The Highway Forums General Discussion Theology Discussion Forum What does the Greek say about the word

1. The Greek word euaggelistas itself isn't going to offer much in answer to your question. In other words, the word simply means, "preacher of the gospel, evangelist". The word also appears in regard to Phillip, an ordained deacon (Acts 21:8) and Timothy who served as delegate with the Apostles and eventually it seems pastored a church (2Tim 4:5). In both cases, these men were recognized as having the "gift" of Evangelist. This is the emphasis of the Ephesians passage, i.e., "gifts" given and not upon "office".

2. I believe to understand what an Evangelist is or does, you need to look elsewhere in Scripture. Here's a brief summary of what I think is relevant:
a. Matt 28:19: The "Great Commission" issued by Christ emphasizes the "making of disciples" and "teaching them all that I commanded you". Thus, these men weren't simply to go around the country handing out Gospel tracts, so-called and holding Revival Meetings. There was definite instruction to be given by way of teaching after conversion.

b. Eph 4:12: The purpose of Christ giving the gifts enumerated in v. 11 was for the "the perfecting of the saints unto the work of ministry, unto the building up of the body of Christ:". Again, it is clear that Evangelists were to be teachers of the Word with the end that the Church should grow in grace (knowledge of God and conformity to the image of Christ, aka: sanctification).

c. We also can reference examples found in Scripture of those who were doing the 'work' of an Evangelist, e.g., Apollos (Acts 18:24-26), Aquila and Priscilla (Acts 18:2,18,19,26), Timothy 2Tim 4:1-5, Phillip (Acts 8:4,40. From these passages we can see that the Evangelists didn't have the authority of an Apostle nor the charge to serve a permanent congregation/church, but rather they were itinerant preaches of the Word. Their message was not simply what modern definitions would confine it to, i.e., an 'evangelistic Gospel message'. But rather it often included a defense of the faith and the teaching of the Scriptures regarding the Christian life, aka: discipling. Doubtless, their believing hearers were directed to a local church or in some cases, the Apostles would come and form a church appointing Elders to shepherd these new converts. (Titus 1:5)

Whatcha think?