Church leaders with Grace Community Church say John MacArthur, ‘may be in the presence of the Lord soon’

TEXAS GOSPEL STAFF

John MacArthur, the well-known California author, speaker and pastor, has been admitted to hospital with pneumonia. The news was shared with the congregation at Grace Community Church in Sun Valley during a Sunday morning service. Church leaders spoke openly about the seriousness of his condition, acknowledging that he may soon be called home to be with the Lord. Pastor Tom Patton, a longtime member of the church’s leadership, invited the congregation to pray for MacArthur and his family during this difficult time.

Over the past couple of years, MacArthur’s health has faced ongoing setbacks. In early 2023, he experienced breathing complications shortly after preaching, which led to multiple heart surgeries and a lung procedure. Following an extended hospital stay, he returned home but was unable to resume his regular preaching schedule. Though he remained hopeful and expressed a desire to return to ministry, his physical challenges have kept him from public appearances and key church events throughout 2024.

During the Sunday service, Patton offered a heartfelt prayer, asking for strength and peace for MacArthur’s wife, Patricia, along with their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. He spoke of MacArthur’s lifelong faithfulness and devotion to his calling, and prayed for God’s grace to surround the entire family as they walk through this uncertain time. The church community was encouraged to rally in prayer and support for a man whose ministry has shaped lives for generations.

For over five decades, MacArthur has been a significant figure in Evangelical circles, known both for his preaching and his Grace to You broadcast, which reaches audiences worldwide. He has written extensively on theology and Scripture, leaving a lasting legacy through thousands of sermons and published works. In a reflective interview last year, MacArthur acknowledged the realities of aging, saying he was aware he was nearing the final chapter of his earthly journey — a truth he faced with faith and gratitude.

The Meaning of ‘It Is Finished’ in John 19:30

AMY TURNER

When Jesus was about to die on the cross, he spoke powerful words recorded in John 19:30: “It is finished.” These words were more than a statement about his suffering ending. In the original Greek, the word used means something completed or fully accomplished — a task brought to its final purpose.

Jesus wasn’t simply announcing his death. He was declaring that the mission God had given him was fully achieved. Every prophecy written about the Messiah was now fulfilled. Every demand of the law was satisfied. Most importantly, the price for humanity’s sin was completely paid. There was nothing left to be done.

For believers today, this means that salvation is whole and perfect in Christ. People cannot earn it by their own efforts, nor can anything be taken away from what Jesus accomplished. The cross was not a moment of failure, but a moment of absolute victory.

For by one offering He has perfected for all time those who are sanctified.

Hebrews 10:14

A Busy Summer for the Williamsons!

SPECIAL AG PUBLICITY / AMY TURNER

Nashville, TN (July 10, 2025) — REAL Southern Gospel recording artists, The Williamsons, have hit the ground running for this summer season.

Their current single, “Message to the World,” written by group member Lisa Williamson, is making waves across the United States and has secured a spot in both the Singing News and Scoops Magazine Top 40 charts this month, as well as reaching the Top 20 in the Singing News Weekly Chart.

Provided by YouTube; ℗ 2022 Family Music Group; Lisa Williamson/Eternal Homestead Pub/BMI, williamsonsmusic.com

The group has also been hard at work in the studio, recording their upcoming album under the REAL Southern Gospel label, with their long-time producer Les Butler at the helm. As always, Les’s productions showcase some of the finest musicians, songwriters, and orchestrations in Southern Gospel music. Early indications suggest this could be their best album yet!

“This is our third album together,” says Butler. “I’m as excited as I’ve ever been to produce music with this incredible family and mixed quartet, The Williamsons!”

The Williamsons have performed at many of the premier venues across the United States. Most recently, they were the featured artists at The Great Passion Play in Eureka Springs, Arkansas, where they sang to a packed audience.

Faith Amidst the Storm: Jesus’ Authority

FLOYD ROGERS

Out on the open water, a terrible storm struck. Strong winds sent powerful waves crashing against a small boat carrying the apostles. Terrified, they hurried to wake Jesus, certain they were about to drown. But Jesus did not panic or express fear. Instead, He rose and, seeing a light in the darkness, spoke calmly to the raging waters. “Peace, be still,” He commanded — and at once, the wind stopped, and the sea became perfectly calm.

This moment was more than just a miracle. It showed that Jesus holds complete authority over nature, as the Creator of the world. Whether people choose to accept His lordship or not, it does not change who He is. He remains sovereign over everything He has made.

And He got up and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Hush, be still.” And the wind died down and [a]it became perfectly calm.

Mark 4:39

Transform Your Life by Focusing on God’s Will

FLOYD ROGERS

What a person chooses to seek most in life reveals what matters to them. When someone’s thoughts are centred on God — when their mind is filled with spiritual things, surrender, and a desire to follow God’s ways — it changes the direction of their life. Read 2 Corinthians 10:5 Doesn’t this teach us that we should bring every thought under the authority of Christ, making Him the focus of our thinking and decisions.

When seeking God’s will becomes the most important goal, other worries lose their power. Jesus made this clear in Matthew 6:33 “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be provided to you.” When a person places God’s kingdom and character above everything else, their needs will be met.

Focusing on God shapes a life of peace and trust. Putting Him first in thoughts, choices, and daily living brings strength and direction for whatever comes next.