Jealous God''. ], 2003. ISBN 1-59052-225-7
* ''Rebuilder's Guide''. ], 1982. ISBN 0-916888-06-1
* ''Research in Principles of Life: Advanced Seminar Textbook''. ] 1986. ISBN 0-916888-11-8
* ''Rewards of Being Reviles''. ], 2004. ISBN 0-916888-30-4
* ''Self-Acceptance''. ], 1984. ASIN B0007270AO
* ''The Power of Crying Out''. ], 2002, ISBN 1-59052-037-8
* ''The Power of Spoken Blessings''. ], 2004. ISBN 1-59052-375-X
* ''The Sevenfold Power of First Century Churches and Homes''. ], 2000. ISBN 0-916888-18-5

==See also==
*]

==Footnotes==
<references/>


==External links== ==External links==
* *
*
* *
*
* January 9, 2006
<!-- Please do not add http://www.recoveringgrace.org to this list - it is a self-published website, and inappropriate for the biography of a living person per Misplaced Pages policy. -->
* MacGregor Ministries (MacGregor Ministries proclaims to be "A Christian Outreach to those involved in cult groups.")
*


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Latest revision as of 23:13, 10 September 2024

American Christian leader (born 1934)

Bill Gothard
Bill Gothard (2002, age 67)
Born (1934-11-02) November 2, 1934 (age 90)
Hinsdale, Illinois, U.S.
Occupation(s)Instructor, author
Known forFounding the Institute in Basic Life Principles
WebsiteBillGothard.com

William W. Gothard Jr. (born November 2, 1934) is an American Christian minister, speaker, and writer, and the founder of the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP), an independent fundamentalist Christian organization. His conservative teachings encourage Bible memorization, large families, homeschooling, aversion to debt, familial patriarchy, the submission of wives to husbands, and modest attire.

At the height of Gothard's popularity during the 1970s, his Basic Youth Conflicts seminar was regularly filling auditoriums throughout the United States and beyond with attendance figures as large as ten thousand and more for a one-week seminar. In this way, he reached many in the evangelical community from the Baby Boomer generation during their teen years and young adulthood. Other seminars during this time included an Advanced Youth Conflicts seminar, as well as seminars for pastors, physicians, and legislators.

In 2014, he stepped down from IBLP after 34 women accused him of sexual harassment and molestation, with some incidents allegedly occurring when the victims were minors. In 2016, Gothard and IBLP were sued by a group of alleged victims. The lawsuit was dismissed in 2018, as the statute of limitations had been exceeded.

Biography

Bill Gothard received his BA in biblical studies from Wheaton College, 1957 and then his MA in Christian education in 1961. He completed his Ph.D. in biblical studies at Louisiana Baptist University in 2004.

In 1961, Gothard started Campus Teams, an organization which changed its name to the Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts (IBYC) in 1974. The organization's name changed again in 1989 to the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP), of which Gothard was the president and a board member until his resignation in 2014.

In 1984, Gothard founded the Advanced Training Institute (ATI), a homeschooling program with a curriculum based on the Sermon on the Mount.

Gothard had many political connections with Republican political leaders, including Mike Huckabee, Sonny Perdue, and Sarah Palin. His ministry was also popular with the reality TV Duggar family and others. He has never married.

Teaching

Gothard's primary teaching, his "Basic Seminar", focuses on what he refers to as seven "Basic Life Principles". He claims that these principles are universal, and that people will suffer consequences for violating them. Gothard's principles are called Design, Authority, Responsibility, Suffering, Ownership, Freedom, and Success.

The "umbrella of authority" is the idea that in order to be protected from the devil, one must have absolute obedience to those above them in the chain of authority.

Gothard teaches that dating is morally dangerous and that courtship is the better alternative. Gothard encourages parents to be involved in their children's courtship, and that a father should be involved in his daughter's relationships, and should at the very least have the right to say "no" when a man asks to marry his daughter. Gothard also advocates conservative dress. Gothard's teachings discourage dating and syncopated music, including Christian rock. He has warned that Cabbage Patch dolls are idolatrous.

Gothard has been the subject of much debate in Christian circles, and occasionally in mass media. Various books and articles have challenged Gothard's teachings on legalism, law, and grace, and questioned his handling of the IBLP ministry.

Sexual harassment allegations

On February 27, 2014, the board of directors of the Institute in Basic Life Principles placed Gothard on indefinite administrative leave while it investigated claims that he sexually harassed several female employees and volunteers. No criminal activity was uncovered, but an investigation found that Gothard had acted in an "inappropriate manner". The claims had been publicized on the Recovering Grace website, which is a support group for former followers of Gothard's teachings. As many as 34 women who worked for Gothard have claimed that he harassed them. Gothard denied the allegations and admitted no wrongdoing but announced his resignation from the Institute in order "to listen to those who have ought against him".

On June 17, 2014, IBLP issued a statement, summarizing the investigation conducted by "outside legal counsel". They asserted that although no criminal activity was uncovered, Gothard had acted in an "inappropriate manner" and so "is not permitted to serve in any counseling, leadership, or Board role within the IBLP ministry". In July 2015, Gothard re-launched his website, including testimonials from several women.

In 2016, Gothard and IBLP were sued by a group of alleged victims who accused him of sexual harassment and assault. The plaintiffs voluntarily dismissed their lawsuit in 2018, citing "unique complexities" with the statute of limitations, but emphasized: "We are not recanting our experiences or dismissing the incalculable damage that we believe Gothard has done."

Books

  • Advanced Seminar Textbook. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 1986, ISBN 0-916888-11-8
  • Basic Preparation for Engagement. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1971
  • Basic Seminar Textbook. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 1979, ISBN 0-916888-05-3
  • Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts: Research in Principles of Life. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1981, ISBN 0-916888-05-3
  • Men's Manual, Vol. 1. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1979, ISBN 0-916888-04-5
  • Men's Manual, Vol. 2. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 1983, ISBN 0-916888-09-6
  • Nuestro Dios Celoso/Our Jealous God: El Amor que no me deja ir/The love that doesn't let me go. Editorial Unilit 2004, ISBN 0-7899-1215-5
  • Our Jealous God. Life Change Books, 2003. ISBN 1-59052-225-7
  • Rebuilder's Guide. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1982. ISBN 0-916888-06-1
  • Research in Principles of Life: Advanced Seminar Textbook. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts 1986. ISBN 0-916888-11-8
  • Rewards of Being Reviled. Life Change Books, 2004. ISBN 0-916888-30-4
  • Self-Acceptance. Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts, 1984. ASIN B0007270AO
  • The Amazing Way. Institute in Basic Life Principles, 2010. ISBN 978-0916888497
  • The Power of Crying Out. Life Change Books, 2002, ISBN 1-59052-037-8
  • The Power of Spoken Blessings. Life Change Books, 2004. ISBN 1-59052-375-X
  • The Sevenfold Power of First Century Churches and Homes. Life Change Books, 2000. ISBN 0-916888-18-5
  • Why Did God Let It Happen? Institute in Basic Life Principles, 2011. ISBN 978-0-916888-54-1

References

  1. ^ Smith, Bryan (June 20, 2016). "The Cult Next Door". Chicago.
  2. ^ Bailey, Sarah Pulliam (March 7, 2014). "Conservative leader Bill Gothard resigns following abuse allegations". Washington Post.
  3. Bockelman, Wilfred (1976). Gothard: The Man and his Ministry: An Evaluation. p. 35.
  4. "Rep Gunning For Boehner's Job Has Long History With Fringey Duggar Ministry". TPM – Talking Points Memo. September 30, 2015. Retrieved June 24, 2023.
  5. Bailey, Sarah Pulliam (January 6, 2016). "New charges allege religious leader, who has ties to the Duggars, sexually abused women". Washington Post.
  6. ^ "Motion to Voluntarily Dismiss" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on August 21, 2018. Retrieved May 22, 2018.
  7. ^ Stankorb, Sarah (June 15, 2018). "The Daughters' Great Escape". Marie Claire. Retrieved August 22, 2018.
  8. "Biographical Sketch". Archived from the original on January 1, 2011. Retrieved January 19, 2011.
  9. "Outstanding Alumni". Archived from the original on July 18, 2012. Retrieved June 12, 2012.
  10. Cassels, Louis (June 23, 1973). "Clergyman-Novelist Links Wit, Theology". The Pittsburgh Press. Retrieved January 27, 2010.
  11. Poll, Rich (March 1, 2003). "A Matter of Basic Principles: Bill Gothard and the Christian Life". Christianity Today. Retrieved January 27, 2010.
  12. Knowles, Francine (June 18, 2014). "Ex-head of religious group acted inappropriately, not criminally: investigation". Chicago Sun-Times. Archived from the original on July 14, 2014. Retrieved July 2, 2014.
  13. "IBLP Educational Programs". September 7, 2012. Retrieved February 13, 2013.
  14. Menzie, Nicola (April 18, 2014). "Bill Gothard Denies 'Sexual Intent' in Hugs, Foot Contact With Young Ladies in Statement Following Resignation". Christian Post. Retrieved August 10, 2014.
  15. "Resolving Conflicts". Retrieved February 13, 2013.
  16. "Basic Life Principles". Retrieved February 13, 2013.
  17. "What 'Shiny Happy People' reveals about the Duggars: 'We were taken advantage of'". LA times.
  18. "Religion: Obey Thy Husband". Time. March 20, 1974. Retrieved January 25, 2014.
  19. Chandler, Russell (April 5, 1982). "Moral, Morale Questions Rock Gothard Ministry". Los Angeles Times.
  20. Veinot, Don; Veinot, Joy; Henzel, Ron (2002). A Matter of Basic Principles: Bill Gothard & the Christian Life. 21st Century Press.
  21. Bradbery, Angela (December 29, 1992). "Minister's Kingdom Not Without Foes". Chicago Tribune. Retrieved February 18, 2014.
  22. "Gothard Staffers Ask Hard Questions". Christianity Today. February 6, 1981. Retrieved September 5, 2013.
  23. ^ "Bill Gothard placed on administrative leave". World Magazine. Retrieved February 28, 2014.
  24. Knowles, Francine (March 7, 2014). "Leader of Oak Brook religious group resigns amid sex harassment allegations". Chicago Sun-Times. Archived from the original on July 17, 2014. Retrieved March 26, 2014.
  25. ^ Smith, Warren Cole (March 7, 2016). "Bill Gothard defends himself on new website". World. Archived from the original on April 17, 2016. Retrieved April 17, 2016.
  26. "A Time of Transition: A Statement From the Board of Directors". IBLP. June 17, 2014. Retrieved August 1, 2014.
  27. "Testimonials". Retrieved September 27, 2015.
  28. Bult, Laura (January 7, 2016). "Bill Gothard, Christian counseling ministry leader with ties to TLC's Duggar family, target of sexual assault lawsuit by 10 women". New York Daily News. New York, NY. Retrieved August 22, 2018.

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