Question: What is the best definition of evangelism that you know of, and what are the key components of any good definition?

John R. Mott explained 125 definitions, so questioning definitions is important. Many definitions are appropriate in their emphases. Darius Salter, author of American Evangelism, studying 79 definitions for their focus on the process of salvation compared to evangelism as a moment in time (crisis event).

Scott J. Jones, in his book, The Evangelistic Love of God and Neighbor, recommends evangelism be considered a "set of loving, intentional activities governed by the goal of initiating persons into Christian discipleship in response to the reign of God."

William Abraham adds that God is an agent in evangelism along with the Church, an evangelist and the person who is coming to faith. All four of these agents work cooperatively to accomplish the ministry of evangelism.

These writers help us understand the broad scope of evangelism, but each begins with the focus on God's purpose to bring all peoples into a loving relationship with Himself.