Definition

1. Noun:
   • A Protestant Christian movement emphasizing personal conversion, faith in Jesus Christ as the sole means of salvation, and the authority of the Bible: Evangelicalism is a theological tradition that prioritizes the experience of being "born again" through faith, the importance of sharing the gospel (evangelism), and the Bible as the ultimate religious authority.

Examples of Usage

• Noun:
  • His theology was deeply rooted in evangelicalism, focusing on a personal relationship with God.
  • The growth of evangelicalism in the region has influenced local culture and politics.

Advanced Usage

• "Conservative evangelicalism": A strand of evangelicalism that strongly emphasizes traditional doctrines, biblical inerrancy, and often conservative social values.

  • The church was known for its stance on conservative evangelicalism.

• "Evangelicalism and social activism": Refers to the engagement of evangelical Christians in social and political issues, which can range from humanitarian aid to advocacy.

  • The lecture explored the complex history of evangelicalism and social activism in the 20th century.

Variants and Related Words

• Evangelical (adj/n): Pertaining to evangelicalism; a person who adheres to evangelical beliefs.

  • She comes from an evangelical background.
  • Many evangelicals attended the conference.

• Evangelize (v): To preach the Christian gospel or to convert someone to Christianity.

  • Their mission was to evangelize in remote areas.

Synonyms

• Born-again Christianity: Emphasizes the same core experience of personal conversion.
• Low church tradition (in Anglican context): A tradition that emphasizes simplicity and the authority of scripture over ritual, often associated with evangelical views.

Related Phrases

• "The evangelical wing of the church": Refers to the faction or group within a broader church denomination that holds to evangelical principles.
  • He was a prominent leader in the evangelical wing of the church.

Related Idioms

• "To have an evangelical zeal": To show great enthusiasm and fervor for a cause, akin to the fervor of an evangelist. (Note: This idiom uses the adjective form 'evangelical' metaphorically).
  • She approached environmental conservation with an evangelical zeal.

Noun

1. stresses the importance of personal conversion and faith as the means of salvation