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This article theologically analyzes the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers through a study of the doctrine of pneumatology, traced from the testimony of Scripture to its impact on the practice of Christian faith. The purpose of this study is to explain how the work of the Holy Spirit is understood not merely as a theological concept, but also as a spiritual reality that shapes the identity, character, and dynamics of believers’ service. The method employed is qualitative research with a library research approach, involving the analysis of relevant theological and biblical sources to construct a conceptual framework concerning the work of the Holy Spirit in guidance, conviction, the sealing of salvation, spiritual transformation, and empowerment in ministry. This research is necessary because there remains a limited understanding of pneumatology that tends to be doctrinal and disconnected from concrete faith experiences. The findings of this study indicate that the presence of the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in leading believers into truth, forming Christian character, strengthening their identity as children of God, and empowering them to serve effectively within the community. Therefore, pneumatology holds significant practical relevance in fostering a dynamic, reflective, and transformative life of faith in the contemporary Christian context.

This article examines the use of cooperative learning strategies in Christian Religious Education (CRE) as an instructional approach that emphasizes the strengthening of students’ faith and Christian character. The discussion covers the definition, objectives, conceptual foundations, principles, and operational procedures of cooperative learning, which are then connected to the theological goals of CRE. The study employs a qualitative approach using a library research method, analyzing pedagogical and theological literature to construct a conceptual framework for implementing cooperative learning within the context of CRE. The findings indicate that cooperative learning strategies are highly aligned with the essence of CRE, as they foster dialogical interaction, shared responsibility, empathy, and the internalization of Gospel values through collaborative learning processes. The effective implementation of this strategy can create a participatory, reflective, and formative learning community that enhances not only cognitive understanding but also students’ attitudes, spirituality, and Christian character. This research is significant in providing both theoretical and practical foundations for CRE educators in designing learning experiences that are relevant, relational, and transformative in accordance with the goals of faith formation.

This article examines the urgency of strengthening Islamic creed (aqidah) as a preventive instrument in addressing religious radicalism. The rise of extremism is not merely driven by sociological factors, but is also rooted in a theological crisis, namely textual interpretations that give rise to exclusivism and takfiri doctrines. Employing a conceptual literature review method, this study deconstructs the pathology of radicalism and reconstructs the preventive dimensions of aqidah. The findings reveal that ideological mitigation is grounded in three dimensions of aqidah: Tawhid as a means of liberating reason from group arrogance, wasathiyyah (moderation) in maintaining tolerance, and the absolute integration of faith with social morality. To be effective, these values must be institutionalized within Islamic education through the transformation of critical pedagogy, the strengthening of religious digital literacy, and the development of an inclusive school culture. Strengthening aqidah is therefore not merely a transfer of dogma, but the formation of a moderate worldview as a strong shield against the infiltration of radical ideologies.

This community service study documents and analyzes a blood glucose screening program conducted by theology students of STT Kadesi–Bogor at the Pentecostal Church (Gereja Pantekosta Jakarta/GPJ) in West Jakarta from February to April 2026. A total of 80 examinations were performed over three consecutive months using the Accu-Check glucometer. Results revealed that 1 participant (1.25%) was classified as diabetic (random blood glucose/RBG ≥200 mg/dL) and 19 participants (23.75%) were classified as pre-diabetic or at elevated risk (RBG 126–199 mg/dL), bringing the total at-risk proportion to 25%. The mean participant age was 52.7 years (range: 21–82 years). Women constituted 78.75% of all participants and accounted for 70% of at-risk cases, while men showed a proportionally higher per-capita risk rate (35.3% vs. 22.2%). Five female participants recorded borderline-low glucose levels (70–75 mg/dL), indicating potential nutritional inadequacy. This study contextualizes its findings within biblical theology—particularly 1 Corinthians 3:16, which declares the human body to be the temple of the Holy Spirit—providing a theological imperative for holistic health stewardship. Practical recommendations include adoption of a balanced diet, engagement in regular physical activity, and periodic blood glucose monitoring as expressions of faithful bodily stewardship.

This study is motivated by the author’s interest in the concept of God’s faithfulness (khesed) as revealed in the book of Hosea, which portrays God’s steadfast love through the marriage of Hosea and Gomer. Gomer represents Israel, the unfaithful spouse, while Hosea embodies God’s enduring love despite betrayal. Contemporary family life faces numerous challenges, including infidelity, economic hardship, incompatibility, and divorce problems also affecting Christian families in the Toraja Church congregation of Tabang. This study aims to describe the hermeneutics of khesed in the book of Hosea and its practical theological implications for families in that congregation. A qualitative research method was employed, incorporating library research, field research, and interviews with six informants. The findings reveal that khesed refers to an act of faithfulness rooted in obedience to previously agreed vows, commitments, and principles. The practical theological implication is that every Christian family is called to reflect God’s faithfulness by remaining loyal to their spouse, to others, and to God in every dimension of life.

This article examines the moral philosophy of Saint Augustine, focusing on the concept of free will and its implications for human sinful actions. The study aims to provide a philosophical and theological understanding of Augustine’s concept of free will and to analyze its correlation with human acts of sin. Augustine conceives of free will as a rational capacity inherent in human beings, enabling them to make conscious choices. In its essence, this freedom is oriented toward the good. However, due to the fallen condition of humanity, the will becomes disordered and is directed toward things that are lower than the highest good. Therefore, there exists an inherent correlation between free will and sinful action, wherein sin is understood as the manifestation of a misused will. Accordingly, the thought of Saint Augustine of Hippo affirms that free will is an essential gift that enables human beings to make conscious choices, including the choice to commit sin. Free will does not stand apart from moral reality; rather, it serves as the foundation for explaining that sin occurs as a result of the deviation of the human will from the highest good, namely God. Thus, it can be asserted that there is a clear, close, and inseparable correlation between Augustine’s concept of free will and human sinful action.

Churches and Christian institutions frequently face the challenge of congregations whose understanding of ministry remains confined to the spiritual dimension alone, while the holistic ministry mandate calls for active engagement across social, educational, and economic spheres. This study examines two primary objectives: first, how Christian Religious Education (CRE) shapes congregational understanding of holistic church ministry; and second, how CRE equips congregants with the concrete capacity to serve comprehensively. A qualitative approach with a case study design was employed at Yayasan Sola Gratia Medan. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with seven informants comprising foundation leaders, program coordinators, active church members, volunteers, and beneficiaries. Analysis followed a thematic framework encompassing data reduction, display, and conclusion drawing. Findings reveal that: (1) consistent CRE implementation at Yayasan Sola Gratia has successfully shifted the congregational ministry paradigm from exclusively spiritual to holistically transformative; and (2) congregants who have internalized CRE values demonstrate more structured ministry capacity, stronger theological motivation, and significant cross-dimensional engagement. This research contributes a contextual CRE model relevant for church-based institutions operating in multidimensional urban environments.

Human happiness does not lie in physical pleasure, victory, wealth, honour, worldly power, a beautiful body, or the senses. People in religious communities seek something deeper, contemplating and acknowledging the highest value in union with God. Thomas Aquinas, in his Summa Contra Gentiles, arguments that human happiness lies in the contemplation of God, through which one attains peace and fulfilment in total self-surrender to God. However, in the lived experience of religious communities, a fear of matters related to sexuality is evident. Indeed, some misunderstand and misinterpret these matters, resulting in monks and nuns who become cold, dry, and rigid, acting in ways that violate sexual morality, thereby disrupting or even destroying—their ministry due to such improper conduct. Based on this, the author recognises the importance of education and the appreciation of sexual values for religious communities. Using a literature review method involving relevant books, journals, articles, and Church documents with a theological approach, it was found that the education of religious people requires aspects of happiness and sexuality education. The results of the study indicate that Thomas Aquinas’s concept of happiness can bridge religious life with sexuality education, which is one aspect that must be understood and lived out. Therefore, the happiness of love and the sexuality education of religious people need to be explored and lived out in the course of living and experiencing life as a religious person.

This study aims to analyze the participation of the faithful in the Sacrament of Penance and to identify the pastoral challenges influencing its practice in the Vicariate of West Sulawesi, Archdiocese of Makassar. Theologically, the Sacrament of Penance serves as a means of reconciliation that restores the relationship between humanity, God, and the Church. However, in contemporary contexts, its practice encounters various social, psychological, and pastoral dynamics. This research employed a descriptive quantitative approach involving 267 respondents from four parishes through questionnaire distribution. The data were analyzed using percentage-based statistics to map participation frequency, spiritual motivation, level of understanding, post-sacramental experiences, and perceived obstacles. The findings indicate that although most respondents demonstrate strong theological understanding, sincere spiritual motivation, and positive spiritual experiences after receiving absolution, participation remains largely seasonal and periodic. The principal challenges include psychological factors such as shame and anxiety, structural limitations related to schedule and accessibility, and formative deficiencies such as insufficient ongoing catechesis. The study concludes that the primary issue is not a crisis of faith in the sacrament itself, but a gap between theological awareness and concrete practice, thus calling for more dialogical, communicative, and contextual pastoral renewal.

The study aims to analyze the role of digital media as a distracting factor affecting the faith loyalty of Catholic adolescents in their relationship with God amid religious pluralism in Indonesia. The development of digital media has transformed how adolescents understand, express, and live out their faith, while simultaneously presenting both opportunities and ambivalent challenges. This research employs a qualitative approach using a library research method, analyzing various theological, sociological sources, and Church documents. The findings indicate that digital media can serve as a broad and participatory space for expressing faith, but it also has the potential to create distractions in three main dimensions: cognitive, affective, and practical. Cognitively, adolescents experience confusion in understanding faith teachings due to the diversity of information available. Affectively, there is a shift in orientation from a relationship with God toward the pursuit of emotional gratification in digital spaces. Practically, there is a decline in engagement in concrete religious practices. Within the context of religious pluralism, this complexity intensifies and influences the formation of adolescents’ faith identity. This study also finds that digital media does not only have negative impacts but also holds positive potential as a means of deepening faith when used critically and reflectively. Therefore, the role of the Church is essential through contextual, dialogical, and integrative pastoral accompaniment combined with critical digital literacy. Through this approach, adolescents are expected to integrate their digital experiences into a more mature, authentic faith life rooted in a deeper relationship with God.

This article examines the dialogue between John Calvin’s educational thought and the Merdeka Curriculum within the context of Christian Religious Education (PAK) in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative-comparative approach with descriptive analysis, this study traces the points of convergence and tension between Calvin’s educational principles particularly the concept of imago Dei, holistic education, and the God-centered purpose of education and the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum such as flexibility, differentiated learning, and the Profil Pelajar Pancasila (Pancasila Student Profile). The analysis reveals significant convergence in terms of respect for the potential and uniqueness of learners, holistic educational orientation, and the role of teachers as facilitators and character formers. However, fundamental tensions also exist regarding Calvin’s theocentric theological foundation vis-à-vis the secular Pancasila foundation, the concept of discipline and authority versus student freedom, and the ultimate goal of education glorifying God versus forming the Pancasila Student Profile. Based on these findings, this article offers practical recommendations for PAK curriculum design based on the Merdeka Curriculum, a Kingdom of God-nuanced project-based learning approach, holistic assessment, and Christian character formation within the Profil Pelajar Pancasila framework. This research contributes to filling the gap in studies that dialogue the Reformed theological tradition with contemporary Indonesian national education policy.

This research is based on the importance of studying Malay-Jawi religious manuscripts as a source of transmission of Islamic teachings in the archipelago, particularly in the field of monotheism. The study aims to examine the textual content of Jawi manuscripts containing the treatise of monotheism, especially the concept of the sentence of monotheism and the attributes of twenty, and to explain their position in the intellectual tradition of Malay Islam. The research employs This research is based on the importance of studying Malay-Jawi religious manuscripts as a source of transmission of Islamic teachings in the archipelago, particularly in the field of monotheism. The study aims to examine the textual content of Jawi manuscripts containing the treatise of monotheism, especially the concept of the sentence of monotheism and the attributes of twenty, and to explain their position in the intellectual tradition of Malay Islam. The research employs a qualitative method with a philological approach and content analysis. Primary data consist of Jawi manuscripts, while secondary data are obtained through library research. Data were collected through documentation and literature review and analyzed descriptively. The findings reveal that the manuscripts contain systematically arranged monotheistic teachings, including the meaning of lā ilāha illa Allāh through the principles of negation and affirmation, as well as the concept of faith involving the heart, speech, and actions. The manuscripts also explain the twenty attributes within the classifications of nafsiyah, salbiyah, ma‘ani, and ma‘nawiyah, reflecting the theological framework of Ahlussunnah wal Jama‘ah. These manuscripts function as both religious texts and pedagogical media, highlighting the importance of preserving Nusantara Islamic manuscripts as part of the region’s intellectual heritage.

This study examines the contribution of Anselmus dari Canterbury in addressing the tendency of anti-intellectualism in certain theological practices that separate faith from reason. The background of this research lies in the growing assumption that faith does not require philosophical reflection, which often leads to subjective and uncritical interpretations of sacred texts. The objective of this study is to analyze Anselm’s concept of fides quaerens intellectum as a framework for integrating faith and reason. This research employs a qualitative method with a philosophical and hermeneutical approach, focusing on textual analysis of Anselm’s works and relevant scholarly literature. The findings show that Anselm does not oppose faith and reason but emphasizes that faith naturally seeks understanding. This integration prevents arbitrary interpretations and strengthens the rational foundation of belief. The study implies that Anselm’s thought remains relevant for contemporary theological discourse, especially in promoting a balanced and critical understanding of faith in modern religious contexts.

The rapid development of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has transformed various sectors of human life, including church ministry and religious organizational management. This study aims to analyze Christian leadership ethics in the use of AI within modern church ministry. The research employs a qualitative descriptive method through theological literature review and analysis of recent studies concerning digital technology and pastoral ministry. The findings indicate that AI provides significant benefits for church administration, digital communication, congregational data management, and online evangelism. Nevertheless, ethical challenges also emerge, such as the weakening of pastoral relationships, data privacy concerns, algorithmic bias, and the risk of dehumanization in ministry practices. From a Christian theological perspective, ministry is fundamentally relational and incarnational, reflecting the example of Jesus Christ who ministered through personal presence, compassion, and direct interaction with people. Therefore, AI should be understood as a supportive instrument rather than a substitute for spiritual authority and pastoral presence. Christian leadership in the digital age must be grounded in integrity, transparency, spiritual discernment, and respect for human dignity as the image of God (imago Dei). This study contributes to the development of ethical guidelines for churches in utilizing AI responsibly while maintaining theological integrity and Christian spiritual values.

Christology is a branch of Christian theology that discusses the person and work of Jesus Christ as the core of the Christian faith. The development of the modern era, characterized by globalization, pluralism, technological advancement, and cultural diversity, presents new challenges in understanding Christ in a relevant and contextual manner. This research aims to examine the development of Christological reflection in various life contexts and explain its application in contemporary life. The research uses a qualitative approach with a literature study method thru the examination of various classical and modern theological literature from both Protestant and Catholic traditions. The analysis was conducted using a historical-critical approach to understand the development of Christological thot from the early church period to the modern era. The research results show that Christology is not only doctrinal but also has practical dimensions related to personal, social, cultural, interfaith dialog, ecological, and modern challenges. Christological reflection affirms that Jesus Christ is understood as the true God and true man, serving as the foundation of spirituality, ethics, and social action for Christians. Furthermore, the contextual Christological approach helps the church present Christ's teachings relevantly in a pluralistic and dynamic society. This research implies the importance of developing contextual, inclusive, and transformative theology so that the Christian faith remains meaningful in modern life.

This study examines the interpretation of the Qur’anic verse mentioning the lion in QS. Al-Muddathir [74]: 51 through the approach of tafsir ilmi (scientific exegesis). The aim of this research is to analyze the theological meaning of the term qaswarah, explore the interpretations of classical and contemporary exegetes, and relate them to the perspective of animal science as well as the underlying wisdom. This study employs a qualitative method with a library research approach, using primary sources from Qur’anic verses and classical tafsir works, and secondary sources from books, journal articles, and relevant scientific literature. The results show that the term qaswarah in QS. Al-Muddathir [74]: 51 has various interpretations, such as lion, hunter, or something frightening. However, most exegetes tend to interpret it as a lion due to its relevance to the context of the parable in the verse. The parable illustrates people who turn away from the truth like wild donkeys fleeing in fear from a predator. From the perspective of tafsir ilmi, this depiction aligns with scientific facts that identify the lion as an apex predator capable of triggering a fight-or-flight response in prey animals. Furthermore, the mention of the lion in the Qur’an is not merely descriptive but also contains theological, ecological, moral, and psychological values. The lion serves as a symbol to describe irrational human behavior in rejecting the truth. Thus, tafsir ilmi demonstrates a harmonious relationship between revelation and science, where natural phenomena are used as a medium to convey profound moral and spiritual messages.

This study analyzes the reconstruction of Human Rights (HR) in Indonesia through the integration of Pancasila values and Islamic Religious Education (IRE) within the framework of Islamic Sociological Jurisprudence. In the Indonesian context, human rights are not merely perceived as universal individual liberties, but are understood within broader philosophical, religious, and socio-cultural dimensions. Pancasila functions as the foundational framework that harmonizes individual rights with social responsibilities, while Islamic teachings provide normative and theological foundations through principles such as maqasid al-shari‘ah, justice (‘adl), and human dignity (karamah insaniyyah), as well as Qur’anic values of tolerance and moderation (tasamuh and wasatiyyah). This research adopts a qualitative method with a descriptive approach based on literature review, drawing upon various scholarly sources related to human rights, Islamic education, and sociological jurisprudence. The findings reveal that the integration of Pancasila and Islamic Religious Education generates a comprehensive understanding of human rights that is both normative and contextual. Moreover, empirical findings indicate that a deeper comprehension of Qur’anic teachings on tolerance is positively correlated with the development of moderate and inclusive attitudes, thereby highlighting the significant role of education in internalizing human rights values. Additionally, the historical transition from pre-Islamic (Jahiliyyah) society to the Islamic era demonstrates that Islamic teachings function as an agent of social transformation by promoting justice, equality, and the protection of marginalized groups. From the perspective of Islamic Sociological Jurisprudence, law is viewed as a dynamic system that must remain responsive to evolving social conditions, ensuring that the reconstruction of human rights remains relevant and adaptable. In conclusion, the synergy between Pancasila values, Islamic teachings, and sociological legal approaches contributes to the formation of a more inclusive, balanced, and culturally grounded human rights paradigm in Indonesia.

This research is motivated by the importance of understanding the development of the Kingdom of God in Indonesia as a reality present in the lives of the people through the values ​​of love, justice, and peace in a pluralistic society. The purpose of this research is to analyze the factors that support and hinder the development of the Kingdom of God in Indonesia and explain its application in contemporary life. The method used is a qualitative descriptive method through a literature review and theological analysis of the social, cultural, and religious dynamics that are developing in Indonesian society. The results of the study indicate that the development of the Kingdom of God is supported by the role of the church in evangelistic missions, holistic services, universal values ​​of love and justice, and a spirit of religious moderation. On the other hand, this development is hampered by local cultural resistance, socio-political dynamics, a lack of comprehensive theological understanding, and the potential for conflict in poorly managed plurality. The implications of this research emphasize that the Kingdom of God needs to be lived as a contemporary reality through personal and social transformation, obedience to God's will, and the realization of identity as citizens of the Kingdom of God in everyday life.

Technological developments have brought significant changes to various aspects of human life, including church life. These changes also impact intergenerational relationships within the congregation. This paper aims to examine the challenges faced by church leaders at GEKISIA Depok in serving Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z, and to examine the relevance of the theological principle of Romans 12:2 in addressing these challenges. Ultimately, the author observes that differences in generational characteristics influence communication patterns, ministry models, and congregational expectations of church leadership. Therefore, church leaders in the digital age are required to be adaptive, transformative, and remain rooted in biblical values. Romans 12:2 serves as an important theological foundation for Christian leaders to experience a renewed mindset so they can serve according to God's will without being influenced by worldly patterns. Furthermore, the challenge of cross-generational leadership is not merely practical in nature, but also theological. Each generation brings different experiences, values, and perspectives in understanding faith and spirituality. Generation X tends to value institutional stability and loyalty, while Millennials are more oriented toward authentic experience and community. Generation Z, having grown up entirely in the digital age, communicates and expresses faith in ways that differ greatly from previous generations. In this context, church leaders are called to become bridges between generations, rather than simply following trends or rigidly preserving tradition.

This study examines the role of students of IFTK Ledalero in responding to human rights (HR) issues through the integration of theoretical understanding, spirituality, and concrete action. The background of this research is rooted in the increasing complexity of human rights violations in Indonesia, particularly in marginalized communities, which demands a contextual and transformative response from academic institutions. The objective of this study is to analyze how students internalize human rights values from philosophical and theological perspectives and translate them into practical engagement. This research employs a qualitative descriptive method, using literature review and contextual analysis of student involvement in social issues. The findings indicate that while students possess strong theoretical foundations and spiritual motivations, there remains a gap in translating these into consistent and structured advocacy actions. However, emerging initiatives such as community service, pastoral engagement, and social campaigns demonstrate a growing awareness and commitment. The implication of this study emphasizes the need for a more integrative educational approach that bridges theory, spirituality, and praxis, enabling students to become transformative agents in promoting human dignity and justice.