Beloved Bible Teacher Leaves Legacy Of Faith
Kay Arthur, a renowned Bible teacher, author, and co-founder of Precept Ministries International, passed away at 91. Her ministry announced her passing on social media, expressing deep gratitude for her faithfulness and dedication to God’s Word. They praised her for her lifelong mission of helping people grow in their relationship with God by studying Scripture. Friends and followers were invited to give thanks for her life and pray for those mourning her loss, rejoicing in the belief that she is now with her Creator.
Christian leaders, including author Melissa Kruger, paid tribute to Arthur’s lasting impact on Bible study and discipleship. Kruger credited Arthur with teaching her and countless others how to deeply engage with Scripture by examining key elements such as repeated words, contrasts, and structure. Arthur’s teaching style emphasized the importance of letting Scripture interpret itself, and she consistently pointed readers to their identity in Christ through her studies.
Arthur’s early life included personal hardship. Born in 1933, she came from a Christian family and later pursued a nursing career. Her first marriage ended after several tumultuous years, including struggles with depression and infidelity. After a period of spiritual rebellion, she had a dramatic conversion experience in 1963 that changed the trajectory of her life. She later married Jack Arthur, and together they began hosting Bible studies that eventually led to the formation of Precept Ministries.
Precept grew into an influential teaching ministry with international reach. Arthur authored around 100 books and Bible study guides and hosted the radio show Precepts for Life, which reached tens of millions of listeners. She co-led the ministry with her husband until 2012, when their son took over leadership. Arthur was recognized with numerous honors for her contributions, including the NRB Hall of Fame Award, a doctorate from Tennessee Temple University, and the Museum of the Bible’s Pillar Award on her 90th birthday.
Reflecting on her legacy, Arthur remained humble and attributed her life’s work to the power of Scripture. Speaking at the Pillar Award ceremony, she emphasized that the Bible had been the defining focus of her life. Her influence on Christian discipleship and Bible engagement continues through the ministry she helped build and the many lives she touched through her teaching.