One Hope Church Stellenbosch

Nkululeko Mahlanyane from God First Tembisa exhorted One Hope Church from Judges 5:1-2 to lead well & follow well just like Deborah, Barak & our Lord Jesus did! We can do so because we trust in Him - Bless the LORD!

In this sermon from Psalm 126, Gareth unpacks how we're invited to respond differently in times of hardship. Rather than retreat or give up, the Psalm calls us to remember God's past faithfulness, to pray faith-filled prayers, and to keep sowing even through tears. As we follow Jesus—who sowed in tears for our joy—we're encouraged to keep going, trusting that God will bring a harvest of joy in due time.

In this message from 1 Corinthians 1:18–2:5, Gareth unpacks how the cross of Christ—though seen as foolish or weak by the world—is in fact the wisdom and power of God. Paul's simple gospel message confounded the proud city of Corinth, just as it still does in our city today. We are reminded that our salvation rests not on human effort or intellect, but on God's grace alone—and this humbles us into worship and bold proclamation.

'In part two of our Gospel Life Series, Nathan takes us through 1 Corinthians 1:10–17, where the Apostle Paul addresses a divided church and points us back to the one thing that truly unites us: the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Why do personality-driven factions creep into the church? How can we stay centered on the cross rather than human leaders or preferences? Join us as we explore Paul's passionate appeal for unity, the dangers of misplaced loyalty, and the powerful reminder that Christ alone was crucified for us. This message challenges us to pursue a unity that reflects the heart of the Gospel—humble, Christ-centered, and cross-shaped.'

In this opening message of our Gospel Life series in 1 Corinthians, Gareth explores how the gospel is not only what we believe but what transforms every part of our lives. Drawing powerful parallels between Corinth and Stellenbosch, he shows how the church is a gathering of sanctified saints, called by God and sustained by His grace. Even in our messiness, God is faithful—He will keep us guiltless until the end as we trust in Jesus.

Jesus invites us into a new, abundant life by calling us to look to Him daily. In this message from Hebrews 12:1-2, we explore the hindrances that can slow us down — weights, sin, isolation, and suffering. As we fix our eyes on Jesus, He reshapes our WHY, secures our RIGHTEOUSNESS, renews our RELATIONSHIPS, and fills us with HOPE. With our gaze set on Him, we are empowered to run the race marked out for us with endurance and faith.

On Resurrection Sunday, Gareth preached from 1 Timothy 1:12–17, reminding us of the staggering mercy of our Saviour. Through Paul's reflections on his own salvation, we're invited to marvel at God's grace, who chooses and transforms even His enemies. We see Jesus as the source of our life and purpose, the One who overflows with mercy and patience. This message calls us to worship and rejoice in the wonder of our salvation—Jesus, our merciful Saviour.

In the final message of our Knowing God series, Gareth unpacks the beauty and richness of life shaped by the Trinity. Far from abstract theology, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit invite us into a dynamic relationship of love and joy. This sermon calls us to keep exploring God's nature, embrace a full Trinitarian balance in our prayer & worship, avoid common theological errors, and enter the eternal “dance” of communion with God. Be stirred to know and love God more deeply.

“Scripture teaches us that as believers we are each sent—commissioned to make disciples of all nations. However, we can sometimes rely on wrong motivation leading to weariness, joylessness, or even ultimately abdicating our call to mission. Understanding the overflowing love and relationship of the Trinity helps us to realign with the beautiful truth and call of the gospel in our lives leading to faithful, fruitful worship through mission.”

Message from Oliver Vierhaus on March 30, 2025

In Week 5 of the Knowing God series, Jono Hulley explores how the Trinity serves as the perfect model for Christian community. Since we are made in the image of a relational God, our interactions should reflect His self-giving love, unity in diversity, and joyful authority with submission. Through Christ's work and the Spirit's power, we are invited into this kind of life-giving community—one that finds its ultimate fulfillment in eternity.

In session 3, Ryan unpacks the topic of Our Gospel as the people of God, what this means and how it informs the people of God about what to be a part of.

In session 2, Ryan unpacks the topic of My Gospel and how it is deeply, uniquely and powerfully true to us as individuals.

In the first session, Ryan gives us a deeper and richer sense of the topic Gospel Confidence: The Gospel.

In this sermon, Riley explores the role of the Holy Spirit as the Giver of Life. We are completely dependent on him for both physical and spiritual life. The Spirit gives spiritual life by revealing Jesus and transforming believers. Through the Spirit, Christians are no longer defined by what we do but by what Jesus has done and are freed from sin and its power. By walking by the Spirit, we can triumph over the flesh and live a life that honors God.

In part 3 of our Knowing God series, we explore the breathtaking reality of salvation as adoption into God's family. What does it mean to be not just forgiven, but welcomed as sons and daughters of God? Drawing from Galatians 4:1-7, we uncover how adoption is a Trinitarian work—planned by the Father, accomplished by the Son, and applied by the Holy Spirit. We reflect on God's deep, personal love, a love that transforms us from spiritual orphans into heirs of His kingdom. For those who have struggled with their view of fatherhood or wrestled with feeling distant from God, this message offers a powerful reminder of His nearness. Join us as we press into the wonder of our adoption and the intimate cry of “Abba, Father” placed in our hearts by the Spirit.

Gareth unpacks what it means to know God as our Eternal Father in this message. While many struggle with fatherlessness or broken relationships with their earthly dads, the good news of Scripture is that God is the perfect Father—always present, personal, and loving. God the Father invites us into a transformative relationship with Him through faith in Jesus. Gareth explores the Father's role in the Trinity and how encountering His love brings healing, identity, hope & many other implications for our daily walk with God.

In this first message of the “Knowing God” series, Gareth invites us to explore the profound doctrine of the Trinity. Emphasising that God is eternally Triune ”Father, Son, and Holy Spirit” he shows how this foundational truth deepens our relationship with God, enriches our worship, and impacts our daily lives. Through a survey of Scripture, Gareth unpacks the mysterious plurality within God's oneness and reveals that before all things, God is love. This powerful truth shapes our understanding of creation, salvation, prayer, provision, and God's presence.

Bates Alheit concludes our series called “Habits,” which examines healthy habits for spiritual formation. Our goal isn't to give you a list of “how-tos” or “to-dos” —instead, we want to inspire your heart and will, stirring a desire to embrace these habits as part of your spiritual journey.

Gareth Bowley continues our series called “Habits,” which examines healthy habits for spiritual formation.

Nathan Fisher continues our series called “Habits,” which examines healthy habits for spiritual formation. Our goal isn't to give you a list of “how-tos” or “to-dos” —instead, we want to inspire your heart and will, stirring a desire to embrace these habits as part of your spiritual journey.

Happy New Year! Today, we're starting a new series called “Habits,” which will examine healthy habits for spiritual formation. Our goal isn't to give you a list of “how-tos” or “to-dos” —instead, we want to inspire your heart and will, stirring a desire to embrace these habits as part of your spiritual journey.

Gareth's final sermon in our Joseph Series focused on Joseph's response to his brothers after their father's death. It emphasised God's sovereignty in all circumstances, including suffering and evil. Despite his brothers' betrayal, Joseph acknowledges that whilst they meant evil, God intended it for good, ensuring the survival of many. The sermon encouraged believers to live in the freedom of forgiveness and trust God's plan, even in hardship. It highlighted that pain might come from our own foolish or sinful actions, from living in a fallen world, or as part of God's sovereign, loving purposes. Ultimately, God works through it all for His good and loving purposes that serve our good and His glory.

The key theme of God's covenant of blessing runs through the final chapters of Genesis. This covenant unfolds in Joseph's rise to power in Egypt, his family's settlement there, and Jacob's blessings on his 12 sons. Joseph's faith and work reflect how God's covenant purposes endure, guiding every part of his life. Jacob's blessings, particularly over Judah, emphasise the continuation of this covenant, from which the Messiah would eventually come. God's covenantal promises remain steadfast. The ultimate fulfillment of these blessings is found in Christ, the Messiah, whose reign ushers in a new era of divine abundance and grace for all who believe in Him.

In his sermon on Sunday, Jono delved into the significance of Joseph's complete forgiveness towards his brothers, as recounted in Genesis 42-46. This act of forgiveness encompassed refraining from disclosing their misdeeds, alleviating their fear and guilt, and granting lifelong absolution. The impact of this forgiveness was far-reaching, bringing solace to the grieving Jacob, relief to the remorseful brothers, and liberating Joseph from his own resentment. Jono concluded by explaining that forgiveness is a Godly gift, a deliberate choice rather than an emotion, which can either hinder or unlock one's ability to live fully as God intends.

This week, Gareth preached from Genesis 41, focusing on Joseph's 13-year journey of trials and triumphs. His message reminded us of the importance of trusting God's timing, even when we face challenges and delays. We were encouraged that, from heaven's perspective, no one will ever regret trusting God's ways (Psalm 22:5). God's sovereignty is always at work, orchestrating events - even in unexpected ways - to position us perfectly for the good works He has planned for us. Joseph's life is an example of steadfast belief in God, as he resisted cynicism and unbelief, paving the way for God's perfect plan. We were challenged to emulate Joseph's robust faith by not praying for escape from our trials, but by asking God: How are You moving towards me in this? What are You doing in me? What are You saying to me in this? Seeking God in this way will help us fulfill His plan for our lives, just as Joseph did.

In this sermon, Nathan draws parallels between swords and refining a life through trials. Just as exquisite swords require extensive refinement, Joseph's hardships shaped him for greatness despite his innocence. His years in prison remind us of the powerful truth that God is always present, even when unseen. This promise of Emmanuel, fulfilled in Jesus Christ, shows that God's presence is for a purpose, guiding us through difficulties to prepare us like mighty weapons for what lies ahead. For in Christ, we are never alone, and all our trials are full of purpose.

After ending up in Egypt as a slave, God began to bless and prosper Joseph, where he was entrusted with running his master's entire estate. But God was not yet done training and shaping Joseph for the destiny and calling He had for him. The next part of his preparation involved facing and overcoming the temptation to sin. But even though he refused to sin against God, he was falsely accused and thrown into prison. Would he still continue to trust God and not give in to despair? Ultimately, we can only overcome temptation, like Joseph, when we love God with a surpassing love. How do we grow in such a love for God? By believing the Good News and looking constantly to the only One who has truly overcome temptation and sin, Jesus. He is the Ultimate Joseph – who, although he perfectly trusted and obeyed God, took on our sin and was forsaken on the Cross so that we could live in God's presence forever.

Gareth's sermon focused on Genesis 37:12-36, exploring how Joseph's life seemed derailed by the sins and betrayal of his brothers. Despite their jealousy and attempts to harm him, God's sovereign plan continued to unfold. Gareth emphasized the dangers of unresolved hurt and how it can lead to sin, while also highlighting God's ability to use even painful circumstances for His purpose. The sermon encouraged trust in God's plan, even in difficult times, and the importance of forgiveness.

Today, Johannes Brand started a new sermon series based on the life of Joseph. He used Joseph's life to show that God has a calling and purpose for each believer. To fulfill our calling and purpose, we need to obey God every day. Johannes cautioned that following God's calling often leads to opposition and that God uses trials and hardships to prepare believers for their calling. He concluded that we should not waste our suffering but allow it to shape us for God's purposes.

Message from Nathan Fisher on June 2, 2024

Message from Gareth Bowley on May 26, 2024

Riley Smit shares part 11 in our series on the book of 1 Peter: 'Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.'

Join us for Part 10 of our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

Join us for Part 9 of our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In where Gareth takes us through 1 Peter 3:8-22

Join us for Part 8 of our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In where Nathan takes us through 1 Peter 2:13-3:7.

Join us for Part 8 of our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

Our Advance Movement prayer week culminates in a pulpit swap between churches across the Western Cape. We are excited to have Andre Ntambwe from Common Ground Wynberg with us today.

Join us for our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

Join us for our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

God is moving us into a new season. This Sunday is a momentous occasion within the One Hope family. Let's celebrate together as Gareth Bowley steps into his ordained role as an elder in One Hope.

Join us for our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

Join us for our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

Join us for our series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

Join us for the first sermon from our new series on the book of 1 Peter: Hope-Filled Exiles - Hope & Guidance for the Age We Live In.

Join us for our first full service of 2024, with Gareth Bowley preaching on the supremacy and sufficiency of Christ.

Ryan, Scott and Marc Landman preach on 1 Peter 1.

Join us for 'The Life of Discipleship,' our series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Christians and non-Christians alike want to know if Christianity makes a difference. Does being a Christian transform you and society? The Sermon on the Mount says yes it does. It gives a glimpse of what life transformed by the gospel looks like. Let's explore how life in the Kingdom of God radically contrasts life outside the kingdom.

Join us for 'The Life of Discipleship,' our series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Christians and non-Christians alike want to know if Christianity makes a difference. Does being a Christian transform you and society? The Sermon on the Mount says yes it does. It gives a glimpse of what life transformed by the gospel looks like. Let's explore how life in the Kingdom of God radically contrasts life outside the kingdom.

Join us for 'The Life of Discipleship,' our series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Christians and non-Christians alike want to know if Christianity makes a difference. Does being a Christian transform you and society? The Sermon on the Mount says yes it does. It gives a glimpse of what life transformed by the gospel looks like. Let's explore how life in the Kingdom of God radically contrasts life outside the kingdom.

Join us for 'The Life of Discipleship,' our series on Jesus' Sermon on the Mount. Christians and non-Christians alike want to know if Christianity makes a difference. Does being a Christian transform you and society? The Sermon on the Mount says yes it does. It gives a glimpse of what life transformed by the gospel looks like. Let's explore how life in the Kingdom of God radically contrasts life outside the kingdom.