What is an evangelist according to the Bible?

An evangelist, according to the Bible, is someone who is specifically called and equipped by God to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. This role is distinct yet complementary to other roles within the body of Christ, such as pastors, teachers, prophets, and apostles. The term "evangelist" comes from the Greek word "euangelistes," which means "a bringer of good tidings." In essence, an evangelist is a messenger of the gospel, tasked with spreading the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.

The role of the evangelist is mentioned explicitly in the New Testament. One of the key passages that highlight this role is Ephesians 4:11-12, where the Apostle Paul writes:

"And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ" (ESV).

In this passage, evangelists are listed among the five-fold ministry gifts given to the church. Each role has a unique function, but all work together to equip believers for ministry and to build up the body of Christ. Evangelists, in particular, are focused on outreach and the proclamation of the gospel to those who have not yet heard or accepted it.

One of the most notable examples of an evangelist in the New Testament is Philip. In Acts 21:8, he is specifically referred to as "Philip the evangelist." His ministry is vividly described in Acts 8, where he preaches in Samaria and leads many to faith in Christ. Philip's encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch is a quintessential example of evangelistic work. The Holy Spirit directs Philip to approach the eunuch's chariot, and through a conversation about the Scriptures, Philip leads him to understand and accept Jesus as the Messiah. This story demonstrates the evangelist's role in being sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading and in effectively communicating the gospel message.

The work of an evangelist is not confined to a specific method or setting. It can take place in large public gatherings, as seen in the ministry of Billy Graham, who preached to millions in stadiums around the world. It can also occur in one-on-one conversations, as exemplified by Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. The common thread is the clear and compelling presentation of the gospel message, inviting people to respond in faith to Jesus Christ.

The Apostle Paul also exemplifies the work of an evangelist, though he is primarily known as an apostle. In his letters, Paul often speaks of his commitment to preaching the gospel. In 1 Corinthians 9:16, he writes:

"For if I preach the gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!" (ESV).

Paul's sense of urgency and responsibility in proclaiming the gospel is a hallmark of an evangelist's heart. He traveled extensively, faced numerous hardships, and endured persecution, all for the sake of spreading the message of Christ. His letters often reflect his evangelistic zeal and his desire for all people to come to a saving knowledge of Jesus.

The role of an evangelist is also highlighted in Paul's instructions to Timothy. In 2 Timothy 4:5, Paul exhorts Timothy:

"As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry" (ESV).

This charge to Timothy underscores the importance of evangelistic work within the broader context of pastoral and teaching ministry. Paul encourages Timothy to be diligent and steadfast in proclaiming the gospel, even in the face of challenges and opposition.

The work of an evangelist is not limited to professional ministers or those with formal theological training. Every believer is called to be a witness to the gospel, as Jesus commanded in the Great Commission:

"Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age" (Matthew 28:19-20, ESV).

While not everyone is called to be an evangelist in the formal sense, every Christian has a role in sharing the gospel with others. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to be witnesses (Acts 1:8), and the love of Christ compels us to share the hope we have in Him.

In addition to biblical examples and commands, Christian literature throughout history has emphasized the importance of evangelism. For instance, Charles Spurgeon, a renowned preacher and evangelist, once said:

"Every Christian is either a missionary or an imposter."

Spurgeon's statement underscores the idea that evangelism is an integral part of the Christian life. It is not an optional activity for a select few but a fundamental aspect of following Jesus.

The role of an evangelist, therefore, is multifaceted. It involves proclaiming the gospel clearly and compellingly, being sensitive to the Holy Spirit's leading, enduring hardships for the sake of the message, and equipping others to share the gospel. Evangelists play a crucial role in the growth and expansion of the church, as they reach out to those who have not yet heard or accepted the message of Christ.

In summary, an evangelist, according to the Bible, is a messenger of the gospel, called and equipped by God to proclaim the Good News of Jesus Christ. This role is essential for the growth and health of the church, as evangelists reach out to the lost and equip believers for ministry. Through the examples of Philip, Paul, and Timothy, we see the importance of evangelistic work and the various ways it can be carried out. Ultimately, every believer is called to participate in the work of evangelism, sharing the hope of Christ with a world in need.