Evangelicalism is a worldwide Protestant movement emphasizing the gospel. The word comes from the Greek euangelion, meaning good news. Evangelicals believe in the authority of the Bible. They believe in salvation through faith in Jesus. They believe in the importance of sharing the gospel. They believe in a personal relationship with Christ. They believe in the Bible as the final authority. They believe in the cross. They believe in the resurrection. They believe in the second coming. They believe in conversion. They believe in mission.

Evangelicalism is not a denomination. It is a movement. It crosses denominational lines. It includes Baptists, Presbyterians, Methodists, Pentecostals, and non-denominational churches. It has a high view of scripture. It has a personal view of faith. It has an active view of mission. It has a global reach. It is strong in the United States. It is growing in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. It is a diverse movement. It is a dynamic movement. It is a controversial movement.

Evangelical distinctives

• Biblicism: the Bible is authoritative.
• Crucicentrism: the cross is central.
• Conversionism: the need for new birth.
• Activism: the call to mission and service.
• Transdenominational: cooperation across churches.

Evangelicalism is not perfect. It has been criticized for its politics. It has been criticized for its scandals. It has been criticized for its exclusivism. It has been criticized for its cultural battles. But it is also a force for good. It spreads the gospel. It plants churches. It feeds the hungry. It educates the poor. It fights for justice. It cares for the unborn. It cares for the environment. It is a mixed movement. It is a human movement. It is a movement of sinners saved by grace. It is a movement of the gospel. It is the good news. It is evangelicalism.