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This paper discusses the theological study of tortor somba in the death ceremony of saur matua in the Batak Toba community. Tortor somba is believed to be able to realize the bond of brotherhood between those present in the death ceremony of a perfect person in kinship. The person is called saur matua, which means complete or perfect, namely a person who has had children and grandchildren, and has succeeded in life both socially and materially. Tortor somba is also believed to be a sign of respect, welcoming those who have a higher position, with this respect can receive blessings. The purpose of this study is to explore the meaning of tortor somba in the death ritual of saur matua in the Batak Toba community, as well as to determine the theological views on the death ritual of saur matua in the Batak Toba community. The research method in this researcher uses a qualitative research method with an ethnographic approach by conducting interviews with one of the village officials, three people representing the Batak Toba community, three traditional leaders, one HKBP Pastor, one GKPI Pastor, and one Catholic Tomok Pastor. The data was studied to examine theological studies regarding tortor somba in the saur matua death ceremony in the Toba Batak community.The results of the research show that the meaning of tortor somba in the Saur Matua death ceremony in the Toba Batak community is a form of pride, respect, and also gratitude. Tortor somba in death ceremonies is not only a child's form of respect for their deceased parents, but also to honor the spirits of ancestors or forefathers. This expression of respect is intended for ancestors. It is also important to provide new knowledge to the younger generation that tortor somba must be based on and illuminated by the word of God in order to maintain and respect culture, because if understood properly and correctly, religion and culture will complement each other.

The aim of this research is to find out how to surviveTemptation According to James 1:12-15 and to know Reflection on surviving trials according to the letter James 1:12-15 towards the Sangga Beru GKPPD Congregation". The research method used used in writing this scientific work is a qualitative method, namely the approach exegesis by Gordon D. Fee. The interpretation method used is of course by using terms and steps for interpreting the Bible, the steps used by the author are: including text, analyzing text, translating text, comparing translations, criticizing apparatus, grammatical and syntactic analysis, data and analysis of historical situations (cultural historical background), results of exegesis, application. The results of the study stated that everyone was able to survive then he will stand the test, and when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life God promises to whoever loves Him. And when someone experiences temptation, let no one say this is a trial comes from God because God Himself cannot be tempted by evil and God Himself does not tempt anyone, and on the other hand, temptation comes when someone tests himself because has been enticed by evil so that desire has been fertilized and will give birth to sin and sin will bring death in his life, temptation also brings holy life when someone is able to withstand trials and persevere in life. It's the same with the GKPPD Sangga congregation Beru, who was able to withstand trials and persevere, was patient for years when he experienced trials from the outside in the form of a large-scale demolition of the church so that until now it doesn't have one a proper house of worship. Even so, the Sangga Beru GKPPD congregation continued to implement it duties and responsibilities as a Christian congregation that grows and perseveres in fellowship.

Women in traditional societies often face complex challenges, particularly within patriarchal social systems. In Batak Toba culture, women are frequently placed in subordinate positions and regarded merely as complements within the household. However, social realities reveal a different dynamic, where women are able to emerge as key actors in sustaining family economies while also preserving cultural identity. This study aims to examine the resilience of female ulos weavers in Siraja Hutagalung Village from a socio-theological perspective. The method used is qualitative with a descriptive approach. Primary data were obtained through in-depth interviews with five main informants who work as ulos weavers, while secondary data came from literature studies related to women’s resilience issues. The analysis refers to resilience theory and gender role theory. The findings show that female ulos weavers hold a central role in family life. Their weaving is not only a cultural product but also symbolizes spiritual strength, loyalty, and independence. Thus, women’s resilience is not merely a social reality but also a tangible expression of spirituality embedded in daily life.

Penelitian ini mengkaji integrasi nilai-nilai budaya Huma Betang masyarakat Dayak Kalimantan Tengah sebagai fondasi spiritualitas ekologis bagi kaum muda Katolik. Melalui pendekatan diskursus teologis-kultural, studi ini mengeksplorasi bagaimana nilai belom bahadat (hidup bersama secara harmonis), handep (gotong royong), dan filosofi huma betang dapat diintegrasikan dengan prinsip ekologi integral Laudato Si'. Temuan menunjukkan nilai budaya lokal menjadi jembatan efektif antara iman Katolik dan identitas kulturan, menghasilkan spiritualitas ekologis kontekstual yang relevan. Strategi integrasi mencakup: transformasi paradigma iman dari antroposentris ke ekosentris, rekonstruksi pembinaan pastoral berbasis kearifan lokal, dan penguatan komunitas kaum muda sebagai agen perubahan ekologis. Penelitian berkontribusi pada pengembangan teologi kontekstual Indonesia yang mengangkat kearifan Dayak sebagai medium pewartaan iman sekaligus advokasi pelestarian lingkungan, menawarkan model inkulturasi yang responsif terhadap krisis ekologis kontemporer.

Karya tulis ini, "MERAWAT RUMAH BERSAMA: INTEGRASI SPIRITUALITAS KRISTIANI DAN TEOLOGI EKOLOGIS LAUDATO SI' SEBAGAI PARADIGMA BARU BAGI KAUM AWAM," menyajikan argumen yang relevan dan vital untuk mengkontekstualisasikan panggilan universal Ensiklik Laudato Si' dalam realitas ekologis dan budaya akut di Kalimantan. Menggunakan Tinjauan Literatur Sistematis (SLR) dengan protokol PRISMA sebagai metode, penulisan karya tulis ini mengusulkan model tiga pilar yang jelas dan menjanjikan (liturgis, asketis, dan sosial) sebagai paradigma operasional baru bagi kaum awam. Karya tulis ini bertujuan untuk mengintegrasikan data granular tentang krisis sosio ekologis Kalimantan dan detail etnografis Dayak yang sangat kaya, memperkuat klaim empiris dengan bukti yang dapat diverifikasi, dan secara eksplisit mengartikulasikan kontribusi uniknya dalam lanskap teologi ekologis dan inkulturasi di Indonesia yang jauh lebih luas. Kerangka kerja ini berupaya memberdayakan aksi ekologis akar rumput dengan menjembatani teologi tingkat tinggi dengan praksis pastoral awam yang praktis, menggunakan kearifan lokal Dayak sebagai material arsitektural utama. Temuan dari karya tulis ini ialah menyintesiskan panggilan universal Laudato Si' dengan kearifan relasional masyarakat Dayak yang kaya, kerangka kerja ini menawarkan sebuah jalan bagi Gereja di Kalimantan untuk bergerak melampaui aktivitas-aktivitas yang terfragmentasi menuju sebuah misi ekologis yang terintegrasi, mendalam secara teologis, dan transformatif secara sosial, yang dipimpin oleh kaum awam.

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk memberikan pemahaman mendalam mengenai Konsili Trente (1545–1563) sebagai respons resmi Gereja Katolik terhadap tantangan Reformasi Protestan, sekaligus sebagai tonggak pembaruan internal Gereja. Masalah yang diangkat dalam studi ini adalah ketegangan teologis dan historis antara tuntutan pembaruan dari dalam Gereja serta kritik keras yang dilancarkan oleh para reformator Protestan terkait Kitab Suci, sakramen, dan otoritas Gereja. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode studi literatur melalui analisis data sekunder dari dokumen konsili, literatur teologi, serta penelitian historis sebelumnya. Kebaruan dari penelitian ini terletak pada penegasan peran Konsili Trente bukan hanya sebagai instrumen “kontra” terhadap Reformasi, melainkan juga sebagai wadah refleksi teologis yang menghasilkan reformasi internal mendalam dalam bidang liturgi, sakramentologi, formasi imam, dan disiplin gereja. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Konsili Trente berhasil mengokohkan identitas Katolik melalui penegasan ajaran iman sekaligus memperbarui praksis pastoral, yang pada akhirnya menjadi landasan teologi dan kehidupan Gereja Katolik hingga Konsili Vatikan II. Oleh karena itu, studi ini menekankan pentingnya melihat Konsili Trente secara seimbang: sebagai benteng iman sekaligus sumber pembaruan yang relevan bagi dinamika Gereja sepanjang sejarah.

This study aims to examine the concept of servant leadership based on Matthew 20:20-28 and its relevance to the leadership of pastors in the Pakpak Dairi Protestant Christian Church (GKPPD). The background of this research stems from the dynamics of church leadership, which still faces challenges in realizing the values of service, humility, and relational closeness as taught by Jesus Christ. This research uses a qualitative method with a literature review approach, focusing on the analysis of biblical texts and literature on biblical theology, Christian leadership, and pastoral spirituality. The results of the study show that Jesus introduced a leadership paradigm that is different from the world's pattern, namely leadership that is rooted in service, sacrifice, and love. This principle requires spiritual transformation in church leaders so that their ministry reflects the character of Christ. In the context of GKPPD, the application of servant leadership is important because of the influence of local culture, which emphasizes social structure, and the congregation's need for authentic, relational, and humble leaders. This research confirms that servant leadership is not only theological but also contextual in responding to the challenges of church life, as well as providing theoretical and practical contributions in building a leadership paradigm that is in line with the Gospel and relevant to the local church today.

Believers, both in the time of Jesus and in today’s context, live in situations shaped by social, political, economic, religious, and cultural influences that often give rise to anxiety and doubt about God’s providence. In Luke 12:22–32, Jesus delivers a teaching that prohibits worry and calls His followers to direct their hearts toward the Kingdom of God. For those living under Roman rule, these words were a source of comfort and encouragement to remain steadfast in their faith in God’s power, and for believers today, the same message continues to be relevant as guidance for managing worry with trust and hope. This study seeks to analyze Luke 12:22–32 from the perspective of the theology of God’s providence and to explain its implications for contemporary Christian life. The findings emphasize three key points: first, the passage affirms God as a sovereign, loving Father who cares deeply for His people; second, God’s providence includes both physical and spiritual needs, thus framing faith as an active trust that combines prayer, hope, and concrete action; and third, reflection on God’s providence strengthens believers to face modern anxieties by prioritizing the Kingdom of God, practicing spiritual discipline, and embodying solidarity with others. Although limited in scope as a textual study without cultural or empirical application, this research contributes significantly to understanding God’s providence in Luke 12:22–32 and underlines its relevance for addressing contemporary challenges while encouraging Christians to live out their faith in tangible ways.

Pendidik memiliki tanggung jawab yang besar dalam membentuk generasi penerus bangsa. Di Indonesia, tantangan dunia pendidikan masih sangat kompleks, mulai dari rendahnya kualitas lulusan, lemahnya karakter, hingga maraknya kasus kekerasan dalam pendidikan. Amsal 22:6 memberikan dasar teologis bahwa pendidikan adalah usaha membimbing anak sesuai jalan yang benar agar tetap bertahan hingga dewasa. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mendeskripsikan peran pendidik dalam mengoptimalkan potensi peserta didik di SMP Nasional Plus BPK Penabur Bogor dengan perspektif Alkitabiah. Penelitian menggunakan metode kualitatif studi kasus melalui wawancara daring dengan siswa, guru, dan orang tua, serta studi literatur. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa tanggung jawab pendidik bukan hanya mentransfer pengetahuan, tetapi juga membentuk karakter, mengembangkan bakat, dan menciptakan suasana belajar yang kondusif. Optimalisasi dilakukan melalui kurikulum berbasis Kristiani, kegiatan ekstrakurikuler, serta pembiasaan karakter. Penelitian ini menegaskan pentingnya sinergi antara pendidik, orang tua, dan sekolah dalam membentuk generasi yang berkarakter, beriman, dan berkompetensi.

This article explores the theme of faithfulness amid suffering through a narrative and theological analysis of Job 1:1–22, while also examining its relevance for the Christian faith today. Job is chosen as the central figure due to his portrayal in the Bible as a man who endured extreme suffering yet maintained his spiritual integrity. This research uses a qualitative approach with a library research method, analyzing biblical texts and relevant theological literature. The study focuses on understanding suffering as a test of faith allowed by God, rather than as punishment for sin. The analysis reveals that Job is portrayed as a righteous, upright, God-fearing man who shunned evil. In Job 1:1–22, he loses all his wealth and children in a very short time, yet continues to submit to God’s will. His well-known declaration, “The Lord gave, and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord,” affirms the depth of his faith and obedience. Job’s faithfulness is not transactional, but emerges from a pure spiritual relationship with God. Job’s story remains highly relevant for contemporary Christians. In today’s world filled with adversity, Job teaches that suffering is not necessarily a sign of wrongdoing or lack of faith, but can be a means for spiritual growth and character formation. This article affirms that true faith will remain steadfast even when tested by suffering. Thus, Job stands as an enduring example of unwavering faithfulness to God in the face of deep crisis.

Profesi guru dalam perspektif pendidikan modern dipahami bukan sekadar sebagai penyampai pengetahuan, tetapi juga sebagai agen transformasi moral, etika, dan spiritual. Dalam konteks pendidikan Kristen, peran guru semakin signifikan karena dipanggil untuk menghadirkan teladan Kristus dalam seluruh aspek kehidupannya. Penelitian ini mengkaji relevansi keteladanan Yesus dalam Yohanes 13:13–16 dengan praktik pendidikan guru agama Kristen di sekolah. Teks ini menampilkan Yesus yang membasuh kaki murid-murid-Nya sebagai simbol kerendahan hati, kasih, dan pelayanan, yang menjadi dasar teologis bagi peran guru Kristen. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif deskriptif dengan pendekatan teologis dan pendidikan, melalui studi pustaka dan wawancara dengan guru-guru di SMA PGRI 22 Serpong. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan lima temuan utama. Pertama, teladan guru Kristen berfungsi sebagai model nyata yang membentuk iman dan karakter siswa. Kedua, praktik mentoring dalam perspektif Alkitab menegaskan pentingnya relasi personal dalam pendidikan iman. Ketiga, keteladanan Yesus menampilkan dimensi servant leadership yang relevan bagi kepemimpinan guru Kristen. Keempat, integritas guru Kristen menjadi fondasi utama dalam proses pendidikan karena konsistensi hidup lebih berpengaruh daripada sekadar instruksi verbal. Kelima, keteladanan Yesus tetap relevan di era modern karena mampu menuntun peserta didik menghadapi tantangan globalisasi dan digitalisasi dengan iman yang tangguh. Dengan demikian, guru agama Kristen dipanggil untuk melayani dengan kasih, rendah hati, dan penuh integritas, sehingga mampu membentuk generasi yang cerdas secara intelektual sekaligus matang secara spiritual.

Budaya dan gereja merupakan dua hal penting yang tidak dapat terpisahkan. Terdapat tradisi, kebiasaan dan prinsip-prinsip sosial yang berlaku dalam masyarakat pada setiap kebudayaan yang bersesuaian dengan ajaran gereja menjadi dorongan oleh penulis untuk menyusun penelitian ini. Melalui karya ilmiah ini, diharapkan dapat menggali, menemukan, selanjutnya menyajikan nilai dari prinsip sosial masyarakat Mamasa yakni sitayuk, sikamase, sirande maya-maya sebagai sebuah kearifan local salah satu budaya yang memiliki makna teologis sebagaimana menurut hipotesa penulis bersesuaian dengan prinsip-prinsip persekutuan bergereja. Metode yang digunakan dalam penelitian ini ialah penelitian kualitatif dengan pendekatan analisis deskriptif hasil observatif dan studi literatur. Hasil dari penelitian ini diharapkan dapat membawa gereja yang ada dalam masyarakat atau wilayah Mamasa untuk dapat menilai prinsip sosial ini sebagai prinsip yang Alkitabiah sehingga senantiasa dapat melestarikannya dalam menjalani kehidupan baik bermasyarakat maupun bergereja.

The phenomenon of charismatic pastors who simultaneously serve as merchants represents an increasingly common reality in contemporary Christian ministry, especially within urban contexts where economic and spiritual dynamics are closely intertwined. This dual role reflects both opportunities and challenges for the church, raising important theological, ethical, and practical debates concerning the integrity of pastoral calling in the midst of worldly interests, material pursuits, and potential temptations. On the one hand, the bivocational model may provide pastors with financial independence, reducing the burden on congregations and offering broader opportunities for engagement with society. On the other hand, it also carries the risk of blurring the boundaries between ministry and commerce, thereby creating possible conflicts of interest, diminishing spiritual authority, and weakening the congregation’s trust in pastoral leadership. This study aims to analyze the dual role of pastor-merchant in the light of New Testament theology by identifying potential tensions, examining the relevance of pastoral ethics in guiding decision-making, and evaluating the impact of this dual vocation on the life and witness of the church. Methodologically, this research employs a qualitative literature study, reviewing biblical, theological, and pastoral ethics sources to formulate a comprehensive understanding. The findings suggest that pastoral ethics serve as a vital compass for pastor-merchants, ensuring that ministry remains pure, Christ-centered, and untainted by financial motives. The Apostle Paul provides a theological and practical model for bivocational ministry, demonstrating how secular work and spiritual service can coexist without compromising the divine calling. Furthermore, a healthy, transparent, and accountable leadership framework is essential for sustaining integrity and strengthening congregational trust. Ultimately, this study emphasizes that the identity of the church as “a chosen people, a royal priesthood” (1 Pet. 2:9) must remain the guiding principle, ensuring that the integration of pastoral vocation and marketplace involvement contributes positively to the church’s witness and relevance in modern society.

Revolusi Industri 4.0 mendorong lahirnya Pendidikan 4.0 yang terintegrasi dengan teknologi digital. Perubahan ini berdampak signifikan pada seluruh sistem pendidikan, termasuk Pendidikan Agama Kristen (PAK). PAK memiliki mandat unik, yaitu membentuk manusia seutuhnya berdasarkan nilai-nilai Alkitab, sehingga harus responsif terhadap perkembangan teknologi tanpa kehilangan integritas teologisnya. Tantangan utama terletak pada keterbatasan kompetensi guru dalam mengintegrasikan teknologi dengan pendekatan pembelajaran yang relevan. Dalam konteks ini, pembelajaran adaptif muncul sebagai strategi pedagogis yang menyesuaikan metode, materi, dan tempo dengan karakteristik peserta didik. Melalui pembelajaran adaptif, guru PAK dapat memanfaatkan teknologi untuk menciptakan pengalaman belajar yang kontekstual, personal, dan bermakna.Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif dengan metode studi pustaka, mengkaji literatur terkini terkait PAK, pembelajaran adaptif, dan teknologi pendidikan. Hasil kajian menunjukkan bahwa integrasi pembelajaran adaptif dan teknologi dalam PAK mampu menjawab tantangan Pendidikan 4.0 dengan memfasilitasi diferensiasi pengajaran, penilaian formatif, dan kolaborasi lintas pihak. Teknologi berperan sebagai medium strategis untuk menyampaikan nilai iman dengan cara yang kreatif dan relevan, sementara pembelajaran adaptif memastikan relevansi materi sesuai kebutuhan peserta didik yang beragam.Kesimpulannya, PAK adaptif berbasis teknologi bukan hanya alternatif metodologis, tetapi strategi strategis yang harus dikembangkan secara berkelanjutan. Dengan dukungan kompetensi guru, infrastruktur teknologi, serta sinergi antara sekolah, gereja, dan keluarga, PAK dapat menjadi sarana pembentukan generasi Kristen yang matang secara intelektual, spiritual, dan moral di tengah dinamika global abad ke-21.

Christian leadership can be understood as leadership rooted in the truth of God’s Word and exemplified through the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. In the Gospel narratives, Jesus consistently displayed leadership qualities that were grounded in service, sacrifice, humility, and the nurturing of His disciples. However, in today’s context, many church environments face a crisis of leadership characterized by corruption, arrogance, lack of integrity, and resistance to constructive criticism, all of which deviate from the biblical image of Christ as the Good Shepherd. This study aims to explore the biblical foundation of Jesus Christ’s leadership, focusing on both its character and technical dimensions as reflected in the Gospel of John, and to examine its implementation in the local ministry setting of GPdI Bethesda Kabanjahe. The research employs a qualitative method with two primary dimensions: a theological-biblical approach and a case study approach. The findings reveal that, first, the pastoral leadership model in the Gospel of John presents Jesus as the Good Shepherd who builds intimate relationships, willingly sacrifices, and develops the character of His followers. While these values are normatively acknowledged by church ministers, their implementation in GPdI Bethesda remains partial, fragmented, and not yet systematically embedded into the overall ministry structure. Second, theological reflection and practical implications highlight the urgent need for renewal that encompasses both organizational systems and the personal spiritual formation of leaders. Recommendations emerging from this study include leadership training grounded in Christlike character, developing an organizational structure that ensures regeneration, cultivating a healthy spiritual community, and contextually internalizing Gospel values into ministry practices. Strengthening these areas is essential for building authentic, sustainable, and Christ-centered leadership that responds to contemporary challenges and restores the church’s witness to the surrounding community.

Artikel ini mengeksplorasi hubungan antara kecerdasan buatan (AI) dan konsep teologis penciptaan manusia 'Imago Dei' sebagaimana digambarkan dalam Kitab Kejadian 1 (satu). Penciptaan manusia menjadi mahkota kisah penciptaan, manusia diciptakan dengan martabat tertinggi sedangkan AI hadir seolah melebihi manusia. Dengan mempertimbangkan bahwa AI hanya alat yang mewakili bentuk kreativitas manusia yang baru dan maju. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi dan menjembatani gap pengetahuan antara pengembangan AI dan pemahaman teologis tradisional tentang peran manusia sebagai co-creator. Artikel ini memberikan wawasan sejauh mana AI dapat dipandang sebagai ekstensi atau penyimpangan dari mandat kreatif manusia dan menilai implikasi etis yang terkait. Melalui analisis literatur interdisipliner, studi ini membahas pertanyaan tentang identitas manusia dalam era teknologi dan bagaimana inovasi AI dapat diintegrasikan ke dalam kerangka kerja kepercayaan agama. Penelitian ini tidak hanya mengungkapkan tantangan teologis yang disajikan oleh AI tetapi juga menawarkan perspektif baru pada tanggung jawab dan batasan manusia dalam penciptaan teknologi. 

This study aims to comparatively analyze the concept of tawhid in Sunni and Shi'a Imamiyyah schools from a theological perspective. Using an exploratory qualitative approach and literature study method, this research examines the theological structures of both traditions, identifying points of convergence and key differences in their understanding of God's oneness. The findings reveal that although both traditions uphold tawhid as the core of faith, differing epistemological approaches and authoritative frameworks lead to significant distinctions. The Sunni tradition emphasizes three dimensions of tawhid—rububiyyah, uluhiyyah, and asma’ wa sifat—while the Shi’a Imamiyyah integrates the concept with the doctrines of imamah and walayah. The study further highlights that such theological diversity can enrich Islamic intellectual tradition and foster constructive inter-sectarian dialogue when managed inclusively. The research recommends promoting sectarian tolerance education and inter-traditional dialogue as key strategies to enhance Islamic unity.

Penelitian ini mengkaji implementasi pendidikan karakter Kristen dalam keluarga di era kontemporer yang menghadapi berbagai tantangan globalisasi. Menggunakan metode studi pustaka dengan pendekatan kualitatif deskriptif-analitis, penelitian ini menganalisis landasan teologis, konsep teoretis, dan strategi implementasi pendidikan karakter Kristen. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pendidikan karakter Kristen memiliki fondasi yang kuat dalam konsep Imago Dei dan mandat Alkitabiah, khususnya Ulangan 6:6-7 dan Efesus 6:4. Keluarga berfungsi sebagai ecclesia domestica yang menjalankan fungsi kerygma, koinonia, leiturgia, dan diakonia dalam pembentukan karakter anak. Nilai-nilai fundamental seperti buah Roh (Galatia 5:22-23) menjadi karakteristik utama yang perlu ditanamkan melalui metodologi keteladanan, pendekatan naratif, disiplin redemptif, dan ritual keluarga. Namun, tantangan kontemporer seperti sekularisasi, relativisme moral, teknologi digital, perubahan struktur keluarga modern, dan pluralisme agama memerlukan strategi adaptif. Penelitian ini memperkenalkan Teori Transformasi Karakter Holistik (TKTH) yang mengintegrasikan dimensi teologis-antropologis, psiko-sosial, pedagogis-metodologis, dan komunal-ekosistemik. Revitalisasi pendidikan karakter Kristen dalam keluarga menjadi kebutuhan mendesak untuk membentuk generasi dengan fondasi moral dan spiritual yang kuat di tengah dinamika perubahan sosial yang cepat.

This study is motivated by the importance of prayer and fasting practices in the Christian tradition, which are increasingly marginalized in the midst of modern secularism and individualism. The purpose of this study is to analyze the concept of prayer and fasting based on the principles in the Book of Esther and to examine its implications for the formation of contemporary Christian spirituality. This research employs a literature review method by examining biblical texts and contemporary theological literature to identify the characteristics of prayer and fasting that are pleasing to God. The results of the study indicate that the practice of prayer and fasting in the Book of Esther is not merely ritualistic, but an expression of faith, self-denial, and communal solidarity that leads to personal transformation and strengthened social sensitivity. The implication of this study is that the principles of prayer and fasting in the Book of Esther can serve as a model for the spiritual formation of the modern church, fostering intimacy with God and a commitment to addressing surrounding social issues. These findings contribute to the development of practical theology and contemporary Christian spirituality studies.

This article examines the theological meaning of the concept of the new heaven and new earth based on Revelation 21:1-8, serving as a foundation for eternal hope for Christians. Through a qualitative theological approach, this study explores how the eschatological understanding influences the faith life and spiritual attitude of believers. The concept of the new heaven and new earth not only refers to the physical renewal of the universe at the end of time but also serves as a source of spiritual strength that fosters perseverance, faith, and hope in facing worldly struggles. Furthermore, this reflection emphasizes the role of the Church as the representation of the New Jerusalem, preparing the faithful for eternal fellowship with God. Thus, the promise of renewed creation functions as an ethical and existential foundation encouraging Christians to live faithfully, courageously, and with hope until the divine promise is fully realized. This article asserts that the hope in the new heaven and new earth has tangible implications for contemporary Christian life as a reflection of the already and yet-to-be-fulfilled Kingdom of God