Sarah Jakes Roberts: A biography 2024

Sarah Jakes Roberts is a well-known author, motivational speaker, and pastor, best recognized for her work as an influential leader within the Christian faith. She is the daughter of the renowned Bishop T.D. Jakes, the founder and pastor of The Potter’s House, a large megachurch in Dallas, Texas. Sarah has built her own name through her work in ministry, speaking engagements, and various media platforms. She is also the co-pastor, alongside her husband, of The Potter’s House at One LA in Los Angeles, California.

Early Life and Family Background

Sarah Jakes Roberts was born on July 17, 1988, in Dallas, Texas, to T.D. Jakes and his second wife, Serita Jakes. Growing up in a prominent religious family, she was exposed to the spotlight from an early age. However, despite the privileges of her family’s high status, Sarah faced her own personal challenges.

In her youth, Sarah struggled with her identity and self-esteem, feeling the weight of public expectations. Her parents' prominence also made her life under a magnifying glass, leading to the pressure of living up to her family's legacy. These struggles, however, would later influence her ministry and outreach efforts, as she became passionate about empowering others, especially women, to overcome challenges and embrace their purpose in life.

Personal Struggles and Transformation

One of the most defining chapters of Sarah’s life came during her teenage years. At age 14, she became pregnant, which led to a period of intense public scrutiny and personal crisis. The experience was transformative, as Sarah openly shared her struggle with her family, her faith, and her community. This time in her life marked a pivotal turning point, where she began to learn more about grace, redemption, and resilience.

She later became a single mother, raising her son, Jaden, while navigating the challenges of her personal life and public image. Sarah has been very open about her journey, using her story to inspire others who have faced setbacks or hardships.

Education and Early Ministry Involvement

Sarah attended Texas Christian University, where she earned her degree in Communications. As she was pursuing her studies, she began to take on more responsibilities at her father's church, participating in ministry, leadership roles, and public speaking.

Her experience with the church as well as her academic background in communications played a major role in shaping her ability to reach audiences. During this time, she honed her gifts for speaking, writing, and leadership.

Marriage to Toure Roberts and the Birth of Their Ministry

In 2011, Sarah married Toure Roberts, a pastor, author, and speaker who is also known for his work in Christian ministry. Toure had previously been the pastor of a church in the Denver area before he moved to Los Angeles. Together, Sarah and Toure became the co-pastors of The Potter's House at One LA, which was established as a ministry to reach and inspire young people in Southern California. The couple is known for their dynamic ministry approach, combining a contemporary style of preaching with practical applications of faith in everyday life.

Toure and Sarah’s shared passion for helping people discover their potential and purpose led them to create a partnership that blends ministry with entrepreneurship, media, and community outreach.

Sarah Jakes Roberts: Author and Speaker

Sarah Jakes Roberts is also an accomplished author, and her books have resonated with many readers around the world. Some of her most notable works include:

"Smart Girl" (2010) – This was her first book, in which she shared her personal experiences and lessons learned from growing up as the daughter of T.D. Jakes. It provided a candid look at her life and was written for young women navigating their own paths.

"Lost and Found: Finding Hope in the Detours of Life" (2014) – In this book, Sarah shares her journey of overcoming obstacles and finding strength in life’s unexpected challenges. She discusses the concept of being “lost” and finding redemption through faith and perseverance.

"Don't Settle for Safe: Embracing the Uncomfortable to Become Unstoppable" (2017) – A bestseller, this book encourages women to take risks, step outside of their comfort zones, and live boldly in alignment with God’s purpose for their lives. The message of embracing uncertainty and growth was a recurring theme in her work.

"Women Evolve: Break Up with Your Fears and Revolutionize Your Life" (2022) – One of Sarah’s most popular works, this book focuses on women’s empowerment. Sarah uses her personal experiences to challenge women to let go of their fears and live fully, embracing their power in Christ.

Her writing and public speaking combine vulnerability, humor, and faith, which resonates with a diverse audience, especially women, young people, and those navigating difficult life transitions. Sarah’s approach to ministry emphasizes the idea that anyone can evolve and find healing, no matter their past or present circumstances.

Ministry Leadership: The Potter's House at One LA

As co-pastors of The Potter’s House at One LA, Sarah and Toure Roberts have created a vibrant, dynamic community that attracts people of all ages. Their church is known for its contemporary worship experience and its focus on teaching practical life lessons based on biblical principles.

The ministry also focuses on social justice and outreach programs, supporting people through challenging circumstances. They’ve gained a wide following, not only in Los Angeles but across the world, particularly through online streaming and their social media presence.

Media and Public Presence

Sarah has also become a regular presence in the media world, appearing on talk shows, podcasts, and even television. She is a frequent speaker at conferences, women’s events, and large church gatherings, and she uses her platform to speak about empowerment, leadership, and faith.

She has been featured in various outlets such as Essence Magazine, Black Christian News, and other media platforms where she shares her life and ministry insights. Sarah’s Instagram and YouTube channels have further amplified her voice, where she provides daily inspiration and spiritual guidance to a global audience.

Key Themes in Her Work

Sarah Jakes Roberts focuses on several core themes in her ministry and writing:

Empowerment: Empowering individuals, especially women, to take control of their lives, believe in their purpose, and break free from limiting beliefs.

Healing and Redemption: Emphasizing that no matter the past or the mistakes one has made, there is always hope for transformation and healing.

Faith and Purpose: Teaching that everyone has a divine purpose, and they can tap into that purpose by deepening their faith and trust in God.

Overcoming Fear: Encouraging others to confront their fears, step outside of their comfort zones, and boldly pursue their dreams.

Legacy and Impact

Sarah Jakes Roberts continues to leave an indelible mark on Christian ministry, especially within the context of modern-day challenges. Her transparent approach to her own life—acknowledging struggles, triumphs, and growth—has made her a relatable and powerful figure for many individuals, particularly women of all ages.

Her story is a powerful testament to the redemptive power of faith, resilience, and the unwavering pursuit of God’s purpose, no matter the detours along the way. Through her books, sermons, and outreach, Sarah has inspired countless individuals to evolve and break free from the constraints of fear and insecurity.

In 2021, Sarah and Toure Roberts announced the launch of the Women Evolve Conference, a major event that brings together women from around the world for an empowering and faith-filled weekend.

Today, Sarah Jakes Roberts is a prominent voice in the Christian community, and her work continues to inspire and change lives across the globe. She is a powerful example of faith, growth, and leadership in the modern world.