Tony Evans

Here is a profile of Tony Evans (Anthony Tyrone Evans) including life, ministry, and selected quotes.

Tony Evans – Life, Ministry & Quotes

Tony Evans (b. 1949) is an American pastor, author, and broadcaster. Discover his background, ministry, theological vision, and memorable quotes.

Introduction

Tony Evans is an influential evangelical pastor, teacher, and author whose preaching and writings have reached millions globally. Known for his exposition of the Bible, his emphasis on the kingdom of God, and practical theology, Evans has served as a pastor, a radio and television broadcaster, and a mentor to pastors and laypeople alike.

Early Life, Education & Family

• Tony Evans was born September 10, 1949 in Baltimore, Maryland, U.S.

• His full name is Anthony Tyrone Evans Sr.

• He completed a Bachelor’s degree at Carver College in 1972, a Th.M. in 1976, and later earned a Th.D. from Dallas Theological Seminary in 1982.

• He is married (to the late Lois Irene Evans until her death in 2019) and has four children: Chrystal, Priscilla, Anthony Jr., and Jonathan.

• His daughter Priscilla Shirer is a noted Christian author, speaker, and actress.

Ministry & Achievements

Pastoral and Broadcast Ministry

• In 1976, Evans founded Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship in Dallas, Texas, starting with about 10 people meeting in his home.

• He also co-founded The Urban Alternative in 1981, a ministry organization to distribute his teaching broadly via media.

• His radio broadcast, “The Alternative with Dr. Tony Evans,” airs on over 1,400 radio outlets in more than 130 countries.

• He has served in chaplain roles for sports teams; for example, with the Dallas Cowboys (NFL) and formerly with the Dallas Mavericks (NBA).

• He taught evangelism, homiletics, and “Black Church Studies” at Dallas Theological Seminary and has been on its board.

• In June 2024, Evans resigned as senior pastor of Oak Cliff Bible Fellowship, citing a sin committed many years ago (noncriminal in nature) and entering a season of repentance and restoration.

Writings & Influence

• Evans has authored over 100 books and Bible studies, including well-known titles like Kingdom Man, Oneness Embraced, The Kingdom Agenda, and the Tony Evans Study Bible and Tony Evans Bible Commentary.

• He is recognized as the first African American to write and publish a full Bible commentary and study Bible.

• He is often cited among top preachers; for example, Baylor University named him among the “12 Most Effective Preachers in the English-Speaking World.”

Theological Vision & Emphases

Tony Evans’s theology is rooted in what he calls a kingdom perspective: that God’s reign should shape every domain of life (spiritual, personal, social, cultural). He emphasizes:

• Biblical exposition — clear, consistent teaching from Scripture

• Holistic life application — faith is not only about the spiritual but about daily living

• God’s sovereignty and kingdom rule — God is active and authoritative over all

• Racial reconciliation & unity in Christ — promoting unity across cultural and racial divides

• Personal responsibility & discipleship — the Christian life is one of obedience, growth, and transformation

Selected Quotes by Tony Evans

Here are several memorable quotes attributed to Tony Evans:

“Success is not what you have done compared to what others have done. Success is what you have done compared to what you were supposed to do.”

“Don’t magnify your problems, magnify your God… he’s got you covered.”

“Men, God is not opposed to greatness. God is opposed to pride. Big difference.”

“You are not fighting for victory — you are fighting from victory. This battle has already been won!”

“Prayer is God’s backstage pass into a personal audience with Him.”

“If you repent and operate on God’s standards, now you have restoration and reconciliation.”

“I condemn racism on all levels, whether personal or systemic.”