Maximizing the Moment: Tony Evans Talks Restoration, Revelation, and His Renewed Focus on Eternity

The preacher and bestselling author was restored to ministry in October 2025 after he stepped down due to an unspecified "sin" in 2024.

After a year-long process of restoration, Dr. Tony Evans, the founder and former senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, has returned to ministry. His return follows a period of stepping away from his pastoral duties after publicly confessing an unspecified past sin, an announcement that garnered national attention, even landing on the website of People magazine.

In an October 14 conversation with Managing Editor Nicola A. Menzie, the 76-year-old preacher spoke candidly about the insecurities he faced during the restoration process and his advice for ministers facing a similar situation. Evans also explained how his personal journey dovetails with the ultimate restoration promised in the book of Revelation — the focus of his new Bible study.

The Urban Alternative president also reflected on entering what he calls “the last season” of his life, a perspective sharpened by the recent deaths of peers like Voddie Baucham, John MacArthur, Tim Keller, and Charles Stanley.

Dr. Tony Evans. (Source: Provided)

Facing the Fear

For a public figure with a highly respected, 50-year ministry, the decision to be transparent about a personal failing came with a wave of uncertainty. When asked if he had been scared of losing supporters, congregants, or his reputation to speculation, Evans was direct.

“Yes, you definitely have those insecurities. You definitely have the uncertainties,” he admitted. “And the way social media works today, things can go everywhere. A lot of things said that were not even close to anything. So you have to deal with all of that.”