A well-known personality in American evangelicalism, Anthony Tyrone “Tony” Evans Sr. is known for his influential sermons, substantial body of work, and significant media ministry. Evans has devoted his life to sharing and implementing the Word of God, starting from his modest beginnings and continuing to lead a megachurch and impact millions of people via radio and television.
Early Life
Tony Evans was born on September 10, 1949, and his path started with a strong dedication to the study of theology. He attended Carver College to further his education, graduating in 1972 with a Bachelor of Arts. After that, he earned a Master of Theology (Th.M.) in 1976 and a Doctor of Theology (Th.D.) in 1982 from Dallas Theological Seminary. His future ministry had a strong basis thanks to his demanding academic endeavors.
In 1973, a Houston radio producer noticed Evans’ preaching ability while he was still a student at Dallas Theological Seminary. As a result, he made his broadcasting debut by recording sermons for KHCB radio in a tiny studio. His extended media ministry began with these early broadcasts.
When the demand for Evans’ sermons from his radio broadcasts in Houston and Dallas became too great in 1981, the seeds of The Urban Alternative were planted. Lois Evans, his wife, was instrumental in setting up and establishing the ministry, using her business sense to oversee the expanding reach.
Evans’ acceptance of an invitation to preach at the annual conference of the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB) in 1986 marked a sea change. His radio ministry grew significantly as a result of this appearance, attracting a lot of attention and expanding both domestically and beyond under Lois Evans’ direction.
Oaks Ministry
Evans established Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas, in 1976. At first, there were only ten members who met in his house. Under his direction, the church grew remarkably and became a well-known megachurch in the Dallas area.
At the same time, The Urban Alternative, which he and his wife Lois started, was thriving. Through publications, radio shows, and other materials, the organization’s goal of “restoring hope and transforming lives through the proclamation and the application of the Word of God” was accomplished. Today, “The Alternative with Dr. Tony Evans” reaches millions of listeners every week and is broadcast on more than 1,400 radio stations across more than 130 countries.
Beyond the pulpit, Evans had an impact. He demonstrated his dedication to incorporating Christianity into many aspects of life by serving as chaplain for the Dallas Cowboys in the NFL and the Dallas Mavericks in the NBA. Additionally, he made a contribution to theological education by serving on the Board of Incorporate Members at Dallas Theological Seminary, where he taught evangelism, homiletics, and black church studies.
Baylor University acknowledged his preaching contributions by naming him one of the 12 Most Effective Preachers in the English-speaking world.
For Christian leaders who are unable to attend conventional seminaries, Evans established the Tony Evans Training Center in 2017 as an online learning platform that offers seminary-style courses. The goal of this project was to prepare a larger audience for successful ministry.
Evans is notable for being the first African American to study the Bible, write and publish a comprehensive commentary on it. He has written more than 100 publications, including well-known titles like “Kingdom Man,” “Oneness Embraced,” “The Kingdom Agenda,” “The Tony Evans Study Bible,” and “The Tony Evans Bible Commentary.”
Marital Status
Prior to her death in 2019, Tony Evans was wed to Lois Irene Evans. Chrystal, Priscilla, Anthony Jr., and Jonathan are the four children of their marriage, which was a collaboration in ministry and family.
Significant contributions to Christian ministry have also been made by his offspring. Author, speaker, and worship leader Chrystal Hurst co-wrote “Kingdom Woman” with her father. The creator of Going Beyond Ministries and a New York Times best-selling author is Priscilla Shirer. Jonathan Evans, a former NFL player and current Dallas Cowboys chaplain, and Anthony Jr. are both modern Christian musicians.
There are four great-grandchildren and thirteen grandchildren in Evans’ family.
Evans and Carla Crummie were married after Evans confirmed their engagement in September 2023.
Evans has been outspoken about his political beliefs and is a registered Republican in Texas. He openly denounced President Barack Obama’s endorsement of same-sex marriage in 2012.
Resignation
Evans resigned from his position as head pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in June 2024, alleging a transgression he had committed years prior. His dedication to honesty and responsibility was demonstrated by this choice, which was communicated via the church’s website and services.
