John F. MacArthur

John Fullerton MacArthur Jr. (June 19, 1939 – July 14, 2025) was an American Baptist pastor, theologian, author, and broadcaster. He was the founder of Grace to You, a nationally syndicated radio and television Bible teaching program. He was also the longtime pastor of Grace Community Church, a non-denominational church in Sun Valley, California from 1969 until his death in 2025. Additionally, MacArthur served as the chancellor emeritus of The Master's University and The Master's Seminary, both based in Santa Clarita, California.

MacArthur was known for his advocacy of expository preaching, and was recognized by Christianity Today as one of the most influential Christian preachers of his era. MacArthur wrote or edited more than 150 books. His The MacArthur Study Bible has sold more than one million copies and received a Gold Medallion Book Award. In 2021, he worked with a team from The Master's Seminary and the Lockman Foundation to produce the Legacy Standard Bible (LSB), an update of the 1995 edition of the New American Standard Bible (NASB).

MacArthur’s radio and television program, Grace to You, began broadcasting in 1977. Over his decades-long ministry, he completed a 42-year sermon series covering the entire New Testament and remained a prominent voice in evangelical Christianity until his death in 2025.

Theologically, MacArthur was known for his staunch positions on cessationism, Young Earth creationism, complementarianism, and Lordship salvation, often sparking debate within evangelical circles. He criticized modern Charismatic practices, opposed same-sex marriage and the ordination of women, and promoted a literal interpretation of Scripture within dispensational theology. His ministry faced controversies, including disputes over pastoral qualifications, responses to domestic violence, and his defiance of COVID-19 public health mandates. MacArthur authored numerous books on theology, biblical interpretation, and Christian living.