from εὖ and ἄγγελος; to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel:--declare, bring (declare, show) glad (good) tidings, preach (the gospel).
### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **euangelízō**, represented by `{{G2097}}`, means **to announce good news ("evangelize") especially the gospel**. It is derived from εὖ (good) and ἄγγελος (messenger/angel). It appears **61 times** in **52 unique verses**, highlighting its role in describing the act of declaring, bringing glad tidings, or preaching the good news.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
In scripture, `{{G2097}}` is central to defining the mission of key figures. Jesus begins his ministry stating he was anointed to **preach the gospel** to the poor [[Luke 4:18]]. This act is not limited to Christ; an angel is the first to **bring... good tidings** of great joy to the people regarding the Savior's birth [[Luke 2:10]]. The apostles continue this work, as seen when Philip **preached** unto the Ethiopian eunuch about Jesus [[Acts 8:35]] and when Paul and Barnabas were **preaching** the word of the Lord in Antioch [[Acts 15:35]]. The message itself is of utmost importance, with a curse pronounced on anyone, even an angel, who might **preach any other gospel** [[Galatians 1:8]].
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words clarify the specific nature of this proclamation:
* `{{G2098}}` **euangélion** (a good message, i.e. the gospel): This is the noun form, representing the content that is preached. An angel in Revelation has the everlasting **gospel** to **preach** to those on the earth [[Revelation 14:6]].
* `{{G2784}}` **kērýssō** (to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth): This term often appears alongside `{{G2097}}` and emphasizes the act of public proclamation. Jesus's mission involved **preaching** `{{G2784}}` and **shewing the glad tidings** `{{G2097}}` of the kingdom of God [[Luke 8:1]].
* `{{G1321}}` **didáskō** (to teach): While `{{G2097}}` focuses on announcing the good news, this word refers to the act of instructing. The apostles in the temple did not cease to **teach** and **preach** Jesus Christ, indicating two distinct but related activities [[Acts 5:42]].
* `{{G649}}` **apostéllō** (set apart, i.e. (by implication) to send out (properly, on a mission)): This word underscores the divine commission behind the preaching. One cannot preach unless they are **sent** [[Romans 10:15]], and Christ himself was **sent** to **preach** the kingdom of God [[Luke 4:43]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G2097}}` is demonstrated through its consistent themes:
* **The Proclamation of the Kingdom:** The core message is often identified as the good news of God's kingdom. Since John the Baptist, "the kingdom of God is **preached**" [[Luke 16:16]], and Philip's ministry involved **preaching** the things concerning this kingdom [[Acts 8:12]].
* **The Message of Christ:** The act of preaching is inseparable from the person of Jesus Christ. The apostles were **preaching** the Lord Jesus [[Acts 11:20]], and Paul's mission was to **preach** among the Gentiles the "unsearchable riches of Christ" [[Ephesians 3:8]].
* **A Divinely Commissioned Act:** The authority to **preach the gospel** comes from being sent by God. Christ was **sent** to **preach** [[Luke 4:43]], and in turn, He **sent** the apostles for the same purpose [[1 Corinthians 1:17]]. This is a mission initiated and empowered from heaven, often by the Holy Spirit [[1 Peter 1:12]].
* **An Offer of Peace and Salvation:** The good news announced is one of reconciliation and deliverance. It is described as **preaching** peace by Jesus Christ [[Acts 10:36]] and is the message by which believers are saved [[1 Corinthians 15:2]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G2097}}` is more than a simple declaration; it is the divinely commissioned act of announcing the good news. From the pronouncements of angels to the ministry of Christ and the work of the apostles, it signifies the proclamation of the gospel of peace, the kingdom of God, and the unsearchable riches of Christ. It is a foundational term that defines the essential mission of the church: to **preach** the message by which humanity is saved.
TRV