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Student character building is an important goal in the education system, particularly in Christian Religious Education (CRE) which emphasizes not only cognitive aspects but also the development of moral and spiritual values. However, various character issues such as low discipline, responsibility, and social awareness remain challenges in the school environment. Therefore, a learning strategy is needed that can integrate Biblical values contextually into the educational process. This study aims to analyze learning strategies based on Matthew 11:28–30 in shaping student character at SMP Negeri 1 Moro’o, West Nias Regency. This study uses a qualitative approach with descriptive methods. Data were collected through observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving Christian Religious Education teachers and students. The results of the study indicate that the values contained in Matthew 11:28–30, such as love, humility, gentleness, and peace of mind, can be implemented through contextual learning strategies, teacher role models, and reflective learning. The implementation of these strategies contributes to student character building, especially in improving attitudes of discipline, responsibility, and concern for others. The novelty of this research lies in the development of a learning strategy framework based on theological analysis of Matthew 11:28–30 which is practically integrated into Christian Religious Education learning to shape students' character.

Middle order thinking skills (MOTS) questions are very important in Christian religious education learning. Evaluation of Christian religious education learning needs to be carried out by educators (teachers) based on each learning material so that students' academic achievement can be achieved well. In general, educators (teachers) do not fully understand the concept of middle order thinking skills (MOTS), as well as low order skills (LOTS) and high order skills (HOTS), so that some students find it difficult to answer questions given by educators (teachers) during learning evaluations. The type of research used is qualitative research with a literature review/literature study approach. The purpose of the study is to explain the understanding of the meaning of MOTS in Christian religious education learning on materials that are in accordance with learning objectives, so that students' academic achievement can be achieved well through learning evaluations. The results of the study are students are able to answer questions well from the middle order thinking skills (MOTS) type of questions when educators (teachers) create learning evaluation questions based on learning materials. Conclusion; To create evaluation questions for Christian religious education learning that students can answer and achieve academic success, ideally, questions should be based on the learning material they have learned.

Thomas Aquinas was a major figure in the Era of Scholasticism in the Middle Ages, who was very influential and famous for driving the Western world's resistance to Augustine and Plato's teachings on Eastern mysticism that are still preserved. According to Thomas Aquinas, faith and reason are processes in Christian philosophy. However, please note that this is not possible due to a limitation of reason. Although reason does not transcend mystery, reason can facilitate the understanding of the mystery of God, whereas faith is an intermediary to bridge man's mind with God. Although mystery can overcome the intellect, the two are complementary understandings. Thus, Thomas concludes that two kinds of knowledge do not contradict each other, but that stand side by side, namely natural knowledge, which is based on rare intellect and has things of a general human nature as its object, and the knowledge of faith, which is based on revelation and has divine truth, which is in the scriptures, as its object. Thomas himself provided 5 proofs that God is always there.

Counseling etymologically derives from the noun counsel, which originates from the Latin consilium, rooted in consilere, meaning “to consult,” or to seek the views and advice of others as guidance for consideration and decision-making. As a verb, to counsel or counseling refers to the act of providing advice, guidance, warnings, encouragement, and instruction aimed at fostering self-surrender in addressing problems and managing negative behaviors among students. Educational guidance and counseling aim to strengthen Christian students to live victoriously in the Lord Jesus Christ by bringing them to an understanding of the light of God’s Word and the acceptance of themselves as God’s grace. This Classroom Action Research was conducted to address and resolve the problems of Christian students based on the research formulation, particularly through the application of intellectual, moral, and social approaches as strategic steps to enhance educational counseling services. The study employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews and field notes. Data analysis was carried out by categorizing findings to generate emerging themes. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with three teacher participants and two student participants. The findings revealed that several students required special attention due to tendencies toward delinquent behavior, while one case indicated a student’s involvement in narcotics. These findings demonstrate that student-related issues require special intervention efforts to improve their spiritual and mental well-being, leading them to a deeper knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. The ultimate goal is the salvation of students’ souls and the glorification of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Christian Religious Education (PAK) learning is undergoing significant changes in the Digital 5.0 era with the utilization of technology as the main support. This study explores the challenges in Christian learning and explores technological solutions that can improve student engagement and material comprehension. Through the literature study, the main challenges identified include the limitations of traditional learning resources and the lack of attractiveness of the materials. Solutions are proposed by integrating E-Learning, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and mobile applications in the curriculum. Teacher training and support from the community and church are key in implementing this approach. Continuous evaluation and problem solving are the focus to ensure success and sustainability. The results show that technology contributes significantly to creating an interactive and relevant learning environment, building a solid foundation for increased student engagement and understanding of Christian teachings. By stepping with technology, this article presents a foundation for enhancing Christian Religious Education learning amidst the dynamics of the digital world

This study aims to examine Deuteronomy 22:13-30 using a hermeneutic approach and relate it to the current level of awareness of early marriage among Christian congregations. The method used was a qualitative literature study, with the Bible as the primary source, supplemented by various related theological literature. The results indicate that this section of the text contains important theological values, such as holiness, justice, responsibility, and respect for human dignity, especially women, in the context of marriage. Although this text originates from the patriarchal culture of ancient Israel, its principles remain relevant in today's context. Regarding the phenomenon of early marriage, it was found that this practice often occurs without adequate preparation, whether emotional, spiritual, or economic, and thus risks causing various problems in the household. Therefore, the church has a responsibility to raise congregational awareness through faith formation, premarital education, and contextual pastoral care. This study confirms that marriage is a life calling that requires maturity and serious commitment, not simply a solution to social problems.

The New Testament is an essential part of the Christian Bible, containing testimonies concerning the life, ministry, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, as well as the development of the early Church. To fully understand its message, it is necessary to examine the historical and theological contexts that shaped its composition. This article aims to explore the New Testament from historical and theological perspectives by examining the social, political, cultural, and religious background of the first-century world, the process of the writing of the New Testament books, and their principal theological messages. The study employs a library research method with a descriptive-analytical approach to various biblical and theological sources. The findings indicate that the New Testament emerged within the context of Roman rule, Jewish religious traditions, and Hellenistic cultural influences, all of which shaped both the authors and their audiences. The books of the New Testament were written to address the needs of early Christian communities, affirm the identity of Jesus Christ, strengthen believers' faith, and provide guidance for Christian living. Theologically, the New Testament emphasizes central themes such as the Kingdom of God, salvation through Jesus Christ, grace, the formation of the Church, and eschatological hope. Therefore, an understanding of the historical background and theological message of the New Testament is essential for accurate interpretation and for maintaining its relevance to the life of the Church and contemporary Christian believers.

Discussions regarding the origins of the universe have been a focus in philosophy and science, particularly regarding the relationship between the concept of God and modern cosmology. The concept of God as the prima causa is considered the core of classical cosmology, while modern cosmology posits that the universe has a beginning of time. This study aims to observe and analyze the comparison of the concept of God as the first cause by Thomas Aquinas and the Big Bang theory of modern cosmology. The method used is a literature study by examining various philosophical and scientific sources. The results of this study will emphasize the fundamental differences between Thomas Aquinas's approach to God as the first cause metaphysically and the approach of the theory of the origin of the universe (Big Bang theory) which focuses on the physical processes of the universe. Although there are different approaches, there are points of dialogue that open up space for integration between philosophy and modern cosmology. Abstrak. Diskusi berkaitan asal-usul alam semesta sudah menjadi sorotan dalam filsafat dan sains, khususnya mengenai hubungan antara konsep ketuhanan dan kosmologis modern. Konsep ketuhanan sebagai causa prima dinilai sebagai inti kosmolgis klasik sedangkan kosmologis modern mengangkat bahwa alam semesta ada permulaan waktu. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk melihat dan menganalisis perbandingan konsep Tuhan sebagai penyebab pertama oleh Thomas Aquinas dan teori Big Bang dari kosmologis modern. Metode yang digunakan ialah studi kepustakaan dengan mengkaji berbagai sumber filsafat dan sains. Hasil penelitian ini akan menekankan perbedaan fundamental berkaitan pendekatan Thomas Aquinas mengenai Tuhan sebagai penyebab pertama secara metafisik dengan pendekatan teori asal-usul alam semesta (teori Big Bang) yang berfokus pada proses fisik alam semesta. Walaupun ada pendekatan yang berbeda namun ada titik dialog yang membuka ruang integrasi antara filsafat dan kosmologi modern.  

The Indonesian capital market has become a vital pillar of the national economy, providing opportunities for companies to obtain funding while simultaneously providing an investment vehicle for the wider community. In this context, stocks are the most sought-after instrument due to the potential returns they offer. However, stock investment is constantly faced with uncertainty, with fluctuating stock prices often presenting challenges for investors, especially those without a thorough understanding of the company's fundamental performance. An interesting phenomenon, the starting point of this research, is the quite extreme price movements of BIPI shares over the past decade. From 2015 to 2021, BIPI's share price remained stagnant at Rp 50 per share, a condition often referred to by market participants as "gocap" (goat capit). This condition reflects low investor interest in the company's shares, possibly due to high risk perceptions or unconvincing fundamental performance.

Religious pluralism is an unavoidable reality in Indonesian society, where people from diverse religious, cultural, and ethnic backgrounds coexist. This study examines the relationship between Christianity and other religions, focusing on Christology and the doctrine of salvation within the context of Indonesian pluralism. The research aims to explore how Christians can maintain faithfulness to biblical teachings while fostering tolerance, respect, and harmonious interreligious relations. This study employs a qualitative literature review method by analyzing biblical texts, theological literature, scholarly articles, and perspectives from Christian theologians concerning religious diversity, the uniqueness of Jesus Christ, and Christian engagement in a pluralistic society. The findings indicate that Christianity upholds the exclusive claim that Jesus Christ is the Savior and the only way to salvation, while simultaneously teaching values of love, compassion, justice, and peace toward all people regardless of their religious affiliation. The study further reveals that constructive interfaith dialogue does not require compromising core Christian doctrines but encourages mutual understanding and cooperation for the common good. In the Indonesian context, the church is challenged to develop a contextual, dialogical, and transformative apologetic approach that reflects Christ’s love and promotes social harmony. Therefore, Christian witness can remain faithful to its theological foundations while contributing positively to peacebuilding, national unity, and the development of a just and inclusive society.

This research aims to examine the values contained in Dalihan Na Tolu through the perspective of Christian eschatology and examine its relevance to the mission of the Catholic Church in society. Dalihan Na Tolu as a socio-cultural system of the Batak community contains the values of respect, solidarity, responsibility, and brotherhood which play an important role in building social harmony. This research uses a qualitative method with a library research approach through the collection of data from various books, journals, Church documents, and scientific sources relevant to the research theme. The results of the study show that the values in Dalihan Na Tolu are related to eschatological expectations in the Christian faith, especially in building a life that reflects the love, brotherhood, and fellowship that God wills. In addition, Dalihan Na Tolu also has relevance in the Church's mission as a means of inculturation in the proclamation of the Gospel that is more contextual in the Batak community. Thus, local culture is not seen as an obstacle to faith, but rather as a means that can support the realization of the values of God's Kingdom in common life.

Teaching biblical principles to elementary school children plays a significant role in shaping their faith and character, as childhood represents a formative stage for spiritual, intellectual, and moral development. This study aims to examine developmentally appropriate Bible teaching tactics and emphasize the role of Christian Religious Education teachers in the faith-learning process. The approach used is a literature review that combines theological insights, developmental psychology, and Christian didactics. The findings of this analysis indicate that effective teaching methods include the use of storytelling, visual and creative aids, interactive activities, spiritual music, and the teacher's life example. These methods enhance children’s understanding of biblical teachings in a concrete and contextually relevant manner. This research confirms that Bible teaching should not be seen simply as conveying information, but rather as a holistic process of faith formation. The results of this study provide both theoretical and practical benefits, especially for Christian Religious Education teachers, Christian schools, churches, and families in supporting children's holistic faith development.

This study aims to analyze the leadership qualifications of Moses in Exodus 18:21 and examine their relevance for contemporary Christian team leadership. The research is grounded in the increasing complexity of modern leadership challenges, which often prioritize structural effectiveness without sufficient ethical and spiritual foundations. Employing a qualitative approach with a historical-grammatical hermeneutical method, this study interprets the text within its historical, literary, and lexical contexts. The findings reveal that the four leadership criteria—capable, God-fearing, trustworthy, and hating dishonest gain—form an integrated value system that undergirds Israel’s collective leadership structure. The novelty of this research lies in its interpretation of Exodus 18:21 not merely as a description of Moses’ personal charisma, but as a paradigm for participatory and ethically grounded team leadership. Theologically, the “fear of God” functions as the normative center that integrates competence and integrity. These findings suggest that contemporary Christian leadership development should prioritize spiritual character and moral accountability as foundational elements in building sustainable and integrity-based teamwork..

This research investigates the concepts of heaven and hell within Nias culture and compares them with Catholic Church teachings, exploring their implications for Catholic Religious Education (PAK). Driven by the disparity in eschatological understanding between local culture and Catholic doctrine, and the crucial role of inculturation in faith life, a qualitative approach employing literature review was adopted. Data sources included Church documents, books, and relevant scholarly journals. Findings reveal that Nias culture perceives post-mortem existence not as a dualistic heaven or hell, but as a continuation in the spirit world, influenced by social status and adherence to tradition. In contrast, Catholic teachings define heaven and hell as outcomes of humanity's relationship with God. The inculturation process highlights a dialogue between cultural values and Christian faith, demonstrating that integrating local cultural values into PAK can enhance students' faith experience, making learning more relevant and transformative within their contexts.

This study discusses the dialogue between Christian faith and Karl Marx’s atheism as well as its relevance to the lives of contemporary Christians. The rise of atheism in modern society is closely related to secularization, scientific progress, social inequality, and criticism of religious institutions that are considered unable to answer humanitarian problems. Karl Marx viewed religion as an ideological instrument that often legitimized oppression and alienated humans from their true existence. Through his famous statement that “religion is the opium of the people,” Marx criticized forms of religiosity that merely comfort human suffering without striving for social liberation. This research employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach by examining various philosophical, theological, and social sources related to Marx’s atheism and the Catholic Church’s teachings. The findings reveal that Marx’s criticism of religion should not merely be understood as a rejection of God, but also as a moral challenge for the Church to continuously renew itself in carrying out its mission amid social realities. In response, the Catholic Church, especially through the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, views atheism not only as a doctrinal challenge but also as an opportunity for dialogue and self-reflection. The study concludes that authentic Christian faith is not an escape from worldly realities but a spiritual force that encourages believers to uphold justice, solidarity, and human dignity. Therefore, Marx’s criticism can become a reflective instrument for Christians to embody a more contextual, humanistic, and socially engaged faith in the modern world.

The diversity of Indonesian society, spread across various regions of the archipelago, reflects immense natural and cultural wealth. However, this cultural diversity also has the potential to trigger national disintegration or division due to differences in perspectives, values, and ways of life. This situation indicates that Indonesian society needs to develop an educational system capable of fostering an appreciative attitude toward cultural, religious, and customary differences among ethnic groups. This reality compels Christian Education to assume a strategic role in strengthening existing diversity. This study aims to examine transformative approaches within Christian Education for fostering harmony amidst Indonesia’s diversity. The research employs a qualitative approach through a literature review, particularly focusing on the approaches and implementation of Christian Education within pluralistic societies. The results of the study indicate that the presence of Christian education can make a significant contribution to building a harmonious, diverse society by instilling Christian values such as respect for different lifestyles, rejection of violence and discrimination, and the strengthening of a spirit of unity. Thus, Christian education is expected to serve as an effective means of fostering harmony amidst the diversity of Indonesian society.

This research is prompted by the unique narrative of Rahab, a Canaanite woman who occupies a critical theological position in Israel’s history of salvation despite her status as an outsider to the chosen people. The primary focus of this study is to explore the dimensions of Rahab’s faith and God’s sovereignty as recorded in Joshua 2:1-12. This study aims to analyze how the confession of faith from a marginalized individual aligns with God's sovereign plan and to determine the relevance of these values for contemporary Christian witness. The method employed is a qualitative approach utilizing library research and exegetical analysis of the text in Joshua 2:1-12. The findings indicate that Rahab's faith was not merely an act of self-preservation but a theological response to the formidable power of God that transcends ethnic boundaries and social status. God's sovereignty is proven capable of working through unexpected subjects to fulfill His divine purpose. The implications of this research assert that modern Christian witness must be inclusive and transformative, where the courage to declare God's truth amidst threatening situations constitutes a tangible form of living faith. The church is called to perceive God's sovereignty as the fundamental basis for mission and witness, unrestricted by social or cultural exclusivity.    

This study explores the dynamics of children’s character formation within Christian families in the digital era from the perspective of church parents. Employing a descriptive light mixed-methods design, the study integrates survey data and semi-structured interviews to obtain both quantitative and qualitative insights. The findings indicate that digital media has become an integral and unavoidable part of family life, making children’s character formation highly dependent on parental guidance, reflective communication, and consistent faith-based education at home. Parents face various challenges related to time constraints, limited digital literacy, and the increasing exposure of children to external values that may not align with Christian teachings. At the same time, many parents actively utilize technology as a supportive and accessible tool for spiritual learning and moral development. The study concludes that character formation is shaped not merely by technology itself but more significantly by the quality of family relationships and parental role modeling grounded in Christian values. Therefore, the findings recommend strengthening faith-based digital literacy among parents and enhancing church–family collaboration to foster more holistic, balanced, and sustainable character development in children.

This theological research explores Mary’s essential role in the narrative of salvation and her deep connection with the Church, as outlined in key Catholic documents like Lumen Gentium and Redemptoris Mater. Using a qualitative approach that combines descriptive and analytical methods, the study reviews Church teachings, Scripture, and theological literature. It highlights Mary’s pivotal status as Mother of God (Theotokos) a title affirmed by the Council of Ephesus in 431 CE, which underscores both Christ’s divinity and Mary’s unique participation in God’s redemptive plan. The study traces the theological roots of this title through biblical texts, portraying Mary as the chosen vessel through whom the Word became incarnate. It examines how Old Testament prophecies about Mary are fulfilled in New Testament events, especially in the Annunciation and Elizabeth’s greeting of Mary as “the mother of my Lord.” The research also delves into Mary’s bond with the Church, focusing on her recognition as Mother of the Church by Pope Paul VI during the Second Vatican Council. Mary is presented as the ideal disciple, embodying unwavering faith, obedience, and humility in her acceptance of God’s will. Her presence at key moments, from the Incarnation to Pentecost, positions her as both a member and a model of the Church. Ultimately, the study concludes that Mary’s unity with the Church is reflected in her dual role as Mother of Christ and spiritual mother to all believers, offering a profound example of Christian virtues and guiding the faithful in their collective journey toward salvation.

This study examines the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum for Christian Religious Education (PAK) in junior high schools (SMP), focusing on the challenges and strategies for its implementation. The Merdeka Curriculum, introduced in 2022, offers flexibility in instructional design; however, its implementation in the field of PAK requires specific adaptations to maintain the relevance of Christian values such as love, justice, and responsibility. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach using library research combined with empirical content analysis of various case studies in Indonesian Christian schools. The findings indicate that the primary challenges include resource constraints, the readiness of PAK teachers, technological infrastructure gaps, and the influence of secular digital culture. Effective strategies include the development of a contextual curriculum based on Christian values, the utilization of digital technology in learning, the enhancement of teachers’ professional competencies, and collaboration between schools, families, and churches. The implications of this study suggest that the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum can foster the holistic character of junior high school students, equipping them with integrity, resilience, and the ability to face the challenges of the digital age.