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This study examines how parents can serve as role models in fostering the spiritual growth of their adolescents. Parents play a fundamental role in shaping their children's character and faith by providing positive examples that adolescents can imitate in their daily lives. Spiritual growth during adolescence is particularly important because it serves as a strong foundation for their future faith, values, and moral development. The purpose of this study is to explore how parental role modeling influences adolescents' spiritual growth. This research employed a qualitative methodology using a library research approach. Relevant books, journal articles, theological literature, and other scholarly references were analyzed to examine theories and concepts related to parental roles and adolescent spiritual formation. The findings indicate that effective parental role modeling is demonstrated through words, behavior, love, faithfulness, integrity, and purity, which encourage adolescents to develop a deeper relationship with God and practice Christian values consistently. The study concludes that parents should actively model faith in everyday life as an essential part of educating their adolescents. By becoming living examples of Christian values, parents can significantly contribute to nurturing adolescents' spiritual maturity and strengthening their commitment to a lifelong life of faith.

The paradigmatic transformation of Christian Religious Education (CRE) in the digital era has become a crucial issue to be examined because the development of information technology, virtual culture, and globalization has brought significant changes to adolescents’ mindsets, behaviors, and character formation. These conditions have created various moral and spiritual challenges, such as identity crises, declining ethical sensitivity, and the increasing influence of individualistic and hedonistic values among young people. This study aims to analyze the paradigm transformation of Christian Religious Education in shaping adolescent character through a theological-pedagogical perspective that is relevant to the context of the digital era. The research employs a qualitative method using a library research approach and descriptive analysis of various scientific, theological, and pedagogical sources related to Christian education, teacher spirituality, and adolescent character development in the digital age. The findings indicate that the transformation of the CRE paradigm should be directed toward contextual, participatory, and transformative learning by positioning teachers as spiritual role models and facilitators of character formation. Furthermore, the integration of Christian values, the ethical use of technology, and collaboration among schools, families, and churches are important factors in shaping adolescents who possess strong character, integrity, and spiritual maturity amid increasingly complex digital challenges.

This study examines the integration of biblical authority into curriculum design and pedagogical practices as a foundation for developing a transformational Christian education model in a global, digital context. The main issue raised is the dichotomy between normative theological approaches and contemporary pedagogical practices that are often secular, leading to a weak integration of faith and learning in Christian education. The purpose of this study is to formulate an integrative model that harmonizes biblical authority with modern pedagogical approaches in a contextual, relevant, and applicable manner. The research method uses a qualitative approach through systematic literature study and conceptual analysis of various recent journals and books in the fields of Christian education, curriculum, and transformational pedagogy. The results show that the integration of biblical authority can be constructed through three main dimensions: epistemological (the Bible as a source of truth), curricular (the integration of biblical narratives into the curriculum structure), and pedagogical (learning practices oriented towards character transformation and spirituality). The research synthesis produces the "Biblical Transformative Curriculum-Pedagogy Integration (BTCPI)" model that emphasizes the relationship between theological truth, character formation, and the practice of faith. In conclusion, the holistic integration of biblical authority and modern pedagogy contributes significantly to developing students who are not only academically competent but also possess contextual spiritual and moral maturity.          

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 diversity of students’ study motivations in theological higher education presents both challenges and opportunities in shaping the spirituality of prospective Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers. Not all students enter the CRE program based on a calling to ministry, resulting in varying levels of initial spiritual readiness. This study aims to analyze the process of spiritual formation among CRE students as prospective teachers at STT Katharos Indonesia Bekasi in the context of diverse study motivations, referring to James W. Fowler’s theory of faith development. This research employs a qualitative descriptive approach using observation, in-depth interviews, and documentation involving CRE students. The findings reveal that despite diverse initial motivations, the integrated theological education process through academic learning, ministry practices, community life, and spiritual formation effectively fosters faith growth and personal encounters with Christ. This process contributes to the development of students’ spiritual maturity. The study concludes that CRE education functions as an effective means of faith transformation in preparing prospective teachers with strong spiritual integrity and readiness for ministry.

This study examines Philippians 1:9-10 as a theological foundation for integrating emotional and spiritual intelligence in Christian Religious Education (CRE). The background reveals that CRE in Indonesia primarily focuses on cognitive knowledge transfer, often overlooking the development of emotional and spiritual intelligence. This study aims to explore how Philippians 1:9-10 can provide a biblical framework for combining these two dimensions of intelligence in CRE. The research method used is biblical exegesis with a qualitative approach, supported by a literature review. The findings suggest that Philippians 1:9-10 highlights three integrated dimensions: love (emotional-affective), knowledge (cognitive), and discernment (spiritual-reflective). These dimensions, when integrated, offer a holistic model for CRE that nurtures students comprehensively. The study’s implications call for a reformed CRE curriculum that systematically incorporates emotional and spiritual intelligence, with teaching practices that model Christ’s humility, love, and obedience. This holistic approach can enhance the formation of Christian character, promoting not only intellectual growth but also emotional maturity and spiritual depth in students.

The formation of spiritual maturity within Christian families is often misunderstood as a result of chronological age or the length of one’s Christian experience. This literature study emphasizes that spiritual maturity is not determined by age, but by a continuous process of faith formation through biblical knowledge, spiritual practices, lifestyle modeling, and character transformation. Using library research methods, this study analyzes primary and secondary literature related to the role of families, stages of faith development, and the collaborative role of the church in spiritual formation. The findings reveal that the family serves as the central foundation of faith formation, requiring the active involvement of parents in Bible reading, prayer, ethical guidance, and moral example. Furthermore, spiritual maturity is influenced by developmental stages that do not necessarily correspond to biological age. The church functions as a collaborative partner that supports family spiritual growth through teaching, ministry involvement, and pastoral guidance. This study concludes that spiritual maturity is reflected in character and actions rather than ritual participation alone, and it recommends strengthening family-based faith education and cooperation with the church as a foundation for authentic spiritual growth.

Youth and youth ministry plays a strategic role in shaping the faith, character, and spiritual maturity of the younger generation. This study aims to analyze the spiritual needs, struggles, and relevant Christian Religious Education (PAK) strategies for youth at GBI Pondok Daud. Using a descriptive qualitative approach, data were obtained through direct observation, interviews with instructors, facility observations, and documentation during worship services. The results indicate that youth are highly enthusiastic about attending worship services and are actively involved in various ministry sectors, such as music, multimedia, and ushering. However, they face several struggles, including academic pressure, the influence of social media, and instability in personal spiritual discipline. Primary spiritual needs include Christian character development, a deeper understanding of God's Word, a supportive community, and consistent spiritual guidance. The implemented PAK strategies, such as creative worship, small group discussions, mentoring, and the use of digital media, have proven effective in addressing the needs of youth. This study concludes that GBI Pondok Daud's youth ministry has been successful, but still needs to strengthen discipleship, improve spiritual discipline, and develop experiential learning activities.

This article examines the spiritual needs of Christian youth and identifies effective ministry strategies for supporting their faith formation. The study explores how child ministry foundations contribute to developing spiritual maturity during adolescence, a phase marked by rapid emotional and social changes. Using a descriptive approach, the discussion highlights core spiritual needs such as identity in Christ, meaningful discipleship, and supportive mentoring environments. The findings suggest that intentional ministry strategies such as relational mentoring, contextualized teaching, and participatory faith practices play a significant role in strengthening the faith and character of young believers. The article concludes that churches and educators must design holistic, youth-centered ministry programs that respond to contemporary challenges while nurturing long-term spiritual growth.

Implementation of the Youth and Youth Service Section (SPRP) Worship Program at the GKE Barimba Congregation in the context of developing the character of Christian teenagers and young people. Using descriptive qualitative methods, data was collected through in-depth interviews with youth and youth leaders who play an active role in development activities at the church. The results of the study revealed various challenges faced by teenagers and young people, such as peer pressure that affects worship motivation, a less engaging atmosphere of togetherness in worship, and differences in age and maturity levels between teenagers and young people that cause emotional distance. Their spiritual needs include relational aspects, a contextual understanding of faith, real spiritual experiences, and the formation of strong moral character to face the challenges of the modern era. Effective development strategies involve the active role of families in spiritual development at home, Christian educators as guides and motivators, the use of interactive learning methods such as Bible-based games and digital media that are relevant to the character of the younger generation, and the implementation of dynamic and creative worship services to increase engagement. The implementation of this program aims to form a strong Christian character and prepare teenagers and young people to become faithful, responsible individuals who are able to serve actively in the church and society. Close synergy between family, church, and education is a key factor in the success of spiritual development of the younger generation amidst rapid social and technological change.

The implementation of Christian Religious Education (PAK) plays an important role in strengthening the spiritual growth of the congregation through Sunday worship as a means of continuous faith formation. This research and community service (PKM) activity was conducted at the GKSI Kampung Rama Church with the aim of understanding how PAK is implemented in Sunday worship and its impact on the spiritual life of the congregation. The method used was a qualitative-descriptive approach that included observation, field questionnaires, and literature study. The results of the study show that the church implements PAK through various elements of worship such as sermons, Bible readings, liturgy, praise, and special programs such as catechism, Sunday school, and cell groups. All of these elements complement each other to guide the congregation towards maturity in faith and a comprehensive understanding of God's word. However, there are several challenges in implementing PAK, such as limited teaching staff, lack of facilities, the influence of culture and globalization, and lack of support from families and congregations in spiritual guidance. To overcome these challenges, the Church has made several improvements, such as improving the quality of teaching the Word, developing participatory worship, utilizing technology to train ministers, and forming communities for spiritual guidance after worship. Through these efforts, the spiritual growth of the congregation has shown positive and more focused changes. Thus, the implementation of PAK through Sunday worship has proven to be effective in helping the congregation grow spiritually and strengthen their faith in their daily lives.

Divorce has become an increasingly prevalent moral and social phenomenon within modern society, including among Christian communities, with profound implications for family structures, spiritual life, and the church’s testimony in the world. This study analyzes divorce from the perspective of Christian ethics, grounded in a theological and moral reflection on Matthew 19:1–12 as the biblical foundation for understanding marriage and faithfulness. The findings reveal that divorce is not merely a legal or social concern but represents a spiritual crisis and a failure to uphold the sacred covenant established by God. Contributing factors such as infidelity, domestic violence, economic pressure, and weak faith formation erode the moral values of love and fidelity. Christian ethics emphasizes love, forgiveness, and moral responsibility as fundamental principles for healing and reconciliation within broken relationships. The church is called to exercise pastoral responsibility through guidance, counseling, and restoration, fostering ethical awareness and marital integrity among believers. Thus, applying Christian ethics to the issue of divorce is essential for nurturing spiritual maturity, strengthening family unity, and preserving the moral witness of the Christian community.  

Social changes driven by globalization and advancements in digital technology have led to a shift in the values surrounding human sexuality, from being sacred to becoming increasingly liberal and permissive. This phenomenon has triggered an identity crisis, particularly among the younger generation. This study aims to explore the meaning of self-control as presented in Sirach 5:2 and to evaluate its relevance as an ethical and theological foundation in addressing the contemporary crisis of sexuality. The method employed is a literature study using a qualitative-theological approach and textual analysis of Sacred Scripture. The findings indicate that self-control in Sirach 5:2 is not merely the suppression of desire but an expression of moral and spiritual maturity grounded in wisdom and divine grace. In light of Christian ethics, this virtue shapes responsibility, chastity, and fidelity within human relationships. Thus, self-control becomes a fundamental basis for building personal integrity and a dignified direction of life amidst a permissive cultural current.

In the contemporary Christian context, many churches face a leadership crisis marked by corruption, arrogance, lack of integrity, and resistance to criticism—traits that starkly contrast with the servant-hearted leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ. This study aims to explore the biblical foundation of Jesus’ leadership, both in character and technical dimensions, as portrayed in the Gospel of John, and to examine its implementation within GPdI Betesda Kabanjahe. Employing a qualitative methodology, the research integrates two primary approaches: a theological-biblical analysis and a case study of leadership practices in the local church. The theological dimension focuses on Jesus as the Good Shepherd, emphasizing relational depth, sacrificial service, and intentional character formation of His disciples. The case study approach investigates how these principles are understood and applied by church leaders in GPdI Betesda. Findings reveal two key insights. First, the pastoral leadership model in the Gospel of John presents Jesus as a shepherd who leads through personal connection, selfless sacrifice, and transformative discipleship. While these values are normatively acknowledged by church leaders, their practical application in GPdI Betesda remains partial and lacks systemic integration into the church’s organizational and ministerial structures. Second, pastoral leadership at GPdI Betesda is marked by exemplary behavior and love in service. However, inconsistencies persist in leadership stability, spiritual maturity, and character development. The absence of structured ministry management and leadership formation contributes to these gaps. In conclusion, the study underscores the need for churches to realign leadership practices with the biblical model of Jesus, fostering integrity, humility, and servant leadership. Strengthening character development and implementing structured leadership systems are essential steps toward resolving the leadership crisis and embodying Christ-like shepherding in the church context.

This paper focuses on examining the participation of priests through catechesis on social media. In this paper will be described the concrete steps of the priest in developing and growing the faith of Christians in this day and age. This paper finds that the participation of priests through social media is an important and urgent effort for the development and development of the people's faith. This is considered important, because in this day and age, the faithful are directly in the scope of social media whose development is difficult to stem. Be aware of it. This study seeks to remind priests to return to the nature of the ministry as priests through one concrete step, namely catechesis to Christians. Catechesis is a relevant tool in maintaining, growing and strengthening the faith of the people. The concrete way that can be done is to conduct activities to introduce the Holy Scriptures, and pray with the Holy Scriptures in lectio divina activities, and provide liturgical education. All these activities are done through social media. This concrete step is considered to be very helpful for the growth and maturity of faith. The research method used is literature analysis. The results of this study in the form of increasing the spirit of real participation of the priest for the life of the faith of the people, well maintained Christian faith in the midst of the challenges of increasingly rapid technological development, until it comes to the maturity of the perfect faith.

This paper focuses on examining the participation of priests through catechesis on social media. In this paper will be described the concrete steps of the priest in developing and growing the faith of Christians in this day and age. This paper finds that the participation of priests through social media is an important and urgent effort for the development and development of the people's faith. This is considered important, because in this day and age, the faithful are directly in the scope of social media whose development is difficult to stem. Be aware of it. This study seeks to remind priests to return to the nature of the ministry as priests through one concrete step, namely catechesis to Christians. Catechesis is a relevant tool in maintaining, growing and strengthening the faith of the people. The concrete way that can be done is to conduct activities to introduce the Holy Scriptures, and pray with the Holy Scriptures in lectio divina activities, and provide liturgical education. All these activities are done through social media. This concrete step is considered to be very helpful for the growth and maturity of faith. The research method used is literature analysis. The results of this study in the form of increasing the spirit of real participation of the priest for the life of the faith of the people, well maintained Christian faith in the midst of the challenges of increasingly rapid technological development, until it comes to the maturity of the perfect faith.

The tongue is a small part of the body that holds significant power to influence both individual life and community well-being. James 3:1–12 provides a firm warning about the dangers of an uncontrolled tongue, depicting it as a fire, a world of evil, and deadly poison. This study aims to examine the meaning of controlling the tongue as a responsibility of Christian spirituality through a literature review and exegetical-hermeneutical analysis of James 3:1–12. This qualitative research employs primary data from the biblical text (Indonesian Bible Society version and the Greek text) and secondary data from commentaries, Christian ethics books, and theological journals. The findings indicate that controlling the tongue is a sign of spiritual maturity and an essential aspect of Christian discipline that must be continuously cultivated. Disciplined speech reflects living faith and serves as a means to foster love, truth, and peace within the community. This study highlights the need for churches and believers to integrate ethical speech as a core part of their witness in the world.  

Suicide is an act committed by individuals against themselves. This study aims to investigate the role of Christian Religious Education (CRE) in preventing suicide among young people. The method used is qualitative descriptive with a literature study approach, where data is collected through analysis and description of information from various sources, including books and journal articles. The results of the study show that CRE contributes to preventing suicide through the formation of identity and meaning in life. By emphasizing Christian values and biblical knowledge, CRE helps teenagers find meaning in life and strengthen their faith. Through engaging teaching methods, CRE empowers youth to appreciate themselves and face life's challenges with a positive attitude. Additionally, social community support integrated within CRE is vital for the mental health of adolescents, creating a safe and supportive environment. Mental health and spirituality are interrelated, with CRE playing a role in developing spiritual maturity and providing a strong moral foundation. Thus, young people can maintain their mental and spiritual health and find hope amid difficulties.

This article examines the contribution of the Christian Religious Education Programme with the concept of discipleship to the spiritual maturity of ministers at Baithani Kadosh Christian Church. Using a qualitative approach through a literature review, this research explores the literature on theology, Christian education, and the practice of discipleship in the context of church ministry. Analyses were conducted by integrating discipleship theories, spiritual leadership strategies, and spiritual formation practices that have been implemented in PAK. The results of the study show that the PAK concept of discipleship not only enhances the leadership competence of God's servants, but also deepens their spiritual maturity through personal transformation, increased understanding of the Bible, and the application of Christian values in daily life. This finding confirms the importance of the discipleship programme as one of the strategic instruments in shaping a mature and relevant spiritual character in church ministry.

This study explores the role of transformational leadership within the context of Christian Religious Education, emphasizing its ethical foundation and implications for shaping the future of humanity. In an era marked by moral ambiguity, rapid technological progress, and declining spiritual values, Christian education faces the urgent challenge of cultivating ethical character, spiritual maturity, and social responsibility. The problem addressed in this research is the gap between leadership practices in Christian educational settings and the transformative outcomes expected in students’ moral and spiritual development. The objective of this study is to analyze how transformational leadership can be effectively applied to Christian Religious Education to foster ethical behavior and visionary thinking. Using a qualitative descriptive method supported by literature analysis and interviews with Christian educators and leaders, this research identifies core principles and strategies that align biblical teachings with transformational leadership theory. The findings reveal that transformational leaders who model Christ-centered values, inspire through vision, and mentor with compassion significantly impact learners’ ethical formation and worldview. The synthesis of ideas highlights the integration of faith, leadership, and pedagogy as a holistic approach to addressing the ethical and existential challenges of the 21st century. In conclusion, transformational leadership within Christian Religious Education is essential in guiding learners toward a life of purpose, integrity, and contribution to a humane and spiritually grounded society.