What Happened to Tony Evans? Longtime Pastor Steps Down from Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church

Dr. Tony Evans, the renowned senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Church, has announced his decision to step away from his pastoral duties due to an undisclosed sin committed several years ago. Evans, who has been a pivotal figure in the church and broader evangelical community for nearly 50 years, shared this difficult news with his congregation on Sunday, June 9.

In a heartfelt statement, Evans expressed his commitment to the foundational principles of his ministry, which emphasize the Word of God as the supreme standard of truth. He acknowledged that he had fallen short of this standard, necessitating his repentance and the restoration of his relationship with God.

“When we fall short of that standard due to sin, we are required to repent and restore our relationship with God,” Evans wrote. “A number of years ago, I fell short of that standard. I am, therefore, required to apply the same biblical standard of repentance and restoration to myself that I have applied to others.”

Evans emphasized that while he had not committed any crime, his actions lacked righteous judgment. This led to the decision, made after numerous meetings with church elders, for him to step down temporarily from his role as senior pastor. The church’s elder board, responsible for maintaining the integrity of the church according to scriptural teachings, supported this move.

“This difficult decision was made after tremendous prayer and multiple meetings with Dr. Evans and the church elders,” the church’s statement reads. “The elder board is obligated to govern the church in accordance with the Scriptures. Dr. Evans and the elders agree that when any elder or pastor falls short of the high standards of Scripture, the elders are responsible for providing accountability and maintaining integrity in the church.”

Evans, who founded Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in 1976 with his friend Rev. Crawford Loritts, has seen the church grow from a small group of 10 members to a megachurch with over 10,000 congregants and more than 100 ministries. His influence extends beyond the church through his widely syndicated radio broadcast, “The Alternative with Dr. Tony Evans,” and his role as a former chaplain for the Dallas Cowboys and the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks.

Despite the shock and speculation surrounding his announcement, Evans remains a respected figure in the evangelical community. His commitment to accountability and integrity, demonstrated by his decision to step down, has garnered a mix of support and curiosity among his followers. Many, like Andre Sewell from Brown’s Barber Shop near the church, feel that while Evans made the right decision, he owes his congregation more details about his transgression.

“Everybody is wondering what did he do,” Sewell said. “I think that’s going to be the most responsible thing for him to do.”

During this period, Pastor Bobby Gibson and the church’s elders will oversee the church’s leadership and provide more details about interim plans. Evans assured his congregation that he would continue to worship with them, trusting God to guide him through this valley and thanking them for their support and forgiveness.

“I have never loved you more than I love you right now, and I’m trusting God to walk me through this valley,” Evans concluded. “Thank you for your love, prayers, support, and forgiveness as I continue my spiritual healing journey.”