In the Heart of Southampton

Things have changed in Southampton since I was last there; gone are the wide-open streets, and instead in its place stands several wooden structures which look like cottages – preparation is underway for the Christmas markets. Workman busied themselves in our usual preaching location, which created a question, “Where would we preach?” It was then we saw a busker leave his spot in the centre of the street opposite to the entrance of Westquay shopping. The Lord had provided a perfect preaching location in the heart of Southampton.

Instantly, we saw how busy it would be. As we laid out material on the literature table, people stopped to browse and request Bibles. Soon, team members were in engaged in gospel conversations and numerous tracts were being handed out.

After a while, I decided it was time to start the preaching. I went first, speaking on “The Good Person Test.” A few people paused to listen, but one young man was attentive. At the end, he took a copy of John’s Gospel.

I spoke with the young man afterward; he told me he was studying and had many questions about Christianity. He had been influenced by Richard Dawkins, but that bishop of atheism was being doubted by the young man. His questions started off by centring on the historicity of Jesus, soon we had moved to the subject of slavery and morality, and finally we were onto the message of Jesus. At the end of the chat, he promised to read John’s Gospel, and took an invite to a local church.

While I was speaking with the young man, the team was busy speaking with many others. The gospel was spreading, and people were hearing of the love of Jesus.

Next to preach was Richard, who spoke on “Life: What’s the Point?” A few people listened, then made their way to the literature table to receive resources.

Ivan was the final preacher of the day; he spoke on “Creation. Creator. Christianity.” A group of Muslim men listened to his entire message and engaged in discussion. For an hour after the message, Ivan was answering their questions and presenting the gospel to them.

It was a wonderful time in the heart of Southampton. Please pray for all those who heard the good news.

SDG!

_____

Josh Williamson is a full-time evangelist with The Open-Air Mission. Since 1853, OAM has been sharing the good news on the streets of the United Kingdom. To stay updated about the work of the Mission, please sign up for the free quarterly magazine and monthly prayer notes.

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR MAGAZINE AND PRAYER NOTES