Trinity Bible Church of Dallas has announced the removal of lead pastor Steven J. Lawson from all ministry responsibilities following revelations of an inappropriate relationship with an unnamed woman. Lawson, known for his expository preaching and as the founder of OnePassion Ministries, has been a regular speaker at major Christian conferences, including Shepherd’s Conference and G3, and has served as a teaching fellow at Ligonier Ministries.
The elders of the church have urged the congregation to pray for Lawson, his family, and the church as they seek repentance and healing during this challenging period. They reaffirmed that the church remains under the headship of Christ, emphasizing the need for spiritual restoration.
Here is the statement as published on the church’s website:
The elders at Trinity Bible Church of Dallas regretfully announce that effective immediately, Steven J. Lawson has been removed indefinitely from all ministry activities at Trinity Bible Church of Dallas. Several days ago, the elders at Trinity Bible Church of Dallas were informed by Steve Lawson of an inappropriate relationship that he has had with a woman. The elders have met with Steve and will continue to come alongside him and pray for him with the ultimate goal of his personal repentance. Steve will no longer be compensated by Trinity Bible Church of Dallas.
In light of this, may we be reminded that we are ALL sinners, and Jesus Christ came into the world to save sinners – and Christ remains Head of His Church, which is bigger than any fallen man. In fact, Jesus Christ will continue to lead His Church, including Trinity Bible Church here in Dallas, just like He has from the start of this work on January 5, 2018. Since that time, the elders have focused on the primacy of biblical exposition knit together by various men filling the pulpit each week. The Lord was building Trinity Bible Church of Dallas well before Steve became our Lead Preacher, and He will continue to build this church long after Steve Lawson, or any other man for that matter. We would ask for your prayers for the elders, for our Body, and for Steve and his family. Let us always be mindful of the words of 1 Corinthians 10:12, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall.”