Report Details Sexual Abuse Allegations
An independent investigation has found that Mike Bickle, founder of the International House of Prayer-Kansas City (IHOPKC), sexually abused 17 women, including minors. The report, conducted by Firefly Independent Sexual Abuse Investigations, states that some instances constituted rape and that the abuse dates back to the 1970s. Victims experienced profound emotional, psychological, and spiritual harm, according to the findings.
Bickle and his Executive Leadership Team (ELT) allegedly showed deliberate indifference to abuse reports, discouraging victims from involving law enforcement. This inaction allowed the abuse to continue unchecked, the report states.
Investigation Commissioned by Tikkun Global
Tikkun Global, a Messianic Jewish network, commissioned and funded the investigation following allegations of abuse at IHOPKC dating back to the 1990s. Firefly conducted more than 220 interviews for its 68-page report. This is the first official investigation confirming more than a dozen victims, with previous reports identifying only a handful.
Former IHOPKC staffer Susan Tuma called this a “new season: Accountability” on social media. Some women had already come forward with allegations, but the full scale of abuse was previously unknown.
Allegations of Manipulation and Cover-Ups
The report describes how Bickle used prophecy to manipulate victims, isolating and controlling them while also creating situations where they saw him undressed and aroused. He allegedly conducted “Matthew 18 Meetings” to silence and minimize victims.
IHOPKC formally and permanently separated from Bickle in December 2023 for “inappropriate behavior”, but critics argue that the organization mishandled abuse allegations. Several victims refused to cooperate with a previous third-party investigation, questioning its independence.
IHOPKC Faces Fallout Amid Declining Support
The revelations have led to IHOPKC’s decline, with the closure of its associated Forerunner Church. However, its 24/7 prayer room, founded on Bickle’s claimed prophetic vision, remains operational.
IHOPKC has not endorsed the Firefly investigation, distancing itself from the findings. A Pastor Recommendation Team (PRT) of psychologists and church leaders will review the report and make recommendations, though Tikkun Global has no authority to enforce action.
Survivors and Advocates Seek Accountability
Many survivors and former IHOPKC leaders are calling for accountability. Last month, Tikkun Global faced criticism for removing Ron Cantor, a strong advocate for survivors, from its advisory team. Following backlash, Cantor was reinstated.
Survivors and advocates hope the investigation’s findings will lead to change. However, whether IHOPKC leadership will act on the report’s recommendations remains uncertain.
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IHOPKC Founder Mike Bickle Sexually Abused 17 Women, Investigation Finds
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