Pastor, author Tony Evans The pastor announced Sunday that he would be stepping down from his pastoring duties at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, saying he would enter a period of repentance and restoration after “falling short of the high standards of the Bible.” In a statement, Evans said the incident happened several years ago and was not a criminal offense. He was the founding pastor of the Oak Cliff Bible Society in 1976 and conducted a national radio evangelism effort.
“The foundation of our ministry has always been a commitment to God’s Word as the highest standard of absolute truth to which we must adhere,” Evans said. statement“When we fall short of that standard because of sin, we need to repent and restore our relationship with God.
“Several years ago, I fell short of that standard,” he added. “Therefore, I need to apply the same Biblical standard of repentance and restoration to myself that I have applied to others. I have communicated this to my wife, children, and the elders of my church, and they have lovingly wrapped me in their arms of mercy. I have not sinned, but my actions lacked good judgment. In light of this, I will step away from my pastoral duties and follow the healing and restoration process established by the elders, which will allow me time for much-needed spiritual restoration and healing.”
In a statement, the church said the “difficult decision” was made “after much prayer and multiple meetings with Dr. Evans and church elders.”
“The Board of Elders is obligated to govern the church according to Scripture,” the church said, “and Dr. Evans and the elders agree that when elders or pastors fail to meet the high standards of Scripture, the elders will be held accountable and will maintain the integrity of the church.”
The Oak Cliff church’s statement added, “We serve a forgiving, merciful and restorative God. In the coming days, Pastor Bobby Gibson and the elders will provide more information regarding interim leadership and next steps for the future of our church.”
Meanwhile, Evans said he plans to continue attending the Oak Cliff church and worship there.
“During this time, it is important that OCBF ministries continue to be vibrant more than ever,” Evans said. “Remember, you serve not man, but the Lord Jesus Christ. Pastor Gibson and our leadership will keep you updated on how ministries will progress. During this time, I am a worshipper like you and look forward to seeing all that God continues to do to make His name great as He continues to raise up Kingdom disciples who function as servants of His Kingdom to impact His Kingdom as He advances His Kingdom plan at OCBF. I have never loved you more than I do now and trust that He will lead me through this valley. Thank you for your love, prayers, support and forgiveness as I continue on my journey of spiritual healing. As we walk this journey together, keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.”
Evans and his late wife, Lois, held the first service of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in their home on June 6, 1976, with 10 members in attendance. Today, the church has several thousand members.
“It has been my honor, joy and privilege to serve as senior pastor for the last 48 years,” he said in a statement Sunday. “I thank God for the opportunity to gather 10 people together in one house and witness His power and blessing hand that has led us to this place today.”
Photo credit: ©Facebook/Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship
Michael Faust He has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years, and his work has appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, Christian Post, Leaf Chronicle, Toronto Star and Knoxville News Sentinel.
