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The word evangelist comes from the Koine [[Greek]] word εὐαγγέλιον (transliterated as "euangelion") via Latin "Evangelium", as used in the canonical titles of the [[Canonical Gospels|four Gospels]], authored by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John (also known as the Four Evangelists). The Greek word εὐαγγέλιον originally meant a reward for good news given to the messenger (εὔ = "good", ἀγγέλλω = "I bring a message"; the word [[angel]] is of the same root) and later "good news".

The word evangelist comes from the Koine [[Greek]] word εὐαγγέλιον (transliterated as "euangelion") via Latin "Evangelium", as used in the canonical titles of the [[Canonical Gospels|four Gospels]], authored by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John (also known as the Four Evangelists). The Greek word εὐαγγέλιον originally meant a reward for good news given to the messenger (εὔ = "good", ἀγγέλλω = "I bring a message"; the word [[angel]] is of the same root) and later "good news".

The verb form of euangelion, euangelizo (transliterated "evangelism"), was used rarely in Greek literature outside the [[New Testament]], making its meaning more difficult to ascertain. Parallel texts of the [[Gospels of Luke]]and Mark reveal a synonymous relationship between the verb euangelizo and a Greek verb "kerusso" which means "to proclaim"[1].

The verb form of euangelion, euangelizo (transliterated "evangelism"), was used rarely in Greek literature outside the [[New Testament]], making its meaning more difficult to ascertain. Parallel texts of the Gospels of [[Gospel of Luke|Luke]] and [[Gospel of Mark|Mark]] reveal a synonymous relationship between the verb euangelizo and a Greek verb "kerusso" which means "to proclaim"[1].

Our modern word "Gospel" comes from the [[Old English]] word "Godspell." In Old English, "god" with a long "o" meant "[[good]]," and "spell" meant "word" (we carry this meaning also in our word "spelling"). So in other words, "Godspell" meant "good word," specifically the good tidings concerning Jesus Christ.

Our modern word "Gospel" comes from the [[Old English]] word "Godspell." In Old English, "god" with a long "o" meant "[[good]]," and "spell" meant "word" (we carry this meaning also in our word "spelling"). So in other words, "Godspell" meant "good word," specifically the good tidings concerning Jesus Christ.

==Evangelism or proselytism==

==Evangelism or proselytism==

While evangelism is usually regarded as converting non-Christians to Christianity, this is not always the proper usage of the word. If converting to Christianity includes services or material benefits it is called proselytism.[2] On the other hand, converting Christians (e.g., Orthodox) who are not churchgoers to another Christian denomination is commonly seen as evangelism, not proselytism.

While evangelism is usually regarded as converting non-Christians to Christianity, this is not always the proper usage of the word. If converting to Christianity includes services or material benefits it is called proselytism.[2] On the other hand, converting Christians (e.g., Orthodox) who are not churchgoers to another Christian denomination is commonly seen as evangelism, not proselytism.