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This study aims to analyze the role of Gujarat, India, as a major hub in the dynamics of the Islamization of the Indonesian Archipelago (Nusantara) and its impact on the formation of a distinctive Southeast Asian Muslim identity. This research employs a library research method by examining various primary and secondary sources, including historical manuscripts, travel accounts, archaeological findings, and relevant scholarly books and journal articles. The findings indicate that the arrival and spread of Islam in the Nusantara around the thirteenth century were strongly influenced by Muslim traders from Gujarat, who functioned not only as economic agents but also as carriers of religious and cultural values. The process of Islamization occurred relatively peacefully through trade networks, intermarriage, Islamic education, and political alliances with local rulers. The dominance of Sufistic teachings, which were adaptive and accommodative to local cultural traditions, facilitated a process of cultural inculturation that enabled Islam to be accepted without significant social conflict. This interaction produced a moderate and syncretic form of Islam, reflected in religious practices, local traditions, and Islamic architectural forms across the region. The study concludes that the Islamization of the Nusantara was a continuous process of cultural dialogue that shaped a tolerant, contextual, and harmonious Muslim identity in Southeast Asia, distinguishing it from Middle Eastern Islamic traditions.

This study aims to examine the historical legacy of the Sriwijaya and Majapahit Kingdoms in the context of the development of Southeast Asian civilization through a literature review approach. The study focuses on the contributions of both kingdoms in various aspects, including politics, economy, maritime activities, culture, education, and international diplomacy. Research data were obtained from primary and secondary sources, such as historical manuscripts, inscriptions, archaeological reports, and national and international scholarly publications. The findings indicate that the Sriwijaya Kingdom played a significant role as a major maritime power and an international center of Buddhist education that influenced intellectual networks across Asia. Meanwhile, the Majapahit Kingdom was prominent in developing systems of governance, law, and regional integration of the Nusantara through extensive political and trade networks. Both kingdoms not only shaped the social and cultural structures of their respective periods but also laid an important historical foundation for the formation of identity and regional dynamics in modern Southeast Asia. Therefore, the legacies of Sriwijaya and Majapahit remain highly relevant for understanding historical processes, regional integration, and the long-term development of Southeast Asian civilization.

This study aims to explore Christology in the Gospel of John, specifically the identity of Jesus as the pre-existent Word (Logos), His incarnation, the claim to divinity through the statement "ego eimi," unity with the Father, and its relevance for the early church and the contemporary church. The method used is a qualitative approach through literature study, with the primary source being the Gospel of John (especially John 1:1-18 and the statement "ego eimi"), supported by commentaries, theological journals, and the works of scholars such as Culpepper, Bauckham, and Dunn, analyzed in historical and theological contexts. The results show that John presents an explicit high Christology, depicting Jesus as the true God who became man, with theological essences such as the basis of worship, the certainty of salvation, and the resilience of faith for the congregation facing exclusion and polemics, while also being relevant for the foundation of faith, pastoral comfort, and missionary motivation in the current era of pluralism.

This study examines the implementation of Servant Leadership within GMIM Syalom Lelema and its influence on congregational attendance in worship fellowship. Rooted in the theological model of leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ, Servant Leadership emphasizes humility, empathy, presence, and service as core leadership values. Using a qualitative case-study approach, data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation to understand the relational dynamics between church leaders and congregational participation. The findings reveal that the congregation highly values leaders—pastors, elders, and deacons—who demonstrate genuine care, pastoral presence, and willingness to serve. Acts of pastoral visitation, listening to members’ struggles, and showing humility significantly strengthen emotional and spiritual bonds within the community, resulting in higher attendance and engagement in various worship activities. Conversely, leaders who lack servant-like attitudes tend to receive weaker responses from the congregation, which negatively impacts their participation in worship. The study concludes that Servant Leadership is not merely a theological ideal but a practical necessity within the communal culture of GMIM Syalom Lelema. The model effectively fosters stronger relationships, increases congregational commitment, and enhances the vitality of church fellowship. Keywords: Servant Leadership, Pastoral Ministry, Worship Attendance, Ecclesial Leadership, GMIM Syalom Lelema.

Contemporary church ministry is often trapped in a seasonal pattern, with increased activity only during major events like Christmas and Easter, while stagnating at other times. This phenomenon indicates a fundamental problem in leadership patterns that are not poverty-oriented. This article analyzes the roots of seasonal church ministry through a qualitative-descriptive approach and theological reflection based on Osmer's framework. Literature reviews by Barna, Maxwell, Banks & Ledbetter, as well as the leadership principles of Jesus Christ, show that seasonality is eliminated by reactive leadership that lacks a long-term vision, minimal spiritual training, and a weak ministerial cadre system. As a solution, this article offers a sustainable leadership model that emphasizes a year-round discipleship vision, ministerial training and regeneration, systematic ministry evaluation, and the spiritual example of leaders. This model is believed to help churches experience stable growth, establish a consistent ministry rhythm, and present relevant evidence to the world. Thus, sustainable leadership is a strategic and theological approach to addressing seasonal ministry and strengthening the mission of the church today.

This study aims to implement the Christian Religious Education and Character Education (PAK) teaching module in grade V of SDN 1 Sabaru, Palangka Raya, with a focus on the topic “Jesus Was Crucified, Died, and Risen for Me.” The learning process is designed to support students’ spiritual and character development through an interactive and project-based approach. Teaching methods include group discussions, the use of miniature media as visual learning aids, collaborative activities, and guided reflection on Christian values relevant to students’ daily experiences. The results of classroom observations show that most students are active, enthusiastic, and involved in the learning process, able to understand the theological meaning of the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and apply the values of love, gratitude, and responsibility in everyday life. Obstacles found include a lack of self-confidence in some students and less optimal group dynamics during activities. These findings serve as important evaluation materials for improving the effectiveness of future learning implementation

This paper discusses the principles of Jesus’ teachings that are relevant for building effective and transformative learning within the context of contemporary education. Jesus is known as the Great Teacher who taught with authority, closeness, and methods capable of transforming the thinking, attitudes, and behavior of His listeners. Through biblical analysis and pedagogical examination, this study identifies several key principles, including the use of stories and parables to facilitate deep understanding, a dialogical approach that encourages active participation, contextualization of the message according to the listeners’ social background, modeling as a form of learning through example, and an emphasis on character transformation as the ultimate goal of education. The study concludes that the principles of Jesus’ teaching are not only effective in delivering content but also play a significant role in shaping the internal transformation of learners. By adapting these principles, modern educators can build learning processes that are more meaningful, holistic, and transformation-oriented.

This paper aims to examine the relationship between Social Learning Theory and the principles of Christian education, particularly in character formation and the discipleship process. Social Learning Theory asserts that human behavior is shaped through observation, imitation, and social interaction, thus role models and the environment play a central role in the learning process. This understanding aligns with Christian education, which emphasizes that faith and character are developed through relationships, life experiences, and role models, as demonstrated in God's relationship with Israel, the life of Jesus Christ, and the practices of the early church. The integration of these two approaches demonstrates that effective Christian character formation requires a combination of modeling, mentoring, and a supportive community, along with the spiritually renewing work of the Holy Spirit. Thus, modern psychological theory and the principles of faith education can complement each other to create a holistic approach to Christian education, whether in the church, school, or family.

This article aims to explain the correct practice of devotion to Mary in the light of Christ-centered faith, which is a faith centered on Jesus Christ as the one and only mediator and savior. The main issue discussed is the tendency of some Catholics to give excessive devotion to Mary, which risks diverting focus from Christ. This study employs a theological and doctrinal approach by tracing the Church's teachings on honoring Mary, particularly through the distinction between latria, dulia, and hyperdulia. The study's findings indicate that proper devotion to Mary is rooted in a relationship with the Holy Trinity and guides the faithful to increasingly know, love, and emulate Christ. Conversely, disproportionate forms of devotion may lead to misunderstandings or deviations in faith practices. The implications of this research emphasize the Church's role in providing adequate catechesis, so that devotion to Mary remains balanced, leading the faithful to Christ through Mary and in Mary, while deepening the understanding of Trinitarian theology in the daily lives of Christians.

The death penalty remains a topic of ongoing debate from legal, moral, and religious perspectives. In Indonesia, the death penalty is still applied for certain serious crimes; however, its implementation is questioned because it is considered to conflict with the fundamental human right to life. From the perspective of Christian ethics, this issue becomes more complex as it relates to the understanding of life as a gift from God and the principles of justice and forgiveness. The Old Testament contains provisions for the death penalty as a means of upholding law and maintaining the holiness of the community, while the New Testament emphasizes love, restoration, and the opportunity for repentance through the example of Jesus Christ. This study aims to analyze how Christian ethics views the death penalty by examining the balance between justice and forgiveness as taught in Scripture. The method used in this research is literature review and conceptual analysis of biblical texts and theological sources. The findings indicate that Christian ethics does not merely reject or accept the death penalty, but directs toward an understanding of justice that restores human dignity. This perspective is expected to serve as an ethical consideration in responding to the application of the death penalty in modern society.

The Protestant Reformation, pioneered by Martin Luther in the 16th century, was an important moment in Christian history. This movement emerged as a critique of Catholic Church practices, particularly the sale of indulgences and the abuse of power by clergy, which were considered to deviate from the teachings of the Bible. In response, the Catholic Church convened the Council of Trent. This council not only reaffirmed the teachings of the faith but also tightened spiritual discipline and reformed the internal structure to maintain the unity of the Church. In addition, the Council of Trent also encouraged pastoral renewal supported by religious orders, especially the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), which played a major role in education, missions, and social services. This study analyzes the roots of the Reformation, examines the Council of Trent as the official response of the Catholic Church, and explores the forms of pastoral renewal that emerged afterwards. The results show that although the Protestant Reformation was a major challenge, the Catholic Church's response through the Council of Trent and the pastoral renewal movement succeeded in strengthening Catholic identity and left an important legacy that has influenced the development of the Church to this day.

This community service activity was conducted in a Christian ministry institution located in Makassar City, South Sulawesi. The Student Creativity Program (PKM) was motivated by the reality that many people in Makassar have not yet known or believed in Isa Al-Masih (Jesus Christ )as Lord and Savior. As a city with a predominantly non-Christian population, evangelism in Makassar needs to be carried out contextually, wisely, and lovingly, without offending the beliefs of the surrounding community. The “PI 3 Saja” method (an acronym for Evangelism anytime, anywhere, and to anyone) serves as a relevant and effective strategy for reaching out to society. Through the 5P approach (Pertalian—Relationship, Peralihan—Transition, Penginsafan—Conviction, Pengabaran—Proclamation, and Penyelesaian—Commitment), this method emphasizes the importance of friendship, empathy, and naturally sharing the Gospel in everyday conversations. The purpose of this activity was to train participants in the institution to become contextual evangelists who can share the Good News without coercion, but rather through exemplary living and genuine friendship with others. The training and field practice results showed positive responses from the community, the formation of small discipleship groups (house churches), and an increased sense of courage and sensitivity among participants in sharing the Gospel in non-Christian environments. This activity demonstrates that evangelism can remain relevant and effective when it prioritizes love, relationships, and sensitivity to local culture.

This study aims to uncover the theological meaning of Jesus' compassion as expressed in Matthew 9:36 through a biblical exegetical approach. This verse demonstrates Jesus' emotional and spiritual response to the plight of the crowd, described as "weary and helpless, like sheep without a shepherd." Using the historical-grammatical exegesis method, this study examines the literary, historical, and linguistic context of the text, particularly the Greek word ἐσπλαγχνίσθη splanchnizomai, which describes compassion born from the depths of the heart. The analysis reveals that Jesus' compassion reflects the core of His messianic mission: God's active involvement in human suffering. This compassion is not merely passive sympathy, but an act that restores, teaches, and shepherds the lost, spiritually and socially. Thus, Matthew 9:36 reveals that Jesus' compassion is the foundation of the Gospel ministry, which emphasizes love, restoration, and God's presence amidst human suffering. Its theological implications emphasize that believers are called to embody Christ's compassion in their lives through loving, empathetic, and caring service to others.

This researcher aims to improve student learning activity in history subjects of class X SMK Arnoldus Betun through the application of the memory board game method. The formulation of the problem raised in this study is how to apply the memory board game method to improve student learning activity in history subjects and what is the impact of applying the memory board game method to improve student learning activity in history subjects. This researcher uses a classroom action research (CAR) method consisting of three cycles. Each cycle includes the stages of planning, implementation, observation, and reflection. The data collection instruments used are observation sheets and student learning interest questionnaires. The results of the study showed a significant increase in student learning interest after the application of the memory board game method. In the second cycle, the average student learning activity was at 60%, and increased gradually to reach 86% in the third cycle. The discussion of these results shows that the memory board game method is not only able to increase student learning activity, but also facilitates collaboration, active participation, and student creativity in the history learning process. Thus, it can be concluded that the memory board game method is effective in increasing the active learning of history among 10th-grade students at Arnoldus Betun Vocational School.

This study aims to determine Jesus' evangelistic mission based on Matthew 9:35–38 and its implementation for students of the Theology Study Program of IAKN Tarutung. The research method in writing this scientific paper is a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. For the qualitative method using a library research approach while the quantitative method with 10 informants of the Theology Study Program of IAKN Tarutung. In this study will be explored the mission of Jesus' evangelism based on Matthew 9:35–38 and its implementation for students of the Theology Study Program of IAKN Tarutung. The results of the study of the exegesis of Matthew 9:35–38 Jesus' evangelistic mission is to travel, teach, preach the Gospel, heal the sick, Jesus' compassion. From this study also shows that students have understood the essence of Jesus' evangelistic mission theologically. This is influenced by the learning of the Contemporary Missiology course which reveals the basic principles of the mission based on the Gospel of Matthew. However, implementation in the field is still very limited. As many as 70% of the data obtained in this study indicate that students have not yet pursued mission as a calling, but rather as an academic task. Challenges faced in carrying out mission for students of the Theology Study Program at IAKN Tarutung include a lack of self-confidence, an inapplicable curriculum, and low spiritual awareness. This study emphasizes that theological understanding needs to be supported by a curriculum system, spiritual formation, and a contextual service community so that students are able to live out the mission of evangelism comprehensively as exemplified by Jesus Christ.

The understanding of the doctrine of humanity and sin in Christian theology reveals the essence of human nature and the need for divine redemption. This study aims to examine theological perspectives on human nature and sin, focusing on the relationship between the Imago Dei and the fall of humanity. Using a qualitative descriptive approach through literature review, the research analyzes biblical texts and theological interpretations from various Christian scholars. The results show that humans, created in the image and likeness of God, were originally good and endowed with moral and spiritual capacity. However, through sin, humans experienced separation from God and moral corruption. Nevertheless, God’s grace through Jesus Christ enables the restoration of humanity’s divine image and reconciles the broken relationship with the Creator. The study highlights that understanding these doctrines helps believers realize their dependence on God’s grace, leading to repentance, transformation, and ethical living. The implication encourages Christians to maintain a responsible, spiritual, and moral life as a reflection of the renewed image of God within them.

The statement of Jesus in Luke 18:16, “Let the little children come to Me, and do not hinder them,” contains a theological message that remains relevant for the church throughout the ages. This study aims to examine the meaning of this phrase through a biblical exegesis approach, considering the historical, grammatical, and theological context of the Gospel of Luke. The research employs a qualitative method with historical-grammatical hermeneutics and a literature review on children’s ministry from a New Testament perspective. The findings indicate that the phrase emphasizes Jesus’ indiscriminate acceptance of children as full members of the faith community while rejecting any structural, cultural, or spiritual barriers that diminish the value and rights of children in congregational life. The implication for the contemporary church is the need to develop an inclusive, holistic, and child-friendly ministry in liturgy, education, and spiritual formation, as well as to remove obstacles that may hinder the spiritual growth of children. Thus, the message of Luke 18:16 provides a strong theological foundation for building a church that honors and empowers children as heirs of the Kingdom of God.

To address the moral extremism that often occurs among adolescents, strengthening education is crucial today. Christian Religious Education plays a crucial role in instilling an understanding of character, ethics, spiritual values, and noble moral habits. This research uses a qualitative descriptive method, with thorough literature exploration and data analysis. The study of Christian Religious Education is expected to be a companion that provides understanding, appreciation, and honest living based on Christian duties and values. This task is drawn from sources such as the Holy Scriptures, the life of Jesus Christ, and the ethical values ​​contained in Christianity. In this context, Christian Religious Education aims to produce a generation that is obedient to God and grows in faith and good moral values. Therefore, Christian Religious Education has a significant, very complex, and interconnected role. Its task is not only to provide spiritual understanding, but also to shape the character and morals of the younger generation so that they can face the challenges of the times with strong and sustainable moral values.

This research aims to examine how betrayal is represented in the film The Last Supper (2025). The study employs a qualitative approach using John Fiske’s semiotic theory, which focuses on three levels of codes: reality, representation, and ideology. Data were collected through visual observation of the film’s scenes and analyzed to identify signs and underlying meanings within the actions of the characters. The findings reveal a total of nine betrayal scenes, segmented into 52 image shots that were analyzed in depth. These scenes primarily depict the betrayals committed by Judas Iscariot and Peter against Jesus Christ. The analysis shows that betrayal is not merely presented as a dramatic motif but is constructed as an ideological representation that reflects power relations, social pressure, and human moral dilemmas. The film serves as a cultural text that constructs meaning through visual symbols, gestures, expressions, and dialogue. As such, it can be interpreted as a form of social criticism against systems of power that influence individual behavior. Therefore, the film functions not only as entertainment but also as a discursive space that voices fundamental human issues.

This study explores the discipleship and character of the Samaritan woman as portrayed in the Gospel of John. The background emphasizes that discipleship is not merely about listening to Jesus’ teachings but involves a personal relationship, obedience, and life transformation. The Gospel of John offers a unique perspective by presenting that Christ’s disciples are not limited to men but also include women, as illustrated in the narrative of the Samaritan woman at the well. This research employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach, focusing on biblical texts and relevant studies. The findings reveal that the discipleship process of the Samaritan woman demonstrates a progressive transformation: from initial skepticism to faith and recognition of Jesus as the Messiah. This transformation unfolds through three key dimensions: the dialogue on living water, the understanding of true worship, and the testimony shared with her community. The Samaritan woman emerges as a genuine disciple through her faith, courageous witness, and role as Christ’s representative in proclaiming universal salvation. Her notable traits include openness, honesty, curiosity, courage, and willingness to change. The study highlights that the Gospel of John portrays discipleship as inclusive, affirming the role of women as models of faith. Its implications provide theological insight into the equality of disciples in Christ and offer relevance for today’s church in fostering participatory and transformative faith communities.