John MacArthur, Influential Evangelical Preacher, Dies at 86

• Jul 15, 2025

John MacArthur, the influential evangelical pastor known for his strong biblical preaching and decades of ministry, has died at age 86.

MacArthur passed away on Monday, as confirmed by Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, Los Angeles, where he served as senior pastor for over 50 years. The church praised his “56 years of faithful ministry,” highlighting his dedication to teaching Scripture and leading with conviction despite recent health issues.

On Sunday, church pastor Tom Patton informed the congregation that MacArthur had been hospitalized with pneumonia. Despite battling various health problems in recent years, including heart and lung procedures, MacArthur continued to preach and guide church ministries until the end. In a recent video message, he acknowledged his declining health but expressed gratitude for his life’s work, saying, “I realize I’m on the last lap… I am all thanks and praise to God.”

MacArthur gained national attention during the COVID-19 pandemic when he defied Los Angeles County’s health orders by holding indoor worship services without masks or physical distancing. This led to legal battles with the county, which were eventually settled in 2021 with the church receiving compensation. MacArthur called the settlement a “monumental victory” for religious freedom.

Beyond his local congregation, MacArthur’s influence stretched across the globe. His radio program Grace to You and bestselling MacArthur Study Bible reached millions, with translations in dozens of languages. He was known for expository preaching — explaining the Bible verse by verse — and for avoiding trends in modern evangelicalism, favoring a traditional, theologically conservative approach.

He was not afraid of controversy, often criticizing charismatic movements and strongly opposing women in pastoral roles. He publicly rebuked high-profile evangelicals such as Beth Moore and Paula White-Cain. Evangelical leaders praised his impact: Franklin Graham called him “one of America’s great Bible teachers,” while Al Mohler said MacArthur was “a lion of the pulpit.”

MacArthur also trained future church leaders through the Master's University and Seminary. He is survived by his wife Patricia, four children, 15 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren. Grace Community Church asked for prayers as they mourn the loss of a man they described as a “beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.”