It was a privilege to return to Park United Free Church of Scotland in Uddingston, located to the southeast of Glasgow, to lead their morning service. Having visited last year and enjoyed a wonderful time with the congregation, this year I was invited to speak about the Solas and also reflect on the church’s response to the Quiet Revival report.
For those familiar with the Bible Society’s Quiet Revival report, there has been some debate about the statistics, but many people on the ground are reporting growth and renewed excitement in the Christian church—the first real surge in many years. Using Acts 17 as our guide, we explored three key themes. First, Paul’s distress at the idolatry he encountered in Athens; second, his careful research into the culture and city he was engaging with; and third, how he found points of contact with the people there.
We considered how these themes might apply to our own context today. I asked the congregation to reflect on their own hearts: Are they distressed by the spiritual state of Uddingston? Do they care, or have they grown apathetic? Perhaps the first prayer we should offer is for God to give us a burden for the idolatry around us—not only because it offends His holiness, but also because it harms humanity, leading people to pour themselves out for false gods that cannot satisfy or provide true or eternal life.
We then examined the importance of research. Just as Paul observed and engaged with Athens—in the marketplaces, educational centers, and religious sites—we considered current cultural trends in the UK, drawing on recent studies such as the Finding Jesus, Talking Jesus, and Quiet Revival reports. While one may debate whether this represents a revival, there is undeniable evidence of a growing openness to the gospel.
Finally, we looked at points of engagement, identifying ways to introduce the gospel meaningfully into people’s lives. Issues like the search for purpose resonate strongly today. A recent Evangelicals Now article highlighted that one in three people in the UK feel a lack of purpose, underscoring that life’s ultimate purpose—knowing God through Christ—is a message worth sharing.
We also discussed responses to the Quiet Revival report. Three unhelpful reactions include cynicism, triumphalism, and hyper-Calvinism—the belief that mission is God’s business and we have no role to play in offering Christ to the lost. Paul’s example demonstrates a different approach, combining a high view of God’s sovereignty with active engagement.
Three helpful responses are practical and proactive. First, extend invitations widely, as up to a third of people may be willing to attend a Christian event, whether an Alpha course, a church service, or an open discussion. Second, pray earnestly for your town—Uddingston—and the nation. This may be a pivotal moment for the gospel, offering the potential for significant spiritual awakening. Third, focus on sharing the story of Jesus, rather than merely inviting people to religious events. Personal testimonies of transformed lives resonate far more than committees, formulas, or institutional rituals.
It was wonderful to be back with the United Free Church of Scotland in Uddingston. The minister, Bruce, is planning his retirement this summer, and the church is looking forward to continuing its mission into the future. This week, they are trialing their first outreach event in a coffee shop, running Hope Explored, a short course from the Christianity Explored suite, in collaboration with Costa Coffee.
It was a privilege to spend time with the congregation, including sharing lunch afterward, and to witness their commitment to moving forward in mission. Churches interested in hosting a similar service or event are encouraged to get in touch.
The service was also recorded and is available to watch here:
