Tony Evans Returns to Ministry Following Over a Year of Restoration

Dallas, Texas – Pastor Tony Evans has been restored to ministry over a year after stepping down due to an undisclosed moral failure. The announcement took place during a Sunday service on October 5, where Evans received a standing ovation from the congregation at Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship.

Chris Wheel, the church’s associate pastor for outreach, announced, “In alignment with biblical principles and unanimous affirmation of the elder board, Dr. Evans has successfully completed this restoration journey.” As he walked onto the platform, the congregation erupted in applause, welcoming him back.

In a video posted on his YouTube channel, Evans expressed gratitude for the support he received during his challenging year away from ministry. “As you know, this last year has been an extremely challenging time – a time of being separated from what I love most – the proclamation of God’s word,” he stated. He acknowledged his past mistakes, saying that his need for repentance and restoration was paramount for healing to occur.

During the service, Wheel praised Evans for his accountability regarding his moral failure, which remains undisclosed. “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,” he remarked. “We are pleased to report that Dr. Evans has fully submitted to the church’s discipline and restoration process.” Evans, who was the chaplain for the Dallas Cowboys and Mavericks, initially stepped down in June 2024.

Evans also mentioned the strong support from his family during this period. “The good news is our God is a god of restoration,” he said. Following Evans’ return, the church has announced that his son, Jonathan Evans, will take over as the lead pastor.

The announcement of Evans’ reinstatement comes just days after another pastor from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Gateway Church’s founding pastor, pleaded guilty to serious charges in Oklahoma.