Evangelism
Etymology of Evangelism and Evangelist
The word evangelist comes from the Koine Greek word εθανγελιον (transliterated as "euangelion") via Latin "Evangelium", as used in the canonical titles of the four Gospels, authored by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John (also known as the Four Evangelists). The Greek word εθανγελιον originally meant a reward for good news given to the messenger (εθ = "good", εθανγελιζο = "I bring a message"; the word angel is of the same root) and later "good news". The latter term gives rise to the word "Gospel". Origin: bef. 950; ME go ( d ) spell, OE gōdspell ( see good, spell3); trans. of Gk euangélion good news; see evangel2 2. evangel: the good tidings of the redemption of the world through Jesus Christ; the gospel. 2. any of the four Gospels. 3. doctrine taken as a guide or regarded as of prime importance. 4. good news or tidings. 3. spell: to discern or find, as if by reading or study (often fol. by out ).
Cited from http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Gospel
Our modern word "Gospel" comes from the old English word, "Godspell." In old English "spell" meant "word" (i.e. to discern or find, as if by reading or study). So in other words "Godspell" meant, "good word" or "good tidings." Therefore the Gospel is the good news because it is a gift of God, not something that must be earned by penance or self-improvement.
Why Evangelize?
Christians are motivated to share the Good News primarily because our Lord commands us to evangelize. The heart of the Great Commission in Matthew 28:19 (NASB) is "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations."
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