Dr. Tony Evans Returns With The Unbound Podcast
Dr. Tony Evans is returning to ministry after stepping away from pastoral duties because of an undisclosed sin.
On January 20, he plans to launch “The Unbound Podcast,” aimed at demonstrating the relevance of scripture to every area of life and culture, “Church Leaders” reported. Kirk Franklin, Lecrae, Matt Chandler, Ruth Chou Simmons and Gary Thomas are among the scheduled guests.
“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,” Evans said in a statement at the time he removed himself from ministry. “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.”
He described the strong support he received from his family and church. “I have shared this with my wife, my children and our church elders, and they have lovingly placed their arms of grace around me,” he said. “While I have committed no crime, I did not use righteous judgment in my actions.”
His church restored Evans to ministry last fall during a Sunday morning worship service, but the church shared that he no longer would serve as pastor, a position he held for 48 years.
“We are pleased to report that Dr. Evans has fully submitted to the church’s discipline and restoration process,” Pastor Chris Wheel told the congregation. “This restoration process has included individual counseling with outside non-staff professionals and pastoral mentoring, evidence of genuine repentance and godly sorrow. In alignment with biblical principles and unanimous affirmation of the elder board, Dr. Evans has successfully completed this restoration journey.”
Evans shared the valuable lessons he leaned during his journey of restoration and healing.
“The church has to be the church, no matter who it applies to, whether pastor or parishioner,” he said. “And our church was the church of healing and restoration, going through a tough time in my own life.”
–Lee Hartman
