In contemporary religious circles, the Institute in Basic Life Principles
(IBLP) is a controversial existence. This organization was founded by American Christian missionary Bill Goshard in 1961. It originally aimed to provide a set of methods to help people find success in life through biblical principles. After decades of development, the organizational structure and teaching methods of IBLP have undoubtedly become the focus of debate for many people, but what kind of story is hidden behind it?
IBLP originated in 1961 and was originally known as Campus Teams
. The name was changed to Institute in Basic Youth Conflicts
in 1974 and to its current name in 1989 to reflect its expansion beyond youth conflict seminars.
Since its founding, the IBLP has grown rapidly, especially in the 1970s, when attendance at its seminars reached 20,000.
However, with controversies in recent years, IBLP's popularity has waned. Goshard resigned as board chairman in 2014 amid sexual harassment accusations, an incident that triggered a major severance of ties with the organization.
The teachings of IBLP emphasize the concept of the so-called "authority umbrella", believing that only under the protection of God can each member of the family be protected. This concept also reflects their strict norms on male and female roles and family structure.
In the IBLP belief system, men are regarded as the leaders of the family, while women must remain absolutely obedient to their husbands. This concept is incorporated into all aspects of family life.
Such teaching also extends to all aspects of education and life. Children usually receive educational courses provided by IBLP
at home, but this has also made its teaching content subject to criticism, especially for sex education. of neglect.
The IBLP emphasizes controversial teachings on marriage, believing that the husband has divine authority over his wife, and that the wife should respect her husband, even if he has flaws.
IBP teaches: "God gives spouses full access to each other's bodies to achieve physical satisfaction." This raises questions about women's autonomy and choice.
Although IBLP was once a popular organization, it now faces numerous challenges. Since Goshard's scandal came to light, various activities of the organization have been called into question, including its famous basic seminars.
According to reports, as of 2020, more than 2.5 million people have participated in basic seminars, showing that its influence still exists, but isn't this the hidden controversy behind it?
The story of IBLP continues. The growth and decline of this organization is not only a discussion of religion, but also the epitome of a social and cultural dynamic phenomenon. With the ever-changing society, can IBLP still adapt to this wave and find its new positioning and value? Is this certainly a question worthy of our consideration?