John MacArthur, the longtime pastor of Grace Community Church in California, has been a leading voice in evangelical Christianity for over five decades. Known for his expository preaching and prolific writing, MacArthur has remained active in ministry well into his 80s. However, in July 2025, concerns about the 86-year-old’s health grew after he was hospitalized with pneumonia, according to The Roys Report.
“This week, Pastor John contracted pneumonia,” announced Tom Patton, associate pastor at Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, during a July 13 service. “He was admitted into the hospital and may be in the presence of the Lord soon.”
Find out more about Pastor John MacArthur, his health, and his personal life below.
Who Is John MacArthur?
MacArthur, born on June 19, 1939, in Los Angeles, is a prominent American evangelical pastor, author, and televangelist. He has served as the senior pastor of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, since February 1969. He also founded the media ministry “Grace to You” and spent years as president of The Master’s University and Seminary, now serving as its chancellor emeritus. MacArthur is widely recognized for his expository preaching and has written or edited over 150 books, including the bestselling MacArthur Study Bible.
Pastor John MacArthur’s Health
MacArthur has faced a series of serious health challenges since early 2023. He was first diagnosed with atrial fibrillation, which led to multiple medical interventions, including heart stents, valve replacement surgery, and lung treatment. He spent several weeks in the hospital during that time and took an extended break from ministry.
Though he returned briefly to preaching in mid-2024, his recovery remained slow. In a statement read by Grace Community Church college pastor Austin Duncan on June 15, 2025, MacArthur shared that he had undergone “a second procedure on my lungs” the previous month.
“That procedure was successful, and [I] am now back at home,” MacArthur said in a statement at the time. “The doctors are optimistic about my recovery, and I am eager to return to you once I regain my strength.”
MacArthur added, “I wanted to convey my love for all of you and my love for this church, realizing my life and times are in the hands of the Lord. My desire is to be back at church as soon as possible.”
After contracting pneumonia in July 2025, Patton said, “We place our dear pastor at the feet of the glorious Savior whom he has served so faithfully for so many years and now awaits His final command to be in his presence forever.”
Is Pastor John MacArthur Married?
MacArthur is married to Patricia “Pat” MacArthur. The couple tied the knot on August 30, 1963, and have been together for more than six decades. On August 30, 2024, MacArthur shared on Facebook that they were celebrating 61 years of marriage, referring to Patricia as his “precious” wife and his “college sweetheart for life.”
Does Pastor John MacArthur Have Kids?
Yes. MacArthur and his wife have four grown children together. They also have a large extended family, including 15 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.
During the July 13 service, Patton asked the congregation to pray for “grace upon grace” for Patricia, their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren as they navigate this difficult time.
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