Evangelism
Evangelism is the preaching of the Christian Gospel. The word evangelist comes from the Greek word ("eu-aggelos") for 'bringing good news' (εὐάγγελος).As a specialised usage, "Evangelist" can designate each of the authors of the four Gospels in the New Testament, traditionally known as Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
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2 Biblical Quotes 3 Well known Evangelists 4 Non-traditional uses 5 See also |
Evangelical Protestantism
Generally, evangelists are Protestants, and lead meetings known as revivals, harvest meetings or evangelistic crusades.
The "Evangelical" movement in Christianity encompasses denominations and parachurch organizations which, among other characteristics, focus on evangelism and the drawing-in of new converts -- in their terminology, the "saving of souls". Discussion of religious behavior sometimes contrasts evangelical groups with liturgical groups - those which focus on ritual practice among the existing members as opposed to drawing in new members.
Today evangelists generally lead large meetings, possibly in tents or existing church buildings, in contrast to street corner preaching, which targets listeners who happen to pass nearby on the street.
Some groups, particularly those of a fundamentalist bent, may refer to their regular minister as an "evangelist" in a way that other groups would typically use the term "pastor". Among these groups is the Church of Christ.
Biblical Quotes
A more strict biblical definition of evangelist would equate to a missionary:
Ac 21:8 (KJV) And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the [evangelist], which was one of the seven; and abode with him.
2Ti 4:5 (KJV) But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
In the context of commercial enterprises which develop or foster a cult following and religious-like fanatacism, the term evangelist can become an unofficial or even an official role/title. Note in particular the usage at Apple Computer.Well known Evangelists
Well known evangelists include:Lesser Known Evangelists
Other (less-well known) evangelists:
Non-traditional uses
By metaphorical extension, evangelism may also refer to any form of recruitment or spreading-the-word for a group or movement seen as ideological or committed: hence, for instance, open source evangelism.