The founder of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas has been formally restored to ministry after completing a 12-month period of church discipline for what he previously described as “falling short of God’s standard.”
Dr. Tony Evans, 75, who stepped down in June 2024 after nearly five decades of leadership due to an undisclosed sin, returned to the church on Sunday for a special restoration service.
Elders confirmed that while Dr. Evans has completed his restoration process, he will not return to a staff or leadership role.
Associate Pastor Chris Wheel told the 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.”
The restoration period included counseling, mentoring, and a year away from preaching.
Wheel said the elders were satisfied that Evans had shown “evidence of genuine repentance and godly sorrow,” adding that “he will not be returning to a staff or leadership role at OCBF, but we joyfully look forward to seeing how God uses Dr. Evans’ gifts and calling.”
When Evans first stepped aside, he told his congregation, “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 submitting to a healing and restoration process.”
His son, Jonathan Evans, is expected to be confirmed as the church’s new lead pastor.
Speaking to his father during the service, he said, “It’s one thing to watch you preach the Word. It’s another thing to watch you live under its authority, even when it hurts.”
Dr. Evans described the process as “bittersweet,” saying, “It’s certainly bitter when you’ve done something for 48 years every day and then you’re no longer doing it—and it’s your fault. But when you go through something, you have to relate to God in a deeper way.”
He added that the experience reminded him why the church created a “hospital of restoration” for others who stumble: “I had to submit to the very process I helped to install and apply the Word to myself as I applied it to everyone else.”