Remembering Dr. Dobson: Faith leaders recount his legacy

Focus on the Family President Jim Daly on Thursday recounted Dr. James “Jim” Dobson, Jr.’s compassion toward families who suffered trauma. The author of When God Doesn’t Make Sense had a strong emotional connection to families who suffered inexplicable tragedies, Daly said.

Dobson founded Focus on the Family in 1977 and advocated for Biblical parenting and strong traditional families. He ultimately left Focus on the Family and founded the Dr. James Dobson Family Institute in 2010, where he continued ministry through another nationally syndicated talk show, Family Talk. The ministry on Thursday shared a message remembering Dobson’s legacy, calling him a pioneer who led with integrity and compassion. Dobson founded the Family Research Council in 1983, and the organization Thursday credited him with bringing a focus on the importance of family to public policy.

What have other faith leaders said about Dobson? The president of the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, Franklin Graham, said that Dobson was a staunch defender of the family, while Pastor Greg Laurie said his long-time friend taught millions of people how to build godly families. Pastor Chuck Swindoll shared his condolences for Dobson’s family and Pastor John Hagee said Dobson’s radio programs had impacted American society for decades.

David Jeremiah of Turning Point Ministries said he met James in the mid-seventies while Jeremiah was pastoring at Blackhawk Baptist Church in Indiana. The two remained friends for decades. “His life was spent in service to others, always working to make the world a better place,” Jeremiah said.

What about political leaders? Rep. Andy Ogles, R-Tenn., and Rep. Mary Miller, R-Ill., celebrated his legacy. Former Vice-President Mike Pence said Dobson left a legacy of defending the Christian faith, while Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., said his teachings would help families stay grounded through changing societal values. 

Dig deeper: Read Myrna Brown’s obituary for Dr. Dobson.