Bishop T.D. Jakes, the renowned pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas, experienced a health scare during a Sunday service on November 24, 2024. The incident occurred as he delivered a live-streamed sermon, prompting immediate medical attention.
Videos circulating on social media showed Jakes becoming unsteady and requiring assistance from those nearby.
The incident occurred as he was concluding his sermon and began to pray. Video footage shows Jakes suddenly becoming quiet, lowering his microphone, and appearing to shake before several people rushed to assist him.
The Potter’s House released a statement confirming the incident and assuring the public that Jakes was stable and under medical care.
In a subsequent update, Jakes himself addressed the situation, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support and prayers.
The Potter’s House pastor clarified in his November 28 remarks that he did not suffer a stroke. Jakes acknowledged the seriousness of the event, expressing the belief that it was God’s intervention that prevented his death at that time.
Jakes is now recovering and focusing on rest and recuperation. He thanked the medical professionals for their swift response and expertise.
Neither Jakes nor his church has disclosed the specific nature of the health issue. Online observers have speculated that the megachurch pastor was likely overworked and exhausted, while others questioned if stress from unfounded rumors alleging Jakes’ involvement with Sean “Diddy” Combs had gotten to him.
Jakes, 67, has been plagued by online claims that he has been forced to roll back his duties at The Potter’s House due to his former business and spiritual relationship with Combs.
Combs, founder of Bad Boy Records, was arrested in September 2024 amid allegations that he “abused, threatened, and coerced women and others, and led a racketeering conspiracy that engaged in sex trafficking, forced labor, kidnapping, arson, bribery, and obstruction of justice, among other crimes” for over a decade.
Jakes has denied any involvement in Combs’ alleged crimes and notorious sex parties, dubbed “Freak Offs,” and there has been no evidence supporting claims to the contrary.
Jakes, who founded The Potter’s House in 1996, is widely known for his influential sermons and leadership in religious, business, and philanthropic spaces. His daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, who also leads the prominent megachurch as an assistant pastor with her husband Touré Roberts, could very well take over for Jakes when he eventually retires.
Read Jakes’ full November 27, 2024, statement shared on social media.
Serving God’s people is an extraordinary privilege, and Sunday was no exception as I gave my all in delivering the message God placed on my heart. Even when I sensed the weight of my humanity and pushed through nonetheless, I’m reminded that even the strongest must rely on His strength.
I give thanks unto the Lord that I did not have a stroke, however the event could’ve been fatal if it weren’t for God’s intervention. A special thank you to God and the medical professionals in our city whose speed and expertise were beyond exceptional. My job is to recuperate and reflect on God’s protection. I owe it to my amazing family and church members to rest and ruminate as He restores me towards His service. As God calls us to honor the Sabbath, I’m reminded that rest is not a weakness – it is a divine gift.
While I continue to be strengthened by His grace, I stand in awe of my family and the tremendous leadership team that surrounds me. Together, we press forward, steadfast in the work the Lord has set before us. I’ve heard from friends from the global community who expressed God’s love in ways that were astonishing! God’s faithfulness was unmistakable to all those present.
I’m forever humbled by your outpouring of love and support. I will always give my best. May His presence continue to guide and sustain you and provide peace and protection over you all.
– T.D. Jakes
