Evangelist

Definition

An evangelist is a person who seeks to convert others to Christianity by preaching the gospel, often characterized by their passionate and dynamic style of communication. In the context of post-1945 culture, evangelists played a significant role in shaping religious movements, influencing popular culture, and contributing to social changes as they sought to spread their faith through various media and public engagements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Post-World War II, evangelists like Billy Graham gained prominence through mass crusades, using stadiums and large venues to spread their message effectively.
2. The rise of television in the 1950s allowed evangelists to reach millions, leading to a significant increase in the visibility and influence of evangelical Christianity in American culture.
3. Evangelists often blended traditional religious messages with contemporary cultural elements, which helped make their teachings more relatable to modern audiences.
4. The evangelical movement contributed to significant social changes during the 1960s and 1970s, particularly in the areas of civil rights and family values.
5. Many evangelists became prominent public figures and political activists, influencing debates on social issues like abortion, education, and morality throughout the latter half of the 20th century.

Review Questions

• How did the role of evangelists change with the introduction of new media after 1945?
  • With the introduction of television and other media, evangelists significantly expanded their reach and influence. They transitioned from traditional preaching methods to using broadcasts, allowing them to connect with larger audiences across the country and beyond. This change not only amplified their messages but also transformed how they engaged with followers, leading to a more interactive experience for viewers who could now access sermons from their homes.
• In what ways did evangelists impact social movements in the United States during the late 20th century?
  • Evangelists played a critical role in various social movements by promoting values related to family, morality, and community. They often aligned themselves with civil rights initiatives, emphasizing justice and equality from a Christian perspective. Their engagement brought significant attention to issues such as poverty, education reform, and family dynamics, ultimately contributing to broader societal changes during this period.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of evangelism on American culture since 1945 and its implications for contemporary society.
  • The long-term effects of evangelism on American culture include a lasting shift in religious engagement and community life, as well as increased polarization around social issues. Evangelical teachings have influenced political discourse and cultural norms, leading to a stronger presence in both politics and popular culture. As contemporary society grapples with questions around identity, morality, and community values, the legacy of post-1945 evangelism continues to shape debates on these topics while prompting discussions about inclusivity and diversity within religious contexts.

Related terms

Revivalism: A movement within Christianity that emphasizes personal conversion experiences and emotional expressions of faith, often resulting in large public gatherings aimed at revitalizing church attendance.

Television Evangelism: The use of television broadcasts by evangelists to reach wider audiences, allowing them to share religious messages and attract followers on a national and international scale.

Pentecostalism: A Christian movement that emphasizes direct personal experience with God through the Holy Spirit, including practices like speaking in tongues and divine healing.