Liberty mourns the loss of stalwart evangelical luminary Dr. John MacArthur
July 16, 2025 : By Office of Communications & Public Engagement
Liberty University mourns the loss of renowned pastor, biblical scholar, and prolific author John MacArthur, who died Monday at the age of 86.
The theologian, known for his straightforward, no-nonsense expository preaching, led Grace Community Church in Los Angeles for 56 years. It became the center of the cultural and political hub for numerous social movements that swept America over the decades. This included his twilight years of ministry during the tumultuous COVID-19 season when MacArthur, out of biblical conviction, defied public health officials by reopening his church and serving his local community. The state of California later apologized to Grace Community and paid legal restitution.
Pastor MacArthur has spoken at Liberty on multiple occasions, including a 2011 Convocation in which he addressed students on the veracity of biblical translations and the use of the word “servant.” His address coincided with the release of his book, “Slave: The Hidden Truth About Your Identity in Christ.”
“Dr. John MacArthur was a steadfast and faithful preacher whose unwavering commitment to biblical truth profoundly shaped countless lives around the world, including our own at Liberty University,” said Liberty Chancellor Jonathan Falwell. “His legacy as a pastor and teacher in the faith will continue to inspire many generations to come. Please join me in praying for John’s wife, Patricia, and their entire family as we mourn his passing but rejoice that his faith has now become sight in the presence of the Lord.”
MacArthur graduated from Talbot Theological Seminary in 1969 before his tenure at Grace Community Church. More than a pastor, MacArthur was the president and chancellor of The Master’s University, and he reached millions through the ministry “Grace to You.” MacArthur’s books and commentaries have been translated into over 40 languages.
“At Liberty University, we are deeply grateful for Dr. MacArthur’s leadership and influence, which has impacted the lives of our students and alumni for decades,” said Liberty President Dondi E. Costin. “His ministry was a testament to the power of God’s Word, plainly spoken with conviction and courage. Though we grieve his passing, we celebrate Dr. MacArthur’s enduring legacy and eternal reward.”
MacArthur never shied away from preaching truth, whether in the pulpit or on the national stage. His unwavering stance in favor of life from conception to natural death, and against a multitude of unbiblical ideologies seeping into churches around the world, encouraged other Christians to stand for truth with boldness and in love.
MacArthur’s unshakable commitment to God’s Truth will be remembered for permeating the hearts and minds of millions of people in America and around the globe.
He is survived by his wife of 61 years, Patricia, and their four children, 15 grandchildren, and 9 great-grandchildren. Liberty invites all university administration and staff to pray for the MacArthur family during this time of deep sorrow. As they mourn this loss and celebrate the life of God’s faithful servant, may they find comfort and strength in God’s presence.
