In a shocking statement posted to the Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship website, Dr. Tony Evan, senior pastor of the church, has announced that he is stepping away from all pastoral duties and is “submitting to a healing and restoration process established by the elders.”
The pastor, author and syndicated radio host does not list a specific reason for his decision, other than he “fell short” of the standard expected of a Christian leader.
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The foundation of our ministry has always been our commitment to the Word of God as the absolute supreme
standard of truth to which we are to conform our lives. When we fall short of that standard due to sin, we are
required to repent and restore our relationship with God. 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. I have shared this with my wife, my children and our church elders, and they have
lovingly placed their arms of grace around me. While I have committed no crime, I did not use righteous
judgment in my actions. In light of this, I am 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.
During this new and unexpected season for Evans and his 9,000-member church, services will continue unabated and he will continue to worship with the congregation while it is being led by Rev. Bobby Gibson, Lead Associate Pastor of Fellowship at OCBF.
During this time, it is critical that the ministry of OCBF continue as vibrantly as ever. Remember, you serve
the Lord Jesus Christ, not a man. Pastor Gibson and our leadership will keep you informed on how things
will continue moving forward with the ministry. During this season, I will be a worshipper like you and look
forward to seeing all that God is going to continue doing to make His name great as we continue to build
kingdom disciples, who function as kingdom servants, in order to make a kingdom impact as He advances
His kingdom agenda at OCBF. I have never loved you more than I love you right now, and I’m trusting God
to walk me through this valley. Thank you for your love, prayers, support and forgiveness as I continue my
spiritual healing journey. As we walk this journey together, keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher
of our faith.
Please take a moment to pray for Dr. Evans and his church community, seeking God’s grace and mercy to guide them through this difficult period.
To read the statement in its entirety, click here.
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James Lasher is Staff Writer for Charisma Media.
