Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Installs Jonathan Evans

Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship Installs Jonathan Evans as Lead Pastor Following Leadership Transition

DALLAS – Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship (OCBF) has officially entered a new era of leadership. On December 7, 2025, the Dallas megachurch formally installed Jonathan Evans as its new lead pastor, marking a significant transition for the congregation of approximately 10,000 members.

The installation of the younger Evans—an author, mentor, and former NFL fullback—comes as the church moves forward following a period of profound change. His father, Dr. Tony Evans, who founded the church nearly 50 years ago, stepped down from his role in June 2024 after publicly acknowledging that he had “fallen short of the high standards of Scripture.”

A Journey of Restoration

In October 2025, OCBF leadership announced that Dr. Tony Evans had successfully completed a year-long, biblically grounded restoration process. The process, which involved individual counseling, pastoral mentoring, and an extended absence from the pulpit, was initiated by the church’s elder board.

During a “Restoration Sunday” service held on October 5, 2025, associate pastor of outreach Christopher Wheel confirmed that Dr. Evans had demonstrated “genuine repentance and godly sorrow.” While the congregation welcomed him back with a standing ovation, church leadership stated clearly that Dr. Evans would not return to any staff or leadership position at OCBF.

Looking to the Future

The passing of the mantle from father to son has been described by church leadership as a divinely guided transition rather than a simple handoff. During the installation ceremony, Dr. Martin Hawkins, a member of the church’s leadership, emphasized that Jonathan Evans was appointed because he was “specially called and anointed” for the role, noting that the decision was the result of a unanimous affirmation by the elder board.

Reflecting on the transition, Jonathan Evans expressed his commitment to maintaining the church’s core mission while adapting to the needs of a new generation. “This is not an installation for one person,” he stated during the service. “It’s an installation for the church, the future, and to go across the Jordan.”

Dr. Tony Evans, who continues his ministry through The Urban Alternative, expressed his full support for his son and the church’s new direction, encouraging the congregation to “support him and love him just as you did your founder.”

As of early 2026, Jonathan Evans has fully assumed the responsibilities of lead pastor, continuing his work of equipping and encouraging the OCBF congregation as they enter this next chapter.