When Paul charged Timothy to preach the word in season and out of season, he wasn’t referring to the calendar or the climate. Rather, that we experience times of openness to the Bible’s message, as well as periods of stubborn resistance. Timothy was to press on, in both “seasons”.
The Christmas “season” annually generates gospel opportunities that we would be foolish to miss though. The church is like a striker facing an open goalmouth, on the six-yard line, with the goalie nowhere in sight! In every church or CU I have ever been part of, in England or Scotland, people from outside the fellowship have accepted invitations to Christmas events, like carol or watchnight services. Christmas does seem to be “in season” – every year.
Observers of our culture are also suggesting that we are living in a changing season and there is much discussion about the so-called “Quiet Revival”. Whether you are convinced by its more enthusiastic proponents or are more circumspect, everyone agrees that there seems to be more openness to considering Jesus than we have seen in a long time. One of the most striking things in the Bible Society’s recent research were the answers to the question, “Apart from weddings, baptisms/christenings, and funerals, would you attend a church service if you were invited by a friend?” Thirty-one per cent of people said “yes”. So, if our churches mobilise invitationally this December, we will meet many people who are willing to come and hear the gospel and experience a worshipping community of believers in action.
