John MacArthur, a renowned Christian leader and pastor of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, has passed away at the age of 86 following a battle with pneumonia. He was survived by his wife, Patricia, four children, and fifteen grandchildren.
MacArthur’s death was announced by ‘Grace to You,’ his media ministry, with a statement expressing both grief and joy at his passage to the presence of the Savior. The announcement of his death came after associate pastor Tom Patton informed congregants at a July 13 Sunday service that MacArthur had been hospitalized with pneumonia, leading to a prognosis that he may be in the presence of the Lord soon.
Throughout his career, MacArthur’s work at Grace Community Church saw the growth of his ministry, with his morning worship services filling a 3,500-seat auditorium to capacity and attracting thousands of members to various training programs and fellowship groups. His influence extended beyond the church, as he became president of The Master’s University in 1985 and founded The Master’s Seminary, a graduate school specializing in pastoral and missionary training. He also served as president and featured teacher with Grace to You, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the distribution of his theological works.
MacArthur authored nearly 400 books and study resources, including ‘The Gospel According to Jesus’ and ‘Our Sufficiency in Christ,’ with his titles translated into over two dozen languages. His contributions to Christian literature and education have left a lasting impact on the evangelical community. His recent health challenges have been well-documented, with multiple surgeries targeting atrial fibrillation and other conditions, and ongoing hospitalizations for various ailments, including a second procedure on his lungs.
MacArthur had previously gained attention in 2020 when a California judge ruled that his church could continue holding in-person services despite state coronavirus restrictions, highlighting his role as a vocal advocate for religious freedoms. His passing marks the end of an era for the evangelical community, with a legacy of leadership, scholarship, and dedication to Christian teaching.