Evangelistic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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evangelistic

[ɪˌvæn.dʒəˈlɪs.tɪk ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

religious fervor

Evangelistic refers to a zealous commitment to spreading the Christian gospel. It often pertains to the efforts made by individuals or groups to convert others to their faith. This term can apply to various forms of outreach, including preaching, personal testimonies, and organized missions. Evangelistic activities are often characterized by their energetic and persuasive nature. Such efforts are crucial in many Christian denominations as they aim to fulfill the Great Commission to spread the message of Jesus Christ.

Synonyms

missionary, proselytizing, spreading.

Examples of usage

  • The evangelistic campaign drew thousands of attendees.
  • He joined an evangelistic group to help spread the message.
  • Her evangelistic passion motivated her to travel abroad.
  • The church organized an evangelistic event in the community.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Religious Context

  • Evangelistic movements played a significant role in the spread of Christianity during the Reformation.
  • In contemporary society, various evangelical organizations focus on outreach programs to share their beliefs.
  • Many evangelistic efforts are characterized by strong community engagement and social justice initiatives.

Literature

  • Evangelistic themes can often be found in literary works that deal with moral and ethical dilemmas, pushing characters to confront their beliefs.
  • Famous authors like C.S. Lewis incorporated evangelistic messages in their writings, aiming to connect with readers' beliefs.
  • The genre of Christian literature has seen a rise in evangelistic messages aimed at inspiring faith through storytelling.

Pop Culture

  • Many popular musicians and celebrities use their platforms to share evangelistic messages, often resulting in cultural dialogue.
  • Movies and documentaries featuring evangelistic themes, such as personal transformation, attract diverse audiences.
  • Reality television has showcased evangelists reaching out to others, emphasizing personal testimonies and conversions.

Psychology

  • Research suggests that evangelistic approaches can tap into psychological concepts of social influence and persuasion.
  • People motivated by evangelistic fervor may experience heightened emotional responses during outreach activities.
  • Belonging to a group promoting evangelistic beliefs can significantly influence individual behavior and community engagement.

Origin of 'evangelistic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Greek word 'euangelion', meaning 'good news' or 'gospel'.
  • It entered the English language in the 16th century, often associated with Christian missionaries.
  • Related words include 'evangelist', which refers to someone who preaches the gospel, typically someone who is fervent and enthusiastic.

The term 'evangelistic' has its roots in the Greek word 'euangelion', which means 'good news' or 'gospel'. This connects to the role of evangelists in Christianity, who are tasked with proclaiming the message of Jesus. The term began to be utilized in English during the 19th century, particularly amidst various revival movements that emphasized personal faith and the importance of sharing one's belief in a passionate manner. Over time, the concept of evangelism expanded beyond purely religious contexts to include any vigorous effort to promote beliefs or ideologies, which explains its modern application in various fields such as politics, social causes, and more.


Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,440, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.