Given that evangelical means different things to different people, it is important to clarify what I mean by the term. Historian David Bebbington’s definition has been accepted by many as a good starting point. He outlines four characteristics:
■ Conversionism: the belief that lives need to be transformed through a “born-again” experience and a lifelong process of following Jesus.
■ Activism: the expression and demonstration of the gospel in missionary and social reform efforts.
■ Biblicism: a high regard for and obedience to the Bible as the ultimate authority.
■ Crucicentrism: a stress on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ on the cross as making possible the redemption of humanity.
McCaulley, Esau. Reading While Black (pp. 9-1. InterVarsity Press. Kindle Edition.
