Nashville, TN – July 15, 2025 — HarperCollins Christian Publishing is deeply saddened at the passing of beloved pastor, theologian, and bestselling author John F. MacArthur, Jr., who died on July 14, 2025, in Santa Clarita, California, at the age of 86, due to complications from pneumonia.

A trusted voice in the evangelical community, MacArthur authored more than 150 books and study resources. Among his most notable works published by Thomas Nelson, a division of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, are the bestselling titles Twelve Ordinary Men and Twelve Extraordinary Women, each having sold more than one million copies. His suite of study Bible resources, including The MacArthur Study Bible, The MacArthur Bible Commentary, and The Gospel According to Jesus, has impacted millions, with more than 3 million units sold collectively.

He was the founder of Grace Community Church, The Master’s University, and The Master’s Seminary. His Grace to You ministry reached listeners worldwide through radio, print, and digital platforms.

“We are profoundly grateful for the life and ministry of John MacArthur. His clarity in teaching Scripture, unwavering conviction, and ministerial leadership shaped the faith of millions,” said Mark Schoenwald, President and CEO of HarperCollins Christian Publishing. “Through his bestselling works and study tools, his influence will continue to guide future generations. We extend our deepest condolences to his family, his church, and all who his legacy has impacted.”

About HarperCollins Christian Publishing
The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. comprises the Thomas Nelson, Zondervan and HarperChristian Resources publishing groups and imprints, BibleGateway.com, FaithGateway.com, StudyGateway.com and ChurchSource.com. The Company produces bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, academic resources, curriculum, audio and digital content for the Christian market space. Bible Gateway is the world’s largest Christian website with more than 20 million unique visitors each month. HarperCollins Christian Publishing is headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. with additional offices in the U.S. and Mexico. For more information, visit www.HarperCollinsChristian.com.​

For information, contact:  Lisa Beech, Senior Director of Publicity, Lisa.Beech@harpercollins.com

 

“The dominant thrust of my ministry . . . is to help make God’s living Word alive to His people. It is a refreshing adventure,” Pastor John MacArthur wrote in the preface to his New Testament Commentary series.

John MacArthur went to be with the Lord on Monday, July 14, 2025, at the age of 86.

“Pastor John MacArthur was a man of unwavering conviction and profound dedication to the clear and faithful exposition of God’s Word,” reflected Dr. Mark Jobe, president of Moody Bible Institute. “As a student, I remember being both challenged and deeply convicted by his preaching during Founders Week. Later, as a young pastor, I greatly benefited from his in-depth, verse-by-verse New Testament commentaries, which thoughtfully unpacked the context and meaning of even the most difficult passages. He once said, ‘With clarity comes conviction,’” Jobe added. “We invite everyone to join us in prayer for his wife, Patricia, his family, and the entire church community during this time of loss and transition.”

In 1969, he became pastor of Grace Community Church in Sun Valley, California, where he focused on verse-by-verse expository sermons that lasted an hour or longer.

“To study and to teach is the beginning, middle, and end of my responsibility,” he told Moody Monthly.

John MacArthur spoke at the historic Moody Bible Institute in Chicago on several occasions, including Founder’s Week, as well as pastor conferences and student chapel services.

He released several books with Moody Press (now Moody Publishers), including Can a Man Live Again (1979), Kingdom Living Here and Now (1980), Jesus’ Pattern of Prayer (1981), and Worship: The Ultimate Priority (1983).

Creating a commentary 

During his Chicago campus visits, MacArthur attracted the attention of Jerry Jenkins, then the vice president of Moody Press. “I was fascinated by Dr. MacArthur’s ability to make 50 minutes in the pulpit seem like 10 minutes,” Jenkins says. So he asked MacArthur the obvious question: “Have you ever thought of doing a New Testament commentary?”

In 1981, Jenkins received a manuscript of MacArthur’s sermon notes from the book of Hebrews, later released as the first volume of The MacArthur New Testament Commentary.

“None of us realized what a massive undertaking it was,” says Greg Thornton, former senior vice president of media at Moody Bible Institute. Thornton helped coordinate the editors who worked on the MacArthur manuscripts.

“An editor would do the initial editing to move from oral to written commentary,” Thornton says, “and then Pastor MacArthur would spend countless hours with each volume.”

To date, more than 2.8 million copies of books in the 34-Volume MacArthur New Testament Commentary Set have been sold since its first volume (Hebrews) was released in 1983

Though MacArthur was noted for his radio ministry, which has been heard on Moody Radio since the 1970s, as well as more than 150 books, perhaps his crowning achievement was still his 34-volume The MacArthur New Testament Bible Commentary.

John MacArthur will be remembered for his emphasis on expository preaching and diligent Bible study, Greg Thornton says. “For me, MacArthur and the Word go hand in hand.”

He is survived by his wife, Patricia, four children, 15 grandchildren, and nine great-grandchildren.

For more information about the life and legacy of Pastor John MacArthur, please visit the Grace Community Church website.

 

Ada, Mich. (July 17, 2025)—Baker Academic, a division of Baker Publishing Group, announces the expansion and enhancement of its editorial staff.

Dustyn Elizabeth Keepers, who held the position of Acquisitions Associate, has been promoted to Acquisitions Editor. She earned her MDiv degree from Western Theological Seminary and her PhD from Wheaton College. She previously served for seven years as an ordained minister. Keepers stated, “Throughout my career, my passion has been to serve both the church and the academy in cultivating wisdom and human flourishing, and in my new role with Baker Academic, I look forward to partnering with authors to publish high-quality books toward that same purpose.”

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Kristen Padilla has joined Baker Academic as an Acquisitions Editor. She earned her MDiv degree from Beeson Divinity School and is currently pursuing a PhD from Durham University. She offers years of experience in both seminary and publishing settings. “As a longtime admirer of Baker Academic, I’m honored to join this esteemed team and eager to partner with authors in creating outstanding resources for the classroom and academy,” said Padilla.

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Jennifer Guo has joined Baker Academic as an Acquisitions Associate. She earned her MDiv and ThM degrees from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School and is a PhD candidate at the University of Notre Dame. She also holds an MS in accounting. “Baker Academic has long been one of my favorite publishers,” stated Guo, “and I’m thrilled to join the team and support the editorial process behind the kind of thoughtful, rigorous scholarship that has helped shape both the academy and the church.”

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Executive Vice President of Academic Publishing Jim Kinney said, “I attribute much of Baker Academic’s success to the quality of the people we’ve been able to hire over the years. These three editors will enhance our team of skilled employees who work hard every day to serve authors and readers well.”

Baker Academic connects authors and readers across the broad academic and religious landscape by publishing books that explore various aspects of historic Christianity and its contemporary expressions.

Baker Publishing Group (Bethany House, Revell, Baker Books, Chosen, Brazos Press, and Baker Academic) is a leading producer of Christian resources that give insight and inspiration to readers worldwide. Our divisions reflect the broadest scope of topics, which includes fiction, self-help, inspiration, professional books, Christian living and academic titles.

Contact:  Karen Steele, (616)676-9185 x100, ksteele@bakerpublishinggroup.com

In the vein of #1 New York Times bestseller Soul Surfer, this inspiring story of loss and resilience follows the Reeder family after a horrific shark attack.

A two-week vacation to the Florida Keys meant Mary and Jameson Sr. could share the beauty of their favorite turquoise-blue waters with their four children. On that serene day at Looe Key Reef, their oldest, ten-year-old Jameson Jr., was swimming among the marine life, capturing breathtaking footage of a sea turtle when a massive bull shark attacked.

Nine miles from shore and even farther from a hospital, their son weakening, the Reeders prayed for help—and it came through a miraculous chain of events.

Rescue at the Reef is the true story of a young boy who defied death with an unshakable faith in the power of Jesus to save him. Even in immense suffering, he focused on caring for those around him, so much that it surprised even hospital staff. His unshakeable peace made an impact on patients and visitors, and his story quickly spread, drawing the attention of strangers and the media.

With reflections on faith, suffering, and the hidden gifts that often go unnoticed, Rescue at the Reef is a living reminder that with God, even the most fearsome challenges can be faced—and conquered. This unforgettable story will leave you on the edge of your seat, inspired by the ripple effects of hope that overcome impossible odds.

Jameson Reeder is the founder and president of Urban Village, a non-profit movement designed to be a missional arm of the church to reach beyond the walls of the building in major cities of the western world. Jameson is also the founder and owner of BEST Landscape Lighting. Most importantly, Jameson is the father of four boys and one daughter and the husband of Mary Catherine. The Reeder family reside in Charlotte, NC.

 

Bear Grylls retells the life of Jesus for a new generation

 “If I was only to have written one book, this would be it!” — Bear Grylls

Seasoned explorer and author Bear Grylls is embarking on one of his greatest challenges yet: to make known to the world the life story of a man who altered the course of history. In The Greatest Story Ever Told: An Eyewitness Account – which will be published globally in summer 2025 – the much-loved adventurer retells the astonishing story of Jesus as you have never heard it before in a thrilling, fast-paced narrative.

Son. Teacher. Friend.

Rebel. Renegade. Redeemer?

Written in the first person as a series of eyewitness accounts by five people who knew him best, The Greatest Story Ever Told follows the events of Jesus’ life, from Mary’s visit from the Angel Gabriel through to Jesus’ death, resurrection and ascension into heaven. As we walk alongside Jesus’ mother Maryam, and his friends Ta’om, Shimon, Yohannan, and Maryam from Magdala, we experience through their eyes the words and actions of this extraordinary man, the reactions of those who encounter him, and the many lives that he transforms through his teachings.

“Being Yeshua’s mother was the greatest privilege afforded any woman, but also potentially the most painful.”

The Greatest Story Ever Told publishes in the US on 22 July 2025 and in the UK on 19 June 2025. In the UK, the book was pre-launched by Bear at Flame 2025 at Wembley Arena London on 15 March to an enthusiastic reception from over 10,000 young people and youth leaders. It will be featured at Spring Harvest in April 2025, as well as at other events and conferences in the UK and the US during 2025.

Churches across the world are being encouraged to read the book together as part of Hodder’s book club, The Big Church Read, formed in partnership with St Andrew’s Bookshop – and then to share the book with their local communities.

“That was the way of Yeshua. Topside down. Bottom side up. Turning the tables and rewriting conventional thinking. His was a revolution of love.”

Andy Lyon, Publishing Director at Hodder Faith, bought world rights from Caroline Michel at PFD. “Hands down, this will be the biggest book Hodder Faith has ever published,” he said. “The story of Jesus is one that needs retelling in every generation, in every culture, and nobody does it like Bear. For readers who have never picked up a Bible, this story will be enlightening from an historical perspective, but it will also offer them hope and prompt them to ask questions about who Jesus really was. For Christians, The Greatest Story Ever Told offers a fresh perspective on the familiar story – as well as a great way to talk to their friends and family about the life of Jesus!”

“You believe because you’ve seen with your own eyes. Even better blessings are in store for those who believe without seeing.”

Bear Grylls OBE is probably the most recognisable face of adventure on the planet. His books have sold more than 20 million copies worldwide, including the number 1 bestselling Mud, Sweat and Tears. He is a former 21 SAS soldier, who went on to become one of the youngest ever climbers of Mount Everest, despite breaking his back in a free-fall accident only months earlier. Bear’s TV shows include the legendary Discovery channel show MAN Vs WILD and the hit show RUNNING WILD with Bear Grylls, now in its eighth season on National Geographic Channel and Disney Plus. He also hosts two hit Netflix series, You Vs Wild and BEARHUNT where Bear trains celebrities in jungle survival then tests if they can evade him! He is a double Emmy and BAFTA award winner and is Chief Ambassador to 55 million Scouts worldwide. He is married to Shara and they have three sons. His books for Hodder Faith include Mind Fuel, Soul Fuel for Young Explorers, and Mind Fuel for Young Explorers, as well as the new scouting handbook Do Your Best.

The Greatest Story Ever Told will be published in the US on 22 July 2025 as a hardback (9781399820141) by Hodder Faith at $19.99. In the UK, it will be published by Hodder & Stoughton on 19 June 2025 as a B format hardback at £14.99. Bulk discounts will be available for churches via www.greateststoryevertoldbook.com.

Bear has some availability for media interviews and to take part in events linked to this book.

For media enquiries and review copy requests, please contact:
US: Kaitlyn Shokes (kaitlyn.shokes@johnmurraypress.co.uk)
UK: Rhoda Hardie (Rhoda.hardie@hodder.co.uk / +44 781 542 7111)

 

Explosive new book features insight into ancient powers at work and serves as wake-up call for readers

NEW YORK ─ The world’s most prophetic voice of the century and nine-time New York Times bestselling author Jonathan Cahn reveals how ancient forces have returned to America and are contending for the soul of the nation and dominion over its government in his most explosive book yet, THE AVATAR: The Return of the Ancients & the Future of America (Charisma, September 2, 2025).

“America stands at a dangerous moment in history as ancient forces are seeking to take dominion and control of our future,” said Cahn.

In THE AVATAR, Cahn exposes how ancient god-kings and goddess-queens have returned to the world in modern form and are moving in secret behind major cultural and political events—even the recent American presidential election.

“The revelations in this book will be explosive,” said Cahn. “THE AVATAR will take the mysteries of my previous book, Return of the Gods, to a whole new level and reveal shocking information about America’s future and the events that touch our everyday lives.”

The book leads readers through a prophetic journey across the world, tracing the rise of the avatars—beginning in a land where the ancient gods never departed—and follows their path as they reemerge in the West.

THE AVATAR is a historically grounded and bold read that exposes:

• The spiritual collapse of empires which is now mirrored by America’s path,
• Donald Trump’s rise, fall and return—tied to a mysterious ancient ruler,
• The stunning truth behind the assassination attempt of Trump and what it actually signaled,
• The shocking identity of a powerful American figure whose life reflects an ancient, dangerous deity and what it means if this person rises to power and
• What’s at stake for the future of the nation and what Americans should prepare for next.

“There are powerful forces at work in society today, and we must open our eyes to them,” said Cahn. “The avatars are in our culture and in our nation. They are affecting the world around us and vying for its future—posing a clear and present danger to the world.”

With compelling evidence and groundbreaking insights, THE AVATAR not only brings clarity to past events and their underlying causes but also presents new information that explains what is unfolding in America—and foreshadows what may lie ahead.

THE AVATAR releases on September 2, 2025, from Charisma. For more information, visit the Charisma Shop.

Jonathan Cahn has been named along with Billy Graham as one of the top spiritual leaders to have radically impacted our world in modern times. He has spoken at the United Nations, on Capitol Hill, to members of Congress, and to millions around the world. Every one of his books, starting with The Harbinger onward, has become a New York Times bestseller. He is recognized as a prophetic voice for our times. His teachings and prophetic words on YouTube have received over 100 million views. He leads Beth Israel at the Jerusalem Center in Wayne, New Jersey, and Hope of the World ministry, a world outreach of God’s Word and compassion to the world’s most needy. Learn more at https://www.hopeoftheworld.org/.

To schedule an interview with Jonathan Cahn, contact:
SaraBeth Evans at sarabeth@kccommunications.co.

Penguin Random House Christian Publishing Group is delighted to announce the expansion of its marketing and creative services departments with the addition of two new staff members.

Olivia Peitsch is joining the marketing team as Assistant Director of Marketing, starting July 14, reporting to Ginia Hairston Croker, VP, Director of Marketing. With 12-years of Christian publishing experience, Peitsch comes from Baker Publishing Group where she served as marketing manager. Peitsch is skilled in developing innovative, end-to-end marketing campaigns, an expert in managing social media accounts, and has created an onboarding marketing program for new writers. She cares deeply about authors and their content and takes pride in producing work that is not only effective but also impactful. Jon Acuff, Sheila Walsh, and Michael Hyatt are just a few of the notable authors Olivia has partnered with in the past and has served many others in the Baker Books, Chosen, and Revell imprints. She will be working across all PRH Christian imprints.  A graduate of Concordia University, Peitsch lives in Lowell, Michigan.

PRH Christian welcomes Emily Loper to the creative services department as its new Marketing Designer, starting July 14, reporting to Kristopher Orr, Creative Director. Loper comes from Lifeway Christian Resources where she developed a wide variety of marketing materials in support of Lifeway, as well as B&H Books. Previously, Loper worked at Colorado Christian University as a Graphic Designer on a variety of digital and print materials. Beginning her design career at John Brown University, Loper earned her bachelor’s degree in graphic design in 2021. Her bright spirit, ambitious work ethic, and design finesse will be a great asset in PRH Christian’s exciting marketing design program. Emily resides in Denver, Colorado.

Penguin Random House Christian Publishing Group includes the imprints WaterBrook, Multnomah, Image, Forum, and Ink & Willow. PRH Christian Publishing Group is a division of Penguin Random House, LLC.

JULY 2025 | LISLE, IL—Building on the June 24 release of the IVP Kids title Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World, Tara Hackney has signed a second contract with InterVarsity Press (IVP) for the Spring 2027 release of the children’s devotional tentatively titled Jesus Loves the Little Children: A Journey from A to Z.

Hackney’s first book Jesus Loves the Little Children, All the Children of the World: Fresh Lyrics for a Beloved Song offers refreshed lyrics to the classic song, “Jesus Loves the Little Children.” Hackney said that although it is a timeless and true song, the words didn’t fully capture God’s love for everyone. Hackney wanted a version that would resonate with her adopted daughter, “a version that would include everyone—all the children of the world. Every color, every shade, just exactly as He made.”

In her forthcoming devotional Hackney helps children move from a place of knowing they are loved to loving others. Jesus Loves the Little Children: A Journey from A to Z will give elementary school-age children the opportunity to both learn about children in other parts of the world and pray for those children.

Elissa Schauer, acquiring editor for IVP Kids, said, “We’re thrilled to be working with Tara Hackney on a second book—her enthusiasm and joy are evident in everything she does!”

Children will have the opportunity to learn about the lives of other children from around the world, from Australia, Brazil, and Canada, all the way to Zambia. Each page will include a unique greeting, a country-specific anecdote from the point of view of a child who lives there, a Scripture, a prayer, and a fun fact about the country.

Schauer said, “We love that this devotional is a gentle introduction to children around the globe, offering families a tool that can prompt awareness and conversation. Even more so, this book reverberates with the foundational message of God’s good and great love. What could be more important?”

Tara Hackney is the founder of Jesus Loves, a ministry of encouragement dedicated to recapturing the wonder, exploring the depth, and spreading the good news of the world’s greatest love. As a mother of five, she can often be found scrubbing out grass stains, judging coloring contests, doubling recipes, and driving all over town.

Contact:  Krista Clayton, kclayton@ivpress.com

A Beloved Thomas Nelson Gift Devotional That’s Transforming Lives Worldwide

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (July 11, 2025) — Breath as Prayer: Calm Your Anxiety, Focus Your Mind, and Renew Your Soul by Jennifer Tucker has officially sold over 250,000 copies, a significant milestone for the devotional that has resonated with readers around the world seeking spiritual calm in anxious times.

Published by Thomas Nelson Gift, an imprint of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Breath as Prayer offers a unique blend of Scripture-based reflections, guided breathing exercises, and artful illustrations designed to quiet the mind and refocus the heart on God’s presence. Since its release, the book has gained a devoted readership across a wide range of audiences, appealing to those navigating stress, anxiety, and the everyday overwhelm of modern life.

“The message is simple but powerful: prayer can be as natural as breathing,” said Stephanie Newton, Publisher, Thomas Nelson and Zondervan Gift Books. “In a world where anxiety is at an all-time high, Jennifer’s gentle, grace-filled words are bringing peace and spiritual grounding to hundreds of thousands.”

This 250,000-copy milestone reflects the growing hunger for spiritual practices that are accessible, embodied, and rooted in Scripture. With its calm tone and practical guidance, Breath as Prayer continues to be a favorite among churches, counselors, and individuals looking to incorporate faith into mental health rhythms.

“I wrote this book during a season of personal anxiety, never imagining how many people would be walking similar paths,” said author Jennifer Tucker. “It’s humbling to know that these words and breath prayers are helping others experience God’s peace in tangible ways.”

Breath as Prayer is available wherever books are sold, including major retailers, independent bookstores, and online platforms.

About the Author
Jennifer Tucker is an illustrator, lettering artist, and graphic designer whose work has been featured in multiple publications and books, including The Message Canvas Bible, New Mercies I See, and the ECPA bestselling coloring book Whatever Is Lovely. She is also the author of Breath as Prayer. She lives in central Georgia with her husband, Mark, and two daughters, Emma and Lilly. Jennifer is a devoted follower of Jesus and an advocate for mental health. She writes and shares her art online at littlehousestudio.net.

HarperCollins Christian Publishing
The world’s leading Christian publisher, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc. comprises the Thomas Nelson, Zondervan and HarperChristian Resources publishing groups and imprint, BibleGateway.com, FaithGateway.com, StudyGateway.com and ChurchSource.com. The Company produces bestselling Bibles, inspirational books, academic resources, curriculum, audio and digital content for the Christian market space. Bible Gateway is the world’s largest Christian website with more than 20 million unique visitors each month. HarperCollins Christian Publishing is headquartered in Nashville, Tenn. with additional offices in the U.S. and Mexico. For more information, visit www.HarperCollinsChristian.com.​

Contact:  Chasity Edwards, Publicity Director, Thomas Nelson Gift and Zondervan Gift, Chasity.Edwards@harpercollins.com

July 14, 2025 — Lakeside Book Company invites members of the media to join state and local officials for a ribbon cutting ceremony tomorrow at its Willard facility to celebrate the installation of a state-of-the-art manroland Goss LITHOMAN press. This press installation reinforces Lakeside Book’s industry leadership in North America and is a significant investment in the future of Lakeside Book Company in Willard, OH.

Who:
Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, Speaker Pro Tempore – Gayle Manning, Director of the Ohio Department of Development – Lydia Mihalik, Jobs OHIO representatives, local officials, and Lakeside Book Company’s leadership and employees will speak and answer questions during the celebration. This event is open to the media, local and state government officials, community leaders, and Lakeside employees.

When:
Tuesday, July 15, 2025
9:00 a.m. ET

Where:
Lakeside Book Company
1145 Conwell Avenue
Willard, Ohio  44890
www.Lakesidebookcompany.com
Free parking available

Media Contact:  Rajeev.balakrishna@lakesidebook.com