Things need to change.
Trinity Bible Church in Dallas, widely known for the sermons of former Pastor Steven Lawson, continues to deal with the aftermath of Lawson’s alleged romantic involvement with a younger woman.
Elder Mark Becker addressed the congregation on Sunday, just days after Lawson, 73, was dismissed from ministry due to accusations of an “inappropriate relationship” with an unnamed woman. Acknowledging the turmoil within the church, Becker described the past week as challenging and emotional, but urged the congregation to focus on unity and moving forward as a church community. “It’s been a difficult week for all of us, emotionally and spiritually,” Becker said. “There are many unanswered questions, and likely more to come, but the important question now is how this local body will move forward together.”
Becker emphasized the core values upon which Trinity Bible Church was founded. “Since the church’s beginning in January 2018, we’ve been committed to being a New Testament church. That commitment includes preaching God’s word faithfully,” he said. He further noted that they have upheld this commitment by consistently offering scripture-based sermons, with various men, including elders, taking turns leading the pulpit. “The Holy Spirit has woven these sermons together to bless us, and that will continue as we move forward,” he added.
In addition to preaching and observing the ordinances of baptism and communion, Becker stressed the importance of practicing church discipline, which he described as a biblical necessity. “God is a God of order and holiness, and if you’ve been called, the charge is to live a holy life,” he said. He explained that just as parents discipline their children out of love, God disciplines His followers for their well-being, preparing them for eternal life with Him.
Becker also reminded the congregation that their faith should not rest on any single individual. “If you came here today to see a man, I hope that man is the God-man, the Lord Jesus Christ. He is the head of this church,” he said, stressing that while various elders have preached, it is ultimately Christ who leads the church.
Lawson, who holds advanced degrees from Dallas Theological Seminary and Reformed Theological Seminary, was removed from the church’s leadership page as of September 20. He and his wife, Anne, have been married for over 40 years and share four adult children.
Lawson’s departure adds to a series of pastoral scandals in the Dallas-Fort Worth area this year. In June, Tony Evans, pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, stepped down due to an undisclosed sin. Shortly after, Robert Morris, founding pastor of Gateway Church in Southlake, resigned following allegations of sexual misconduct from decades ago involving a minor. Additionally, over the summer, Cross Timbers Church Lead Pastor Josiah Anthony resigned amid accusations of inappropriate messaging with women, prompting further resignations from other church leaders.