εὐαγγέλιον

the good news, the gospel

Definition

The word εὐαγγέλιον (euaggelion) primarily means 'good news' or 'gospel.' In the New Testament, it refers specifically to the good news of salvation through Jesus Christ, encompassing His life, death, and resurrection (Mark 1:1, Romans 1:16). It can denote the content of the message itself, as in the proclamation of the kingdom of God (Matthew 4:23), and also the act of preaching that message (Mark 1:14-15). In some contexts, it takes on an almost personal sense, referring to the Christian faith as a whole (Galatians 1:6-7).

Biblical Usage

Εὐαγγέλιον is used 74 times, predominantly in the Pauline epistles (e.g., Romans, Galatians) and the Gospels (especially Mark, which opens with it in Mark 1:1). Paul often uses it to define the core message he was commissioned to preach (Romans 1:1, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4). In the Gospels, it frequently appears in connection with Jesus' or the disciples' proclamation of the kingdom (Matthew 9:35, Matthew 24:14). The usage is consistent in presenting it as a message to be proclaimed and believed.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek roots εὖ (eu, 'good') and ἄγγελος (angelos, 'messenger' or 'message'), it literally means 'good news' or 'good message.' In the Greco-Roman world, it was used for announcements of victory or the birth of an heir. The New Testament authors adopted this term and infused it with profound theological meaning centered on Jesus Christ.

Semantic Range

This word is central to Christian theology, defining the core message of God's redemptive work in Jesus Christ. It distinguishes Christianity as a faith based on proclaimed historical events (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). Understanding its Greek roots highlights that the gospel is not just advice but an authoritative announcement of salvation, demanding a response of faith (Romans 1:16-17). It is the foundation for doctrines of grace, faith, and the kingdom of God.

In the first-century Roman Empire, 'euaggelion' was a secular term for news of a great public benefit, like a military victory or the emperor's birthday. The New Testament's use deliberately co-opts this term, presenting Jesus as the true bringer of ultimate good news, contrasting with imperial propaganda. This gave the term a subversive edge, declaring a kingdom greater than Caesar's.

κηρύσσω (kēryssō, G2784) — to herald or proclaim publicly, often the action done with the εὐαγγέλιον. μαρτυρία (martyria, G3141) — testimony or witness, focusing on the evidence for the truth of the gospel message. λόγος (logos, G3056) — word or message, a broader term that can encompass the gospel content.

Word Details

Scripture References