evangelicalism

Evangelicalism is a worldwide movement within Protestant Christianity characterized by an emphasis on the authority of the Bible, the necessity of personal conversion, the centrality of Christ’s atoning death and resurrection, and active mission to spread the Christian faith. It encompasses a broad range of denominations, churches, and organizations rather than a single church body.

Historically, evangelicalism has roots in the Protestant Reformation but was significantly shaped by revival movements in the 18th and 19th centuries, such as the Great Awakening in the English-speaking world. In the 20th century it evolved into a transdenominational movement with distinct cultural and political expressions, including the rise of non-denominational churches, parachurch organizations, and global missionary networks. The movement continues to adapt across regions, languages, and social contexts.

A common framework for describing evangelicalism is the Bebbington Quadrilateral, which highlights four pillars: Biblicism (emphasis on the authority of the Bible), Conversionism (belief in a personal, transformative experience of being born again), Crucicentrism (central focus on the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus), and Activism (commitment to evangelism and social action). These elements are interpreted with considerable diversity in practice, theology, and worship styles.

Geographically, evangelicalism is especially prominent in the United States, Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia. It includes a wide range of church families—Baptists, Pentecostals, Lutherans, Reformed churches, and independent evangelical congregations—as well as mission agencies and media ministries. The movement’s political and cultural influence varies by country and context, and it faces ongoing debates over social issues, science, and approaches to social justice.

In scholarly and public discourse, evangelicalism is often described as a dynamic, plural, and evolving expression of Protestant faith with a strong emphasis on personal faith, mission, and biblical interpretation.