1. In a religious context:
* An evangelist is a person who actively spreads the Christian gospel, especially through preaching and missionary work. This is the most common usage of the term. Evangelists often focus on converting others to Christianity and may be associated with specific denominations or movements like Pentecostalism or charismatic Christianity.
* Evangelical Christians are a broad group within Protestant Christianity that emphasizes the experience of conversion and the importance of spreading the Christian message. They often prioritize personal salvation, the authority of the Bible, and the importance of evangelization.
2. In a more general sense:
* An evangelist can be anyone who advocates strongly for a cause or belief. For example, someone might be called an "evangelist for environmentalism" or an "evangelist for social justice."
It's important to note:
* The term "evangelist" can sometimes be associated with certain political or social views, particularly in the United States. However, it's crucial to remember that the term itself refers primarily to the act of spreading a message or belief, and its association with specific political or social agendas can vary.
* While evangelists are often associated with Christianity, other religions may also have individuals who spread their faith or beliefs through missionary work or evangelism.
To understand the specific meaning of "evangelists" in any given context, it's helpful to consider the broader context and the speaker's intent.