He was often described as a "prophet out of Harlem"—a preacher who spoke truth to power with theological depth and moral clarity. At the historic Urbana ’70 conference, his sermon on racism and world evangelism shook the evangelical world and redefined what it meant to live out the gospel in an age of social upheaval. His message was clear: the good news of Jesus Christ was not only about heaven, but about setting people free from the hell of injustice, oppression, and spiritual bondage here on Earth.

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Tom’s ministry was prophetic, but not always popular. He faced rejection from much of the white evangelical community for preaching a gospel that addressed racism, poverty, and systemic oppression. Even Christian radio stations dropped him for being "too political." But he never wavered. As his wife and ministry partner, Dr. Barbara Williams-Skinner, wrote: “He felt compelled by God to preach to people of every race—even those whose views helped prop up injustice.”

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Over the course of his life, Tom discipled athletes, advised politicians, pastored prisoners, mentored young Black leaders, and challenged a generation of Christians to make their faith real. From the streets of Newark to the halls of Congress, from gang members to CEOs, Tom carried the message of freedom in Christ wherever he went. His impact was as wide as it was deep.

 

Tom passed away in 1994 at just 52 years old from acute lymphatic leukemia. At his homegoing service, people from every walk of life—civil rights leaders, celebrities, pastors, former inmates, and everyday people he touched—came to say goodbye. Maya Angelou described him as someone who had “a serious influence on the Congressional Black Caucus and at the same time a wonderful influence on the theological community.” Jesse Jackson called him a “scientific preacher who knew how to apply the gospel.”

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