The term "evangelicalism" in general means, "pertaining to the Gospel." It has its origin from the Greek word evangelion, meaning "the good news," or, more commonly, "the gospel." In its modern sense, evangelicalism is a transdenominational movement, covering a wide range of churches. In its early stages, evangelicalism was identified with leaders of the Reformation, but now transcends denominational boundaries to incorporate all Christians who hold to a few core doctrines.
Carrying the evangelical label usually means that an organization, institution, or individual is grounded in three main theological traditions. They adhere to (1) a personal commitment to Christ, resulting in spiritual rebirth and experience of God, (2) a high affirmation of Scripture, believing it to be the sole authority for faith and practice of the Christian life, and (3) a profound trust in the sacrificial death of Christ on the cross and his later resurrection to provide the means for salvation of the soul. These three are heralded by the evangelical voice around the world. They can be called the "higher doctrines" of Evangelical Christianity.
Many leading organizations and institutions come under the umbrella of Evangelical Christianity and can be used as examples of its makeup. Various mainline denominations hold to Evangelical tenets, such as the Methodist, Lutheran, and Presbyterian, but also the Southern Baptist Convention, the Assemblies of God, and the Church of God in Christ (C.O.G.I.C.). There are also numerous leading para-church agencies such as the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, and Campus Crusade for Christ. The National Association of Evangelicals (N.A.E.) serves as a parent organization to evangelical ministries in the United States.
Modern Evangelicalism has its roots in the 16th-century Reformation, although some influence can be seen from pre-Reformation nonconformists. The theological commitments the label entails can be traced back to Martin Luther, a strong leader of the Reformation. Men such as evangelist George Whitefield, John Wesley, and Jonathan Edwards were key leaders in the later growth of the movement. Charles Finney, another influential evangelical, emphasized an important facet of evangelicalism; the concept of "conversion" whereby a person enters into a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through heartfelt repentance and faith.
The modern evangelical representation worldwide carries many individual groups and denominations, differing greatly in style of tradition and liturgy. Some denominational traditions have separated into many distinctive groups, while others have dwindled and are now largely unknown. In recent years, there has been a far-reaching move of different evangelical traditions and denominations joining together on occasion for corporate worship and community efforts.
