Early Life
He was born Thomas Dexter Jakes in South Charleston, West Virginia, on June 9, 1957. His path to becoming a world-renowned spiritual leader started in a little storefront church. Growing up in a humble household, Jakes’ early years prepared him for his steadfast faith and his ambition to change the world.
Ministry
Jakes‘ career as a pastor began in the early 1980s when he established Greater Emanuel Temple of Faith, which grew rapidly under his leadership from a small group of ten members. His charismatic personality and powerful preaching style drew followers from all walks of life, and in 1996, he founded The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch in Dallas, Texas, which has grown to become a spiritual haven for millions of people worldwide.
His influence goes well beyond the pulpit; he is a prolific author who has written many best-selling books that cover a wide range of subjects, from faith and family to success and personal growth. His books have inspired countless readers and are now bestsellers.
As a fervent supporter of social justice, Jakes has addressed problems including racial prejudice, poverty, and inequality using his position. He has devoted his life to empowering communities and fostering constructive change.
Jakes’ influence is felt all around the world. Millions of people watch and listen to his sermons and teachings on television and online. He has made a lot of trips, encouraging individuals from all walks of life and inspiring audiences in other nations.
Published Books
Some selected books by him are:
- Before You Do: Making Great Decisions That You Won’t Regret, 2008, Atria Books
- The Memory Quilt: A Christmas Story for Our Times, 2009
- Let It Go: Forgive So You Can Be Forgiven, 2012
- Instinct: The Power to Unleash Your Inborn Drive, 2014, Hachette Book Group
- Destiny: Step into Your Purpose, August 2015, Hachette Book Group
- Soar!: Build Your Vision from the Ground Up, 2017, FaithWords
- Crushing: God Turns Pressure into Power, April 2019, Hachette Book Group
- Disruptive Thinking, May 2023, FaithWords
Discography
- Woman Thou Art Loosed (1997)
- Live from the Potter’s House (1998)
- The Storm Is Over (2001)
Filmography
- 2004: Woman Thou Art Loosed — As himself (based on Jakes’s novel of the same name)
- 2009: Not Easily Broken — Allen (based on another Jakes novel)
- 2011: Jumping the Broom — Reverend James
- 2010: Munya — Reverend Brian
- 2012: Woman Thou Art Loosed: On the 7th Day – As himself
- 2012: Sparkle – Producer
- 2014: Heaven Is for Real – Producer
- 2014: Winnie Mandela – Producer
- 2016: Miracles from Heaven – Producer
- 2018: Faith Under Fire – Executive Producer
- 2021: Seven Deadly Sins – Executive Producer
Marital Status
He got married to Serita Jakes in 1982 and they are blessed with children and grandchildren.
Legacy
The life of T.D. Jakes is one of empowerment, hope, and faith. He has demonstrated to the world that with tenacity and faith in a higher force, one can overcome hardship and attain greatness. People of various ages and backgrounds are still moved by his message of love, forgiveness, and redemption.
