Bishop Thomas Dexter Jakes, popularly known as T.D. Jakes, is a highly respected American pastor, author, filmmaker, and entrepreneur. He is best known as the founder and senior pastor of The Potter’s House, a non-denominational megachurch based in Dallas, Texas, with over 30,000 members. Jakes is recognized worldwide for his powerful preaching, inspirational books, and global conferences that have transformed countless lives.
Quick Facts about T.D Jakes
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Thomas Dexter Jakes |
| Popularly Known As | Bishop T.D. Jakes |
| Date of Birth | June 9, 1957 |
| Age | 68 years (as of 2025) |
| Place of Birth | South Charleston, West Virginia, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Pastor, Author, Filmmaker, Entrepreneur |
| Church | The Potter’s House, Dallas, Texas |
| Denomination | Non-denominational |
| Marital Status | Married |
| Spouse | Serita Jakes (m. 1982) |
| Children | 5 (Jermaine, Cora, Thomas Jr., Sarah, Jamar) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $20 million (2025) |
Early Life and Background
T.D. Jakes was born on June 9, 1957, in South Charleston, West Virginia, to Ernest and Odith Jakes. Raised in a modest family, Jakes grew up in an environment where faith, perseverance, and hard work were highly valued. Despite facing challenges, including a speech impediment in his childhood, he pursued his calling in ministry with determination.
He graduated from West Virginia State University and later received honorary degrees recognizing his contributions to ministry and society. His humble beginnings shaped his strong passion for empowering people spiritually, emotionally, and economically.
Ministry and The Potter’s House
Jakes began his pastoral journey in 1979 when he founded his first church, Greater Emmanuel Temple of Faith, in a small storefront in Montgomery, West Virginia, with only 10 members. Through his dynamic preaching and leadership, the church quickly grew, and his influence expanded nationwide.
In 1996, he moved to Dallas, Texas, and established The Potter’s House, which has since grown into a thriving megachurch with over 30,000 members and millions of global followers online. The church also runs numerous outreach programs, including prison ministry, homeless support, and youth empowerment initiatives.
Today, The Potter’s House stands as one of the largest and most influential churches in the United States.
ALSO READ: Serita Jakes Biography: Age, Net Worth, Family, Career and Achievements
Books and Writing Career
Bishop T.D. Jakes is a prolific author, having written numerous bestselling books that have inspired millions around the world. His writings cover topics such as faith, leadership, relationships, personal growth, and spirituality. Some of his most notable works include:
- Woman, Thou Art Loosed!
- Destiny: Step into Your Purpose
- Crushing: God Turns Pressure into Power
- Soar!: Build Your Vision from the Ground Up
- Instinct: The Power to Unleash Your Inborn Drive
Many of his books have topped the New York Times Best Seller list and continue to influence readers globally.
Film and Media Career
Apart from preaching and writing, T.D. Jakes has also ventured into film production. He produced and appeared in several inspirational films, including:
- Woman Thou Art Loosed (2004)
- Not Easily Broken (2009)
- Jumping the Broom (2011)
- Miracles from Heaven (2016)
These films not only reached Hollywood audiences but also carried powerful faith-based messages that resonated with Christians worldwide.
Family and Personal Life
T.D. Jakes is happily married to Serita Jakes since 1982. Together, they have five children: Jermaine, Jamar, Cora, Thomas Jr., and Sarah Jakes Roberts (a well-known pastor and author in her own right).
The Jakes family is deeply involved in ministry, with several of his children actively serving in various leadership capacities within and outside The Potter’s House.
Net Worth and Achievements
As of 2025, Bishop T.D. Jakes has an estimated net worth of $20 million. His income comes from multiple streams including book sales, film production, speaking engagements, and church leadership.
Achievements include:
- Founder of The Potter’s House, a 30,000-member megachurch
- Host of major conferences such as MegaFest and Woman Thou Art Loosed
- Multiple New York Times bestselling author
- Recipient of numerous humanitarian awards
- Recognized globally as a spiritual leader and influencer
Legacy and Influence
Bishop T.D. Jakes is considered one of the most influential Christian leaders of the 21st century. His sermons, books, and conferences have touched millions of lives, offering hope, empowerment, and spiritual growth. Through The Potter’s House and his global outreach, he has become a beacon of inspiration not just to Christians, but to leaders and individuals across different walks of life.
His legacy continues through his children, his media productions, and the countless people transformed by his teachings.
FAQs About Bishop T.D. Jakes
1. Who is Bishop T.D. Jakes?
Bishop T.D. Jakes is an American pastor, author, and filmmaker, best known as the founder of The Potter’s House, a megachurch in Dallas, Texas.
2. How old is Bishop T.D. Jakes?
He was born on June 9, 1957, and is 68 years old as of 2025.
3. Is Bishop T.D. Jakes married?
Yes, he has been married to Serita Jakes since 1982.
4. How many children does Bishop T.D. Jakes have?
He has five children: Jermaine, Jamar, Cora, Thomas Jr., and Sarah Jakes Roberts.
5. What is Bishop T.D. Jakes’ net worth?
As of 2025, his estimated net worth is around $20 million.
6. What church does T.D. Jakes pastor?
He is the senior pastor of The Potter’s House, a non-denominational church in Dallas, Texas.
7. What are Bishop T.D. Jakes’ most popular books?
Some of his most popular books include Woman, Thou Art Loosed!, Crushing, Soar!, and Instinct.
8. Has Bishop T.D. Jakes produced any movies?
Yes, he has produced several faith-based films, including Woman Thou Art Loosed and Miracles from Heaven.
