John MacArthur Dead
Grace To You/X

John F. MacArthur Jr., a titan of expository preaching and the voice behind decades of verse-by-verse biblical teaching, has died at the age of 86. Known for his unwavering commitment to Scripture and a ministry that spanned over five decades, the longtime pastor of Grace Community Church in California passed away on Monday.

His ministry, which reached millions through radio, books and his best-selling MacArthur Study Bible, was rooted in his belief that 'the Bible explains the Bible'. He famously rejected emotional appeals and modern storytelling, insisting that a truly faithful sermon should remain relevant '50 years after it is preached'.

READ MORE: Did John MacArthur Die? Pastor Beat Early 2025 Death Hoax But 'May Be in the Lord's Presence Soon'

Church Confirms Pastor's Passing

MacArthur's passing was confirmed in a statement by his media ministry, Grace to You, which read: 'Our hearts are heavy, yet rejoicing, as we share the news that our beloved pastor and teacher John MacArthur has entered into the presence of the Saviour. This evening, his faith became sight.'

His death follows months of speculation. In early 2025, false rumours of his demise circulated online after he was hospitalised for heart and lung-related issues. At the time, he dismissed the claims with characteristic wit, saying: 'The rumours of my death have been greatly exaggerated. I am very much alive, though I may be in the Lord's presence soon.'

That time has now come.

A Ministry That Transcended Time and Culture

MacArthur's approach to preaching was simple but radical in its consistency: avoid trends, stay faithful to Scripture, and let the Bible speak for itself. 'It's not about me,' he once said. 'It transcends not only time, but culture.'

He preached his first sermon at Grace Community Church in 1969 and never looked back. Under his leadership, the small Sun Valley congregation grew into a global ministry, supported by radio broadcasts, an annual conference for church leaders, and The Master's Seminary, where he served as chancellor.

His 1997 MacArthur Study Bible sold over 2 million copies, and his New Testament commentary series surpassed 1 million in sales.

Unafraid of Controversy

MacArthur's no-nonsense theology often landed him in the crosshairs of critics. He publicly challenged charismatic movements, opposed female preachers, and labelled popular evangelical trends as 'easy-believism'. Even his supporters admitted his style could be combative. 'I might have come in a little more like a lamb instead of a lion,' he once said.

He also courted controversy for his defence of church leaders accused of mishandling abuse cases, and for defying California's COVID-19 restrictions by holding in-person services during the pandemic.

Yet his commitment to biblical exposition earned him devoted followers. Satirical site Babylon Bee frequently cast him as a warrior for truth, while journalist Megan Basham praised his resistance to 'relevance-chasing fads'.

A Legacy That Will Endure

MacArthur's teachings are likely to outlive him. His sermons remain accessible through Grace to You, and the MacArthur Study Bible is available in several translations. The MacArthur Daily Bible app has been downloaded more than 5 million times.

He is survived by his wife, Patricia; children Matt, Mark, Marcy and Melinda; 15 grandchildren; and nine great-grandchildren.