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This study discusses child adoption in the context of Christian theology, focusing on the opinions of the congregation of HKBP Kana Resort Kana Duri. Child adoption is an effort to provide affection and protection to children who do not have biological parents or who have been abandoned, in accordance with the values of love and acceptance taught in the Bible. In the Christian view, adoption is not only seen as a social solution, but also has a deep theological dimension, reflecting the relationship between God and His people as Father and His children. This study uses a qualitative descriptive approach to explore the congregation's views on child adoption and the challenges they face in implementing this practice. Data were collected through interviews, observations, and literature studies, which were then analyzed to understand the theological meaning of child adoption and the congregation's opinions on adoption. From the results of the study, it can be concluded that the problems that exist are in the personal and social readiness of the congregation, lack of education, and the absence of special assistance from the church as an institution of faith that should be a protector and director in making ethical and moral decisions for its congregation.

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.

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.

This study examines the implications of Deuteronomy 32:44-47 on the formation of theological students' character, emphasizing obedience to God's commandments. The research highlights the significance of adhering to divine instructions, exploring the consequences of disobedience, and discussing strategies for cultivating obedience. The findings underscore the importance of integrating biblical principles into daily life, fostering spiritual growth, and developing a strong moral foundation among theology students.

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 journal was written with the aim of discussing Paul's theology of God's salvation, monergism and synergism. Reviewing Paul's theology of God's true salvation will lead people to a fundamental understanding and strengthen one's hold on being a Christian. There is an understanding that salvation is a human effort and God's work (Synerism). Basically, salvation is the work of God in freeing man from sin. For by the grace of God salvation is wrought, that is, by the sacrifice and redemption of His Only Begotten Son, Jesus Christ. So through this writing, man must hold fast that salvation is a gift from God, not a human effort. This writing method uses a qualitative method through library search, through text sources, such as academic journals, books, papers, and other related literature available in the library.

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.

Aborsi merupakan salah satu isu etis paling kompleks yang terus menjadi perdebatan dalam diskursus publik dan keagamaan, termasuk dalam konteks Indonesia. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis dan membandingkan bagaimana prinsip-prinsip deontologi dan teleologi dalam etika Kristen membentuk pandangan terhadap praktik aborsi. Penelitian ini menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif jenis studi pustaka normatif-deskriptif dengan analisis etika komparatif melalui kajian literatur teologi dan dokumen gereja. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pandangan deontologis menekankan nilai intrinsik kehidupan sejak konsepsi berdasarkan perintah ilahi yang mutlak, sementara teleologi mempertimbangkan konsekuensi aborsi bagi individu maupun masyarakat guna mencapai kebaikan terbesar atau mengurangi penderitaan. Kedua pendekatan ini saling melengkapi, meski sering menciptakan ketegangan dalam menentukan sikap. Penelitian ini berkontribusi dalam memperkaya diskursus etika Kristen di Indonesia serta menawarkan kerangka analitis bagi pelayanan pastoral dan pendidikan teologi.

This research discusses Process Theology as a theological perspective that understands God and the world as aspects of a process that continues to change and develop. In the midst of a diverse and diverse modern society, Process Theology provides an inclusive framework to facilitate positive interfaith dialogue. Through a literature review, this research explains the main principles of Process Theology and how their application can support the creation of harmony and tolerance between various religious groups. This approach emphasizes the importance of respecting diversity and universal values ​​that exist in various religious traditions. The findings of this research indicate that Process Theology can be an effective foundation for reducing divisions due to religion and strengthening solidarity in society. This study contributes to the development of theological thinking that is relevant to the challenges of plurality and diversity in the modern era.

This article explores the relationship between the theology of Christian Religious Education (CRE) and the Church in contributing to relevant, contextual, and transformative theological education. The Church, as a community of faith and spiritual institution, plays a strategic role in shaping theological understanding through teaching, discipleship, and ministry. Meanwhile, CRE within the formal education system is tasked with delivering Christian values through pedagogical and academic approaches. In an era shaped by secularism, pluralism, and technological advancement, both challenges and opportunities arise for CRE and the Church to collaborate meaningfully. Through literature review and theological analysis, this article identifies key challenges such as the gap between theory and practice, limited human resources, and the influence of popular culture that often contradicts Christian values. On the other hand, significant opportunities exist, including the use of digital technology, the strengthening of faith-based character education, and the implementation of contextual approaches to theological teaching. The article affirms the importance of a strategic partnership between the Church and CRE in developing theological education that not only informs the mind but also transforms lives through strong Christian character in everyday contexts.

This article aims to discuss the life of faith of the Israelites as God's chosen people, whether they were loyal to God or to Baal, especially on the journey to the promised land. The Israelites undertook a long and challenging journey. They were ordered by the prophet Moses to be free from Egypt and after Moses' death he was replaced by Joshua, the Israelis lived their lives in the desert for about 40 years, finally reaching the promised land promised by God. For 40 years in the desert, they got food in the form of manna and quail. They also experienced various tests and trials including rebellion and disbelief in God's guiding hand. The Israelites were known as an impatient nation. For example, when Moses was on Mount Sinai when God gave His law to Moses and Moses took too long to come down from the mountain. The Israelites there could not wait patiently because they were afraid of death and starvation because there was no one to lead. They talked to Harun to make a golden calf statue, which was considered to have power and was believed to be a substitute for God to continue their journey. They made a statue of a golden calf because Moses had not come down from Mount Sinai and was thought to be dead. The impatient attitude of the Israelites finally took a shortcut by making a golden calf that was considered to be able to replace God's position. Of course this made God angry because it had violated the 2nd commandment, namely "do not make for yourself any idol".

This article explores the relevance of the contemporary church through the lens of systematic theology by examining the concepts of visibility (the church’s tangible presence) and invisibility (its spiritual and unseen essence). The topic is crucial as many churches today face a tension between their social engagement and their spiritual identity. The central issue addressed in this research is how the church can maintain its theological integrity while remaining visibly active and impactful in an ever-changing society. This study employs a qualitative method using a literature review approach, analyzing theological texts, academic articles, and biblical references to investigate ecclesiological perspectives on integrating visibility and invisibility. The data is analyzed descriptively and reflectively to identify theological patterns and practical implications for the life of the church today. The findings reveal that a relevant church is one that successfully integrates both visible and invisible dimensions. Visibility is essential for contextual engagement with the world, while invisibility sustains spiritual depth and fidelity to Christ. This integration results in a church that is actively present in society, while also rooted in holiness, love, and prophetic mission. The study recommends that churches engage in theological reflection to reassess their identity and ministry to remain relevant without losing their spiritual direction.

This study raises the theme of Theology of Faith Based on Proverbs 3:1–8 in an effort to strengthen the spiritual life of the members of the Indonesian Protestant Christian Church (GKPI) Pandumaan Special Congregation amidst the challenges of the modern era. Proverbs 3:1–8 teaches important theological principles about living a strong faith, living in wisdom, faithfulness, and fearing God. Through qualitative and quantitative approaches, this study found that many church members experience wavering faith due to the influence of secular culture, technological advances, and social pressures. This study interprets Proverbs 3:1–8 as a call to trust God with all our hearts, not to lean on our own understanding, and to live in real loyalty and goodness. Wisdom in this context is understood not only as rational intelligence, but also as the result of total submission to God's will. This study emphasizes that strong faith is the foundation for a healthy and strong spiritual life amidst today's pluralism and spiritual crisis. Thus, faith rooted in the word and wisdom of God becomes a theological solution for church members to remain firm as the light and salt of the world.

The mission of God, or Mission Dei, begins with God Himself. God is not only the source of salvation, but also the center of the mission; therefore, without God there is no mission. So, God is the source, initiator, executor, and fulfiller of His purpose. The purpose comes from the heart of God and never changes. The cultural mandate, or cultural mandate, is the first mandate given to humans. God made humans to rule over all living things, including livestock, sea animals, birds of the air, and fish in the sea and the Great Commission written in Matthew 28:19-20 tells of Jesus' mission asking everyone to go, make disciples, baptize, and teach. This study was conducted using a qualitative approach through literature study. This study concluded that by studying holistic mission theology based on Genesis 1:28 and Matthew 28:19-20, we can understand that mission is not only preaching the Word but also having the responsibility to prosper humans both physically and spiritually and can manage natural resources where they are.

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

Konsep nafs dalam Al-Qur’an memiliki peran signifikan dalam memahami struktur kejiwaan dan spiritualitas manusia. Dalam psikologi Islam, nafs sering dikaitkan dengan dinamika batiniah yang memengaruhi perilaku dan pembentukan karakter seseorang. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji makna nafs dalam Al-Qur’an melalui pendekatan semantik dan mengaitkannya dengan dimensi psikologis serta spiritual dalam proses pembentukan karakter. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan penelitian kepustakaan (library research). Analisis semantik dilakukan terhadap ayat-ayat yang mengandung kata nafs, kemudian diklasifikasikan berdasarkan konteks linguistik dan teologisnya. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa makna nafs dalam Al-Qur’an dapat dikategorikan ke dalam beberapa dimensi, seperti nafs ammarah (jiwa yang memerintah pada kejahatan), nafs lawwamah (jiwa yang mencela), dan nafs mutma’innah (jiwa yang tenang). Ketiga dimensi ini mencerminkan perjalanan spiritual dan psikologis manusia menuju penyempurnaan diri. Penelitian ini memberikan kontribusi dalam pengembangan tafsir tematik Al-Qur’an, serta memperkaya khazanah psikologi Islam dalam kerangka pembentukan karakter yang holistik dan transendental.

The Aswaja School is a cadre development forum organized by PMII Rayon Tarbiyah Walisongo with the main objective of internalizing the fundamental values of the organization, including its historical narratives, core principles, and Islamic teachings rooted in the Ahlussunnah wal Jama’ah tradition. This article aims to critically examine how these values are internalized during the cadre formation process, particularly through the delivery of PMII's history, organizational principles, Aswaja values, and Mabadi Khaira Ummah. This study adopts a participatory qualitative approach in which the author was directly involved as both a participant and a researcher. The findings indicate that methods such as lectures, open discussions, and ideological reflections serve as essential tools in shaping the character of PMII cadres. The Aswaja School is not merely a platform for knowledge transfer but also a reflective and ideological space where cadres develop awareness of their identity and organizational responsibilities. The article recommends enhancing participatory approaches and contextual relevance in future cadre training programs of PMII.