Despite videos circulating online, Pastor John MacArthur “is alive and recovering from his recent surgery.” That confirmation comes from Phil Johnson, executive director of MacArthur’s Grace to You ministry.
On Thursday (Oct. 3), Johnson wrote on X, “Someone sent me a link to a YouTube page with at least three videos (in official-sounding ‘breaking news’ style, replete with CNN’s logo) purporting to announce that John MacArthur has died. It’s a sinister lie.”
MacArthur, 85, had successful heart-valve replacement surgery on July 15. One month later, he shared a health update while speaking to students at the Master’s Seminary. The Bible teacher and longtime pastor of Grace Community Church (GCC) in Sun Valley, California, admitted feeling weak and having some difficulty breathing.
Although MacArthur admitted he didn’t know “how much time the Lord is going to give me” yet on earth, he said he’s “incredibly blessed” to remain. In January 2023, after falling ill during a New Year’s Day worship service, MacArthur had successful surgery to clear artery blockages.
Misleading Videos Imply John MacArthur Has Died
On Oct. 1, an account called “Celebrities Who Died Today” posted a four-minute video on YouTube headlined “Pastor John MacArthur Is Announced Dead At 85.” As of Oct. 4, the video has more than 11,500 views.
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The narrator begins, “Just moments ago, news came out that has deeply upset the entire Christian community. The family of Pastor John MacArthur, a beloved figure and spiritual leader, has confirmed devastating news about his health.”
Only later does the video indicate the pastor is still alive, noting, “Today we face the possibility of losing this incredible man.” Although the clip promises “details of this heartbreaking announcement,” it later hedges, “the specifics are still being revealed.” The narrator recaps MacArthur’s faith, achievements, and legacy, saying the news about him “comes as a reminder of the fragility of life.”
In the comments section, some people are posting sincere condolences about MacArthur’s supposed passing. Others are debunking the false information. “While I hate to post a comment and bring more engagement to this, please people, look this up elsewhere,” someone wrote. “There are no other reports of John MacArthur passing away. So let’s wait and see, and continue to pray for his health.”
Pastor John MacArthur Has Experienced ‘Grace Upon Grace’
This morning (Oct. 4), the same YouTube account posted another video about MacArthur’s rumored death. Headlined “Pastor John MacArthur’s Sudden Passing Leaves Millions in Tears,” the 11-minute clip refers to the preacher’s “last message.”
