T.D. Jakes is a respected American pastor, author, filmmaker, and motivational speaker. He is best known as the founder and senior pastor of The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch based in Dallas, Texas. Over the years, Bishop Jakes has touched millions worldwide through his sermons, books, conferences, and films. His voice continues to inspire people to rise above challenges, walk in faith, and live with purpose.
Quick Facts about T.D Jakes
| Full Name | Thomas Dexter Jakes Sr. |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1957 |
| Age | 68 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | South Charleston, West Virginia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Filmmaker, Speaker |
| Spouse | Serita Jakes |
| Children | Cora, Sarah, Jermaine, Thomas Jr., and Jamar |
| Church | The Potter’s House, Dallas, Texas |
Early Life and Education
T.D. Jakes was born on June 9, 1957, in South Charleston, West Virginia, and raised in Vandalia. He was the youngest of three children born to Ernest and Odith Jakes. His father owned a janitorial business, while his mother was an educator.
As a child, Jakes was deeply interested in preaching. By the time he was a teenager, he began giving small sermons at his local church. He attended West Virginia State University, though he later left to care for his ill father. Even without completing his degree at the time, his commitment to faith and personal growth never wavered.
Family and Personal Life
Bishop T.D. Jakes is married to Serita Ann Jakes, whom he wed in 1982. The couple has five children: Sarah, Cora, Jermaine, Thomas Jr., and Jamar Jakes.
His wife, Serita, is not only his life partner but also an influential minister, speaker, and author. His daughter, Sarah Jakes Roberts, is now a renowned preacher and author herself, continuing her father’s legacy by reaching a younger generation through her own ministry, Woman Evolve.
The Jakes family is known for their strong faith, close-knit bond, and collective impact in Christian ministry.
Ministry and The Potter’s House
T.D. Jakes began his pastoral journey in 1979, preaching to a small congregation of just ten people in Montgomery, West Virginia. That humble beginning marked the start of a ministry that would grow into one of the largest churches in the United States.
In 1996, he founded The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch in Dallas, Texas. The church sits on a 34-acre campus and can seat over 30,000 worshippers. Beyond weekly services, The Potter’s House operates various community programs focusing on education, family, and leadership development.
Jakes’s sermons are known for their emotional depth, powerful storytelling, and motivational energy. His preaching combines biblical truths with real-life wisdom, helping people find healing and direction.
Books and Publications
T.D. Jakes is also a bestselling author, with many of his books becoming international successes. His writing often centers on personal growth, faith, healing, and leadership. Some of his most popular books include:
- Woman, Thou Art Loosed! (1993)
- He-Motions: Even Strong Men Struggle (2004)
- Reposition Yourself: Living Life Without Limits (2007)
- Destiny: Step into Your Purpose (2015)
- Don’t Drop the Mic (2021)
His books have sold millions of copies worldwide, empowering readers to overcome adversity and fulfill their God-given purpose.
Films and Media Work
Beyond the pulpit, Bishop Jakes has made a significant mark in the entertainment industry as a producer and filmmaker. He has worked on several successful faith-based films that merge spiritual insight with relatable storytelling.
Some notable movies he has produced or contributed to include:
- Woman, Thou Art Loosed (2004)
- Not Easily Broken (2009)
- Jumping the Broom (2011)
- Miracles from Heaven (2016)
- Heaven Is for Real (2014)* (as a producer)
Through media, Jakes has extended his message of hope and transformation to audiences far beyond church walls.
Achievements and Legacy
Bishop T.D. Jakes has received numerous honors and awards throughout his ministry. He has been recognized for his leadership in both spiritual and community development.
Some key highlights include:
- Founder of the MegaFest Conference, which attracts tens of thousands of attendees worldwide.
- Host of the Woman, Thou Art Loosed! Conference, empowering women in faith and life.
- Frequent speaker at global events and leadership summits.
- Recipient of multiple honorary degrees and civic awards for humanitarian work.
His leadership at The Potter’s House continues to influence pastors, leaders, and believers globally. Jakes’s impact extends to mentoring young ministers and helping shape a new generation of spiritual leaders.
House and Lifestyle
T.D. Jakes resides in Dallas, Texas, in a beautiful home near his church. Despite his success, he remains humble and focused on service. His lifestyle reflects balance — dedicated to family, ministry, and helping others grow spiritually. He often shares about the importance of rest, family time, and maintaining a grateful heart.
Net Worth
Bishop T.D. Jakes has built a successful career in ministry, writing, film production, and public speaking. His estimated net worth is around $20 million, derived from book sales, film production, conferences, and church leadership. However, he consistently emphasizes that his true wealth is in faith, purpose, and service to others.
Notable Quotes
- “If you can’t figure out your purpose, figure out your passion. For your passion will lead you right into your purpose.”
- “You cannot be a big person with a small heart.”
- “When you begin to realize that your purpose is bigger than your pain, you’ll start walking differently.”
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FAQs
In this section, I will provide you with some FAQs and answers about T.D Jakes. Keep on reading, friend!
1. How old is T.D. Jakes?
T.D. Jakes is 68 years old as of 2025. He was born on June 9, 1957.
2. Who is T.D. Jakes married to?
He is married to Serita Jakes, who also serves as a pastor and author.
3. How many children does T.D. Jakes have?
Bishop Jakes has five children: Sarah, Cora, Jermaine, Thomas Jr., and Jamar.
4. What church does T.D. Jakes pastor?
He is the senior pastor of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas.
5. What books has T.D. Jakes written?
Some of his well-known books include Woman, Thou Art Loosed!, He-Motions, and Destiny.