What Is an Evangelical?
Learn the definition of an evangelical Christian. Understand the core biblical pillars of evangelicalism, including the authority of KJV scripture.
Introduction
Every year on October 31, while much of the world is focused on secular holiday traditions, millions of Christians around the globe celebrate a major milestone in church history known as Reformation Day. This day marks the anniversary of the Protestant Reformation, a massive religious movement that took place in Europe during the sixteenth century. Reformation Day is not just a lesson about historical events; it is a celebration of how the church returned to the true gospel of Jesus Christ. It honors the moment when the light of Scripture broke through a long period of spiritual darkness, reshaping how we read the Bible today.
The Spark That Started the Protestant Reformation
Reformation Day commemorates the specific actions of a German monk and theology professor named Martin Luther. On October 31, 1517, Luther walked to the Castle Church in Wittenberg, Germany, and nailed a document containing ninety-five points of debate to the heavy wooden door. Luther was deeply troubled by the corrupt practices inside the church, especially the sale of pieces of paper called indulgences, which falsely promised people that they could buy forgiveness for their sins. His act was a formal invitation to other scholars to discuss these problems and compare church traditions with the actual text of the Bible.
A Return to the True Source of Authority
At the heart of Reformation Day is the recovery of the Bible as the final authority for every believer. Before the Reformation, common people were not allowed to read the Bible in their own language, forcing them to rely completely on the words of church leaders. The reformers argued that every person should have access to the Word of God, because scripture alone is perfect and unchanging. The Bible itself confirms this absolute authority, stating, All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).
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The Central Importance of the Cross of Jesus Christ
Evangelical Christians place the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ at the very center of their message. They believe that humanity is entirely separated from God because of sin, and no amount of human effort can repair that broken relationship. The only way to receive forgiveness and eternal life is through the sacrifice Jesus made when He died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. The scripture states this foundational truth clearly, saying, For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the scriptures; And that he was buried, and that he rose again the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).
An Active Commitment to Sharing the Gospel Message
The final defining mark of an evangelical is an active desire to share the gospel with other people around the world. Because they believe that salvation is found only in Jesus, they feel a deep responsibility to tell their neighbors, friends, and nations the good news. This missionary spirit comes directly from the command Jesus gave to His followers before He returned to heaven. He instructed them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). Evangelicals express this belief by supporting missions, teaching the Bible, and helping those in need.
Conclusion
What is an evangelical? Strip away the political talk and cultural debates, and you will find a Christian who is completely devoted to the good news of Jesus Christ. Being an evangelical means standing firmly on the authority of God's Word, experiencing a personal spiritual rebirth, resting in the work of the cross, and actively sharing that hope with the surrounding world. It is a faith centered on a living relationship with the Savior. By keeping these core biblical truths at the center of their hearts, evangelicals strive to honor God and shine His light into a dark and changing world.
Frequently asked questions
What does the original root word for evangelical mean?
The word comes from a Greek term that means good news.
What is a common misunderstanding people have about the word evangelical?
People often mistakenly think it refers only to a political party or a specific group of voters rather than a religious faith.
What phrase is often used by evangelicals to describe the conversion experience?
It is frequently described as being born again.
What is the evangelical view regarding the authority of the Bible?
Evangelicals believe the Bible is the final authority for faith and practice because it is inspired by God.
According to 2 Timothy 3:16, what is scripture profitable for?
It is profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness.
What condition did Jesus give in John 3:3 for seeing the kingdom of God?
He stated that except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.