Tributes have been paid to the life and legacy of Dr James Dobson — a champion of biblical morality and traditional family values for American culture and public policy.
During his lifetime, Dobson was founder of Focus on the Family, an author of seminal books on Christian marriage and parenting, and a prominent opponent to abortion and same-sex marriage.
Announcing his death last week, Focus on the Family gave thanks for “his legacy of family ministry” and rejoiced in the knowledge “that he is now in the presence of our Saviour”.
Reflecting on his friend’s lifetime of Christian service, Dr Albert Mohler hailed him as “one of the most trusted voices speaking into family life” and attributed him with helping “awaken evangelicals to a political responsibility”.
Franklin Graham said Dobson had “stood for morality and Biblical values” and described him as “one of the most influential Christian leaders” in the US “who saw the importance of faith in culture”.
Tony Perkins, President of Family Research Council, a campaign group set up by Dobson in the 1980s to protect marriage and family, praised Dobson’s “Christ-honouring impact upon the family” and the “new focus” he had brought to public policy “on the timelessness of family”.
He added: “In every sphere in which he engaged — as an author, psychologist, teacher, policy expert and national leader — he served the cause of Christ and proclaimed God’s faithfulness to His people.”
Dobson also helped to found Alliance Defending Freedom. Its CEO Kristen Waggoner said that the “world has lost a mighty voice for truth” and expressed gratitude for the “vision and inspiration” he had provided to the religious liberty group.
Dr Dobson is survived by Shirley, his wife of 64 years, and their two children.
Humphrey Dobson
Why is it important for Christians to promote the truth of God’s Word in the public square? Why should we seek to influence public policy? The Bible gives many reasons to be a Christian influence. Here are ten.