Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship founder Tony Evans has been restored to ministry nearly fifteen months after stepping down to undisclosed sin, but will not be rejoining the 11,000-member megachurch in a staff or leadership capacity.
During Restoration Sunday, the elders of the church explained that they intentionally did not reveal any details of his disqualifying in order to “protect the dignity of all involved and prevent unnecessary speculation or sensationalism.” They do however note that “his restoration process has included individual counseling with outside non-staff professionals and pastoral mentoring.”
Associate pastor Chris Wheel further shared to a celebratory congregation:
Dr. Evans acknowledged in a public statement falling short of God’s standard and a need to submit to the church’s discipline and restoration process. We are pleased to report that Dr. Evans has fully submitted to the church’s discipline and restoration process.
..In alignment with biblical principles and unanimous affirmation of the elder board, Dr. Evans has successfully completed this restoration journey. While he will not be returning in a staff nor leadership role at OCBF, we joyfully look forward to seeing how God uses Dr. Evans’ gifts and calling to proclaim the truth of Scripture with clarity and conviction for the strengthening of the body of Christ.”
While many are happy for him, others have taken to social media to express displeasure about the lack of transparency from a man who is not just a pastor, but rather a very public figure who has intentionally cultivated a larger platform. One X user wrote:
“How will this curb speculation!? So we don’t know if he had a drinking problem, or had been doing hard drugs, or if he had a mistress for the past twenty years that he’s fathered six children with, and we’re supposed to keep using his books and resources, and even buy new ones in the future? No thanks!
Evans previously revealed in a statement at the time of his stepping down.
“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.”
One response to “Pastor Tony Evans Restored to Ministry After Being Disciplined For Undisclosed Sin, But Will NOT Rejoin Leadership”
I see you are back off your meds again, Bettie