Pastor John F. MacArthur, known for his leadership at Grace Community Church in Los Angeles, is currently hospitalised with pneumonia as of July 2025. This health crisis comes amidst scrutiny over his controversial past, including allegations of mishandling abuse cases and his defiance during the COVID-19 pandemic.
MacArthur, who is also the founder of the educational program Grace to You, has been a significant figure in Christian circles, often described as one of the most influential pastors. His recent health issues have prompted renewed interest in his history, particularly incidents that have sparked backlash.
Allegations of Abuse Handling
In 2022, MacArthur faced allegations related to his treatment of a female church member who sought help regarding domestic abuse. Reports indicate that in 2002, this woman informed church leaders about her husband’s abusive behaviour, expecting support. Instead, MacArthur allegedly instructed his congregation to treat her as an “unbeliever,” leading to her excommunication from the church. According to The Roys Report, he stated, “This is what the Lord wants… discipline… to be put out of the church, to be publicly shamed.”
This incident has raised questions about the church’s approach to abuse and the support offered to victims. Critics argue that MacArthur’s response reflects a broader issue within some religious communities regarding the treatment of abuse survivors.
Legal Battles During the Pandemic
MacArthur’s controversies extended to the COVID-19 pandemic, during which he publicly contested the severity of the crisis. He famously declared, “There is no pandemic,” while refusing to close his church, defying local health mandates. This defiance led to a lawsuit from Los Angeles County, which sought to enforce public health measures.
In response, MacArthur countersued, claiming violations of his freedom of religion. The legal dispute concluded with a settlement, where both the county and the state of California agreed to pay him $400,000. The county articulated that resolving the litigation was a responsible action following a ruling from the U.S. Supreme Court regarding public health measures at places of worship.
Current Health Status
As of July 2025, MacArthur’s health is a significant concern. Tom Patton, the associate pastor at Grace Community Church, informed the congregation that MacArthur was admitted to the hospital for pneumonia. He remarked, “He was admitted into the hospital and may be in the presence of the Lord soon.” This follows a series of health issues for MacArthur, including a diagnosis of atrial fibrillation in 2023, which necessitated surgery for cardiac stents and catheter treatment.
Further complications arose throughout 2024, with multiple surgeries required for an aorta replacement and a procedure to address lung fluid accumulation. Earlier in 2025, MacArthur spent two weeks in the hospital for kidney, lung, and heart-related issues, underscoring a challenging health trajectory.
As MacArthur battles pneumonia, his controversies serve as a reminder of the complexities within religious leadership and the ongoing discussions about accountability and support for abuse survivors within faith communities.
