Bishop Eddie Long, the influential pastor of Georgia's megachurch New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, has died, according to a statement released by officials at New Birth on Sunday (Jan. 15). He was 63. There's no official word on the cause of death, but according to the statement (read above), Long died from an "aggressive form of cancer."

Long served in the ministry for three decades building his New Birth Missionary Baptist Church into one of the largest congregations in America with 30,000 members. The senior pastor was famous for his fiery sermons as well his lavish lifestyle outside of the church.

But Long's ministry at the New Birth church was also tarnished with scandal. In 2010, four young men filed lawsuits against Long accusing him of sexual misconduct. Long would evenutally settle the cases out of court and he never admitted any wrongdoing.

Long made his last public appearance at his church two weeks ago. He looked extremely frail and had lost a significant amount of weight, which prompt questions on social media about the state of his health.

Long's wife of 27 years, Elder Vanessa Long of the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church, told AJC.com, “I am confidant through my belief in God that my husband is now resting in a better place. Although, his transition leaves a void for those of us who loved him dearly, we can celebrate and be happy for him, knowing he’s at peace.”

Bishop Eddie Long leaves behind his wife Vanessa, and four children: 3 sons (Edward, Jared and Eric) and one daughter (Taylor Long) in mourning.

Reactions to Bishop Eddie Long's death have been mixed. Some praised the Bishop for his work at the church while others scorned him for his alleged deviant activities while pastoring in the church. Check out the reactions below.

We want to send our prayers and condolences to the family of Bishop Eddie Long. May he rest eternally in peace.

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