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In the face of Indonesia’s escalating family crises amid rapid digital disruption and post-pandemic social recovery, this study proposes a novel “Dual-Ethos Synergy Model” that integrates the Fruits of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) with the second principle of Pancasila, namely “Just and Civilized Humanity.” The study is grounded in qualitative fieldwork conducted at Gereja Bethel Indonesia Pemulihan Keluarga Allah (GBI PKA). The findings demonstrate that the integration of Christian spiritual values and civic ethics fosters restorative character formation within families and church communities. This synergy produces practical outcomes, including stronger empathy in community service, improved interpersonal relationships, and more constructive conflict resolution practices. Using data gathered through nine in-depth interviews, participant observations, and document analysis, the study addresses existing gaps in urban church discipleship by combining spiritual transformation with social responsibility and civic engagement. The proposed model also offers implications for scalable digital-hybrid ministry programs focused on family restoration and contributes to the development of contextual theological praxis within pluralistic and multicultural societies. Limitations of the study and recommendations for future research are also discussed.

This study aims to analyze exegetically and socio-historically the text of Deuteronomy 21:10–14 concerning the treatment of female war captives in ancient Israel. This passage has often been debated as it is perceived to reflect a patriarchal system, thus requiring a comprehensive interpretation to understand its original intent. This research employs a qualitative approach based on library research, utilizing textual exegesis, historical-critical, and literary analysis of the Hebrew text, as well as an examination of the Ancient Near Eastern context. The findings reveal that the legal structure of the text is progressive and regulatory in nature, not legitimizing exploitation but rather restricting male behavior through specific procedures, including a mourning period and a process of social transition for the captive woman. The analysis of Hebrew terminology highlights symbolic meanings related to status transformation, purification, and recognition of the woman's humanity. In its socio-historical context, this law differs significantly from common practices in the Ancient Near East, which often exploited war captives, by imposing limitations on economic and social exploitation and providing a degree of protection. Theologically, the text reflects the function of the Mosaic law as a regulatory framework that introduces justice and humanity within a complex social reality. Therefore, Deuteronomy 21:10–14 is best understood as an ethical effort to limit inhumane practices rather than to endorse them.

This study is intended to reveal the content of the Pancasila Rahmatan Lil Alamin Student Profile in the Akidah Akhlak textbook for Islamic Junior High Schools based on the Merdeka Curriculum. Through a literature study approach, this research reveals the textbook combines theological, philosophical, and social practice aspects to internalize values ​​such as faith, critical thinking, and harmony in society. The results show that the Akidah Akhlak textbook successfully links spiritual intelligence with skills needed in the 21st century, thus producing students who are intelligent, spiritually strong, and responsible in society. This integration serves as a strong foundation for producing Indonesian students who reflect national identity and universal values ​​in Islam.

 The ecological crisis calls for faith formation that can foster contextual ecological awareness among the faithful. One relevant approach is through catechesis that integrates local wisdom, such as the Batang Garing symbol in Dayak culture. This study aims to explore the ecological values embedded in the Batang Garing symbol and to reflect on them in the light of Church teachings in order to formulate a contextual ecological catechesis model. The method used is qualitative research with a literature study approach, employing descriptive-analytical and comparative analysis of theological and cultural sources. The findings show that Batang Garing contains values of relationality, cosmic balance, and moral responsibility that are aligned with the concept of integral ecology in Church teachings. The integration of these values into catechesis enables a more contextual, communicative, and transformative faith formation. The implication of this study highlights the importance of developing catechetical models based on local culture as an effective means to foster ecological awareness among the faithful and to encourage concrete actions in caring for creation as an expression of faith.

This study examines the eco-eschatological dimensions embedded in the myths and traditions of pante among the Manggarai people of East Nusa Tenggara, Indonesia. The pante tradition is not merely understood as an economic activity involving the tapping and processing of palm sap, but also as a cultural practice that embodies ecological, spiritual, social, and ethical values. Through this tradition, the Manggarai people maintain a harmonious relationship with nature and recognize their responsibility toward the environment as part of a sacred cosmic order. This study employs a qualitative approach based on literature review and hermeneutical-theological analysis to explore the symbolic meanings and theological implications of the pante myth. The findings reveal that the pante myth reflects the Manggarai people’s cosmological worldview, in which nature is regarded as a living and sacred reality that must be respected and protected. Furthermore, the tradition promotes an ethic of sustainability that discourages excessive exploitation of natural resources and encourages balance between human needs and environmental preservation. From an eco-eschatological perspective, the pante tradition represents a vision of hope for the restoration of relationships among humans, nature, and God, anticipating the fulfillment of the “new heaven and new earth.” Therefore, this study affirms that Manggarai local wisdom provides a valuable contribution to the development of contextual, ecological, and sustainable theology in contemporary society.

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..

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.

The expression “God regretted” in Genesis 6:7 is one of the most theologically problematic statements in the Old Testament, as it seems to contradict the classical doctrine of God’s immutability. This study aims to examine the meaning of this expression through an exegetical approach, emphasizing the analysis of the Hebrew text and the lexical use of the word nāḥam. The method employed is qualitative-descriptive with a historical-grammatical and biblical-theological approach. The primary data are derived from the Hebrew text in the Biblia Hebraica Stuttgartensia and supported by lexical sources. The results indicate that the word nāḥam in Genesis 6:7 does not imply regret in the sense of wrongdoing, but rather refers to divine sorrow over the moral corruption of humanity. The expression represents a form of anthropomorphism used to depict the relationship between God and humans in language comprehensible to human beings. From an Old Testament theological perspective, this text affirms that God is relational and active in history, without compromising the consistency of His character. Therefore, the “regret of God” does not contradict the doctrine of divine immutability, but rather enriches the understanding of His involvement in human life.

The Holy Communion is one of the sacraments performed in the Toraja Church as a direct command from God for all who believe in Jesus Christ. Therefore, everyone, both adults and children, is required to participate as part of the Kingdom of God's family. This study aims to analyze parents' understanding of the practice of Holy Communion involving children in the Gasing Congregation of the Toraja Church. The research employs a qualitative approach with a descriptive method to explain parents' understanding of the meaning and practice of Holy Communion involving children. Data collection was conducted through in-depth interviews, field observation, and relevant literature review related to the research topic. The findings indicate that many parents still lack a proper understanding of the theological significance of Holy Communion, particularly when it involves children. Most parents simply follow the synod's decision without deeply understanding its theological foundation. Moreover, the church does not provide direct pastoral guidance to parents but merely reads out the meaning of Holy Communion during Sunday worship services, resulting in very limited comprehension among the congregation. Therefore, more intensive socialization and guidance from the church council to all congregation members, especially parents, is highly needed. This research is expected to contribute to the development of knowledge at IAKN Toraja and provide insights for readers, particularly congregants of the Toraja Church in general.

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.

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.

This article examines pneumatological methods and spiritual practices across three Pentecostal seasons: Classical Pentecostalism, Charismatic, and Neo-Charismatic. It highlights the importance of these three movements within the framework of the development of the Pentecostal-Charismatic Church in Indonesia. This research begins with the observation that scholars continue to use the terms Pentecostal, Charismatic, and Neo-Charismatic overlappingly, despite their unique theological and practical emphases. This article presents a critical-comparative literature review on baptism in the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and spiritual gifts, forms of spirituality, interdenominational relations, theological risks, and ecclesiological implications. The research finds that Classical Pentecostalism emphasizes baptism in the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues as the primary evidence, Charismatics extend Spirit-led activities toward cross-denominational renewal, while Neo-Charismatics place additional emphasis on power, miracles, healing, spiritual warfare, and success in life. The contribution proposed in this article is a theological typology that can be used for critical reading of Pentecostal-Charismatic practices in Indonesia while still appreciating the richness of the experience of the Spirit. This typology can help churches consider experience, Scripture, Christian character, and ecclesiastical institutional accountability in a more balanced way.

The accelerating global ecological crisis, manifested in deforestation, biodiversity collapse, and extreme climate change, fundamentally reflects a deep-rooted moral and spiritual deterioration within modern humanity. Islamic Religious Education (PAI) holds a unique strategic position to address this crisis by systematically integrating naturalistic intelligence, the eighth dimension of Howard Gardner's Multiple Intelligences theory, into the character formation process of students. This qualitative library research employs content analysis and conceptual analysis techniques applied to relevant primary and secondary academic sources published between 2019 and 2026. The study pursues three objectives: (1) to examine the conceptual and theological foundations of naturalistic intelligence within the Islamic educational framework; (2) to identify the reciprocal relationship patterns between naturalistic intelligence and the formation of religious-ecological character in students; and (3) to formulate integrative Islamic education management strategies for optimizing naturalistic intelligence. Findings reveal that naturalistic intelligence possesses robust theological grounding in Islamic tradition, anchored in the concepts of tafakkur, ayat kauniyah, khalifatullah fil ardh, and scientia sacra, none of which are peripheral but rather central to the Islamic worldview. The relationship between naturalistic intelligence and religious-ecological character is bidirectional and mutually reinforcing, operating through three sequential pathways: from naturalistic intelligence to theological consciousness, from theological consciousness to intrinsic ecological motivation, and from intrinsic motivation to consistent religious-ecological behavior. Islamic education management can optimize naturalistic intelligence development through four strategic pillars: reconstruction of the PAI curriculum based on ayat kauniyah, development of innovative eco-theological pedagogy, construction of an eco-conscious school culture, and strengthening of school-family-community partnerships. This study advances the concept of "Spiritual Eco-Literacy" as an original paradigmatic contribution to 21st-century Islamic education.

This study examines the eschatological. Dimensions present in the encyclical Laudato Si’ and their implications for ecological responsibility within the Christian faith. The increasing global ecological crisis necessitates a serious theological reflection capable of grounding believers’ engagement with environmental issues in their faith convictions. Eschatology, as the doctrinal framework concerning ultimate realities, addresses not merely the end of individual human existence but, more profoundly, the hope for the renewal and transformation of all creation in God. The research employs a qualitative method with a library research approach, drawing primarily on ecclesiastical documents, Sacred Scripture, and relevant theological literature. The findings demonstrate that Laudato Si’ integrates a robust eschatological vision, wherein the promise of “a new heaven and a new earth” constitutes the theological foundation for human responsibility toward creation. Contrary to interpretations that treat eschatological hope as a rationale for passivity or disengagement from the world, Laudato Si’ affirms that such hope actively motivates believers to participate in the care and preservation of the environment as an integral expression of their faith calling. This study concludes that eschatology possesses genuine practical relevance for everyday Christian life, particularly in cultivating ecological awareness. Faith in the ultimate fulfillment of God’s salvific plan, far from diminishing present-day responsibilities, intensifies the moral obligation to treat the earth as a “common home” entrusted to humanity.

The doctrine of Christology as the foundation of the Christian faith has become an important theological issue that must be understood, believed, and examined as a form of accountability of faith. Since the early church, the understanding of Jesus Christ and His work has been affirmed through various church councils that defined His divinity and humanity according to biblical testimony. However, throughout church history, various theological, historical, and modern criticisms concerning Jesus have continued to emerge. Questions regarding His existence, divinity, life, and teachings are still widely debated, including on social media today. This study aims to analyze the doctrine of Christology in the development of church history, identify forms of criticism toward Jesus that challenge the church, and examine them as opportunities for evangelism. The study employs a literature review method using theological and historical analytical approaches to relevant sources, which are systematically described. The findings show that criticism of Jesus is not only a challenge but also an opportunity for the church to develop contextual and dialogical evangelistic approaches. A sound understanding of Christology and contemporary criticisms can help the church formulate evangelistic strategies that are relevant, effective, and communicative.

This community service activity aims to instill religious values in the students at TPQ Miftakhul Huda by establishing the habit of praying before and after wudu, as an effort to transform worship practices from mere physical routines into profound spiritual experiences. Using the Asset-Based Community Development (ABCD) approach, this program is carried out through five main stages: discovery, dream, design, define, and do. The results of the activity indicate that through intensive demonstration and practical guidance, the students experienced significant improvement in discipline, awareness of maintaining purity, and moral responsibility as manifestations of Muslim character from an early age. Integrating prayer into the wudu practice has proven effective as an educational tool in building the foundation of faith from an early age, or the “golden age.” The synergy between the student team, educators, and the utilization of institutional facilities proved effective in establishing operational standards for character education that comprehensively integrate physical, mental, and theological aspects. Thus, the practice of wudu prayer serves as a strategic educational tool in strengthening children’s foundational faith during the golden age amidst the challenges of shifting global values.

The era of digital disruption has brought significant moral and spiritual challenges for young people in their use of social media. This study aims to analyze the implementation of Christian ethics education in social media use among youth at the GWI Wesleyan Methodist Congregation of Tanjung Selamat as an effort to develop digital character grounded in Christian values. The study employed a community service approach using participatory methods through pre-tests, post-tests, Focus Group Discussions (FGD), reflective discussions, and digital literacy practices. The theological foundation of this study is based on Wesleyan social ethics, which emphasizes the integration of personal holiness and social holiness in digital life. The educational program also integrated the four pillars of digital literacy, digital skills, digital culture, digital ethics, and digital safety, into a contextual Christian Religious Education framework. The findings indicate a significant improvement in digital literacy understanding, ethical awareness, critical thinking toward digital information, and behavioral transformation in the responsible and value-based use of social media according to Christian principles. This transformation was reflected in increased awareness of digital footprints, stronger personal account security, the removal of negative content, and participants’ initiatives to create spiritual and educational content on social media. The study concludes that Christian ethics education based on digital literacy can serve as an effective means of moral and social transformation for young people while highlighting the strategic role of the church in shaping a humane, peaceful, and Kingdom of God-oriented digital character in the digital era.

Social conflict between neighbors is a phenomenon that often appears in pluralistic society and has the potential to disrupt social harmony if not managed constructively. The conflict is generally triggered by the lack of interfaith communication, social prejudice, socio-economic inequality, as well as external party provocations that utilize rift with social relations. This study aims to analyze the dynamics of conflict between neighbors are different religions and review the relevance of Q.S. Al-Hujurat paragraph 13 as theological runway in a resolution of conflict and a strengthening of plurality values. This study used qualitative methods with the approach of literature study (library research), through an analysis of the interpretation of the Qur'an, pluralism, and scientific literature relevant to the theme and resolution of conflict. The results show that Q.S. Al-Hujurat paragraph 13 emphasizes the principle of human equality, respect for diversity, and the concept of 'arafu (know each other) as the foundation of harmonious social interaction. Qur'ani values such as justice, tolerance, dialogue, patience, forgiveness, and help, are proven to be relevant as a conflict-based conflict resolution strategy (sulh). Implementation of this value through interfaith dialogue, multicultural education, and inclusive social policies are able to reduce prejudice and strengthen social solidarity. Thus, the integration of Q.S value. Al-Hujurat paragraph 13 in social life is a normative and practical approach to building a sustainable peace in the midst of a pluralistic society.

Marriage in Islamic law constitutes a sacred covenant (mīthāqan ghalīẓan) that carries theological, social, and juridical dimensions. Within this framework, the guardian (walī nikāḥ) plays a pivotal role whose legal status has long been contested across Islamic jurisprudential schools. This study examines the authority of the marriage guardian from three analytical layers: its doctrinal construction across the four major madhabs, its codification in Indonesian positive law, and its practical implementation in religious court jurisprudence. Employing a normative legal research method, this study draws on conceptual, statutory, and case approaches, with primary legal materials comprising Qur’anic verses, prophetic traditions, Law No. 1 of 1974, the Compilation of Islamic Law (KHI), and Ministerial Regulation (PMA) No. 30 of 2024. The findings reveal fundamental differences among the madhabs: the Shāfi‘ī, Mālikī, and Ḥanbalī schools treat the guardian as an essential pillar (rukun) of the marriage contract, whereas the Ḥanafī school views guardianship as a complementary element based on the concept of legal capacity (ahliyyah). Indonesian positive law, through Article 19 of the KHI, adopts the Shāfi‘ī position by designating the guardian as an obligatory rukun. The study further finds that the mechanisms of walī ‘aḍal (recalcitrant guardian) and wakalah al-walī (delegation of guardianship) serve as legal instruments that reconcile formal-procedural requirements with practical social needs, thereby affirming that guardianship norms function both as a religious requirement and as a state-administered mechanism for protecting women’s rights in marriage.

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.