Steely Folau ready for ‘real warfare’ in fight against Rugby Australia

Israel Folau has sent a powerful message to Rugby Australia — “I’m up for the fight’’.

Israel Folau and wife Maria arrive at their church in northwest Sydney yesterday Picture: David Swift.

Israel Folau used his Sunday sermon to send a clear message to Rugby Australia: I’m up for the fight.

“The spirit of warfare, whether you believe it, is real,” a passionate Folau said yesterday from the pulpit at The Truth of Jesus Christ Church, in Sydney’s northwest.

Hinting at his personal challenges, Folau — whose settlement talks with Rugby Australia failed last Friday — said he must stay “ready and prepared” and feel strong on his walk in life, but “never be complacent”.

Israel Folau gives the sermon at The Truth of Jesus Christ Church. Picture: Facebook.

Israel Folau and his wife Maria Tutaia at the Service at Kenthurst Uniting Church. Picture: Flavio Brancaleone

Arriving late to the service, and firmly clutching his Bible in his right hand, Folau and wife Maria were embraced by fellow parishioners as they took their seats towards the back of the church. The embattled rugby union player bowed his head and closed his eyes through the service as ­assistant pastor John Tupou told the congregation it should “not hide away” from the controversy around Folau.

“We do not fear anyone, we do not fear any man, we only fear our lord Jesus Christ,” he said.

“We do not worry about who in the outside world is looking at us.”

The 30-year-old rugby star is seeking $10 million in compensation from Rugby Australia for what he claims was the ­unlawful termination of his contract after he posted a meme on social media that said gays, if they did not repent, would go to hell.

A fundraising drive by the Australian Christian Lobby, to ­assist Folau with his legal costs, reached $2m last week.

Eric Hema, a senior member of the church, yesterday told The Australian the congregation wanted to open the church’s doors to all Australians so they could understand the religious struggle they were facing.

“We want Australia to hear the good news and better understand the religious struggle that we are faced with,” Mr Hema said. \

“He (Folau) is so humble. I don’t think he wants this much ­attention, but it’s a fight we have to face.”

Some members of the public who aren’t part of the church’s regular community also attended yesterday’s service for the first time, shaking hands with Folau as they shared words of support.