A popular American pastor and author, Tony Evans, has announced his temporary exit from ministry to enable him undergo “spiritual healing and restoration” over a past sin.
He said he had fallen short of the standards expected of a pastor.
Evans, 74, is the pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas.
A report by Christian Post said the clergyman did not go into the details of the sin he committed but he was embarking on a spiritual healing journey.
He said he had informed his family and elders of the church about his decision to stay away temporarily from his pastoral duties.
He further stated that though his “sin” was not criminal in nature, it never reflected “righteous judgement.”
Evans, who has pastored the church for 48 years, told the congregation that while away from his duties, he “will be a worshipper like you.”
“I have never loved you more than I love you right now, and I’m trusting God to walk me through this valley. Thank you for your love, prayers, support, and forgiveness as I continue my spiritual healing journey. As we walk this journey together, keep your eyes on Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith,” he added.
Restoration process
Evans said he would undergo the process of “healing and restoration” under church elders’ guidance.
“The foundation of our ministry has always been our commitment to the Word of God as the absolute supreme standard of truth to which we are to conform our lives. When we fall short of that standard due to sin, we are required to repent and restore our relationship with God.
“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 judgement 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. This will afford me a needed time of spiritual recovery and healing.”
Church elders speak
The church elders in a statement said they have agreed with Evans that once any elder or pastor falls short of the standards of the scripture, they (elders) provide accountability and integrity.
They said they had multiple meetings with the pastor and prayed with him before his decision to stay away from pastoral duties.
“Dr Evans and the elders agree that when any elder or pastor falls short of the high standards of scripture, the elders are responsible for providing accountability and maintaining integrity in the church.
“We serve a God that is merciful to forgive and gracious to restore. In the days ahead, Pastor Bobby Gibson and the elders will provide more information regarding interim leadership and the next steps for the future of our church,” the statement said.