Rev. John MacArthur, a prominent and rigorous evangelical preacher, passed away Monday at the age of 86. He led Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, Los Angeles, for over 50 years. His ministry announced his passing on social media, following his hospitalization for pneumonia, which was shared with the congregation by Pastor Tom Patton.
MacArthur gained widespread attention during the COVID-19 pandemic for defying Los Angeles County health orders by continuing to hold indoor services without enforcing mask mandates or social distancing. However, his influence had long extended beyond Southern California, where he was raised and began pastoring at age 29.
Through his Grace to You broadcast ministry, MacArthur’s conservative theological teachings reached a global audience. His numerous books, including the widely respected MacArthur Study Bible, have been translated into many languages. Jonathan Falwell, chancellor of Liberty University, where MacArthur once gave a convocation address, said his legacy as a pastor and teacher would continue to inspire generations.
Known for his traditional style, MacArthur avoided pop culture references and emotional appeals, favoring clear, line-by-line biblical exposition. His followers admired his deep understanding of Scripture. Evangelical leader Franklin Graham praised him as one of America’s greatest Bible teachers, while Rev. Al Mohler called him “a lion of the pulpit” who helped improve preachers across the country.
MacArthur was also known for his willingness to challenge popular evangelical trends and openly criticized teachings he considered misguided, including those of the charismatic movement. He strongly advocated complementarianism, the belief in distinct roles for men and women in the church, and publicly rebuked prominent evangelical women such as Beth Moore and Paula White-Cain.
During a crowded Sunday service amid the pandemic, MacArthur told the congregation they were not acting rebelliously but were following their Lord’s command to worship together. This defiance led to lawsuits between the church and county officials, culminating in an $800,000 settlement paid to Grace Community Church in 2021, which MacArthur described as a monumental victory.
The church has also faced scrutiny over its handling of abuse allegations and support for women leaving abusive marriages. Coming from a lineage of pastors, MacArthur contributed to training future church leaders through The Master’s University and The Master’s Seminary in Southern California.
He is survived by his wife Patricia, their four adult children—Matt, Marcy, Mark, and Melinda—as well as 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
In recent years, MacArthur experienced several health challenges, including heart and lung issues. Earlier this year, he addressed his declining health in a video message, reflecting on his life and ministry with gratitude.
“I realize I’m on the last lap,” he said. “That takes on a new meaning when you know you’re on the short end of the candle. I am all thanks and praise to God for everything he’s allowed me to be a part of and everything he’s accomplished by His Word in these years of ministry.”
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