WEBSITE TITLE:Kay Arthur, a widely respected Bible teacher, author, and cofounder of the global Precept ministry, died Tuesday at the age of 91.

According to CBN, Arthur’s lifelong commitment to Scripture and discipleship reached millions through Bible studies, books, and international programs that continue to shape Christian lives around the world.

Arthur's journey into ministry began at age 29, following a personal crisis and painful divorce from her first husband, Tom Goetz. In the wake of that turmoil, she experienced a profound spiritual transformation that led her to become a Christian. This shift marked the beginning of a life that would impact generations through Scripture.

After her conversion, Arthur enrolled at Tennessee Temple University in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It was there she met her future husband, missionary Jack Arthur, with whom she would go on to shape a ministry that crossed continents. The couple later served together as missionaries in Mexico before returning to the United States with their young son, David.

Once back home, the Arthurs began hosting Bible studies out of their living room. What started as a small gathering steadily grew into an organized effort to help others study the Bible deeply and independently. That grassroots effort became what is now Precept Ministries, an influential Christian organization now operating in nearly 190 countries.

From Home Groups to Global Ministry

Precept provides Bible study resources in more than 100 languages. Arthur herself wrote hundreds of Bible studies and books that shaped the spiritual lives of people across cultures and denominations. Her passion for helping others understand Scripture became the driving force behind the growth of the ministry.

In 1991, Arthur launched the syndicated Bible study program "Precepts for Life." She hosted the show for nearly three decades, using the platform to walk viewers through Scripture in practical, applicable ways. The show reached an estimated 75 million families and received multiple honors, including being named Best Television Teaching Program twice.

Arthur was widely admired not only for her theological insight, but also for her ability to connect biblical truths to everyday life. "When you know what God says, what He means, and how to put His truths into practice, you will be equipped for every circumstance of life," she often told her audience.

Honors and Lasting Impact

Throughout her ministry career, Arthur received significant recognition for her work. She was awarded four Gold Medallion Awards from the Evangelical Christian Publishers Association. In addition, the National Religious Broadcasters organization inducted her into their Hall of Fame and later honored her with a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Her husband and Precept cofounder, Jack Arthur, died in 2017. Despite that loss, Kay Arthur remained active in ministry until recent years, continuing to teach, write, and encourage Christians through Precept’s global outreach. Even a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2020 did not halt her commitment to the work she loved.

Arthur is survived by her three sons, along with nine grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren. Her family, along with the colleagues and students she mentored over the decades, commemorated her life with heartfelt tributes online and within their communities.

Tributes Celebrate a Life of Purpose

In a post shared by Precept, the ministry reflected on her influence, writing, “Over the past 55 years, that small outreach has grown into an international ministry discipling millions through Scripture.” The message described Arthur’s lifelong contributions through television, radio, books, and speaking engagements.

“We are so grateful for Kay’s gifts and her obedience to God’s call on her life,” the post read. "Her heart for God's gospel is reflected in the mission of her ministry to this day: engaging people in a relationship with God through knowing His Word."

Christian leaders across the country highlighted her deep love for Scripture and her spiritual strength. Author and pastor Greg Laurie called her "gracious, wise, and deeply committed to the truth of God's Word.” Tony Perkins of the Family Research Council noted her inspiration and personal encouragement, especially during his early years in ministry.

A Legacy of Strength and Action

Respected Christian thinkers like Lee Strobel and Priscilla Shirer shared their admiration as well. Strobel wrote, “The incomparable Kay Arthur graduated into glory today. A life well lived!” Shirer simply stated, “Thank you for everything, Ms. Kay. Welcome Home.”

Though now gone, Arthur’s voice continues through her work and the millions she influenced. One of her favorite Scriptures, Daniel 11:32b, encapsulated her convictions: "...the people who know their God will display strength and take action."

In their farewell message, Precept wrote, “She will be dearly missed, but we rejoice knowing that she is whole and made new in the presence of her Maker.” Her ministry, they affirmed, will carry on her vision to lead people to know God through His Word.