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This paper attempts to explore the theological meaning of the Book of Job, particularly in the context of Job's suffering and God's justice. The author focuses this writing on understanding faith in suffering, with the aim of providing a deep interpretation of faith in suffering. The Book of Job is part of the Wisdom Books group consisting of 42 chapters, which discuss the suffering experienced by Job himself, and how he responded to the trials given to him by Satan with God's permission. This writing uses qualitative methods and a library research approach. This paper explains that the Book of Job provides a complex picture of the relationship between human suffering and God's justice. The main finding in this writing is highlighting the urgency of deep reflection on trust, tests of faith, and the meaning of life, leading to the conclusion that suffering is interpreted as an instrument of refining faith in God, then guiding believers towards His will and providence. Therefore, the conclusion of this paper is that suffering is interpreted as an instrument of priesthood of God, which then guides humans who believe in God's will and providence.

The debate concerning the relationship between faith (īmān) and deeds (ʿamal) constitutes one of the central issues in the history of Islamic theology, generating diverse perspectives among theological schools. This study aims to comparatively analyze the epistemology of deeds in three classical Islamic theological traditions: Khawarij, Murji’ah, and Ahlussunnah. The research employs a qualitative approach using the integrative literature review method, examining classical works of ʿilm al-kalām alongside contemporary academic studies. The data were analyzed through data reduction, thematic categorization, and comparative analysis to identify differences in the epistemological frameworks used to understand the relationship between faith and deeds. The findings indicate that the Khawarij developed a textual–legalistic epistemology that considers deeds an essential component of faith, thereby viewing perpetrators of major sins as having exited the state of faith. In contrast, the Murji’ah developed a theological–rational epistemology that separates faith from deeds and postpones judgment regarding major sinners to God’s ultimate decision. Meanwhile, Ahlussunnah formulated an integrative epistemology that combines belief in the heart, verbal affirmation, and deeds within the structure of faith without declaring major sinners as unbelievers. This study highlights that differences in the concept of deeds in Islamic theology are not merely doctrinal but also reflect distinct epistemological frameworks in interpreting religious sources. The findings contribute conceptually to the study of ʿilm al-kalām by offering a comparative mapping of the epistemology of deeds across three major theological traditions in Islam.

This study analyzes the ethics of Christian Religious Education teachers based on James 3:1, which emphasizes the great responsibility carried by those who teach in the context of educational ministry. The research aims to examine the relevance of biblical principles regarding the role and duties of teachers with the implementation of the professional code of ethics for Christian Religious Education teachers in Indonesia. Teachers are not only responsible for delivering academic knowledge but also serve as moral and spiritual role models whose words, attitudes, and actions significantly influence students’ faith development. This study uses a descriptive qualitative method through literature analysis, including the interpretation of James 3:1, ethical guidelines, and theological-pedagogical studies. The findings show that James 3:1 provides a strong warning for teachers to be cautious, responsible, and accountable in their teaching practices, as their judgment before God is greater. In conclusion, the ethics of Christian Religious Education teachers reflect their faith commitment in carrying out their responsibilities with integrity.

This research explores the narrative of Cain and Abel in Genesis 4:1-16 to dissect the concepts of sin and moral responsibility within a modern Christian context. Amidst the rising tide of individualism and "bystander culture," ethical responsibility toward others is often neglected behind religious formalities. Utilizing a qualitative method with a biblical exegesis approach, this study analyzes narrative structures, the personification of sin, and the dynamics of the dialogue between God and Cain. The findings indicate that sin in this text is understood as a relational failure and a failure of self-mastery, where humans possess the moral authority to conquer destructive impulses. Cain's rhetorical question, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”, is identified as a form of moral erosion leading to social and ecological alienation. However, God’s provision of a “mark” for Cain affirms that divine justice is always accompanied by the grace of providence. This research concludes that moral responsibility is a fundamental essence of humanity that demands the integration of ritual piety and social integrity. These findings are expected to serve as an ethical framework for academic and ecclesiastical communities, particularly in restoring the commitment to be “keepers” of one another amidst contemporary moral crises.

Considering the importance of the next generation in the church, children must be empowered to be better. Therefore, this research can be a work that provides education about the influence of technology on Sunday school children at the Imanuel Batubara' Ra'Bung church which can be used as an instrument to help them in developing better thinking patterns. The research method used is a qualitative research method with a descriptive approach to describe the reality of the reality that occurs in the field. The qualitative method is applied through library research and field analysis. The library study is applied by finding supporting theories that are relevant to the research. Furthermore, a descriptive approach is applied through interview techniques and field analysis. Interviews were conducted by the author through field research and social analysis. The theories applied by the author are theories about counseling, theories about the church and theories about social assistance. The results of this study are that Sunday school teachers and child care providers must work together to help Sunday school children know God well and also be able to lead themselves in a better direction.

Mental health is an essential aspect of human life that is deeply connected to one’s spiritual and faith condition. In the Islamic creed (ʿaqīdah) perspective, mental well-being is not merely defined by emotional stability or positive thinking but by one’s ability to maintain faith, surrender to Allah, and face life’s trials with patience and gratitude. Islam teaches that the source of inner peace (ṭuma’ninah) lies in closeness to Allah through remembrance (dhikr), prayer, and belief in divine destiny (qadha and qadar). Hence, a strong foundation of faith is crucial in maintaining a balanced psychological state for Muslims. In addition to patience and gratitude, the concept of ikhtiar (effort) also plays a vital role in overcoming anxiety. A Muslim is taught to make sincere efforts while trusting in Allah’s will, thereby achieving harmony between physical endeavor and spiritual strength. By internalizing the values of patience, gratitude, and effort, individuals can develop strong mental resilience, manage stress wisely, and find meaningful purpose in life’s challenges. This study highlights the significant role of Islamic teachings in fostering holistic mental health rooted in spiritual tranquility.

This study examines the identity and role of the Catholic Church as civitas Dei through an analysis of Augustine of Hippo’s political philosophy and its relevance to the pastoral response of the Konferensi Waligereja Indonesia (KWI) toward Indonesia’s socio-political dynamics in 2025. The research departs from the problem of how the Church should position itself amid political polarization, violent demonstrations, and violations of human dignity that marked the national context. It aims to (1) explain Augustine’s concept of civitas Dei and civitas terrena, (2) formulate the Church’s identity as a moral-spiritual community oriented toward God, and (3) analyze the relevance of this framework for the Church’s prophetic and pastoral engagement in Indonesia. This study employs a qualitative method with a literature review approach, drawing from Augustine’s De Civitate Dei, Church documents, and the official pastoral statement of KWI, complemented by relevant theological and socio-political sources. The findings show that Augustine’s distinction between the two cities is not merely institutional but based on the orientation of love: love of God that generates justice and service, versus self-love that leads to domination and injustice. Within this framework, the Church in Indonesia actualizes civitas Dei through solidarity with victims, ethical criticism of power, and active participation in promoting peace and the common good. KWI’s pastoral statement embodies this prophetic stance by advocating nonviolence, human dignity, and social justice. In conclusion, Augustine’s political theology remains normatively relevant for guiding the Church’s mission as a transformative moral force in contemporary public life.

Paaloka is a religious–cultural practice of the indigenous community of Detunggali Lewumbangga Village that functions as a medium for maintaining relationships with ancestors as well as a means of fostering social solidarity. This study aims to analyze the religious meaning of Paaloka and its relevance from the perspective of Catholic faith and within the local social context. The research employs a descriptive qualitative method, with data collected through observation and in-depth interviews with traditional leaders, church leaders, and community members. Data analysis was conducted through processes of reduction, categorization, and thematic interpretation. The findings indicate that Paaloka embodies religious values such as expressions of gratitude, petitions for blessings, and respect for ancestors, and serves to strengthen communal identity and social cohesion. From a theological perspective, Paaloka can be understood as a space for the inculturation of Catholic faith insofar as it is interpreted as an expression of prayer and lived faith in God without negating the teachings of the Church. This study underscores the importance of dialogue between faith and culture in the development of contextual pastoral practice.

This research explores how the theology of embodiment in 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 can serve as a biblical foundation for integrating the embodied dimension in Christian Religious Education (CRE) pedagogy. The research background is the tendency of CRE in Indonesia to be highly cognitive-centric and neglect the embodied dimension, despite contemporary research showing the importance of sensory experience in constructing religious experience. The research objective is to conceptually explore the theological foundation and pedagogical implications of the theology of embodiment for CRE. The research method is library research with grammatical-historical exegesis analysis of 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 and conceptual synthesis with embodied cognition theory and body pedagogics. The findings show that the body has intrinsic sacred value as the temple of the Holy Spirit and the glorification of God occurs explicitly through the body. Religious knowledge is embodied, rooted in sensory-motor experience. The pedagogical implication is that CRE needs to integrate systematic embodied practices such as somatic inversion, participatory rituals, and cultivation of enactive mastery for experientially transformative learning. This research contributes theoretically by bridging biblical exegesis and embodied cognition theory, and provides practical direction for developing holistic CRE that integrates the body as an authentic and biblical medium for learning faith.

Studies on Eucharistic Adoration have predominantly emphasized its role as a personal devotional practice and individual spirituality, while its implications for Catholic Religious Education as a space for faith formation remain underexplored. This gap indicates the need for a theological-pedagogical reflection that connects Eucharistic Adoration with the process of faith education, particularly in the context of young people. This study aims to examine Eucharistic Adoration as an expression of Sacramentum Caritatis and its relevance as a formative space within Catholic Religious Education. The research employs a qualitative approach through a library research method, analyzing Church documents, theological works, and relevant academic literature on the Eucharist, faith education, and psycho-spiritual well-being. The findings reveal that Eucharistic Adoration is not merely a liturgical or devotional practice but also holds significant pedagogical value. It can be understood as a contemplative space that enables young people to experience a personal relationship with Christ, reflect on their inner experiences, and deepen their awareness of God’s transformative love. Furthermore, this study indicates that Eucharistic Adoration has the potential to support psycho-spiritual well-being by providing moments of silence, self-acceptance, and meaning-making in the light of faith. These findings highlight that integrating Eucharistic Adoration into Catholic Religious Education can enrich faith learning processes and help young people live their faith in a more personal and holistic manner. This study contributes to theological and educational discourse by positioning Eucharistic Adoration as a relevant practice of faith formation within contemporary Catholic education.

The development of multimedia-based interactive games requires a system capable of effectively managing game logic, character behavior, and the integration of visual and animation elements. This study aims to implement GDScript in the development of a 2D RPG game using the Godot Engine. The research method was carried out through the design of scene and node structures, the implementation of game logic using GDScript, and the application of Finite State Machine (FSM) to regulate enemy behavior. GDScript is used to control character movement, animation systems, and interactions between players and objects in the game. The implementation of FSM allows enemies to have dynamic behavior through state settings such as idle and wander. Functional testing results show that the game system can run according to the design and is capable of producing responsive interactions. In addition, the use of modular architecture in the Godot Engine facilitates system development and maintenance. Based on the research results, the Godot Engine and GDScript are considered effective for developing multimedia-based interactive games.

This study analyzes the relationship between Christian faith and artificial intelligence (AI) through a theological-philosophical approach and assesses its relevance to the existence of the Catholic Church in the digital age. The background of this study stems from the rapid development of AI, which brings both opportunities and risks to the life of faith, such as the simplification of theological teachings, the reduction of personal relationships, and the emergence of a technocratic paradigm. The study uses qualitative methods with a literature review of the Holy Scriptures, Church documents, and literature on philosophy and technology ethics. The results of the analysis show that AI is a product of human creativity as the image of God, so it does not conflict with faith, but it remains instrumental and does not have moral or spiritual dimensions like humans. Therefore, AI cannot replace the role of humans in faith relationships. The Church is called to guide technological development through Christian ethical principles, upholding human dignity, being critical of the effects of dehumanization, and utilizing AI wisely for evangelization, catechesis, and faith education. With a reflective and critical approach, the Church can remain relevant amid technological advances without losing its identity and mission for the common good.  

This research analyzes the concept of Īmān (faith) according to Abū al-Mu'īn al-Nasafī (1027-1114 CE) in his work Al-Tamhīd fī Uṣūl al-Dīn. The study stems from the intellectual unrest and Fitnah that affected the Māturīdiyyah school in Mawarannahr, prompting al-Nasafī to become a key defender of the faith. The study utilizes library research with a descriptive-analytical and qualitative approach, analyzing both primary data from al-Nasafī’s work and secondary theological literature. The findings reveal al-Nasafī's views on Īmān: First, faith is a conviction of truth (Yaqīn) established in the heart towards God. Second, verbal affirmation and actions are symbolic and necessary for Islamic law but do not represent the essence of faith, which lies in the heart. Third, he rejects equating faith with deeds ('Amal), asserting that deeds and conviction are distinct, with conviction being stable and permanent, unlike actions. Al-Nasafī critiques earlier views, like those of al-Raqashī and others, who equated faith with mere verbal affirmation, deeming such views as hypocritical (Nifāq). His approach integrates reason ('Aql) and revelation (Waḥy), employing both Qur'anic texts (Bayānī) and rational arguments (Burhānī) to explain faith.

Faith is often understood as a personal and spiritual relationship with God; however, in Catholic theology, faith also possesses an inherent social and political dimension. This study examines the relationship between Christian faith and citizenship through a theological reflection on the political participation of Catholics in Indonesia. The research aims to demonstrate that faith and political engagement are not separate spheres but mutually enriching dimensions of the Christian vocation to promote justice, solidarity, and the common good. Employing a qualitative method with a literature review approach, this study analyzes biblical foundations, the teachings of the Second Vatican Council, and the Church’s social doctrine, alongside contemporary discussions on political participation. The findings indicate that political participation can be understood as a concrete expression of faith and moral responsibility, particularly through civic engagement, political education, advocacy, and social involvement. Nevertheless, many Catholics remain passive due to negative perceptions of politics, corruption, and a lack of political formation. The study also highlights the importance of maintaining the Church’s moral autonomy while encouraging lay participation in practical politics. In the Indonesian context, the principle “100% Catholic, 100% Indonesian” reflects an integrated identity in which religious commitment strengthens civic responsibility. Ultimately, this research affirms that authentic faith necessarily leads to active citizenship, where Catholics contribute prophetically and ethically to the transformation of society and the realization of the common good.

The concept of human nature occupies a fundamental position in the philosophy of Islamic education, as it serves as the foundation for formulating educational goals, curriculum design, teaching methods, and the overall direction of education. Islamic education is not merely oriented toward the transfer of knowledge but is directed toward shaping the whole human being in a balanced manner, encompassing physical, intellectual, and spiritual dimensions. This study aims to examine the concept of human nature from the Islamic perspective and the views of Islamic philosophical figures, as well as to analyze its philosophical and practical implications for the implementation of Islamic education. This research employs a library research method by reviewing primary and secondary sources, including the Qur’an, classical Islamic texts, and relevant scholarly literature on human nature and Islamic education. The findings indicate that Islam views human beings as multidimensional creatures endowed with fitrah, intellect, spirituality, and social responsibility as servants and vicegerents of God on earth. The Qur’anic concepts of humanity, reflected in the terms al-insān, al-basyar, and al-nās, emphasize the complexity and uniqueness of humans as biological, rational, spiritual, and social beings. The perspectives of scholars such as Al-Ghazali, Ibn Arabi, and Hasan Al-Banna further reinforce the view that Islamic education must integrate intellectual, moral, and spiritual development in a balanced manner. The implications of this study highlight the necessity of designing Islamic education in a holistic and humanistic framework to produce insan kamil—individuals who are faithful, knowledgeable, possess noble character, and demonstrate social responsibility in communal life.

This study is motivated by the position of traditional music as a cultural element that not only functions aesthetically but also plays an important role in constructing social meaning, symbolism, and collective identity within a community. This article aims to examine the social meaning and function of Tagonggong music in the Tulude tradition of the Sangihe community in Londoun Village as a diaspora community. The research uses a qualitative method with a cultural ethnographic approach through participatory observation, unstructured interviews with traditional elders, Tagonggong players, and community leaders, as well as documentation. Data analysis was conducted descriptively and interpretatively using Alan P. Merriam's theoretical framework on the function of music. The results of the study show that Tagonggong music has a multidimensional function in the Tulude tradition, including symbolic communication, emotional expression, representation of cultural identity, reinforcement of social norms, and social integration and cohesion within the community.Tagonggong not only functions as an accompaniment to ceremonies, but also as a sacred musical instrument that connects the relationship between humans, ancestors, and God, while also marking the space and time of the ceremony. This finding confirms that Tagonggong is a living cultural archive that preserves the collective memory and ethnic identity of the Sangihe community in exile. Implicitly, this research enriches Indonesian ethnomusicology studies by positioning traditional music as an active social text in maintaining the cultural structure and solidarity of the communities that support it.

Anxiety is one of the most prevalent psychological problems globally, yet approaches integrating spiritual dimensions remain underexplored. This study analyzes the concept of "peace that surpasses all understanding" in Philippians 4:6-7 as a psychological construct for addressing anxiety. Using hermeneutical exegesis method, this research examines the textual meaning and psychological dimensions of this concept within modern psychological theory frameworks. The findings reveal that divine peace differs from conventional psychological approaches through three key aspects: it represents an active positive psychological condition rather than mere absence of anxiety, operates through relational mechanisms with God that transcend rational cognitive processes, and integrates prayer, supplication, and thanksgiving as holistic spiritual-psychological coping strategies. The concept of "guarding heart and mind" demonstrates a dual protective mechanism maintaining both affective and cognitive stability simultaneously. This study contributes to developing more holistic psychological theory integrating spiritual dimensions and more effective counseling practices for anxiety management in Christian contexts.

This study aims to examine the lived experience of the Eucharist as an experience of love in the lives of Catholic families at St. Michael Buluq Sen Station, Good Shepherd Parish of Ritan Baru, Archdiocese of Samarinda, through the lens of Henri Nouwen’s spirituality. It employs a descriptive qualitative approach, with data gathered through observation, semi-structured interviews with eight active Catholic families, and a review of relevant literature. Data were analyzed through systematic stages of reduction, display, and conclusion drawing, supported by source and method triangulation. The findings show that the experience of the Eucharist is expressed in four interrelated dimensions of Nouwen’s spirituality: being chosen, blessed, broken, and shared. “Being chosen” appears in the family’s awareness of belonging to a community loved by God; “being blessed” is reflected in gratitude for life; “being broken” is revealed in the willingness to embrace suffering and sacrifice; and “being shared” is embodied in active participation in Church ministry and social engagement. This study affirms the Eucharist as a transformative source shaping family relationships and social life, enriching theology and supporting formation in rural families.

The Bible teaches much about wisdom. It could even be said to be a book of wisdom. One of the wisdoms it teaches is honesty. The biblical definition of honesty encompasses various aspects of human life, including relationships with oneself, others, and God. Given the breadth of the discussion on honesty, the author limits the discussion to the book of Proverbs, the person and teachings of Jesus, the writings of Paul, and the story of honesty in the life of Joseph. n the Bible, honesty is a highly emphasized moral value. Honesty is not merely about not lying, but also encompasses sincerity of heart, truthfulness in words and deeds, and integrity in all aspects of life. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings about the importance of honesty, both in human relationships and in our relationship with God. Honesty is not only about avoiding lies, but also about doing what is right and according to God's will.

Contemporary churches face various crises ranging from declining congregation numbers, internal conflicts, to loss of societal relevance. Many church leaders struggle to mobilize congregations to actively participate in church restoration and growth. This research aims to identify Nehemiah's leadership principles in Nehemiah 2:17-18 relevant for mobilizing congregations facing crises and to formulate a Nehemiah-based leadership model applicable for church leaders. Using qualitative library research methods with exegetical approach and content analysis, this study found six main principles: dependence on God, clear vision, shared problem identification, inspirational communication, congregation empowerment, and perseverance in facing challenges. The formulated leadership model is holistic-integrative, encompassing spiritual, intellectual, social, and managerial dimensions with a fluid leadership approach adaptive to dynamic contexts. This model can help church leaders transform congregations from apathetic to motivated and actively participating in church restoration.