I grew up in a church tradition that was far removed from the fundamentalist and dispensationalist circles that revered John MacArthur. I don’t think I read a MacArthur book, or had heard much about him, until I was stirred by The Gospel According to Jesus as a college student.
Since then, I’ve read many of his books and listened to many of his sermons—both online and in person. What I will remember about John most is his unwavering commitment to expositional preaching. Even today, when I meet a “MacArthur” guy or a “MacArthur” church, I know that they will be absolutely committed to the inspiration, inerrancy, and authority of the Bible—and the verse-by-verse teaching of that Bible. That is a tremendous legacy to leave behind.
Over the past 15 years, I preached with John at different conferences and in his own church. In all my interactions with him—at a conference, on the phone, or in a private meeting—he was always a model of gentlemanly warmth and magnanimity. It is to his credit that I’ve encountered the same gracious spirit (in abundance) at Grace Community Church and The Master’s Seminary and The Master’s University.
John was never anything but kind and encouraging to me, which, I’m sure, has been the experience of many other younger men. I give thanks for his Bible-shaped life and his Bible-saturated ministry.
For more reflections from some of the T4G speakers see Tributes for John MacArthur at 9Marks.
