Q: The death of John MacArthur.  I've heard Abner Chou in both a Sunday evening church service and seminary chapel, eulogize Mac Arthur and claim that "all heaven gave him a “standing ovation” when he died.” In Chou’s mind, MacArthur is elevated to the position of the apostle Paul. Is there any scriptural basis for this type of recognition of a man entering heaven? 

 The hero worship grates on me. I’m a widow; all men die. Some men fought for our country; others were martyred. This type of eulogy detracts from my Savior, the one who died for all of us. 

Summary

In this episode of Ask Dr. E, a listener raises a question following the passing of John MacArthur: is there biblical basis for imagining heaven giving a standing ovation when a well-known Christian leader arrives? 

Dr. E explains that while it is appropriate to acknowledge the ministry impact of faithful men and women, Scripture makes it clear—Christ alone is the hero. Hero worship, even in subtle forms, distracts from the glory of God. Mature Christians know that heaven is not about applause for accomplishments but worship of the triune God.

From church history, we can honor figures like D.L. Moody, Charles Spurgeon, and Billy Graham, but even their legacies fade with time. In contrast, God calls His people not to fame or recognition but to faithfulness.

Dr. E reminds us that heaven is not about eulogizing human achievement but magnifying Christ. Our calling is simple: be faithful servants of Christ. Whether known by millions or by a few, believers are celebrated in the right way only when Christ is the focus. God does not ask us to be successful—He asks us to be faithful.

Takeaways

Hero worship in the church can easily distract from Christ as the true focus.

Eulogies should highlight faith in Christ, not human accomplishment.

Scripture shows that Christ does not share His glory or worship.

God uses flawed people, but their legacies ultimately fade with time.

True recognition in heaven is given to faithful servants of God.

God calls His people to faithfulness, not worldly success.

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