Understanding Evangelical Identity: A Call for Clarity and Commitment

Research on evangelical Identity and public perception presents significant implications for how we lead, evangelize, and define ourselves.

By Aaron Summers

A recent survey from Grey Matter Research revealed a surprising trend among evangelical Protestants: Most do not self-identify as evangelicals. When asked if they were evangelical Christians, 39% said no. This data, drawn from a demographically representative sample of 1,010 evangelical Protestants, indicates a trend within the Protestant community away from the use of the word “evangelical,” not necessarily a shift toward religiously unaffiliated individuals.

The study highlights a critical disconnect between evangelical identity and self-perception among believers. Almost 3 in 4 evangelicals (73%) say they would not choose the term “evangelical Christian” to describe themselves. This reluctance stems from various factors, including a lack of understanding of what it means to be evangelical, media distortions, and a lack of commitment to evangelical Christianity’s core focus.

Almost 3 in 4 Protestant Americans who hold core evangelical theological beliefs (73%) say they would not choose the term “evangelical Christian” to describe themselves. Share on X

The dual focus of evangelical identity

Survey results indicate evangelical identity centers around two primary concepts. First, 39% of evangelicals define the term by a focus on evangelism or a willingness to share their faith. This group sees evangelism as vital to their religious life, believing that spreading the message of Jesus Christ is essential to their identity and mission.

Secondly, 34% of evangelicals define their identity as specific religious beliefs, emphasizing salvation. This belief-centered approach highlights doctrinal purity and the importance of theological correctness.

Interestingly, only 7% of evangelicals integrate both concepts into their definition of evangelicalism. This small yet significant group recognizes that true evangelical identity is about what one believes and does, reflecting a holistic understanding of what it means to be an evangelical today.

Defining evangelicalism

In 2015, the National Association of Evangelicals and Lifeway Research worked with church leaders and theologians to develop a definition of evangelical belief based on four key characteristics of what evangelicals believe. This is the definition Grey Matter used in its study. According to this definition, an individual is considered an evangelical if they strongly affirm the following four key beliefs:

1. The Bible is the highest authority for what I believe. 
2. Jesus Christ’s death on the cross is the only sacrifice that could remove the penalty of my sin. 
3. Only those who trust in Jesus Christ alone as their Savior receive God’s free gift of eternal salvation. 
4. It is important for me to encourage non-Christians to trust Jesus Christ as their Savior. 

Self-identification and perception 

Evangelicals who self-identify as such tend to view the term positively, reflecting pride in their religious beliefs and practices. Conversely, those who do not use the term often view it negatively, possibly due to political associations, media portrayals, or internal disagreements within the broader evangelical community.

Interestingly, both groups believe Americans generally have a neutral view of the term “evangelical.” Half of evangelicals (49%) believe Americans hold a neutral view of the term, while 27% believe Americans have a negative view of the term and 24% believe Americans view it positively. This suggests that while the term may evoke strong feelings within certain circles, the broader public may be indifferent.

When it comes to media perception, both those who consider themselves evangelicals and those who don’t believe the media have a predominantly negative view of evangelicals. According to the survey, 49% of evangelicals think the media hold a negative perception of the evangelical label, 34% believe the media are neutral toward the term, and only 18% think the media view the term positively. This perception of media bias may contribute to the negative self-perception among some evangelicals and the broader effort to redefine and reclaim the term within the community.

Half of evangelicals (49%) believe Americans hold a neutral view of the term “evangelicals,” while 27% believe Americans have a negative view and 24% believe Americans view it positively. Share on X

Clarity in communication

Given that different people have varied understandings of what it means to be evangelical, church leaders must define terms explicitly. When discussing evangelism, we must ensure our congregations understand it within the context of core beliefs and evangelistic mission. This clarity helps prevent misunderstandings and ensures everyone is on the same page regarding the church’s identity and mission.

Caution with labels

Labels can carry different meanings and connotations, often influenced by personal experiences and media portrayals. In a culture where the term “evangelical” might evoke mixed or negative reactions, it’s essential to use labels that accurately reflect our faith while avoiding unnecessary division or misunderstanding. Church leaders should foster an environment where labels serve to unite rather than divide, focusing on shared beliefs and mission. 

Addressing assumptions and stereotypes

The survey data underscores the importance of being mindful of the assumptions and stereotypes that labels can carry. As we engage in evangelism, we must recognize that the term “evangelical” might come with preconceived notions that can hinder our outreach efforts. Our primary focus should be on sharing the gospel message with clarity and love rather than getting bogged down by potentially divisive labels.

Strategic communication

To effectively evangelize in a culture with varied perceptions of evangelicals, we must strategically communicate our message. We must present the core tenets of our faith—such as the authority of the Bible, the significance of Christ’s sacrifice, and the necessity of personal faith in Jesus—without letting the term “evangelical” become a stumbling block. By emphasizing the gospel’s transformative power and demonstrating Christ-like love in our interactions, we can overcome stereotypes and reach people more effectively.

“Our primary focus should be on sharing the gospel message with clarity and love rather than getting bogged down by potentially divisive labels.” — @aaronwsummers Share on X

Should the church accept the evangelical label?

One of the critical questions facing the church is whether to accept the label “evangelical” if the broader culture increasingly rejects it. This decision requires careful consideration of both our identity and mission. On one hand, holding onto the label can provide continuity with our theological heritage and affirm our commitment to evangelical beliefs and practices. On the other hand, if the label becomes a significant barrier to effective ministry and outreach, it may be worth reconsidering its use.

Ultimately, the decision to accept or reject the label should be guided by our commitment to the Great Commission and our desire to represent Christ to the world faithfully. If retaining the label helps us maintain doctrinal clarity and unity within the church, it may be beneficial to do so while actively addressing and countering negative stereotypes. However, suppose the label hinders our ability to connect with and serve our communities. In that case, we might consider adopting alternative ways to describe our faith that resonate more positively with the broader culture.

Identity as Christ followers

The data on evangelical self-identification and public perception presents significant implications for how we lead, evangelize, and define ourselves as a church. By being clear and cautious with our language, strategically communicating the gospel, and thoughtfully considering the use of labels, we can navigate the complexities of our cultural context while staying true to our mission. As we move forward, let us seek to embody the love and truth of Christ in all we do, ensuring that our identity as followers of Jesus shines through in our words and actions.

For permission to republish this article, contact Marissa Postell Sullivan.