Why is the term "evangelicals" used so much now?
I don't know. I suspect it is like anything else. Someone wanted a way to peg a group that shares a certain characteristc (or group of characteristics) and distinguish them from other groups. I am not exactly an Evangelical (I am of the Reformed Tradition historically), but because I worship with and identify with Baptists, and Bible churches all in America, I consider myself an Evangelical. I don't divide with these folks over their relatively minor doctrinal differences. I love them all - all are one to me.
I always thought that specifically was for people like Billy Graham that publicly evangelize.
The term "Evangelist" applies to people like Billy Graham. I suspect those churches who support Evangelists came to be known as Evangelical churches.
Is it now a term used to describe Christians in general? Or has it always been?
It does not apply to all Christians. Christians of the Reformed tradition, for example the Lutherans and Presbyterians, are not considered Evangelical - this is probably due to the fact that many in the Reformed tradition don't evangelize, contrary to the Scriptures. Evangelicals tend not to shy away from evangelism as do the catholics and so-called "mainline Protestant" churches. They will tell you quite eagerly, and in accord with the Scriptures, that faith in Christ is the only way to heaven. This is why I enjoy them. They are just folks like everyone. They make mistakes, suffer, grieve and hope. But they have this deep and abiding love of truth and their future home in heaven that makes community with them a real pleasure. I am proud to be one of them.
I was a bit perturbed at its constant use last night on the news channel because it seemed they were labeling Christians as some kind of radicals (not that I think Graham is a radical) as opposed to just normal people with Christian beliefs.
These days it is most radical to have a faith you think is worth sharing. So when heathens use the term "Evangelicals" they are almost always making fun of us. It is fine. Let them have their fun. We will still share the truth with them whether in season or out of season. Ultimately, we just want them to have the comfort and joy we have. We also want them to have the confidence in the ultimate future that we have, a confidence that they want, but are too weak-minded to take. They are too concerned for what others might think. I was once like this. Now, I just don't care. I see the thing - right now - as I type this to you. I need nothing else. |
