Evangelism Season Begins in Southampton!
It is true that every season is evangelism season, but there are certain times of the year when people seem more ‘open’ to hearing the good news. Christmas is one such season. As people rush around singing carols about the birth of Jesus, there is an expectation that someone will talk to them about the Saviour who has been born.
Today, Southampton officially commenced its Christmas celebrations. The Christmas market is now open, and the festive lights are about to be switched on. This change in atmosphere made it easier to hand out Christmas-themed tracts, and I was even wished “Merry Christmas” by a few people. Let’s make the most of this season!
Mike Mellor began the preaching by speaking on the topic, “Where Are They Now?” Two young men engaged, asking thoughtful questions. They listened to the good news and took copies of John’s Gospel. Another man then asked a question about suffering, and soon a crowd gathered to listen to the discussion.
Afterwards, the team were able to have good conversations with those who listened, including the man who heckled. Ivan spoke with him about suffering and the gospel, and he took a copy of the booklet ‘Why All the Suffering?’
Next to preach was Ben, who spoke on “What’s the Real Reason for This Season?” Using the birth of Jesus as his starting point, he explained that Christ was born to die. He tied this into Romans 5:8 and called on those listening to turn and trust in Jesus.
I’ve been battling a head cold and a congested chest this week, so I found it challenging to preach. However, when it was my turn, I used the “Good Person Test” to explain how none of us is good enough for Heaven, which is why Jesus had to come to rescue us. A few people listened, and one man took a copy of John’s Gospel.
Richard then preached on “Life: What’s the Point?” A crowd gathered to listen, and by the end, three people had taken copies of John’s Gospel. Straight after Richard, Jeremy preached on John 3:16. Then Ivan tried something different: he used a quiz about dogs to draw people in and then transitioned to the gospel.
Time went quickly, and before we realised it, the outreach had concluded. The Lord certainly allowed many people to hear the good news today. Please join us in praying for all those who heard the gospel.
SDG!
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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.
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