
Pastor, author and anti-social justice activist John MacArthur caused a controversy this weekend for his comments about preacher, teacher, author and abuse survivor advocate Beth Moore.
He was speaking at an event meant to honor his 50 years of ministry called the “Truth Matters Conference,” but things took a turn when the panelists—including MacArthur—were asked to a play a sort of word association game. They would each be given “two words” to which they had to react to. The first words given to MacArthur were “Beth Moore.”
MacArthur responded, “Go home.” The audience laughed. Another man on the panel accused her of being a narcissist because of her preaching style.
MacArthur then launched into a diatribe about how “the church is caving in to women preachers.” He went on to compare her to a TV jewelry salesperson and then went on to criticize the #MeToo movement.
His comments come just months after the Houston Chronicle released the findings of a massive investigation that found that SBC leaders have covered up widespread sexual abuse for years.
As you could probably imagine, the comments have not gone over well on Twitter.
Current SBC President J.D. Greear tweeted that she is “welcome in our home any time.”
Dear @BethMooreLPM, you’re welcome in our home any time.#BFM2000
— J.D. Greear (@jdgreear) October 19, 2019
Many others have spoken out as well:
When I hear the words “Beth Moore,” I think “Jesus-loving trailblazer.”
— Annie F. Downs (@anniefdowns) October 19, 2019
Thankful for you, @BethMooreLPM. So many of us lead because you have led us. So many of us pray on our knees because you kneel on every stage. We won’t forget who showed us Jesus.
I’m traveling overseas so I’m late to this…but it’s just so gross and dare I say “unchristian” behavior on the part of these men. Wish I could pretend to be shocked by their misogyny. @BethMooreLPM deserves so much more. https://t.co/6fFvBIWuve
— Kirsten Powers (@KirstenPowers) October 21, 2019
My walk with Jesus has been immeasurably shaped by @BethMooreLPM. Thank you Beth for the work and efforts you put into sharing the love of Jesus. I will listen to you and learn from you for as long as you continue teaching.
— Benjamin Higgins (@benhiggi) October 21, 2019
Dear @BethMooreLPM you know I don’t have any stock in the SBC or reformed theology or white evangelicals, but I do care about women. So when I’m on stage tonight, I plan to BRING IT. Just wanted you to know. ? pic.twitter.com/69eObBPUrX
— Austin Channing Brown (@austinchanning) October 20, 2019
The way @BethMooreLPM has been treated by men I once respected for nothing other than defending the truth of God’s word, preaching Christ crucified, and loving ALL people regardless of whether theirs theology aligns perfectly with hers makes me sad and sick.
— Jonathan Merritt (@JonathanMerritt) October 20, 2019