For the last decade, Bill Gothard has been largely out of ministry, and his reputation has been diminished by various scandals that have been raised against him. Founder of the Institute in Basic Life Principles (IBLP), Gothard built a ministry on homeschool education, family principles, and relationships that has been derided for legalism.
Most infamously, the Duggar family, whose sons have had various instances of legal troubles and in-home abuse, were disciples of Gothard. Years ago, Amazon released the documentary Shiny Happy People which gave an account from the perspective of Jill Duggar. The documentary also went into abuse claims against Gothard.
Recently, at the age of 91, Gothard was hospitalized due to a heart attack, with the following statement being released via Facebook:
For immediate official press release: Bill Gothard suffered a heart attack on June 24th, and, as a result, went into a natural coma. He was revived, and taken by ambulance to the hospital. At per his wishes, we have been doing every medical, life saving procedure possible to save his life. Right now, he is alive, and though his kidneys quit functioning, by an absolute miracle, they started to function again, as per a kidney specialist. A former staff member was visiting, and he squeezed their finger. Today, he has been squeezing multiple people’s hands, at their request. We covet your prayers for his complete restoration, either here, if God has more time of ministry for him, or if God takes pleasure in taking His saint home soon. Either way, will be a good outcome for him. Thanks to everyone who has prayed and sent blessings his way.
Bill Gothard is probably near the end. His health could easily take a turn for the worse. The procedures in question being performed might prolong his life for months, but it should be noted that the efficacy of late-life procedures is limited, as death can only be prolonged for so long. If he does perish, then the legacy of Gothard will surely be dredged up for debate.
