John MacArthur Health Update
Grace Community Church elder updated congregation on beloved pastor
California megachurch pastor and author John MacArthur remains in the hospital undergoing tests as he recovers from a difficult year of health issues, including a heart-valve replacement.
On Sunday, a Grace Community Church elder updated the congregation, where MacArthur has pastored since 1969.
“Those who attend Grace Church or follow the ministry of our pastor are already aware that he suffered a series of health issues that kept him out of the pulpit and required three surgeries in the second half of 2024,” Patton said. “His recovery has been slower than expected, with occasional setbacks affecting his heart, lungs, and kidneys. Doctors have not yet discovered any single root cause for these diverse troubles, and Pastor John has been hospitalized for the past two weeks, undergoing tests and treatments.”
Last week, Grace to You Executive Director Phil Johnson also posted a social media update in response to rumors circulating that MacArthur was in a hospital dying. “John IS currently hospitalized, and the persistence of these symptoms is a concern,” Johnson said. “But the suggestion that he has been handed over to palliative care is a sinister lie, concocted by this pernicious character who has been lying about JM and GCC for 5+ years. Ignore him.”
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MacArthur has been known to keep health issues private and within a closed circle—a sentiment Johnson echoed. “Those who need to know more details do know,” he said. “There’s no conspiracy by the elders at GCC to keep people from hearing information they need to know.”
MacArthur’s health has been a persistent issue in the last year. MacArthur talked to his congregation in a sermon on November 24. “I can tell you, I’ve had three heart surgeries and a surgery on my lungs in those last few months, and I’m still here,” he said. “So thankful to the Lord for that.”
The update comes as Johnson struggles with health issues of his own. He is currently fighting cancer, and said on X (previously Twitter) that he is preparing to undergo an aggressive form of chemo before receiving a stem cell treatment to reboot his immune system.
He pushed back on pressure that he or MacArthur are obligated to provide regular social media updates on their health. People who demand such things “aren’t living in the real world,” he said.
Aside from pastoring Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, John MacArthur is Chancellor Emeritus of The Master’s University and Seminary, and featured teacher with the Grace to You media ministry.
“Please pray earnestly and steadfastly,” Patton said after his update on MacArthur. “John’s desire is to return to his beloved church soon.”
Main photo: John MacArthur delivering a Nov. 24 message at Grace Community Church / Video screenshot
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