Faith
Honoring Dr. James Dobson: Champion of Family Values
Faith Facts
- Dr. James Dobson powerfully shaped American Christian conservatism through biblical parenting advice and outspoken support for traditional family values.
- He founded Focus on the Family and the Family Research Council, influencing both culture and politics from a faith-driven perspective.
- Dobson’s legacy lives on as a courageous defender of life, marriage, and biblical truth in the public square.
Dr. James Dobson, a pillar of the Religious Right, passed away at 89 after a lifetime dedicated to lifting families through faith-centered guidance. Through both his early teachings and later political engagement, Dobson left an enduring mark on Christian America.
Born during the Great Depression to a family of traveling evangelists, Dobson overcame a rebellious youth thanks to his parents’ commitment to raising their child in the ways of the Lord. After training as a child psychologist, he authored ‘Dare to Discipline’ in 1970, calling parents to exercise loving authority shaped by Scripture.
His firm stance on discipline countered the permissive parenting trends of his era, always teaching that paddling should never harm but instead lovingly establish godly boundaries. This biblical approach became the cornerstone of his widespread influence.
Dobson’s ministry expanded through his Focus on the Family broadcasts and resources that reached millions.
They reinforced the sanctity of life, the biblical definition of marriage, and the importance of strong families.
Unwavering in his convictions, Dobson urged Christians to resist societal tides undermining biblical truth, strongly opposing abortion, gender redefinition, and attacks on religious liberty. His involvement in founding advocacy groups and advising presidents exemplified godly stewardship in the public arena.
“Do we as Christians need to be liked so badly that we choose to remain silent in response to the killing of babies, the spreading of homosexual propaganda to our children, the distribution of condoms and immoral advice to our teenagers, and the undermining of marriage as an institution? Would Jesus have ignored these wicked activities?”
Dobson was praised by Franklin Graham as a defender of the family and by Albert Mohler as a difference-maker in politics and a faithful friend, echoing the deep impact he had on generations of believers.
The Alliance Defending Freedom recognized him as a mighty voice for truth and a servant of Christ whose influence will continue through those he inspired and equipped.
Dr. James Dobson’s life stands as a testimony to the power of living out Christian convictions. Let us continue his legacy by boldly championing faith, family, and freedom in our homes and nation.