MacArthur served as the senior pastor of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, for over 55 years, beginning in 1969. His pulpit ministry was marked by clear, careful, consecutive, verse-by-verse exposition of the Word of God. Through this commitment to biblical preaching, the Lord used him to impact thousands upon thousands. His sermons gave rise to hundreds of books, commentaries, and biblical studies, and his influence reached globally in various capacities.

Before arriving at Grace, MacArthur ministered in various pastoral and academic roles, and even briefly sang in a gospel quartet. In 1977, his preaching ministry expanded through the launch of what would become Grace to You, a media ministry that continues today. In 1985, he became president of The Master’s College (now The Master’s University), and in 1986, he founded The Master’s Seminary—institutions committed to training the next generation of pastors, leaders, and faithful Christian servants.

Throughout his life, MacArthur stood as a bold and unwavering voice in turbulent times. He was a prominent defender of the inerrancy of Scripture, justification by faith alone, complementarianism, the exclusivity of Christ, and the Lordship salvation controversy. His convictional stance on biblical cessationism, the authority of Scripture, Biblical Sexuality, and traditional marriage were rooted in deep theological commitment and truth.

In 2020, amid governmental restrictions in California, MacArthur made headlines by keeping Grace Community Church open for in-person worship, citing biblical fidelity and the lordship of Christ over His church. His boldness in that season served as an encouragement to many and a challenge to the broader evangelical world.

Though known for his firm and courageous preaching, those closest to him testify that he was gentle, humble, and deeply pastoral. He was a lion in the pulpit and a meek shepherd among the sheep—known for his kindness, clarity, and generosity in personal relationships.

John MacArthur was not a perfect man—he would be the first to say so. He was a sinner saved by grace, yet one who ran the race with endurance, kept the faith, and exalted the glory of God in Christ. By God’s grace, he was a faithful servant, and his life is worthy of honor and imitation.

Like many others, “though he died, he still speaks.” May the Lord continue to use his sermons, books, and example to strengthen the church and raise up a new generation of faithful preachers of the Word.

To God alone be the glory.