Tony Evans, Dallas megachurch pastor and best-selling author, is stepping down from his pastoral leadership role.
Sunday, senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Society. Announced The reason he is stepping down is because “several years ago” he “failed to meet” the biblical standards required for a pastor.
“The foundation of our ministry is a commitment to God’s Word as the highest standard of absolute truth by which we should live our lives,” Evans said. Said “When we fall short of that standard because of sin, we need to repent and restore our relationship with God,” the statement said.
“Several years ago I fell short of that standard, and therefore I must apply to myself the same biblical standard of repentance and restoration that I have applied to others,” he added. “In light of this, I will be stepping away from my pastoral duties and following the healing and restoration process established by the elders, which will allow me time for necessary spiritual restoration and healing.”
Evans did not go into detail about what “crimes” he committed or say when the incidents occurred, but said he had not broken any laws.
It is unclear why Evans would admit responsibility at this point if the undisclosed crimes occurred years ago.
Although Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship is non-denominational, most Christian churches derive their requirements for the positions of “elder” and “pastor” from key Bible passages such as: 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:6-9.
These letters limit the role of elders and pastors to mature Christians who are above reproach, do not engage in sexual immorality or adultery, are sober and not drunkards, are disciplined, self-controlled, respected, can entertain guests, are able to teach and guide others, are not violent, are good-natured, not arrogant or short-tempered, are not quarrelsome, are not lovers of money, are faithful managers of their own households, love goodness, and are highly respected by outsiders.
Evans has served as pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship since he founded the church in 1976. The church currently boasts more than 10,000 members.
His work reaches millions more through his national radio show, “The Alternative with Tony Evans,” as well as his books and Bible commentaries.
Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship leaders said they plan to provide the church with more information about the interim pastor’s leadership in the coming weeks.
Do you like Blaze News? Bypass censorship and subscribe to our newsletter to get stories like this delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up here!
