It was a heartbreaking moment.
Jonathan Evans, the son of Pastor Tony Evans, recently shared his emotional response to learning that his father would be stepping down from his pastoral duties due to an undisclosed sin. The announcement, which came earlier this year, deeply shocked Jonathan, as his father had been a constant figure in his life and ministry. Tony Evans, who leads Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas, decided to take time for healing and restoration, although the specific reasons for his decision have not been publicly disclosed. Despite the uncertainty, Jonathan expressed his belief that this period of restoration would eventually lead to a triumphant return to ministry.
Jonathan, who also serves as a chaplain for the Dallas Cowboys, described how the news forced him to “recalibrate” his perspective. Having grown up with his father’s ministry as a central part of his life, Jonathan found comfort in Psalm 46, which emphasizes that God is a refuge and strength during troubled times. He shared that during this challenging period, he needed to be reminded that God’s presence was constant, even when faced with difficult situations. Jonathan’s faith and trust in God’s plan helped him cope with the shock of the announcement.
Tony Evans, a long-time pastor and ministry leader, did not provide specific details regarding the reasons for stepping away, except to say that he had fallen short of the biblical standards that he espoused in his ministry. He clarified that he had not committed any crimes but needed to restore his relationship with God, as the ministry’s foundation is based on adherence to biblical principles. This announcement came months after Tony’s wedding to Carla Crummie, following the death of his first wife, Lois, in 2019.
In a sermon on Father’s Day, Jonathan Evans assured the congregation that he remained confident in his father’s eventual return to the pulpit. He shared his conviction that, despite the current setback, victory was already secured because of God’s promises. Jonathan expressed that the Evans family was not on the defensive but, rather, moving forward with faith and trust that God’s purpose would prevail. He emphasized that the challenges faced were part of a greater plan, and when his father returns, it will be a celebration of the victory they already believe in.
Through these experiences, Jonathan highlighted the importance of emotional steadiness and unwavering faith in God’s Word. He encouraged others to trust in God’s promises, especially in difficult times, and to remain confident that, despite challenges, the outcome would ultimately align with God’s will.