John MacArthur, a nationally known preacher and one of the most enduring voices in American evangelicalism, has died at the age of 86.

According to The Christian Post, MacArthur’s passing follows a half-century of ministry marked by theological conviction, controversy, and deep influence within conservative Christian circles.

Born in Los Angeles on June 19, 1939, John Fullerton MacArthur Jr. came from a lineage that included distant ties to General Douglas MacArthur. He earned his undergraduate degree from Los Angeles Pacific College and later graduated from Talbot Theological Seminary at Biola University with a Master of Divinity.

In 1969, he was appointed pastor-teacher of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California. Over the decades, MacArthur would transform the church into a hub for Bible teaching, frequently filling its 3,000-seat auditorium through two Sunday morning services. His pastoral role continued for more than fifty years until recent health problems began to limit his public presence.

MacArthur also extended his teaching beyond the pulpit. His Bible-centered sermons were broadcast nationally through his radio program and local television ministry. Throughout his life, he preached at least 3,300 sermons and authored or edited more than 400 books and study guides.

Building Institutions and Stirring Controversy

In 1986, MacArthur co-founded The Master’s University and Seminary, where he served as president for over 30 years. He stepped down in 2018 amid concerns related to the school’s accreditation but remained an influential figure on its board and within the evangelical education arena.

MacArthur’s theological stances frequently sparked backlash, especially his criticism of the Charismatic movement and female preachers. In 2013, he hosted the “Strange Fire” conference and released a book of the same name that labeled the Charismatic movement a source of doctrinal error and scandal.

The publication drew sharp criticism from fellow Christians, including Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, who defended the spiritual integrity of Pentecostal and Charismatic communities while challenging MacArthur's sweeping generalizations.

Comments on Women in Ministry Drew Fire

The pastor further ignited debate in a 2019 conference when he dismissively told Bible teacher Beth Moore to "go home" during a public forum. He followed that comment by asserting there is no biblical basis to support women in pastoral roles, a view that led to broader discussions across denominational lines.

Other evangelical leaders, including Max Lucado, responded thoughtfully, urging male church leaders to listen to their female counterparts and recognize the value of women’s contributions to ministry. Moore herself referenced her calling from God as a justification for her continued teaching efforts.

MacArthur's theological positions remained consistent even during public scrutiny. He believed his critiques aligned with his understanding of Scripture and often framed his views as a defense of biblical orthodoxy rather than cultural accommodation.

Clashes With Government and Legal Aftermath

His theology was also tested during the COVID-19 pandemic. Though initially compliant with lockdown guidelines, MacArthur later reopened Grace Community Church for in-person services in defiance of state restrictions.

This decision triggered months of legal opposition from Los Angeles County and state health authorities. In 2021, the parties reached a settlement, with California agreeing to pay $800,000 in legal costs on grounds that religious freedom had been infringed.

Speaking at the time, MacArthur emphasized the supremacy of Christ's authority over church gatherings, stating the government had crossed a line by prohibiting worship. The Thomas More Society, which represented the church, called the outcome a victory for religious liberty.

Recent Health Struggles and Final Days

In his later years, MacArthur faced a series of serious health challenges. He was hospitalized on Jan. 1, 2023, for artery blockage and was forced to step away from regular preaching duties mid-2024 due to ongoing complications involving his heart, lungs and kidneys.

Grace elder Tom Patton confirmed that MacArthur underwent three surgeries in the latter half of 2024. He appeared briefly via video at The Shepherds Conference earlier in 2025, acknowledging his health decline and expressing gratitude for his years in ministry.

“I realize I’m on the last lap,” MacArthur said in his address, reflecting on the concluding chapter of his ministerial life with a tone of thankfulness and resolution.

Legacy and Reflections From Followers

MacArthur died following hospitalization for pneumonia, according to a statement released Monday evening by Grace to You, his teaching ministry. The group shared, “Our hearts are heavy, yet rejoicing,” announcing that MacArthur had “entered into the presence of the Savior.”

Tributes poured in shortly after his death was made public. Theologian Owen Strachan wrote, “Rest in peace, lion of faith,” and urged prayer for MacArthur’s family, his congregation and those mourning his loss.

He is survived by Patricia, his wife of over 60 years, their four children, along with 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. MacArthur’s influence is expected to persist through his extensive body of written work, his broadcasting legacy and generations of pastors and students shaped by his ministry.