Rosebank Union Church Sermons

In Isaiah 17, God pronounces judgment on Damascus and Israel. Once proud and flourishing, they will be reduced to ruin because they trusted in idols and foreign alliances instead of the Lord. Yet, even in judgment, there is a glimpse of hope: a remnant will turn back to God, remembering their Maker.Isaiah 18 speaks to Cush (Ethiopia), portraying a nation of power and influence. Though Cush sends envoys and displays strength, God reminds them that He is the one who directs the course of nations. At the appointed time, all nations will recognize His sovereignty and bring tribute to the Lord in Zion.Together, these chapters remind us that human strength, wealth, or alliances cannot save—only God can. Judgment is certain for the proud and the self-reliant, but those who return to the Lord will find mercy and life.Earthly power cannot secure us, but turning back to God does. Nations rise and fall, but the Lord remains sovereign over all.~~~Catch the Season 1 of Isaiah Recap video: Recap Video~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

In the oracle against Moab, Isaiah delivers a prophecy of judgment against Moab. The cities of Moab are pictured in ruins, and its people are filled with grief, weeping, and fleeing for survival. Yet in the midst of judgment, there is a call for Moab to seek refuge in Zion and to show kindness to God's people. Ultimately, Moab's pride leads to its downfall, and within three years the nation is humbled and broken.This passage highlights both God's justice against sin and His offer of mercy to those who turn to Him. The contrast is clear: pride brings destruction, but those who humble themselves and seek the Lord find hope and security.Pride leads to ruin, but God offers mercy to those who take refuge in Him. Our safety and future are not in our own strength, but in trusting the Lord's reign.~~~Catch the Season 1 of Isaiah Recap video: Recap Video~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Welcome to the Sidebar — a new podcast where we go deeper into Scripture beyond the Sunday sermon. In this episode, hosts Zwai Zulu, Ansune Schoeman, and Richard van Lieshout unpack the poetic taunt in Isaiah 14 and explore a compelling question: Is this passage only about the king of Babylon — or is there a deeper, spiritual reality at play? We journey from Genesis 10–11 through Isaiah, Daniel, and the New Testament, connecting biblical dots to reveal how the origin of Babylon — founded by Nimrod — is entwined with ancient spiritual rebellion. Could the pride of the Babylonian king mirror the fall of a heavenly being? We examine the Nephilim, the "sons of God," the meaning of Rephaim, and how ancient language points to a cosmic battle behind human tyranny. ~~~Recommended Resources:-The Bible Project – “Spiritual Beings” serieshttps://bibleproject.com/videos/collections/spiritual-beings/-Word Matters – Episode on Genesis 6https://wordmatterspod.csbible.com/2016/08/08/episode-19-who-were-the-nephilim-Expositional Leadershiphttps://www.crossway.org/books/expositional-leadership-ebook/-The God Who Is There by D.A. Carsonhttps://www.amazon.com/God-Who-There-Finding-Place/dp/0801013720Additional Articles:https://www.desiringgod.org/articles/satan-world-providence-christhttps://wordmatterspod.csbible.com/2016/08/08/episode-19-who-were-the-nephilim/In this, they talk about 3 possible views on who the Nephilim were in a really helpful way. The two hosts share their own views, which also models charitable discussion when there are different ways of understanding something in Scripture.https://www.crossway.org/articles/podcast-the-truth-about-satan-and-demons-iain-duguid/In this they talk about not overestimating or underestimating the impact of the enemy. It's got a couple of useful parts! https://www.crossway.org/articles/why-we-should-not-fear-satan-and-demons/

Isaiah 14 continues with God's promise to restore His people and bring judgment on their oppressors. The chapter opens with comfort: the Lord will have compassion on Israel, gather them back, and give them rest from sorrow and fear. In contrast, Babylon—the symbol of pride and arrogance—will be brought low. The once-mighty oppressor is mocked, shown as powerless in death, and humbled before the Lord of hosts. This passage reminds us that no kingdom, leader, or force that exalts itself against God can endure. Human pride ends in downfall, but God's people find hope and strength in His faithfulness. The proud are brought low, but the Lord gives His people rest and a future. True security is not in earthly power, but in the God who rules over all nations.~~~Catch the Season 1 of Isaiah Recap video: Recap Video~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

In this passage, God delivers a prophecy against Babylon, announcing its coming judgment for pride, cruelty, and idolatry. Through Isaiah, the Lord declares that He will stir up nations to bring Babylon down, leaving it desolate and without mercy for those who oppressed His people. The fall of Babylon is not only a historical event but also a reminder that no earthly power, no matter how mighty, can stand against God's sovereignty.For God's people, this judgment is also a promise of deliverance. Those who were once captives will be set free, returning to their land and finding rest in the Lord's justice. This reminds us that God sees the suffering of His people, and at the right time, He will act to rescue them and humble the proud.God's justice is sure, His power unmatched, and His care for His people unfailing. We can trust Him to bring down the proud and lift up the humble in His perfect timing.~~~Catch the Season 1 of Isaiah Recap video: Recap Video~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

James closes his letter with a powerful call to patience, perseverance, and prayer. He urges believers to wait patiently for the Lord's return, like a farmer waiting for the harvest. We are reminded of Job's endurance and God's compassion, encouraging us to remain steadfast in suffering. James ends with a call to spiritual restoration, urging believers to bring back those who wander from the truth. Saving a soul from death and covering a multitude of sins is a sacred act of love. We are called to be patient in trials, persistent in prayer, and passionate about restoring others. James reminds us that the Christian life is not passive—it's active faith, grounded in hope and community care.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

James challenges believers to abandon arrogant self-confidence and instead submit their plans to God's will. He rebukes those who boast about future business ventures without considering God's sovereignty, reminding us that life is brief—like a mist. We are called to live with humility, ignoring God's will is not just careless—it's sinful. James delivers a warning to the rich who hoard wealth and exploit workers. Their luxury is short-lived, and their injustice cries out to God. James paints a sobering picture of judgment for those who pursue riches at the expense of righteousness. Zwai calls us to live humbly, depend on God for our plans, and use our resources justly. Life is fleeting, and true security is found not in wealth or control, but in faithfulness to God.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Rarely do we compare ourselves as parents to others and experience joy. In this episode, Zwai and Ansuné are joined by her husband, Alex, and together they unpack the causes and effects of unhealthy comparison. They also turn to God's Word to discuss how we as parents can turn from comparison and find lasting joy in Christ instead.Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

We are constantly faced with choices in our lives, Brett counsels us on how to decide wisely as we control our tongues and responses in seeking to model Christ through our interactions.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

War has consumed humanity ever since we began, and James challenges us in how we control ourelves in the face of our desires that we might act in a manner that is honouring and loving rather than destroying and allowing our nature to take control of our actions.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Zwai and Ansuné introduce this series by reflecting on parenthood and its ups and downs. They discuss how the gospel can produce true and lasting joy through every tear and every triumph of parenting. They also look briefly at some things that threaten to steal our joy in parenting that will be unpacked in future episodes. Additional resources:How the Gospel Produces Joy in Mothering — Risen Motherhood https://www.risenmotherhood.com/articles/embracing-a-joy-filled-definition-of-motherhood?rq=joyCatch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

Justin challenges us on our tongue, a monster held by two cages yet released on whim, with the power to build or destroy, flowing both sweet and salty from the same source. He compares what James says to the words of Jesus on the same topic.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Justin takes us through one of the most challenging passages in the book of James, where we look at what it means to have real faith. We unpack the words of James and compare them to some of the words of the Apostle Paul on the same topic.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Alex delves into James' teachings on partiality, with reflection on Jesus' approach to the topic as well. James was disappointed to have discovered that the early church had fallen into the wordly tradition of partiality based on wealth, and Alex encourages us to examine our own hearts to find where we show partiality and how we view all as God calls us to.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Ndaba explores the theme of hearing and doing the Word within a world that does not desire to conform to the directives of the Word and how best we respond through our interactions based off of how we see and listen. But above all, we are called to obedience to Christ through His Word and teachings.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Additional resources:Common Sense Media - www.commonsensemedia.orgBe In Touch Media - https://beintouch.org.zaDigital Law Company - www.thedigitallawco.comCovenant Eyes - www.covenanteyes.comScreen Free Childhood - www.sfc-sa.co.zaScreenstrong - https://screenstrong.orgFight the New Drug - https://fightthenewdrug.orgThe Anxious Generation - www.anxiousgeneration.com Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

Justin continues to explore the theme of enduring trials with faith, emphasizing that suffering is an inevitable part of life in a fallen world, but through perseverance and reliance on God, individuals can grow spiritually and find joy not in the trials themselves, but in what they produce—maturity, strength, and deeper faith. Believers need to practice two disciplines: "consider" (self-talk grounded in biblical truth) and "ask" (prayerfully seeking God's wisdom).~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Justin explores the theme of enduring trials with faith, emphasizing that suffering is an inevitable part of life in a fallen world, but through perseverance and reliance on God, individuals can grow spiritually and find joy not in the trials themselves, but in what they produce—maturity, strength, and deeper faith. Believers need to practice two disciplines: "consider" (self-talk grounded in biblical truth) and "ask" (prayerfully seeking God's wisdom). Rachel Windram also shares her deeply moving story of losing her husband in a tragic accident and how her faith in God sustained her through grief.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Justin launches our investigation into the book of James as we explore the greeting that James delivers and how we would put forward our own greeting in relation to the powers in our life.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/jamesPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Mike Marais joins Ansuné and Zwai to discuss parenting with principles. In particular, they talk about a framework for discipline that takes each unique parent and child into account.Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

In the closer for season 1 of the Isaiah series, Richard speaks about the end, as Christ gathers the faithful remnant and believers of all nations to Him. A time when God's adherence to His promises is a comfort to those that believe and damning for those that stand opposed.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

The stump metaphor is continued as the line of Jesse is prophesied to give rise to a character that gives hope to all of Israel. In this hopeful passage we see Christ prophesied and a time of peace and prosperity under his reign.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Ansuné is joined by Lauren and Matt Gray as they share why proactivity in parenting is important. They also share many helpful tips and real-life stories. Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

Zwai speaks on how in spite of the impending judgement of the Lord we are not frightened by it but rather as believers we can find assurance and comfort through the realities of Christ.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Richard shows the wrath of God and how present as well as nexessary it is. Yet at the same time the equally present and necessary love and grace being extended by God to rescue us from the situations that we have created for ourselves.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

In this episode, Catherine Marais joins us to unpack how we can connect with our children and be fully present with them. Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~Resources:~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

Justin encourages us to meet God where we are at as we reflect on the victory won over death and sin on that cross.~~~Plan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Richard prepares our hearts as Christ is crucified and we await Sunday in a period of uncertainty 2000 years ago and yet triumphant assurance that we can hold fast to in the modern age knowing that Christ rose on Sunday.~~~Plan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

In this classic Christmas passage, Richard explores the promise of hope through a coming King and Kingdom. Additionally, we are challenged to look at how this affects us as Easter approaches.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

In this episode, Zwai talks about our God-given purpose as parents and what this means for our relationship with our children.Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~Resources:~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

As the majority of Israel appears to have lost their faith in God, a remnant rallies to the Lord in a display of resounding and resilient faithfulness that stands as an example to us as we are called to hold our faith high in a modern context.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Brett leads us through the opening half of chapter 7 in which king Ahaz is confronted by the oncoming forces of the Assyrians as well as Judah, however, when Isaiah calls on him to trust God, Ahaz refuses. Brett challenges us to re-examine how we respond to God in tough times, do we think He is capable and willing of rescuing us or do we try to fix it all by ourselves?~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Richard continues to look at the interaction between God and Isaiah in the former's throneroom as Isaiah is called and sent once he has been cleansed. The calling laid before him is a harsh duty and yet he goes willingly as God calls us to do in response to our own cleansing.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

We kick off our Raising Parents ministry with a live recording of the Raising Parents Podcast where we look at a Vision for Parenting.Each family has a unique and significant story, and that story is located within the greatest story ever told: God's plan of redemption for the world. Today we explore together who we as parents really are, who our children really are, and what this means for your family's purpose and practices.Catch all the other podcast episodes and find out more about the Raising Parents ministry on their website: https://raisingparents.co.za~~~Resources:Parenting: 14 Gospel Principles That Can Radically Change Your Family by Paul Tripphttps://www.amazon.com/Parenting-Gospel-Principles-Radically-Change/dp/1433551934~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

Richard takes a deep look at the interactions as Isaiah is presented before God in His throneroom and how Isaiah realises how unclean he is, as well as how we might be similarly affected.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Gospel fluency: A fun bonus episode where Ansuné and Brett will discuss random parenting scenarios and talk about how the gospel applies to that thing/concept in your parenting.~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

Justin leads us in contemplation over how God perceives our sinful ways and detests of them. He calls on us to judge ourselves and tell what more could be done by God to grow good fruits in us and yet we still produce bitter fruits.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Back into our series on Apologetics, this week we are joined by Pastor Justin to talk about New spirituality: I'm not religious, I'm spiritual and this is one not to be missed!~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

As Ricjard delves into Isaiah 3 as well as 4, Isaiah shows us just how broken humanity has become throughout chapter 3. But hope, chapter 4 illustrates the plans of God to restore the brokeness of humanity through Jesus.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

As we build to the new things planned for this year look back at some of our favourite episodes in our time on the podcast thus far.Bible Overview Pt.1: In this episode Ansune and Zwai take a closer look at the overarching theme or metanarrative of Scripture. All the Scriptures are about Jesus.~~~Book recommendation:The Biggest Story: How the Snake Crusher Brings Us Back to the Gardenby Kevin DeYounghttps://www.loot.co.za/product/kevin-deyoung-the-biggest-story/khms-2985-g770Bible Overview Pt.2: In this episode Ansune and Zwai continue to take a closer look at the overarching theme or metanarrative of Scripture. All the Scriptures are about Jesus.~~~For more resources check out Got Questions

Richard covers the entirety of chapter 2 in his sermon as he looks at the call to walk in the light of the Lord and the impact that doing so will have on the world, a world that will lay weapons aside for farming implements in a global peace looking to the heights of the throne of God.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

As we build to the new things planned for this year look back at some of our favourite episodes in our time on the podcast thus far.What is family discipleship? What are some of the elements of family Discipleship, and what are some of the impacts of family discipleshipWith Ansuné Schoeman and Zwai Zulu.

Zwai launches deeper into Isaiah as we question how the Lord would react to the state of our nation and our world in the midst of crime, injustice and oppression. Zwai goes on to further analyse the damage sin does to us and how we are decayed by sin and doomed by our stubborness, but we find hope in the restoration offered through salvation.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Ansuné and Zwai discuss what the year ahead holds for Raising Parents as well as introduces a flashback series of the favourite episodes to date.~~~This podcast is brought to you by Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburg. Please check out our website: https://ruc.org.za to find more resources for parenting and to find out more about our church!

Isaiah gets into the heart of chapter 1 with a series of scathing rebukes to the Israelites over their rituals, practices and religiousity that has grown rampant within those times. Richard delves further in to understand how this applies to our worship and seeking a pure heart and true worship that is sweet to the Lord.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

The series begins with an introduction to Isaiah as a person and as a book, this is swiftly followed by Isaiah's dramatic revelation of the extent of the brokeness of the world as he reveals what the Lord has said and adds his own commentary.~~~Get more information on the series:https://ruc.org.za/isaiahPlan a visit to Rosebank Union Church in Sandton, Johannesburghttps://ruc.org.za/visit

Richard, Zwai and Ansune sit down for part 2 of these special episodes where we look at the central motivators of the Christian Faith.~~~Books/Resources mentionedKevin DeYoung - The Hole in our Holinesshttps://www.amazon.com/Hole-Our-Holiness-Paperback-Godliness/dp/1433541351Mark Jones - Antinomianismhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1596388153Sam Allberry - One with My Lordhttps://www.amazon.com/One-My-Lord-Life-Changing-Reality/dp/143358915X

Richard, Zwai and Ansune sit down for a special episode where we look at the central motivators of the Christian Faith.~~~Books/Resources mentionedKevin DeYoung - The Hole in our Holinesshttps://www.amazon.com/Hole-Our-Holiness-Paperback-Godliness/dp/1433541351Mark Jones -  Antinomianismhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1596388153Sam Allberry - One with My Lordhttps://www.amazon.com/One-My-Lord-Life-Changing-Reality/dp/143358915X

Richard closes the sermon series on our Christian motivation by discussing how we have been changed through the presence of Christ in our lives and how those changes in our hearts should effect a change in the manner that we carry ourselves and drive us to seek greater depth in our spiritual journey.

Richard continues exploring the aspects of Christianity that motivate us to go deeper in our faith by observing a set of relational motivators between ourselves, those around us and God.