Has an Atheist Softened to the Gospel? – Southampton Evangelism
In open-air evangelism, you often meet the same regular characters. Every city centre has them – people who are well known in the area, or who are some kind of local celebrity due to social media. One regular that we often encounter is an older gentleman who has historically been a bit grumpy. He is an ardent atheist who has argued and refused literature, yet he still sits to listen to the preaching. Today, he was back, and this time he seemed a bit more open and softer towards the gospel.
Before we get to our atheist friend, let me set the scene. We couldn’t set up in our usual outreach location, as a busker had claimed the spot, and since he was busy jumping through burning rings of fire (not like Johnny Cash sang about), we figured it would be best to move further down the street. As we set up, our elderly atheist regular sat down ready to listen.
As Mike got ready to preach the Word, the atheist got up and walked over to me, saying, “I have some questions for you.” This was unusual, as normally he listens but doesn’t engage too much; if he does, it is usually to argue. With that, the man began to list his questions.
First, he asked, “If God is real, why doesn’t He answer the prayers of the Pope or the Archbishop of Canterbury?” I replied by taking him to Isaiah 59:1–2 to show that God hears prayers, but He doesn’t respond to those whose sins aren’t forgiven. I stressed that God answers prayers in His way and for His glory.
Second, he asked, “Why isn’t space mentioned in the Bible?” This was rather easy to answer, so I referenced Psalm 19:1–4, showing that space exists for the glory of God and that it communicates to us that there is a Creator.
Third, he asked, “If Jesus is needed for salvation, then how were people saved before Christ?” I corrected his misunderstanding, explaining that since Jesus is God, there is no ‘before Jesus’. Then we considered Romans 4:1–5, which shows how Abraham was saved by faith in Christ. At this point, I also challenged the atheist about his need for faith in Jesus.
Later on, the man told me he is convinced there is a spiritual realm, but he isn’t sure about the Bible. He also spoke to Mike, and for the first time ever, he took a gospel tract. Is it possible that the Lord is softening the heart of this man? Let’s pray the Lord brings him to repentance and faith.
Most of this took place while Mike was preaching on “Life: What’s the Point?” As he preached, a small crowd gathered, with young people interacting with the preaching. At the end of the message, four of them walked forward to receive a copy of John’s Gospel.
When it came time for me to preach, I tested out a new message, “The Road to Heaven.” In this talk, I use the Romans Road to explain the gospel. The visuals I have on the board were very kindly made by Printing Evangelism, with the graphics helping people follow the message. A few listened, with one taking a Gospel of John.
Throughout the outreach, team members were able to have numerous conversations. Huw spoke with a Roman Catholic lady who seemed amazed to discover that Mary needed a Saviour just like everyone else (Luke 1:47). Jeremy found himself speaking with a local ‘celebrity’ who has become famous thanks to social media. This man identifies as male but walks around in a short skirt and a crop top. His parents are Christians, but he isn’t. Jeremy had a very long conversation with him.
Over at the literature table, I spoke with two Chinese students who were amazed at the public display of Christianity. Both took tracts in their own language.
Next up to preach was Ben, who spoke on “What People Often Say to Us!” Using common statements and objections people raise, he presented the gospel. A few paused to listen.
Mike then preached again, this time on “Where Are They Now?” In this message, he uses photos of famous people who have died; he then challenges people to consider eternity. One of the images used is of Charlie Kirk. It was striking to hear so many young people declaring Kirk is in hell because of his conservative politics and Christian views. It is clear the religion of secularism has no place for Christians.
The final preacher of the day was Jeremy, who spoke on “The Message of the Cross.” I didn’t get to hear it, but I am sure it was very good. Instead of listening, I was in conversation with a young man I had spoken with before Christmas. He tries to be academic, so he has lots of questions; this time he wanted to talk about the structure and form of Genesis 1 and 2, and the different names of God. Ultimately, these were just smokescreens to justify unbelief, so I answered his questions and then pointed him to Jesus, using John 1:18 to show that if he wants to know what God is like, then he needs to consider Christ. The man promised he would look at the claims of Jesus.
Lots of literature was also given out today, and many Christians were encouraged. Please pray for all those who heard the good news.
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.SUBSCRIBE TO OUR MAGAZINE AND PRAYER NOTES