John MacArthur

John MacArthur (1939–2025) was an American pastor, theologian, and author recognized for his extensive work in expository preaching. He founded and led Grace to You, a widely syndicated Bible teaching program, and served as the longtime pastor of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California. MacArthur also held leadership roles at The Master's University and The Master's Seminary. His ministry spanned decades, during which he completed a comprehensive New Testament sermon series and authored over 150 books, including the widely distributed MacArthur Study Bible. He was a significant voice in evangelical Christianity until his passing.

MacArthur's theological framework was characterized by Calvinistic beliefs, cessationism (the belief that certain spiritual gifts ceased after the apostolic age), Young Earth creationism, complementarianism regarding gender roles, and a strong emphasis on 'Lordship salvation.' He advocated for a literal interpretation of Scripture and held conservative views on social issues, opposing same-sex marriage and the ordination of women. His ministry and teachings, while influential, also generated debate and controversy within evangelical circles regarding theological interpretations and responses to contemporary issues.

John MacArthur established Grace to You in 1977, a radio and television ministry that broadcast his sermons nationally. This program grew from recorded messages delivered at Grace Community Church, where he served as pastor from 1969 until his death in 2025. Over his extensive career, MacArthur completed a 42-year sermon series covering the entirety of the New Testament, demonstrating a commitment to in-depth biblical exposition. He also held emeritus positions at The Master's University and The Master's Seminary, institutions he helped lead. His broadcasts and writings made him a prominent figure in evangelical circles for decades.

MacArthur adhered to Calvinistic theology, including the doctrine of irresistible grace and perseverance of the saints. He was a staunch cessationist, believing that miraculous sign gifts like prophecy and speaking in tongues were temporary and ceased with the apostles, which led him to critique the Charismatic movement. His views also included Young Earth creationism and complementarianism, asserting that biblical roles for men and women in church leadership are distinct and that women should not preach to or exercise authority over men. He strongly promoted 'Lordship salvation,' emphasizing that true salvation involves submission to Jesus as Lord.

As an author, John MacArthur produced a substantial body of work, with over 150 books to his name. His MacArthur Study Bible achieved significant sales, exceeding one million copies and earning a Gold Medallion Book Award. He was also involved in the creation of the Legacy Standard Bible (LSB), an updated version of the New American Standard Bible. His writings covered theological topics, biblical interpretation, and Christian living, solidifying his reputation as a prolific scholar and teacher within conservative evangelicalism. He was recognized by Christianity Today as a highly influential preacher of his time.

“MacArthur said that modern "visions, revelations, voices from heaven... dreams, speaking in tongues, prophecies, out-of-body experiences, trip to heaven, anointings, miracles [are] all false, all lies, all deceptions attributed falsely to the Holy Spirit."”

“He described the Charismatic movement as having "stolen the Holy Spirit and created a golden calf, and they're dancing around the golden calf as if it were the Holy Spirit."”

“With respect to sexual orientation, he asserted that "no one is gay" as "God didn't hardwire anybody" to be gay any more than he "hardwires" individuals to be adulterers or bank robbers.”

“He said, "You must receive Jesus Christ for who He is, both Lord and Savior, to be truly saved."”

“Regarding eternal security, he felt that "It should never be presented merely as a matter of being once saved, always saved with no regard for what you believe or do. The writer also states frankly that only those who continue living holy lives will enter the Lord's presence."”