Mike Bickle, born on July 17, 1955, in Kansas City, Missouri, is an American evangelical leader best known for founding the International House of Prayer (IHOPKC). Significant achievements and controversies mark his journey from a young athlete to a prominent religious figure.
Early Life and Conversion
At 15, Mike Bickle experienced a pivotal moment when his football coach sponsored his attendance at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes conference in Estes Park, Colorado. This event led to his commitment to evangelical Christianity, steering his life toward ministry.
Ministry and Founding of IHOPKC
In 1999, Bickle established the International House of Prayer in Kansas City, emphasizing continuous prayer and worship. IHOPKC became renowned for its 24/7 prayer meetings, a practice that began on September 19, 1999, and continued uninterrupted for years. The organization also launched a Bible college and various internships, attracting thousands of participants globally.
Theological Contributions
Bickle’s teachings focus on eschatology, prayer, and fasting, with a particular emphasis on cultivating a deep passion for Jesus and understanding prophetic scriptures. He interprets the Song of Songs as an allegory of the relationship between the church and God. He advocates for Christians to pray for the spiritual salvation of the Jewish people.
Authorship
Throughout his career, Bickle authored several books, including:
- Passion for Jesus: Cultivating Extravagant Love for God (1994)
- Growing in the Prophetic (1996/2008)
- The Pleasures of Loving God (2000)
- The Rewards of Fasting (2005)
These works delve into themes of spiritual intimacy, prophetic ministry, and the significance of prayer and fasting in the Christian faith.
Personal Life
Bickle is married to Diane, and together they have two sons, both of whom are married, and six grandchildren.
Despite his public ministry, Bickle has maintained a relatively private personal life.
Controversies and Allegations
In late 2023, Mike Bickle faced serious allegations of sexual misconduct spanning decades, involving multiple women. He admitted to certain “moral failures,” leading to his dismissal from IHOPKC in December 2023.
Further accusations emerged in February 2024, including claims of grooming and sexual abuse dating back to the 1980s.
Net Worth and Physical Attributes
Estimates of Bickle’s net worth vary, with figures ranging from $1 million to $5 million, primarily accrued through his roles in ministry and authorship.
Details about his height and weight are not publicly documented.
Legacy
Mike Bickle influence in the evangelical community is significant, particularly through the establishment of IHOPKC and his theological teachings. However, his legacy is now overshadowed by the serious allegations and admissions of misconduct, prompting ongoing discussions about accountability and integrity within religious leadership.
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