Crosswalk

Service Honoring John MacArthur

During a service at Grace Community Church on Saturday, Matt MacArthur, the eldest son of the late Rev. John MacArthur, shared memories of his father’s final moments. “His courage and faith were particularly pronounced in those last days,” Matt reflected.

“My dad was incredibly brave and clear. He was a cherished husband, father, and grandfather,” he continued. “His determination never faltered. The man who preached like a lion stood at the end of eternity with the same steadfast courage.”

His father’s last words were simple yet profound: “Son, be faithful.” Matt emphasized that his dad didn’t encourage him to “write a book” or “become a keynote speaker”; he just wanted him to be faithful.

“What a model,” he added.

Matt also recounted his father’s inspiration from the apostle Paul. He quoted him saying, “Death, where is your sting? I feel there is no sting. Grace has overwhelmed my sinful heart. What a gift. What a gift. Grace is the ultimate power because it pushes away sin. It’s all grace. I don’t deserve it. I lived to see my grandchildren, and I pray you all will be well done.”

The service also featured remarks from various well-known Christian leaders, including John Piper, Alistair Begg, Sinclair B. Ferguson, and Joni Eareckson Tada.

Watch: Additional John MacArthur Service

John MacArthur served as the pastoral leader at Grace Community Church for 56 years. He passed away last month at the age of 86 after battling pneumonia and various health issues over the previous year, including heart procedures and lung surgery. He had also been hospitalized in 2023 after struggling to breathe during an hour-long sermon, yet he remained committed to his mission.

Just before his passing, he delivered his final public sermon on November 24, 2024, discussing God’s faithfulness and the purpose of suffering despite his health challenges.