Tony Evans, a prominent African American pastor and author, has announced that he will step away from his ministry due to a sin he committed years ago.
Evans, who leads Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, shared in a June 9 statement that while his actions were not criminal, they did fall short of the biblical standards he has always upheld.
He expressed his commitment to the “biblical standard of repentance and restoration,” emphasizing that he must apply the same principles to himself that he has preached to others.
Evans, 74, has led his congregation for over 40 years and is widely known for founding The Urban Alternative, a Christian teaching ministry, as well as for his global radio program, *The Alternative with Tony Evans*. He did not specify the nature of his actions but mentioned that he did not use righteous judgment, and he will now submit to a healing and restoration process under the guidance of the church elders.
In a separate statement, the church leadership explained that after prayerful consideration and meetings with Evans, they reached a mutual decision for him to step down temporarily from his pastoral duties. During his time away, the church’s elders, along with associate pastor Bobby Gibson, will manage leadership responsibilities.
Evans, who remarried in 2023 after the death of his wife, Lois, in 2019, acknowledged the support of his family and the church elders. He also shared his intention to focus on spiritual recovery and healing during this period.
Reflecting on his pastoral role, Evans assured the congregation of his deep love for them and trust in God to guide him through this challenging time.