the four books in the New Testament (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) that tell the story of Christ's life and teachings
"When studying early Christian history, scholars often compare the gospel accounts to understand how each author presented different aspects of Jesus' ministry."
folk music consisting of a genre of a cappella music originating with Black slaves in the United States and featuring call and response; influential on the development of other genres of popular music (especially soul)
"The choir's powerful performance was pure gospel, with the lead singer trading verses to the congregation's rhythmic shouts."
the written body of teachings of a religious group that are generally accepted by that group
"During their meeting, the committee carefully reviewed the gospel to ensure every decision aligned with the church's core beliefs."
a doctrine that is believed to be of great importance
"Newton's writings were gospel for those who followed"
The first section of the Christian New Testament scripture, comprising the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John, concerned with the life, crucifixion, death, resurrection, and teachings of Jesus.
Alternative spelling of gospel
In plain English: Gospel is a collection of books in the Bible that tell the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
"The coach treated his advice as gospel truth and followed it strictly during practice."
Usage: Use "gospel" to refer to the Christian scriptures or teachings regarded as authoritative truth, not as an alternative spelling of itself. The word does not have a separate everyday meaning that requires a different spelling.
To instruct in the gospel.
"The missionary traveled to the remote village to preach the good news and convert the locals."
In plain English: To gospel something means to tell someone that it is absolutely true and should be believed without doubt.
"The old preacher would gospel the congregation every Sunday morning by singing hymns and telling stories from the Bible."
Usage: Do not use "gospel" as a verb to mean teaching religious doctrine or spreading news; it is strictly an adjective describing something as absolutely true or authoritative. Instead, use verbs like "preach," "teach," or "report" when you need to describe the act of instructing someone in the gospel.
The word gospel comes from Old English godspell, which combines "God" and "spell" to mean the message or story of God. It originally referred to this divine message before evolving into its current meaning, likely influenced by earlier forms that meant "good news."