Phil Johnson has shared a heartbreaking health update, revealing that his cancer has returned less than three months after entering remission.
The longtime former executive director of Grace to You and elder at Grace Community Church disclosed Monday that his oncologist believes his multiple myeloma is making a comeback-and doctors are already preparing him for a different course of treatment.
"So far I've mentioned this only privately to a few friends, but there's no reason to keep it quiet," Johnson wrote. "The oncologist told me last week that the cancer seems to be making a rebound."
Then came the particularly difficult detail: "'Remission' lasted less than 3 months. They are now prepping me for a different kind of treatment."
The news marks another painful chapter in Johnson's health battle, which became public in 2024 when he revealed that doctors had diagnosed him with multiple myeloma, an incurable form of blood cancer.
At the time, Johnson explained that a serious kidney malfunction had unexpectedly led doctors to discover the cancer. After extensive blood testing and a bone-marrow biopsy, physicians determined that proteins associated with multiple myeloma were attacking other organs.
But even with the cancer now apparently returning so soon after remission, Johnson says he is not responding with despair.
When someone reached out to him on X following the announcement, Johnson offered a strikingly candid explanation of how his Christian faith is shaping his response to the diagnosis.
"I do believe my times are in God's hands," Johnson wrote, citing Psalm 31:15. He also referenced Hebrews 9:27 and Isaiah 46:10 while reflecting openly on mortality and his belief in God's sovereignty.
"It's the very reason I'm not saddened or upset by this diagnosis," he continued. "I trust His goodness and wisdom."
The declaration quickly prompted an outpouring of support from fellow Christians and followers online, with many promising to pray for Johnson as he prepares for the next stage of treatment.
"Praying for you, brother," one supporter wrote, while another responded, "Very sorry to hear this. Praying." Another prayed that "the God of all peace" would sustain him.
The latest health setback comes during a season of major change for Johnson. In June, the 73-year-old announced his retirement as executive director of Grace to You, the influential Bible-teaching ministry with which he had been closely associated for decades.
Johnson has also long been connected with Grace Community Church and the ministry of the late John MacArthur, making him a familiar figure to generations of conservative evangelical Christians.
Now, just months after stepping away from his longtime executive role-and after an all-too-brief remission-Johnson is once again facing cancer treatment.
Yet his public message is notably not one of panic.
For Johnson, the devastating update has instead become another opportunity to express the conviction that has shaped his response since his original diagnosis: his future, including its uncertainty, remains in God's hands.
"I trust His goodness and wisdom," Johnson said.
