kerugma

Kerygma is a Greek word, often translated as "proclamation" or "preaching," particularly in a religious context. It refers to the core message or announcement of the Christian faith, especially as it was conveyed by the early apostles. This proclamation centers on the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, and its significance for salvation and the establishment of God's kingdom.

The kerygma is not merely a historical account but an invitation to believe and to participate in the new life offered through Christ. It typically includes elements such as the fulfillment of prophecy in Jesus, his divine sonship, his atoning sacrifice, his bodily resurrection, his exaltation to God's right hand, and the promise of the Holy Spirit and future judgment.

In early Christianity, the kerygma was the fundamental evangelistic tool. It was delivered orally in public settings, aiming to persuade listeners to repent and believe in Jesus. While the New Testament Gospels provide narratives of Jesus' life, the book of Acts often highlights the direct, apostolic preaching that constituted the initial kerygma. Understanding the kerygma is crucial for grasping the foundational beliefs and missionary efforts of the early Christian church. It represents the essential "what" of Christian belief being communicated.