PULPIT DEATH

He Died Preaching

The Rev. Jack Arnold, 69, a Presbyterian minister who pastored for decades, but in recent years had been involved in a ministry to pastors in Africa and the Middle East, died in the pulpit at Covenant Presbyterian Church in Oviedo, Florida recently. This type of death, coming while the minister is preaching, occurs infrequently to clergy, but Jack’s death was especially unique.

As Jack was preaching he quoted John Wesley, the Methodist minister from the 18-century, saying, “Until my work on this earth is done, I am immortal. But when my work for Christ is done ... I go to be with Jesus.” Immediately after saying those words, Jack grabbed the podium and sank to the floor. Paramedics tried to revive him, but he had died instantly.

We cannot die a better death in Christ that one which finds us doing His will to the last breath. That is what Jack Arnold did – let us be found just as true and busy till Christ calls us home.

Dr. J. Mike Minnix

Founder and Editor www.pastorlife.com