The terms “evangelist” and “Christian” are often used together, but they do not mean the same thing. Every evangelist is a Christian, but not every Christian is an evangelist. Understanding the difference helps clarify roles within the faith. This article compares the two based on belief, calling, and practice. We will look at how an evangelist functions within the church and how that differs from the general identity of a Christian. We’ll also explore what they share in common. This guide is for anyone who wants a clear understanding of how these two relate and where they differ.
Definition
Evangelist
An evangelist is a Christian who is specifically called to preach the gospel. The main focus of an evangelist is to share the message of salvation through Jesus Christ. Evangelists often speak in public settings, travel to different places, and reach out to people who do not know Christ. Their work is centered on spreading the gospel to unbelievers. The Bible highlights evangelists as one of the ministry roles given to the church (Ephesians 4:11). Not all Christians are evangelists, but all are encouraged to share their faith. Evangelists usually have a strong passion for outreach and are gifted in communicating the gospel clearly. Their mission is urgent and outward-facing, often leading to church growth and conversions. While pastors care for believers, evangelists seek to reach the lost.
Christian
A Christian is someone who believes in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Christians follow the teachings of Jesus and aim to live according to God’s Word. Being a Christian is about having a relationship with Christ, not just a set of religious activities. Christians are part of the global church and are called to love God and others. This identity includes faith, repentance, baptism, and discipleship. Christians may serve in many ways, such as teaching, serving, giving, or leading. Unlike an evangelist, a Christian’s role is not tied to a specific office or public function. All Christians are called to grow in faith and live in obedience to God. Their lives should reflect Christ in character and actions. In short, being a Christian is about who someone is in Christ, not just what they do.
Evangelist vs Christian: Key Differences
#1. Role vs Identity
An evangelist holds a specific role in the church, focused on proclaiming the gospel. This role is task-oriented and usually recognized by the church or community. It involves responsibility, accountability, and intentional outreach. In contrast, a Christian’s identity is based on faith in Jesus. It is who they are, not a job they do. A Christian may or may not hold a public role. Their main calling is to follow Christ in everyday life. While an evangelist’s work is often visible, a Christian’s identity is often lived out in quiet faithfulness. One is a function; the other is a foundation.
#2. Ministry Focus vs General Faith
Evangelists have a clear ministry focus—evangelism. Their efforts are directed at reaching unbelievers. They spend time preaching, witnessing, and discipling new converts. Their goal is to bring people into the faith. Christians, on the other hand, are called to a general life of faith. Their focus is broader—worship, prayer, service, and personal growth. While they may share their faith, it is not always their main activity. Evangelists focus outward, Christians may focus inward or outward depending on their gifts and opportunities. One is specialized; the other is general.
#3. Specific Calling vs Broad Belief
An evangelist is someone who feels a clear calling to spread the gospel. This calling may come through prayer, church confirmation, or personal conviction. It shapes their life decisions and ministry goals. A Christian, however, embraces a broad belief in Jesus as Savior and seeks to live a godly life. They may not feel led to preach or travel. Their calling is to follow Christ, which can be lived out in many ways—at work, home, or church. Evangelists are often set apart for a task. Christians live by faith in everyday settings. One is a specialized assignment; the other is a shared belief.
#4. Public Outreach vs Personal Spirituality
Evangelists operate in public spaces—churches, streets, online platforms. Their work is visible and geared toward people who do not yet believe. Their focus is on others. Christians focus more on personal spirituality—prayer, Bible reading, worship. Their growth is internal, even if it leads to outward action. Evangelists often engage in bold, open evangelism. Christians may live quietly, letting their actions speak. Evangelists proclaim. Christians reflect. Both are needed, but their approach differs. One speaks to crowds; the other may speak through daily life.
#5. Gifted Ministry vs Varied Gifts
Evangelists often have a spiritual gift for preaching, persuasion, and boldness. Their ministry is shaped by this gift. They are effective in drawing people to Christ. Christians, however, have a variety of spiritual gifts. Some teach, others serve, some give, others lead. No one gift defines a Christian. The body of Christ functions through many gifts working together. Evangelists use one primary gift to fulfill their role. Christians use their own mix of gifts to serve God. One is narrow and focused. The other is wide and diverse.
#6. Active Evangelism vs Diverse Practices
Evangelists engage in active evangelism. They initiate conversations, preach sermons, distribute tracts, and lead missions. Their faith is expressed through constant outreach. Christians, while called to witness, express their faith in various ways. Some focus on prayer, others on serving the poor, some on raising families in faith. Evangelism may be part of their lives but not the main activity. Evangelists are outreach-driven. Christians are lifestyle-driven. Both serve God, but with different methods. One is always reaching out. The other may be focused on growing deeper.
#7. Leadership Function vs Membership
Evangelists often function as leaders. They lead crusades, campaigns, and gospel events. They are recognized for their influence in spreading the Word. Christians are members of the body of Christ. Not all are leaders, and not all are called to public roles. Leadership is a function, not a requirement for faith. Evangelists often train others, guide new believers, and serve as public representatives of the church. Christians may lead or simply follow Christ faithfully. One carries leadership responsibility. The other carries the identity of a believer.
Similarities Between Evangelist and Christian
#1. Faith in Jesus Christ
Both evangelists and Christians believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This is the foundation of their identity. They trust in His death and resurrection for salvation. This shared belief unites them as members of the same spiritual family. No matter their role or calling, they rely on the same gospel message. Their faith in Christ shapes how they live, speak, and relate to others. Evangelists may express it more publicly, but the core belief is the same. Both look to Jesus for guidance, strength, and hope.
#2. Commitment to Gospel
Evangelists and Christians are both committed to the gospel. Evangelists proclaim it. Christians live it. While their methods differ, their message is the same. They believe the gospel is the power of God for salvation. Both groups understand the importance of the death and resurrection of Christ. They may serve in different ways, but they agree on the truth they serve. The gospel shapes their values, decisions, and relationships. Their lives are built around spreading or embodying the good news.
#3. Reliance on Scripture
Both evangelists and Christians depend on the Bible for truth and guidance. They believe Scripture is God’s Word and use it to shape their beliefs and actions. Evangelists use it to preach and explain salvation. Christians use it to grow in faith, make decisions, and understand God. The Bible is central to both. It informs their prayers, worship, and daily living. Whether teaching others or studying alone, both groups seek to align their lives with God’s Word. This shared reliance on Scripture is a mark of true faith.
#4. Desire for Spiritual Growth
Spiritual growth is important to both evangelists and Christians. Evangelists need spiritual maturity to carry out their mission with wisdom and humility. Christians also seek to grow in love, patience, and faith. Both spend time in prayer, worship, and learning. They aim to reflect Christ more in their words and actions. Growth is not optional—it’s part of their walk with God. While the focus may differ, the desire to mature in Christ unites them. Growth strengthens their faith and prepares them for service.
#5. Participation in Church
Evangelists and Christians are both part of the church community. Evangelists often work with churches to reach the lost. Christians grow, serve, and worship within the church. Both understand the value of fellowship, accountability, and shared mission. They attend services, take part in sacraments, and support one another. Evangelists may train or equip church members for outreach. Christians may serve in various roles within the church. Both benefit from the structure and support of the local body of believers.
#6. Prayer and Worship
Prayer and worship are central to both evangelists and Christians. Evangelists pray for boldness, guidance, and for the lost to be saved. Christians pray for strength, wisdom, and daily needs. Both worship God in spirit and truth. Worship may look different—loud and public or quiet and personal—but the focus is the same. They both seek connection with God. Prayer and worship help them stay rooted in faith. These practices feed their spiritual lives and prepare them for service.
#7. Seeking to Glorify God
Both evangelists and Christians aim to glorify God in all they do. Evangelists glorify Him by making His name known. Christians glorify Him by living in obedience and love. Their actions, words, and choices are meant to reflect God’s goodness. This shared goal shapes how they live, serve, and interact with others. Whether preaching to crowds or serving in silence, the end goal is the same—honor God. This desire for God’s glory connects every believer, regardless of role or title.
Closing Thoughts
The difference between an evangelist and a Christian lies mainly in function, not in faith. An evangelist has a specific calling to preach the gospel, while a Christian lives out their faith in many different ways. Yet both share the same foundation—faith in Jesus, commitment to Scripture, and a desire to glorify God. Every evangelist is a Christian, but not every Christian is an evangelist. Understanding the distinction helps the church function more effectively. Each believer plays a part in God’s mission, whether through outreach, service, or daily faithfulness. Both roles are valuable and essential in the body of Christ.