What is Evangelicalism?
What is Evangelicalism? A Biblical and Baptist Perspective
Evangelicalism is a significant movement within Protestant Christianity, characterized by a focus on the personal, transformative relationship with Jesus Christ. Central to Evangelicalism is the belief that salvation is obtained through grace alone, by faith alone, in Christ alone, and that this relationship begins when an individual is spiritually reborn. Evangelical Christians emphasize the authority of Scripture, the necessity of personal conversion, and the imperative to share the gospel.
The term Evangelicalism derives from the Greek word euangelion, meaning “good news,” and euangelizomai, meaning “to proclaim good news.” The "good news" is the gospel of Jesus Christ, summarized in 1 Corinthians 15:3–4: "For I delivered to you first of all that which I also received: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures" (NKJV). This gospel is at the heart of Evangelicalism, defining its mission, theology, and practice.
Historical Roots of Evangelicalism
The origins of Evangelicalism can be traced back to the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, when key doctrines such as justification by faith alone (Romans 5:1) and the authority of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16–17) were rediscovered and affirmed. Reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin emphasized the necessity of returning to biblical truth and rejecting unbiblical traditions and practices.
Evangelicalism, as a distinct movement, began to take shape during the great revivals of the 18th and 19th centuries, particularly in Europe and America. These revivals, led by figures such as George Whitefield, John Wesley, and Jonathan Edwards, brought a renewed emphasis on personal conversion, holiness, and the proclamation of the gospel. These leaders proclaimed that faith in Jesus Christ, not adherence to rituals or traditions, was the only way to salvation (Ephesians 2:8–9).
Core Beliefs of Evangelicalism
Evangelicalism is defined by several key theological and doctrinal commitments:
Authority of Scripture
Evangelicals hold that the Bible is the inspired, inerrant, and sufficient Word of God. Scripture is the ultimate authority for faith and practice. As 2 Timothy 3:16–17 states, "All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work" (NKJV). The centrality of Scripture in Evangelicalism ensures that theology and practice remain grounded in God’s revealed truth.Necessity of Personal Conversion
Evangelicals emphasize the necessity of being “born again,” as Jesus taught in John 3:3: "Most assuredly, I say to you, unless one is born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (NKJV). Conversion involves repentance (a turning away from sin) and faith in Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. This personal decision to trust Christ for salvation is the foundation of the Christian life (Romans 10:9–10).Christ-Centered Salvation
Evangelicals affirm that salvation is possible only through the person and work of Jesus Christ. Acts 4:12 declares, "Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved" (NKJV). Christ’s death on the cross and His resurrection provide the basis for our justification and reconciliation with God (Romans 5:8–10).Proclamation of the Gospel
Evangelicalism prioritizes the proclamation of the gospel to all people, in obedience to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19–20: "Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age" (NKJV). Evangelicals believe it is the duty of every Christian to share the message of salvation through word and deed.Transformation of Life
Evangelicalism teaches that true faith leads to a transformed life. The Holy Spirit indwells believers, producing spiritual growth and fruit (Galatians 5:22–23). Sanctification is a continual process in which believers are conformed to the image of Christ (Romans 8:29). This transformation is evident in a commitment to holiness, love for others, and a passion for serving God.
Evangelicalism and Baptist Theology
From a Baptist theological perspective, Evangelicalism aligns closely with core Baptist principles, such as:
Believer’s Baptism: Baptists emphasize that baptism is reserved for those who have professed faith in Christ, symbolizing their identification with His death, burial, and resurrection (Romans 6:3–4).
Congregational Governance: Baptists affirm the autonomy of the local church and its accountability to Christ as its head (Ephesians 1:22–23).
Religious Liberty: Baptists have historically championed the separation of church and state, advocating for freedom of conscience in matters of faith (Matthew 22:21).
These distinctives, along with an unwavering commitment to the gospel, make many Baptists part of the broader Evangelical movement.
Challenges and Misconceptions About Evangelicalism
While the heart of Evangelicalism is rooted in the gospel, misconceptions and cultural influences have sometimes clouded its meaning:
Political Misrepresentation
In recent years, the term Evangelical has often been associated with conservative political movements. While evangelical Christians may hold conservative values informed by biblical principles, Evangelicalism itself is not defined by politics. Its focus is on the gospel and the proclamation of Christ, not on earthly governments (Philippians 3:20).Doctrinal Drift
Some groups that identify as Evangelical have strayed from biblical orthodoxy, compromising on foundational truths. Evangelicals must remain vigilant, heeding Paul’s warning in Galatians 1:8–9 not to distort the gospel.Overemphasis on Numbers
In some contexts, Evangelicalism has placed undue emphasis on numerical growth, sometimes at the expense of discipleship and theological depth. True evangelism involves not just making converts but also making disciples who grow in their faith and obedience to Christ (Matthew 28:19–20).
The Mission of Evangelicalism
At its best, Evangelicalism represents a vibrant, gospel-centered movement that seeks to glorify God by proclaiming His truth and making disciples. Evangelicals are called to engage the world with humility, love, and courage, remaining faithful to Scripture and relying on the power of the Holy Spirit.
As Paul writes in Romans 1:16, "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes, for the Jew first and also for the Greek" (NKJV). This commitment to the gospel is the hallmark of true Evangelicalism and the source of its enduring impact.
Conclusion
Evangelicalism is a movement deeply rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ, emphasizing the authority of Scripture, the necessity of personal conversion, and the urgency of proclaiming salvation to the world. For Baptists, who share many of these convictions, Evangelicalism provides a framework for faithful witness and ministry. True Evangelicalism transcends cultural and political trends, focusing instead on the eternal truth of God’s Word and the transformative power of the gospel. May every Evangelical Christian live with a heart devoted to Christ and His mission, proclaiming with joy the good news that Jesus saves.
