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G2097 · Greek · New Testament
εὐαγγελίζω
euaggelizō
Verb
to proclaim good news, preach the gospel, evangelize

Definition

Euaggelizō (G2097) means to bring or announce good news, to proclaim the gospel. It combines eu ('good, well') and angelos ('messenger') — to be a good-news-messenger. It appears approximately 54 times in the New Testament and is the verbal form of euaggelion (G2098, 'gospel'). The LXX uses it to translate basar (H1319, 'to bring good tidings'), linking it to Isaiah's great proclamations of coming salvation (Isaiah 40:9; 52:7; 61:1).

Usage & Theological Significance

Euaggelizō is the activity at the center of the New Testament mission. Jesus began his ministry by euangelizomenos — preaching the good news of the kingdom (Luke 4:18, 43; 8:1). After the resurrection, the apostles understood their primary calling as the proclamation of this good news to all peoples: 'Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!' (1 Corinthians 9:16).

The content of the euaggelion is specific: the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ for sins, according to the Scriptures (1 Corinthians 15:1-4). Paul declares that even if an angel were to preach a different gospel, it would be anathema (Galatians 1:8). The gospel is not a message about how to live better — it is an announcement of something that has already happened: God has acted in Christ to rescue sinners. Euaggelizō is the heralding of this royal decree.

Key Bible Verses

Luke 4:18 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor.
1 Corinthians 9:16 For if I preach the gospel, that gives me no ground for boasting. For necessity is laid upon me. Woe to me if I do not preach the gospel!
Romans 10:15 And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, 'How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news!'
Galatians 1:8 But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach to you a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be accursed.
Isaiah 52:7 How beautiful upon the mountains are the feet of him who brings good news, who publishes peace.

Related Words

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