Dr. Tony Evans, the prominent evangelical radio host and senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, has recently resigned from his pastoral duties due to an unnamed “sin.”
Dr. Evans announced his resignation following “tremendous prayer and multiple meetings” with church elders. Although he clarified that he has “committed no crime,” Evans admitted to not using “righteous judgment” in his actions. This decision marks a critical moment for Evans and the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship community, which he founded in 1976.
The Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship started with just 10 members meeting in Evans’ home and has since grown to over 10,000 members. Evans has been pivotal in the church’s development and the broader evangelical community. His radio program, “The Alternative with Dr. Tony Evans,” is broadcast globally on over 1,000 stations. Additionally, Evans has served as a chaplain for the NBA’s Dallas Mavericks and the NFL’s Dallas Cowboys.
In his statement, Evans emphasized the importance of the healing and restoration process he is about to undergo, showing his commitment to the same biblical principles of repentance and restoration that he has preached to others. Pastor Bobby Gibson and the church elders will detail the church’s interim leadership plan later this week.
Tony Evans has made substantial contributions as an author, teacher, and speaker. He is known for his ability to distill complex theological ideas into accessible teachings. His literary works include The Tony Evans Bible Commentary: Advancing God’s Kingdom and the forthcoming Kingdom Kindness: A Movement to Bring Calm to the Culture, co-written with his daughter Chrystal Hurst and set for release on July 16.
Evans’ personal life has also been marked by notable events, including the death of his first wife, Lois Evans, in 2019 after a battle with bile duct cancer. The couple shared four children: Chrystal Hurst, Christian musician Anthony Evans Jr., motivational speaker Jonathan Evans, and actress Priscilla Shirer. Priscilla Shirer is a well-known author and motivational speaker, and she is recognized for her works, such as Discerning the Voice of God: How to Recognize When God Speaks.
In November 2023, Evans remarried Carla Evans, an educator and volunteer with extensive early childhood education experience and a Christian ministry background. Carla is dedicated to supporting widows and children and encouraging women and pastors’ wives to embrace their roles with joy.
Tony Evans’ resignation, a significant transition for the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship and the broader community, is a moment that calls for understanding and empathy. As the church navigates this period of change, the focus remains steadfast on healing and restoring both its leader and the congregation.
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Fharnell M.
