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This study aims to describe the behavior of the main character Ama Ola in the short story "Kabar di Malam Natal" by SilvesterPetaraHurint. This study uses a qualitative method with analysis using psychoanalysis. The results of the study are as follows, (1) behavior that shows moral responsibility. The behavior of the main character Ama Ola that shows moral responsibility includes, a high attitude of responsibility, good morality, mutual trust, mutual protection, mutual respect, awareness to persist in a good and honorable attitude, and surrender and believe in the goodness and love of God, and (2) behavior that shows inner conflict. Behaviors that indicate inner conflict include loneliness, solitude, longing, warmth and assertiveness, courage towards oneself and anxiety, restlessness, fear that continues to rage and social dilemmas regarding the situation and circumstances around, obedience to the principles of life to maintain cultural, moral and religious customs.

A discussion on Islamic morality and ethics is the purpose of this paper. We see many modern generations paying little attention to how to apply morality in their daily lives. Morals and ethics are human behaviours in daily life that have been instilled. Morals come from the Qur'an and the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad and include what is good, bad, right, and wrong in one's actions. Meanwhile, ethics come from the culture and customs of the local community. In this paper, the author discusses the meaning of morals and ethics, human relationships with God, humans, and nature. Protest is a legitimate form of expression in a democratic society. In Islam, protest is also recognised as the right of everyone to voice injustice and bias. However, protests must also be carried out with ethics that are in accordance with Islamic teachings. The ethics of protest can be explained in the hadith, namely: Protests must be carried out peacefully and not violate the law. This is in accordance with the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad SAW, "Whoever sees an evil should change it with his hand. If he is unable, then with his tongue. If he is unable, then with his heart. And that is the weakest faith." (HR Muslim). In this Hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) teaches that protests should be done in stages, starting with the lightest action, namely giving a direct response. If you are unable to do so, then you can protest verbally, for example by expressing your opinion or criticism through the media. If that is no longer possible, then protest can be done in the heart, i.e. still rejecting evil, but not taking actions that can lead to violence or riots. Protest must be based on truth and justice. This is in accordance with the hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (saw), "Indeed, Allah is true and loves truth." (Narrated by Bukhari) In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (saw) affirms that protest must be based on truth and justice. This means that protest must be done because of real injustice, not because of personal or group interests.

Critical thinking skills are fundamental to everyday life and academics, allowing individuals to analyze information, evaluate arguments, and draw evidence-based conclusions. In the context of Christian Religious Education (PAK), critical thinking also has a theological dimension, where reason, as a divine gift, is renewed through Christ to understand divine truth and love God. Given this urgency, this study aims to explore how the implementation of the Team Based Learning (TBL) Model can improve the critical thinking skills of PAK students. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method through literature study, collecting and analyzing data from various journal articles and books. The results show that the TBL structure includes individual preparation, team discussion (IRAT/GRAT), problem-based concept application, and peer feedback and evaluation systematically encourage high-level cognitive processes. In conclusion, TBL has proven effective in improving the critical thinking skills of PAK students, while deepening their understanding of the material and their religious competence.

The development of contemporary church music, as part of the dynamic life of Christian worship, has sparked various responses—both as a relevant cultural expression and as a potential theological deviation. Music that adopts popular styles and emotionally expressive forms is often considered effective in engaging younger generations, yet it also raises concerns about shifting the focus of worship from God to human experience. This article aims to theologically examine the presence of contemporary church music in light of biblical principles of Christian worship. The method used is a descriptive qualitative literature study, drawing from theological works and research published within the last five years. The findings show that although contemporary music can serve as an effective means of fostering congregational spirituality, it must be theologically tested to ensure that musical expression does not obscure the Christ-centered essence of worship. Therefore, the church is called to integrate contemporary music into liturgy with discernment and theological responsibility.

Islamic education does not merely focus on the transfer of knowledge but also emphasizes the development of character, morality, and spiritual consciousness. Spiritual values are central in shaping learners who are not only intellectually capable but also faithful and pious. In this context, teachers serve not only as educators but also as spiritual mentors who instill values such as sincerity (ikhlas), trust in God (tawakkal), and divine awareness. This study aims to: 1) Explore the content and themes of the novel Imama Al-Hafidzh by Tri Lyagustina; and 2) Identify the Islamic spiritual values present in the novel and their relevance to contemporary life. This research employs a qualitative approach using library research methods, relying on both primary and secondary sources. Data analysis was conducted by collecting, comparing, and synthesizing information to produce a systematic and comprehensive study. The findings reveal that the novel tells the story of a young man who burns his own finger in a forest to resist temptation, symbolizing strong faith and self-control. The novel conveys messages such as steadfastness in principles, resisting worldly pleasures, not neglecting worship, and making the most of life to serve Allah. The spiritual values found in the novel include: faith, sincerity, patience, trust in God, gratitude, acceptance, repentance, Islamic brotherhood, asceticism, positive thinking, humility in worship, consistency, and love. These values, which are rooted in the Qur’an and Hadith, are highly relevant and can be integrated into Islamic religious education to strengthen students' character in the face of modern challenges.

This research aims to analyze the role of Abraham Kuyper's cultural mandate in the context of Christian Religious Education. Abraham Kuyper, a Dutch theologian and statesman, emphasized the importance of the cultural mandate as an integral part of the Christian faith, where believers are called to transform all aspects of life, including education, according to the principles of the Kingdom of God. This research uses a qualitative method with a theological-philosophical analysis approach to Kuyper's thought and its relevance to CRE. The research findings indicate that Kuyper's cultural mandate provides a strong theological foundation for CRE, emphasizing the integration of faith, science, and daily life. The concept of sphere sovereignty proposed by Kuyper also promotes a holistic approach in Christian Religious Education), where education focuses not only on spiritual aspects but also on the development of character, ethics, and social responsibility. Additionally, this study found that the implementation of the cultural mandate in CRE can strengthen Christian identity amidst pluralism and secularization. The implication of these findings is the importance of a CRE curriculum based on the Kuyperian vision, which emphasizes cultural transformation through education. This research contributes to the development of CRE that is relevant and contextual in addressing the challenges of the times.

This paper aims to explore and integrate three disciplines—philosophy, history, and biology—in order to strengthen and clarify the rational foundation of the Christian faith. Using a qualitative approach, the author examines the contributions of philosophy in formulating rational arguments for the existence of God, the historical connections in the development of the early church, and the accuracy of biblical narratives based on archaeological findings. Biology, particularly through the complex structure of DNA and the order found in living systems, is also viewed as evidence of a divine design underlying all of creation. Through the synthesis of these three disciplines, this article asserts that the Christian faith is not in conflict with reason and science but can be defended logically and scientifically. Thinkers such as Plantinga and Craig demonstrate how philosophical arguments and historical data support the validity of faith, while scientists like Francis Collins show how science can deepen our understanding of God's greatness. This integration is intended as a constructive response to the challenges of modernity and as a foundation for Christians to maintain a firm, intelligent, and relevant faith in the midst of changing times.

Islamic Religious Education (IRE) plays a strategic role in shaping students’ religious character, especially in a modern era filled with moral and spiritual challenges. IRE is not merely about delivering theoretical religious knowledge but is more focused on instilling Islamic values into students' daily lives. This study aims to analyze the effectiveness of Islamic Religious Education in shaping the religious character of senior high school students in Tarakan City by exploring its contribution to developing students’ personalities rooted in faith, noble character, and social responsibility. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach through literature review methods, with data collected from books, academic journals, and other relevant documents. The findings reveal that IRE plays a significant role in nurturing religious character, reflected in values such as honesty, discipline, tolerance, responsibility, worship obedience, and harmonious relationships between humans and God, fellow beings, and the environment. However, the effectiveness of IRE is influenced by both internal and external factors. Internal factors include student motivation and awareness, while external factors encompass teacher competence, curriculum design, family involvement, social environment, and the use of information technology. IRE teachers are expected not only to be knowledge transmitters but also to serve as moral and spiritual role models. A contextual and applicable curriculum is essential to address the needs of today’s learners. Furthermore, active student participation in extracurricular religious activities significantly contributes to the development of religious character. Cases of juvenile delinquency, deviant behaviors, and the lack of application of religious values outside classroom settings indicate the need for stronger and more comprehensive IRE practices. This study recommends strengthening the role of IRE teachers, developing responsive curricula aligned with contemporary needs, and enhancing collaboration between schools and families to optimize the formation of morally upright and religiously aware young generations.

The Sedekah Serabi tradition is one of the cultural heritages that developed in Empat Lawang Regency, South Sumatra Province. This tradition reflects a combination of local wisdom, religious values, and community togetherness. Historically, Sedekah Serabi is rooted in the tradition of post-harvest thanksgiving carried out by agrarian communities as a form of gratitude to God Almighty for the abundant crops. In its implementation, the community collectively makes serabi cakes and then donates them to neighbors, relatives, and children as a symbol of sharing sustenance and strengthening friendship. Over time, this tradition has not only become a form of thanksgiving, but has also developed into an annual cultural event that strengthens social identity and solidarity between residents. This study aims to explore the history, cultural values, and role of the Sedekah Serabi tradition in building social cohesion amid the dynamics of modern society.

This article examines in depth the relationship between the outward form and the spiritual essence of the Church in the context of contemporary Christianity. The church is not only understood as a physical structure with buildings, organizational systems, and orderly worship, but also as a spiritual community that reflects the love of Christ, the presence of God, and a missiological calling in the world. An imbalance between external aspects and spiritual substance can lead to disorientation of church functions, both in the aspect of service and in the meaning of the faith of the people. Excessive focus on form can make the church spiritually dry, while neglect of order and form can lead to chaos in church life. Through a qualitative approach with a literature study method, this article examines the thoughts of several theological figures such as Miroslav Volf, who emphasizes the church as a reflection of the Trinitarian relationship; Lesslie Newbigin, who offers the perspective of the church as an institution, community of the word, and communion of the Spirit; and Stephen Suleeman, who highlights the role of the church as an agent of social and spiritual transformation in Indonesia. The research also considers contemporary challenges, such as the development of digital technology, shifting social values, and the declining interest of younger generations in formal religious institutions. Therefore, this article emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between the form and essence of the church in order to remain relevant, contextual, and faithful to the faith.

Many individuals, including those who profess faith, often struggle to endure the various forms of suffering encountered in life, primarily because it is difficult for human beings to accept pain and trials as part of their earthly journey. As a result, some fail to attain the promise of eternal happiness at the culmination of their lives. According to the Christian faith, true and lasting happiness is not achieved through worldly comfort but is reserved only for those who consistently read and meditate on the Scriptures, whether privately or in communal settings, who strive to preserve holiness in their daily lives, who remain faithful in following Jesus even until death, and who demonstrate obedience to God’s Word. Such believers will not experience eternal death but are granted the privilege to enter the holy city and participate in the joyous banquet of Christ. The purpose of this research is to explore the pathway toward attaining genuine happiness, both in earthly life and ultimately in the holy city of God, which requires a willingness to endure even physical suffering, potentially unto death. To ensure reliable findings, the study employs a qualitative methodology with a grammatical-textual approach combined with interviews. The findings indicate that believers who comprehend the meaning of the Greek concept “μακάριος” (makarios) as it appears in the Book of Revelation will gain firm confidence to endure suffering, maintaining faith and perseverance, even if that perseverance leads to martyrdom for the sake of Christ Jesus.

This article discusses the meaning of marriage as a holy covenant from the perspective of the New Testament, particularly for Christian couples who have not been blessed with children. This study employs a qualitative method through literature review of the Bible, theological books, and relevant scientific sources. The findings show that, in Christian teaching, the value of marriage is not solely determined by the presence of children, but rather by unity, love, and commitment centered on Christ. Marriage is seen as a reflection of the relationship between Christ and His church, requiring faithfulness and perseverance in facing life’s challenges, including the struggle of childlessness. New Testament theological principles provide comfort and strength for couples to remain faithful in marriage, and emphasize the importance of building a family that reflects God’s love and truth, regardless of having children.

In the digital era and the Industrial Revolution 4.0 towards Society 5.0, innovation becomes crucial, but many young people are still trapped in consuming information immediately without sufficient analytical skills. The absence of a culture of literacy and reading causes innovation that is only based on imitation. The initial message of Islam "Iqra' wa rabbukal-akram" (Read, and your Lord is Most Gracious) provides a solution, emphasizing that reading is the key to gaining knowledge, broadening your views, and developing critical thinking. Reading includes observing nature, social phenomena, and the signs of God's power, which require reflective thinking. The history of Islamic civilization shows progress triggered by the spirit of "iqra'," which gave birth to famous scholars such as Ibn Sina and Al-Khawarizmi. In the current era of globalization and technological challenges, these values ​​are becoming increasingly crucial. Al-'Alaq 3 serves as an eternal call to develop critical thinking as a moral and spiritual responsibility, linking contemporary innovation with the ability to read critically. This article is intended to analyze QS. Al-'Alaq 3 as the basis of critical thinking in Islam, encourages scientific research and creative expression of gratitude. This study applies qualitative literature methods, which combine Islamic literature and contemporary critical thinking.

This article discusses the transformation of the meaning of the altar from Hebrew tradition to modern spiritual life, highlighting the important role of the altar as a symbol of the relationship between humans and God. In Hebrew tradition, the altar serves as a physical altar for offering sacrifices, reflecting the sacrifice, purification, and spiritual commitment of the people of Israel. However, as time has progressed, the meaning of the altar has evolved into a deeper symbol that encompasses spiritual and emotional aspects. In a modern context, the altar is interpreted as a symbol of the human heart, a place where worship and devotion to God are performed wholeheartedly. This article also explores the application of altar values, such as devotion, humility, and service, in everyday life. Additionally, the concept of the altar is connected to universal interpretations that are relevant to various spiritual traditions. The method used in this research is a qualitative method with a literature study approach, involving the collection and analysis of literature and biblical verses related to the altar. Thus, this article aims to provide a deep understanding of the essence of the altar as a spiritual element that remains relevant, universal, and applicable in daily life, while inviting readers to reflect on the application of the altar concept in their lives.

This paper examines the story of King Saul seeking help from a medium in Endor as a tragic illustration of the spiritual downfall of a leader who was once chosen and anointed by God. In his distress and desperation, Saul chose a path that violated the law, marking his disconnection from God. This action not only shows a serious spiritual deviation, but also reveals the irony that a female medium becomes a means for God to deliver His judgment. It also explores Christian theological views on the practice of séances, including the moral and spiritual implications they bring. By comparing the historical and cultural background of Israel, and reviewing it from a biblical perspective, this paper emphasizes the importance of obedience to God's word and the dangers of involvement in the occult. The relevance of this story to the Christian life today serves as a reminder to remain steadfast in God's revelation and to distance ourselves from deviant spiritual practices. It also invites readers to reflect on the importance of maintaining spiritual integrity in facing the challenges of life.

This paper investigates various forms of church training for children, highlighting the central role of the family as the primary foundation. Based on a theological interpretation of Job 5:18 and an understanding of the family as a "mini church," this article explores how the family functions as the primary agent in instilling Christian values ​​through education, character education, faith and moral cultivation, and parental role models. In addition, this paper identifies the unique characteristics of children in terms of nature, needs, physical, mental, moral, psycho-social, and faith development that need to be considered in designing effective training strategies. Furthermore, this article outlines the main materials of child training and various implementation strategies that can be applied by churches and families, including increasing Sunday school services, age grouping, dexterity training, utilization of literature, emphasizing God's love and calling, and teaching principles from Proverbs 22:6. This study emphasizes the importance of a deep understanding of children and the development of empathy in the effort to foster the next generation of church members who are faithful and have Christian character.

This research examines God as the initiator of cross-cultural missions through a case study of mission transformation in the life of the Apostle Peter. Departing from the existing research gap, namely the need to reflect on the nature of God who loves other nations through a change in Peter's perspective, this study aims to show that God is the initiator of salvation for all mankind. The significance of this study is to encourage the church to see cross-cultural missions as an important approach in transmitting God's love to those who have not yet repented. Using a descriptive-analytical method, this study finds that Peter's encounter with Cornelius was a crucial turning point in early Christian missionary work. The experience radically changed Peter's narrow understanding of who was worthy of receiving the gospel, extending from just Jews to all nations. The descent of the Holy Spirit upon Cornelius and his family is clear evidence to Peter that God's grace is impartial and available to every believer. This event was not only a personal lesson for Peter, but also a revelation of God that opened the door for the gospel to reach the Gentile world, fundamentally changing the course of church history.   Penelitian ini mengkaji Allah sebagai penggagas misi lintas budaya melalui studi kasus transformasi misi dalam kehidupan Rasul Petrus. Berangkat dari kesenjangan penelitian yang ada, yaitu kebutuhan untuk merefleksikan sifat Allah yang mengasihi bangsa lain melalui perubahan cara pandang Petrus, studi ini bertujuan untuk menunjukkan bahwa Allah adalah inisiator keselamatan bagi seluruh umat manusia. Signifikansi penelitian ini adalah untuk mendorong gereja agar melihat misi lintas budaya sebagai pendekatan penting dalam menularkan kasih Allah kepada mereka yang belum bertobat. Dengan menggunakan metode deskriptif-analitis, penelitian ini menemukan bahwa perjumpaan Petrus dengan Kornelius merupakan titik balik krusial dalam karya misi Kekristenan awal. Pengalaman tersebut secara radikal mengubah pemahaman sempit Petrus mengenai siapa yang layak menerima Injil, meluas dari hanya orang Yahudi menjadi semua bangsa. Turunnya Roh Kudus kepada Kornelius dan keluarganya menjadi bukti nyata bagi Petrus bahwa kasih karunia Allah tidak memandang bulu dan tersedia bagi setiap orang yang percaya. Peristiwa ini tidak hanya menjadi pelajaran pribadi bagi Petrus, melainkan juga wahyu Allah yang membuka pintu bagi Injil untuk menjangkau dunia non-Yahudi, secara fundamental mengubah arah sejarah gereja.

Gratitude is an attitude that is highly emphasized and appreciated. An attitude of gratitude means recognizing ang appreciating all the blessings given by God. Teenagers who are able to be grateful for their lives will have an impact on their happiness and peace of mind. The sample in this study was 65 junior high school studendts. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of gratitude on happiness in adolescents. This research uses a quantitative approach with simple regression test aanalysis using SPPS 26.00 with data collection tools in the form of questionnaires for the gratitude scale. From the results of research data analysis, is shows that there is an influence of gratitude on happiness in teenagers of 16.9%, which is in the medion category, which means that the higher the feeling of gratitude, the more happiness will increase. So it can be concluded thatther is an influence of gratitude on happiness in teenagers.    

This study aims to discuss the hadiths regarding hubbullah. The method used in this study is a qualitative type which interprets the matan (text) using the thematic method approach (maudhu'i). The results of the discussion include the meaning and urgency of hubbullah, various forms of love in Islam, and hadiths related to hubbullah. The love of a servant to Allah must exceed his love for himself and his parents, siblings, friends, and others. Hubbullah itself is a form of a servant's faith in Allah and His Messenger, also loving fellow creatures on earth and the universe. With love for Allah and obedience and obedience to all His commands and prohibitions, a person will not care about the world more than his Lord. God has arranged everything that happens on this earth so that humans can go through everything that God has given. This research concludes that the hadiths related to hubbullah teach spiritual values to love God more than the world.

One of the challenges often faced by church leaders is the inability to set a consistent example, which results in the dependence of the ministry and the declining trust of the congregation. This is caused by the imbalance between spirituality and integrity, the influence of lust, and weak spiritual discipline. This study aims to exmine the qualifications of church leaders in general, and analyze their relevance for God’s service in the present era. The method used is qualitative with a hermeneutic descriptive-analytical approach, accompanied by a literature study sourced from theological literature, tafsir, and related articles. The result show that church leaders must have moral integrity, self-control, loyalty, wisdom, skill, teaching, and a good reputation. These criteria become the foundation of spiritual leadership eligiblity. The conclusion of this study emphasizes that servants of God must live in love, live simply, be authoritative, humble and able to adjust to the dynamics of today’s ministry.