In a heartfelt video, Jonathan Evans, son of renowned pastor Tony Evans, shared the emotional impact of learning that his father would be stepping away from ministry for a season of restoration. Jonathan described the revelation as a “punch to the gut,” shaking his world and prompting a time of spiritual recalibration.

Tony Evans, who has pastored the 11,000-member Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship (OCBF) in Dallas, Texas, for nearly five decades, announced earlier this year that he would temporarily step down from the pulpit due to sin. While the details of the sin remain undisclosed, Tony Evans reassured the congregation that no crimes were committed, though he acknowledged falling short of biblical standards.

Jonathan Evans, who serves as an associate pastor at OCBF and team chaplain for the Dallas Cowboys, reflected on the moment he learned of his father’s decision.

“It was a shock to us,” Jonathan admitted. “He told us that he’s going to take a step back from ministry and go to a time of healing and restoration — a time that he needs. We’re all praying for his restoration and recovery and for him to be fully back doing what he loves to do and what he’s called to do.”

For Jonathan, whose life has been shaped by his father’s unwavering commitment to ministry, the announcement represented a sharp and unexpected change. He turned to Psalm 46 for solace, finding comfort in its assurance that “God is our refuge and strength, our very present help in time of trouble.”

Jonathan encouraged others to trust in God’s presence even in challenging times. “Be still doesn’t mean don’t move. Being still doesn’t mean being physically irresponsible,” he explained. “Be still means that you can be emotionally steady. Do what God has called you to do with an unwavering confidence that He is God.”

The news of Tony Evans’ temporary departure came just months after his December 2023 wedding to Carla Crummie, following the death of his first wife, Lois Evans, in 2019. Tony Evans has previously spoken about the profound impact Lois had on his life and ministry, describing her as an integral part of his journey.

In a written statement, Tony Evans confessed that his decision to step back was rooted in his commitment to biblical principles. “When we fall short of that standard due to sin, we are required to repent and restore our relationship with God,” he wrote.

Jonathan, however, is confident in his father’s eventual return to ministry. Speaking during a Father’s Day sermon, he expressed unwavering faith in God’s redemptive work. “I feel like we’ve already won. If it’s not good yet, God’s not done yet. All things work together for good for those who love God and are called according to His purposes.”

Tony Evans has been a steadfast spiritual leader, author, and voice in Christian circles for decades. For his family and congregation, this season represents both a challenge and an opportunity to rally in prayer and support.

Jonathan Evans, echoing his father’s lifelong message of faith and perseverance, urged the congregation to move forward in confidence. “We’re going to go and do and be what God has called us to go and do and be. And when [my dad] returns, we’re going to celebrate a victory we already knew beforehand that we had.”