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This article aims to explain the correct practice of devotion to Mary in the light of Christ-centered faith, which is a faith centered on Jesus Christ as the one and only mediator and savior. The main issue discussed is the tendency of some Catholics to give excessive devotion to Mary, which risks diverting focus from Christ. This study employs a theological and doctrinal approach by tracing the Church's teachings on honoring Mary, particularly through the distinction between latria, dulia, and hyperdulia. The study's findings indicate that proper devotion to Mary is rooted in a relationship with the Holy Trinity and guides the faithful to increasingly know, love, and emulate Christ. Conversely, disproportionate forms of devotion may lead to misunderstandings or deviations in faith practices. The implications of this research emphasize the Church's role in providing adequate catechesis, so that devotion to Mary remains balanced, leading the faithful to Christ through Mary and in Mary, while deepening the understanding of Trinitarian theology in the daily lives of Christians.

This study examines how Christian marriage is represented in the modern era through theological, symbolic, and contextual perspectives. Although Christian marriage is traditionally understood as a sacred covenant emphasizing unity, fidelity, and permanence, contemporary social realities reveal shifts in how Christians interpret and express marital life. Economic pressures, evolving family roles, digital communication patterns, and cultural influences shape the modern experience of marriage. Using a descriptive qualitative approach through literature-based research, this study analyzes the theological foundations, ritual symbols, and contextual factors that influence changes in the representation of Christian marriage today. The findings indicate that while the core theological essence of Christian marriage remains, its practical expressions undergo adaptation to remain relevant within modern life. Symbols such as wedding rings, marital vows, and liturgical blessings continue to convey theological meaning, while premarital education and pastoral support play a crucial role in strengthening marital stability. The study highlights the need for a contextual and integrative ecclesial approach that responds to the realities faced by Christian couples in contemporary society.    

Love plays a central role in Christian moral theology as the fundamental principle guiding human moral decisions and actions. This study aims to examine the meaning, concept, and role of love in moral theology, as well as its practical application in Christian life. Employing a qualitative method with a literature review approach, this research explores theological perspectives, Scriptural foundations, and the moral implications of love within the Christian tradition. The findings show that moral theology is inseparable from the nature of God as Love, and that love is not merely an emotion but a deliberate moral act oriented toward the good of others. Christian love, understood as agape, represents the highest form of selfless and sacrificial love and becomes the normative basis for moral judgment. Love gives meaning and value to human moral actions, shapes ethical principles, and directs believers to live according to God’s will. In moral practice, love enables Christians to act justly, uphold human dignity, and build harmonious relationships with God, others, society, and creation. The study implies the need for strengthening love-based moral formation within the Church and society, especially amid modern challenges and the growing distortion of love among young people. Future research is recommended to expand on interdisciplinary studies and contextual applications of love in various socio-cultural and religious settings.

This study discusses the spiritual development of adolescents and Christian youth in facing the challenges of the digital age. The focus of this research is on the role of parents, churches, and Christian educators in shaping the spirituality of Christian youth and youth. The results of the study show that parents, churches, and Christian educators have a very important role in guiding Christian youth and youth in their faith journey. Digital literacy teaching strategies based on Christian values and engaging adolescents and youth directly in the ministry process are some of the ways that can be done to strengthen their faith and character. In addition, this study emphasizes the importance of sustainable and contextual spiritual coaching in order to be able to answer spiritual needs in the midst of the rapid flow of information and the influence of modern culture. The Church is also expected to be able to provide a safe space for dialogue for youth and youth to express their struggles of faith. Thus, comprehensive and collaborative coaching can help create a resilient young generation of Christians, rooted in God's word, and able to face the various moral and spiritual challenges of today.

This study is motivated by the negative perception among some Christians who regard philosophy as a threat to faith and theology, even believing that it can undermine conviction and reduce the truth of Scripture. Using a qualitative research method based on a literature study that collects and analyzes various relevant sources, this research aims to re-examine the relationship between philosophy, theology, and Christian Religious Education, as well as to explore the constructive role of philosophy in enriching the understanding of faith. The findings reveal that philosophy functions as a preparation evangelica - a “rational foundation that prepares one to receive faith” - rather than as an antagonist. Furthermore, the study emphasizes that the integration of philosophy and theology produces a critical and reflective educational approach that deepens the knowledge of God and fosters a dynamic Christian Religious Education. Thus, this research offers a new perspective that reconciles philosophy and faith, and recommends ongoing dialogue between the two for the advancement of theology and Christian education.

The understanding of the doctrine of humanity and sin in Christian theology reveals the essence of human nature and the need for divine redemption. This study aims to examine theological perspectives on human nature and sin, focusing on the relationship between the Imago Dei and the fall of humanity. Using a qualitative descriptive approach through literature review, the research analyzes biblical texts and theological interpretations from various Christian scholars. The results show that humans, created in the image and likeness of God, were originally good and endowed with moral and spiritual capacity. However, through sin, humans experienced separation from God and moral corruption. Nevertheless, God’s grace through Jesus Christ enables the restoration of humanity’s divine image and reconciles the broken relationship with the Creator. The study highlights that understanding these doctrines helps believers realize their dependence on God’s grace, leading to repentance, transformation, and ethical living. The implication encourages Christians to maintain a responsible, spiritual, and moral life as a reflection of the renewed image of God within them.

The development of science, technology, and the arts (IPTEKS) presents both challenges and opportunities, particularly for young Christians in the Faculty of Languages and Arts. This study explores the role of Christian faith in shaping how young Christians engage with IPTEKS, focusing on the integration of faith-based values in artistic creation, scientific application, and technological use. Using qualitative descriptive methods, the research involved interviews, observations, and documentation from Christian students in various art and education programs. The findings suggest that Christian faith provides a moral, ethical, and spiritual foundation for the responsible use of IPTEKS. In the arts, faith motivates students to create works that serve as ministry and testimony. In science, it encourages knowledge application for service and glorifying God. In technology, faith serves as a moral filter for the positive use of digital media. Key scriptures, including Proverbs 1:7, Colossians 3:23-24, and Romans 12:2, reinforce that IPTEKS should be utilized to honor God and serve others. This study highlights the need for faith development in academic settings, ensuring that young Christians engage with IPTEKS wisely, ethically, and in alignment with Christian values.

This study explores the intricate relationship between theology and philosophy within the framework of Christian apologetics and evangelism, aiming to understand and communicate faith in both rational and contextual ways. Theology, grounded in divine revelation, serves as the foundational source of truth, while philosophy offers critical and analytical tools to interpret, clarify, and logically articulate theological doctrines. Apologetics operates as a dynamic bridge between these disciplines, integrating rational discourse, ethical reflection, and spiritual conviction to defend and proclaim the Gospel effectively in an increasingly pluralistic and intellectually diverse society. This research employs a library-based qualitative approach utilizing descriptive and analytical methods to examine theological and philosophical literature from various academic perspectives. The findings demonstrate that theology, philosophy, and apologetics form an interdependent and complementary framework that not only strengthens evangelism but also enables Christians to present the Gospel message rationally, contextually, and meaningfully amidst the contemporary challenges of faith, culture, and reason.

Believers, both in the time of Jesus and in today’s context, live in situations shaped by social, political, economic, religious, and cultural influences that often give rise to anxiety and doubt about God’s providence. In Luke 12:22–32, Jesus delivers a teaching that prohibits worry and calls His followers to direct their hearts toward the Kingdom of God. For those living under Roman rule, these words were a source of comfort and encouragement to remain steadfast in their faith in God’s power, and for believers today, the same message continues to be relevant as guidance for managing worry with trust and hope. This study seeks to analyze Luke 12:22–32 from the perspective of the theology of God’s providence and to explain its implications for contemporary Christian life. The findings emphasize three key points: first, the passage affirms God as a sovereign, loving Father who cares deeply for His people; second, God’s providence includes both physical and spiritual needs, thus framing faith as an active trust that combines prayer, hope, and concrete action; and third, reflection on God’s providence strengthens believers to face modern anxieties by prioritizing the Kingdom of God, practicing spiritual discipline, and embodying solidarity with others. Although limited in scope as a textual study without cultural or empirical application, this research contributes significantly to understanding God’s providence in Luke 12:22–32 and underlines its relevance for addressing contemporary challenges while encouraging Christians to live out their faith in tangible ways.

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 covenant between God and Abraham serves as proof that God is a faithful God who never abandons His people, whether in times of joy or sorrow. This covenant is also one of the fundamental covenants in the Old Testament, with significant theological and historical implications. This article, we’re discusses and analyzes God’s covenant with Abraham and its implications for Christian faith today, based on Genesis 12:1-9. Through this covenant, God promises three main things to Abraham: numerous descendants, the promised land, and blessings for all nations. Futhermore, this covenant serves as the foundation of Israel’s identity and finds its fulfillment in Jesus Christ, as foretold in Genesis 3:15, namely the offspring that will be born a woman. This study serves as evidence and a model for Christians regarding Abraham’s obedience and steadfast faith, emphasizing that salvation in Jesus Christ is one of God’s fulfilled promises to Abraham. Thus, understanding this covenant strengthens the conviction that God remains faithful to His promises and that faith in Him is the foundation of true spiritual life for believers.

The digital era has brought profound transformations in religious life, creating both opportunities and challenges for the younger generation of Christians in maintaining their faith. The Toraja Church Youth Fellowship (PPGT) of the Buntu Masakke Congregation is one such community struggling to maintain the steadfastness of its youth's faith amidst the tide of globalization, the temptations of materialism, worldly positions, and the increasingly prevalent dynamics of interfaith romance. This reality drives the need for a faith training strategy that is relevant, contextual, and utilizes the potential of digital technology wisely. This study aims to implement an effective faith training strategy for PPGT through the use of digital media to produce church youth who not only unleash strength in faith, but also grow spiritually and are able to serve in creative and impactful ways in the modern era. This study used a four-month practicum method involving 22 active participants. Three training modules were implemented in stages: (1) Rooted in God's Word in the Digital Age, which encourages the use of Bible applications and digital devotionals; (2) Growing in Christ's Character Amidst Worldly Temptations, which emphasizes the values of integrity, faithfulness, and holiness; and (3) Serving with Creativity and Relevance in the Digital Age, which invites young people to produce digital content with spiritual value. The results of the study showed significant success, with 95% achieving “rootedness,” 80% achieving “growth,” and 86% achieving “serving.” In fact, 63.6% of participants experienced spiritual transformation and are now active as digital ministry drivers. These findings confirm that digital media, when utilized strategically and in harmony with Christian values, can be an effective tool in fostering the faith of the younger generation. Therefore, the church needs to develop a sustainable and contextual digital training model to strengthen the role of young people in current and future ministry.

In the digital era, Christians face significant challenges in maintaining an authentic spirituality amidst a continuous stream of information and the influence of popular culture that often contradicts biblical values. The command in Romans 12:2 to "not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind" remains highly relevant, yet its practical application in contemporary Christian life is frequently overlooked. This study aims to explore the theological depth of Romans 12:2, identify the dominant patterns of worldly thought in the digital age, and develop a contextual and applicable framework for transformative Christian spirituality. Utilizing a qualitative method with a library research approach, data were gathered from theological works, biblical commentaries, and scholarly literature on spirituality, culture, and digital engagement. The study reveals that the renewal of the mind refers not only to a personal inner change but to a reorientation of worldview through the power of the Holy Spirit. This transformation involves resisting cultural tendencies such as self-image obsession on social media, intellectual complacency caused by technological convenience, and the rise of individualistic spirituality detached from community life. To address these challenges, the study proposes several implementation strategies: fostering deeper biblical literacy contextualized to current issues, cultivating critical thinking as a form of spiritual discipline, and nurturing accountability within faith communities. These elements form a holistic framework of contemporary Christian spirituality that is Christ-centered, critically aware, and outward-focused in mission. The implications of this framework suggest that Christian spirituality in the digital era must engage both heart and mind, remain rooted in Scripture, and be lived out in communal and missional contexts.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of the Talking Stick Learning Model on Student Learning Activity in the Subject of Christian Religious Education and Character Education for class VIII at SMP Negeri 1 Balige, Toba Regency in the 2024/2025 Academic Year. The research hypothesis is: "there is an effect of the Talking Stick Learning Model on Student Learning Activity in the Subject of Christian Religious Education and Character Education for class VIII at SMP Negeri 1 Balige, Toba Regency in the 2024/2025 Academic Year". The population was all students of class VIII of SMP Negeri 1 Balige, Toba Regency in the 2024/2025 Academic Year who were Protestant Christians totaling 173 people. The research sample was determined using a purposive sampling technique, namely 30 students of class VIII B. This research method uses a quantitative research method with a pre-experimental design type in the form of "one shot case study". The instrument used in this study was a questionnaire item for variable Y totaling 18 items. Based on the experiments that have been carried out, the results obtained before treatment produced an average of 48.10 and after treatment 57.53. The research data for the questionnaire were analyzed using the One-Shot Case Study t-test formula. From the calculation results, the t-value = 3.599> t-table (α = 5%) = 2.042 was obtained. The t-value is in the area of ​​the H0 rejection curve and Ha acceptance. Thus, it can be concluded that with the difference between before and after treatment and t-value> t-table, the research hypothesis is accepted, namely that there is an influence of the Talking Stick Learning Model on Student Learning Activity in Christian Religious Education and Character Education subjects for class VIII at SMP Negeri 1 Balige, Toba Regency, in the 2024/2025 Academic Year.

This study examines theologically the practice of giving dowry in Sumbanese weddings. This tradition has been passed down from generation to generation and is often associated with church weddings. Various responses to dowry, especially from Christians, are the main focus. The method used is a literature study, with the object of study being the giving of dowry in the marriages of biblical figures such as Isaac and Rebekah, Jacob and Rachel, David and Michal, and Shechem and Dinah. The theological reflections produced include: First, dowry in the Bible functions as a sign of appreciation for women and their families. Second, dowry is not coercion, but rather a way for men to show love for their future wives. Thus, dowry in Sumbanese culture does not conflict with Christian faith and has a positive value for helping each other. The implications include: First, dowry must be in accordance with the man's ability. Second, dowry should not be used as a tool to fulfill personal ambitions. Payment of dowry should be for the common good. Third, dowry must be given in an honorable manner, without justifying any means to prove the ability to pay dowry at a high price.

Christian Religious Education (CRE) not only functions as a means of delivering theological teachings, but also as a strategic medium in developing students' soft skills. This article aims to explore how Christian moral values ​​such as love, honesty, empathy, and justice can be integrated into learning practices to shape students' character and interpersonal skills. Through a qualitative-descriptive approach, this study collected data through observation, interviews, and documentation studies. The results show that PAK, through activities such as group discussions, social services, spiritual reflection, and project-based learning, contributes significantly to developing students' communication, leadership, cooperation, and emotional intelligence skills. The role of teachers as facilitators and moral role models is a key factor in the success of this process. Thus, PAK not only enriches the spiritual aspect, but also prepares students to become resilient and integral individuals in social life. The integration of faith values ​​with life skills is a strong foundation in forming a generation of Christians who are able to answer the challenges of the 21st century.

This study explores the challenges of evangelism in the modern era, particularly in reaching groups that are apathetic towards the gospel. Using 1 Corinthians 9:19-27 as its foundation, which highlights the importance of flexibility in evangelistic approaches to reach speople from various backgrounds, this research applies the Apostle Paul’s concept of adaptability to contemporary evangelism among apathetic groups. Specifically, it examines how biblically-based adaptive strategies can be utilized by churches and individual Christians in their evangelistic mission. The primary aim of this study is to analyze the application of the principle of flexibility in 1 Corinthians 9:19-27 for apathetic groups and to assess how this principle can enhance the effectiveness of evangelism in today’s context. Through this research, it is hoped that new, more relevant approaches for ministry in a diverse society will be identified. This study employs a qualitative method, using biblical text analysis and systematic theological reflection. Findings indicate that applying the principle of flexibility in evangelism is not only effective in addressing apathy, but also allows evangelists to build more personal and empathetic relationships with those they seek to reach. In Paul’s sense, flexibility involves adapting without compromising gospel truth, offering a pertinent strategy for meeting the challenges of evangelizing to apathetic individuals.  

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

Instilling a Christian leadership spirit since adolescence can have a very important influence on the Christian environment or life both in non-Christian environments Christian leadership can also shape a person’s individual character and instill Christian values in the surrounding environment, thus providing a good example for fellow christians both in non-Christian enviroments Christians leadership is not only about how potential leaders can lead others but must also be able to lead themselves in today’s digital era this article discusses the improtance of instilling a christian leadership spirit since adolescence in the current digital era through a holistic approach, so that each individual can lead themselves before leading others and can provide Khristian values in everyday life the method used in this study is a literature study that examines literature in the process of colleting opinions from various literature analyses of other sources that are in accordanc with the topic of research of study from the study show that instilling a Christian leadership spirit can be applied through our spiritual actibities, our spiritual awakening such as prayer, worship or other fellowship in conclusion, instilling a Christians leadership since adolescence in the current digital era can help someone to shape their character and can bring themselves to be an example of Christ for their environment.

The resurrection of the body is a key foundation of the Christian faith, as it demonstrates the power of Jesus to overcome death and sin, and provides hope for life after death for His followers. This teaching is clearly presented in the Bible. Many people wonder about the condition of the soul after death. Whether the resurrection of the body is in accordance with the teachings of the Bible, how the resurrection process takes place, whether there is a difference between the resurrection for believers and unbelievers. This article therefore aims to provide an in-depth insight into the concept of bodily resurrection in the Bible, including key verses. The glorious resurrection of the body is the essence of Christian hope and a promise that changes the way believers view life and death. By understanding the Bible's teaching on resurrection, Christians can find comfort, motivation, and purpose in their lives, as well as confidence in a future filled with promise and glory. This article is expected to be a source of reflection and a deeper understanding of the resurrection of the body in the context of Christian faith.” This writing is done using a descriptive qualitative method, which is using literature from books or journal articles that have been made. The Bible teaches that death is not the end of everything, but rather a transition to the promised resurrection. This concept is rooted in the resurrection of Jesus.