Tony Evans steps away from ministry over past sin

Tony Evans has announced he’s stepping away from ministry for a time of “spiritual healing and restoration” after saying he had previously fallen wanting the standards expected of a pastor. 

The 74 12 months old didn’t go into specifics but suggested it was “on account of sin” and said that his family and church elders had been informed. 

Evans, who pastors Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas, said that although his conduct had not been criminal, it didn’t reflect “righteous judgment”.

He will now undergo a strategy of “healing and restoration” under the guidance of church elders.

“The foundation of our ministry has all the time been our commitment to the Word of God as absolutely the supreme standard of truth to which we’re to adapt our lives. When we fall wanting that standard on account of sin, we’re required to repent and restore our relationship with God,” he said.

“Quite a lot of years ago, I fell wanting that standard. I’m, due to this fact, required to use the identical biblical standard of repentance and restoration to myself that I actually have applied to others. I actually have shared this with my wife, my children, and our church elders, they usually have lovingly placed their arms of grace around me.

“While I actually have committed no crime, I didn’t use righteous judgment in my actions. In light of this, I’m stepping away from my pastoral duties and am submitting to a healing and restoration process established by the elders. This will afford me a needed time of spiritual recovery and healing.” 

An announcement from the church elders said it was “obligated to control the church in accordance with the scriptures” and that the choice to step away from pastoral duties had been made “after tremendous prayer” and “multiple” meetings with Dr Evans. 

“Dr Evans and the elders agree that when any elder or pastor falls wanting the high standards of scripture, the elders are answerable for providing accountability and maintaining integrity within the church,” the elders said.

“We serve a God that’s merciful to forgive and gracious to revive. In the times ahead, Pastor Bobby Gibson and the elders will provide more information regarding interim leadership and the subsequent steps for the longer term of our church.”

Evans has pastored Oak Cliff for 48 years. He told the congregation that while he’s working on his spiritual recovery, “I shall be a worshipper such as you.”

He concluded his announcement, “I actually have never loved you greater than I like you right away, and I’m trusting God to walk me through this valley. Thank you to your love, prayers, support, and forgiveness as I proceed my spiritual healing journey. As we walk this journey together, keep your eyes on Jesus, the writer and finisher of our faith.”