Evangelical theology is a belief system based on strict adherence to principles derived from the Bible, with a focus on spreading Christianity. It has become an important element of global and American Christianity, and is often linked to conservative social and political movements. While there has been little consensus on how best to fulfill the mandate of evangelical theology, modern evangelicals place primary importance on their belief in the Bible as the primary tool for spiritual guidance. The movement has been the focus of coverage and analysis in mainstream media, contrasting its message with its methods and social impact.
Evangelical theology is the belief system of evangelical Christianity. This segment of the Christian faith believes in strict adherence to principles derived from the Bible, especially the New Testament and the life of Christ. Since its origins in the 18th century, evangelicalism has become an important element of global and American Christianity. Modern day evangelicals are often linked to conservative social and political movements, although this is not always the case. While methods of expression vary, all evangelicals place primary importance on their belief in evangelical theology.
The word “evangelical” has its roots in the same Greek phrases that supply the Christian terms “gospel” and “good news“; much early Christian doctrine was written in the Greek language. Evangelical theology holds that the Christian’s primary responsibility is to pass on the teachings of Christ and to convert others to Christianity. This is often connected to a passage from the Gospel of Matthew in which Christ tells the Apostles to “go and make disciples of all nations”. Centuries of international missionary work have been inspired by this and similar messages from Christian leaders.
Historically, there has been little consensus among Christians about how best to fulfill the mandate of evangelical theology. In the 16th century, Martin Luther used the German word evangelische to distinguish Protestantism from the established Roman Catholic church. Some historical events intended to achieve evangelical goals, such as the Crusades and colonialism, were at odds with the pacifist teachings of Christ. In the 18th century, the evangelical movement in Europe and America emphasized spiritual awakening and social work, achieving widespread success in rural communities.
In modern times, evangelical theology is generally seen as having a strong emphasis on the Bible as the primary tool for spiritual guidance. This sometimes includes a literal interpretation of Bible events, a controversial belief among other Christian factions. The emphasis on spreading Christianity has led to a strong Christian presence in popular culture, including radio, television, and literary programs focusing on Christianity and evangelicalism. In many regions of the world, particularly in Asia, Africa and the Americas, evangelical Christianity is popular and widespread.
While evangelical Christians hold a variety of political beliefs, the movement is often linked to political conservatism. The “religious right” has been a significant factor in American politics since the 1970s. This movement, based on the principles of evangelicalism, has successfully joined the conservative bloc in American politics. As a result of this influence, followers of evangelical theology have been the focus of coverage and analysis in mainstream media, such as books and news programs. This cover-up contrasts the message of evangelical Christianity with its methods and social impact.
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