Keep in mind that Gothard never married...rather odd for someone who made family life the center of his teaching. It's clear now that he stayed single because he liked them young, and his work was a method of having his pick of naive girls he personally brainwashed.
Yes, Gothard has denied committing any sexual abuse or harassment. That's one denial versus thirty-four accusations.
It more than "casts a shadow". That's like the Duggars' excuse that Josh made youthful mistakes. Gothard is a greasy old predator of young women.
"I have met and talked with Gothard, and have been very impressed with what I have seen and heard from his ministry. I have seen people’s lives totally transformed for the better - leaving immorality, drugs, etc. That however will not excuse any behavior that was sexual to these girls. I hope and pray the truth does come out regardless of whether he is exposed or vindicated."
You could have a nice conversation with any criminal, but it wouldn't mean much.
Gothard's teachings aren't Biblical. He created them himself with an eye toward victimizing girls. If anyone's life has been transformed, it was because they met Jesus Christ in spite of Bill Gothard. He himself has no power to transform.
“If anyone’s life has been transformed, it was because they met Jesus Christ in spite of Bill Gothard. He himself has no power to transform.”
Agreed.
I’m going to reserve judgment on the accusations against Gothard. I am not going to defend him, but I am not ready to believe accusations he molested young girls based on what I have seen so far.
“That’s one denial versus thirty-four accusations.”
I have only seen one girl making accusations of something actually sexual. If the other 33 are merely saying he held their hands, stroked their hair, or even played footsie under the table, that is troubling but not sexual molestation.