Beni Johnson, one of the senior leaders of US megachurch Bethel, has died after a battle with cancer.

Earlier this year the church, based in California, had called for round the clock prayer until she received complete healing.

On Wednesday, an update from the church read: "We continue to stand with the Johnsons for Beni's complete healing. 

"Medicine is a blessing and a great help, but in this moment we need a miracle from the Lord. 

"Please continue to pray for a total deliverance from all cancer, and for Beni's strength to be renewed."

However early on Thursday, her husband Bill Johnson shared news of her passing on social media saying she was now healthy and free.

It's understood she was at home, where she'd been receiving care, when she died.

Paying tribute to her, the church described her as a warrior and a woman of love.

It said: "Beni Johnson is a mother to this house, and has been for over 25 years. 

"She has led the charge in a passionate pursuit of prayer for our movement, and has taught us to intercede with joy and confidence. She has led both from the front and behind the scenes. 

"She has consistently made herself known in the spirit as a warrior, a fighter, and a woman of love and truth. For decades, she has contended for us, and for the global Church, in prayer. 

"So much of who we are today as a house and a movement is because of her."

Tributes have already begun coming in from across the world.

In a message to Bill Johnson, Australian worship leader and pastor Darlene Zschech said: "We love you and your family and are so so sad to hear this. Our heartfelt prayers are with you all the way. Beni encouraged me deeply and personally on my own cancer journey."

Bill and Beni Johnson have led Bethel since 1996. They have 3 children and 11 grandchildren.