What comes to mind when we hear the word evangelist? Some of us may think of a traveling preacher under a revival tent. For others, it may be a televangelist or a missionary speaking in far-off places. Let’s put aside our ideas and memories and dig into what the Bible actually means when it refers to someone as an evangelist. Our world today is weary and wary of religious terms and in desperate need of truth that directly applies to our lives. The Bible is full of this kind of help and today we’re going to explore the origin of the word and whether or not this is something we should incorporate into our daily lives.
What Is an Evangelist According to the Bible?
The term evangelist, as defined in Smith’s Bible Dictionary, comes from the Greek word euangelistēs (εὐαγγελιστής), derived from euangelion (εὐαγγέλιον), meaning “good news” or “gospel.” At its core, an evangelist is one who brings or proclaims the good news—specifically, the message of salvation through Jesus Christ.
When we look at the New Testament, we see that an evangelist is not simply someone who shares moral advice or spiritual encouragement. Their role is specific and even urgent. They proclaim who Jesus is—the Messiah—and share the good news that his sacrifice on the cross has made eternal life available to everyone who believes.
This call to be an evangelist is still relevant in today’s church. As the Christianity.com article "What Is Evangelism?" notes, evangelism isn’t merely a spiritual gift—it’s a vital function in the Church, intended to share the hope of Jesus Christ with a dark and dying world.
Where Does the Term Evangelist Appear in Scripture?
Depending on the version of the Bible we read, the specific word evangelist only appears three times in the New Testament. However, its meaning and job description are reflected throughout Scripture as seen through the example of many individuals.
1. Acts 21:8 – "On the next day we departed and came to Caesarea, and we entered the house of Philip the evangelist, who was one of the seven, and stayed with him."
Here, Philip is identified by his role, distinguishing him from others by his work in proclaiming the gospel.
2. Ephesians 4:11–12 – "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."
Evangelists are included as one of the key spiritual offices Christ gave the Church to help it grow in unity and maturity.
3. 2 Timothy 4:5 –" As for you, always be sober-minded, endure suffering, do the work of an evangelist, fulfill your ministry."
Paul’s directive to Timothy, though he was a young pastor, reminds believers that evangelistic effort is integral to Christian leadership.
4. Isaiah 52:7– "How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace, who brings good news of happiness, who publishes salvation, who says to Zion, 'Your God reigns.'"
While the actual title of evangelist is specific to the New Testament forward, we do see some foreshadowing of this term in the Old Testament, and this verse in Isaiah is the clearest example of that.
Though the title is rare, the responsibility is foundational. Jesus himself modeled evangelism throughout His ministry by proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God and calling sinners to repentance.
Who Were Some Evangelists Mentioned in the Bible?
While we only see a few individuals who are given the specific title of evangelist, there are many who carried out the function of evangelism. Let’s explore several key figures whose lives embodied the evangelistic call.
1. Philip the Evangelist
Philip is the only person specifically named “evangelist” in Scripture (Acts 21:8). Originally chosen as one of the seven deacons (Acts 6:5), Philip’s ministry took a pivotal turn in Acts 8 when persecution scattered the early believers. Instead of retreating, Philip went to Samaria where he preached Christ, resulting in great joy and many conversions.
One of the most beautiful evangelism accounts in the Bible involves Philip and the Ethiopian eunuch. Guided by the Holy Spirit, Philip approached the man’s chariot, explained the meaning of Isaiah’s prophecy, and baptized him on the spot (Acts 8:26–39). More on Philip here.
2. Paul the Apostle
While best known as an apostle, Paul’s ministry was a wonderful example of the work of an evangelist. He traveled throughout the biblical world, preached boldly in synagogues and public squares, wrote extensively to churches and individuals, and suffered persecution for the sake of the gospel. His passion to reach the Gentiles was central to the spread of Christianity.
Paul’s effectiveness as an evangelist stemmed not only from his theological brilliance but from his ability to show how the gospel was relevant across any culture he encountered (read more about Paul here).
3. Barnabas
Often seen as Paul’s sidekick, Barnabas was an encourager and evangelist in his own right. He was instrumental in integrating Paul into the church community, accompanied him on missionary journeys, and helped establish new believers. Barnabas’s story reminds us that evangelism includes discipling others to maturity.
What Is the Difference Between an Evangelist, a Pastor, and an Apostle?
These three roles in the early church—evangelist, pastor, and apostle—are separate and distinct, but complementary. In Ephesians 4:11–13, Paul lists these as part of Christ’s provision for building up the Church.
- Apostles were foundational leaders in the early Church. They were commissioned by Jesus, often eyewitnesses of the resurrection, and entrusted with establishing doctrine and planting churches.
- Pastors (or shepherds) are caretakers of local congregations. Their focus is ongoing spiritual nourishment, counseling, and protection of the flock.
- Evangelists are focused on outreach. They engage with those outside the faith, often traveling to new places or crossing cultural boundaries to present the gospel.
When we look at the application of these terms today, pastors are likely to remain within one congregation, whereas evangelists might speak at events, travel on mission trips, or serve in church planting roles.
Is Every Christian Called to Evangelize?
This is a common question with a nuanced answer: not every Christian is called to be an evangelist by office, but every Christian is called to evangelize.
Paul’s exhortation in 2 Timothy 4:5 (“do the work of an evangelist”) suggests that the function of sharing the gospel is not confined to those with a specific title. Jesus’ Great Commission in Matthew 28:18–20 commands all believers to make disciples.
So, what does this look like in practical application?
- A mom or dad sharing their testimony with a friend over coffee.
- A student inviting a classmate to church.
- A retiree volunteering with a ministry and praying with others.
- A businessperson leading a Bible study before work.
- A customer in a restaurant asking the waitperson how they can pray for them.
Doing the work of evangelism doesn’t require a platform—it asks us to have a heart tuned to God’s mission. As this article shares, evangelism today is often relational, conversational, and embedded in daily life.
It is the Holy Spirit who empowers believers to be witnesses (Acts 1:8). While some have a spiritual gift of evangelism, all believers are encouraged and commanded to participate in the joy of sharing Christ.
Why Evangelism Still Matters
Some may ask, “Is evangelism really necessary today?” In an era of religious pluralism, cultural skepticism, and spiritual burnout, the good news of Jesus is more vital than ever.
Evangelism is never about arguing people into belief—it’s about introducing them to the life-transforming reality of Jesus. As the Christianity.com article "What Is the Goal of Evangelism?" explains, the purpose isn’t just conversion, but reconciliation with God and the formation of disciples.
The early church didn’t grow through marketing campaigns or celebrity personalities. The church spread through passionate and faithful witnesses who were empowered by the Spirit. That same power is available to believers today.
While the term of evangelist is rare in Scripture, its significance is truly life-changing. Evangelists like Philip and Paul weren’t chasing influence—they were faithfully proclaiming the most important message the world has ever heard.
In a culture distracted by noise and confusion, evangelism remains God’s chosen method for making His love known. Whether through bold preaching or quiet conversations, every believer plays a role in declaring the gospel.
You may never hold the title of “evangelist,” but if Jesus has changed your life, you already have what it takes to be one.
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