Evangelist (Latter Day Saints)
An evangelist is a person who preaches the Christian Gospel. The word 'evangelist' comes from the Greek word for 'bringing good news' (εὐάγγελος). Generally, evangelists are protestants, and lead meetings known as revivals, harvest meetings or evangelistic crusades.
A more strict biblical definition of evangelist would equate to a missionary:
Ac 21:8 (KJV) And the next day we that were of Paul's company departed, and came unto Caesarea: and we entered into the house of Philip the [evangelist], which was one of the seven; and abode with him.
2Ti 4:5 (KJV) But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.
Today evangelists generally lead large meetings, possibly in tents or existing church buildings, in contrast to street corner preaching, which targets listeners who happen to pass nearby on the street.
Well known evangelists include:
- The Apostle Paul
- Billy Graham
- Aimee Semple McPherson
- Dwight L. Moody
- Charles Spurgeon
- Billy Sunday
- Luis Palau
Other (less-well known) evangelists:
- Brother Jed
- Mordecai Ham
- John Wesley
- William Branham
See also
As a specialised usage, evangelist can designate each of the (anonymous) authors of the four Gospels in the New Testament, traditionally known as Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.
In the context of commercial enterprises which develop or foster a cult following and religious-like fanatacism, the term evangelist can become an unofficial or even an official role/title. Note in particular the usage at Apple Computer.