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This study aims to examine relevant and effective Christian Religious Education (CRE) learning methods in the digital era. The rapid development of information and communication technology has brought significant changes in education, including CRE instruction. The research method employed is a literature study with a descriptive-analytical approach to various academic sources and technology-based CRE learning practices. The results indicate that integrating digital media such as online learning platforms, Bible-based interactive applications, and social media creatively can enhance students' engagement and understanding of Christian faith values. Furthermore, the use of digital technology opens wider opportunities for contextual and meaningful faith formation across diverse learning environments. The study also identifies key challenges faced by CRE teachers, namely digital readiness, infrastructure limitations, and maintaining relational and spiritual dimensions in virtual learning environments. Teachers must therefore be equipped not only technologically but also theologically to navigate these complexities. The research concludes that the transformation of CRE methods in the digital era is not merely a technology adoption but a holistic theological integration of faith, technology, and pedagogy.

This study aims to analyze the role of Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers as counselors in shaping students’ social behavior amid increasing behavioral deviations such as bullying, violence, misuse of social media, and low tolerance. These phenomena are influenced by internal factors such as emotional instability and identity formation, as well as external factors including family, environment, and digital culture. This research employs a descriptive qualitative method using a library research approach by collecting data from books, scholarly journals, and relevant documents. The findings reveal that CRE teachers play a strategic role not only as educators but also as counselors who accompany students holistically, covering spiritual, moral, emotional, and social aspects. The counseling role performed by CRE teachers includes modeling behavior, mediating conflicts, strengthening self-control, providing social support, and building empathetic relationships with students. Through this approach, students undergo a process of internalizing Christian values such as love, forgiveness, responsibility, and tolerance, which contribute to the development of positive social behavior. Furthermore, collaboration among teachers, parents, and the community serves as a supporting factor in successful character formation. Therefore, the role of CRE teachers as counselors is proven to be effective in shaping students’ social behavior in accordance with moral, social, and religious values, while contributing to the development of a generation with integrity and competitiveness.

Christian religious education teachers act as agents of social, spiritual, and cultural transformation by integrating Christian values ​​into the lives of communities that are still strongly bound to ancestral customs and beliefs. The transformation of customs through contextual evangelism is both a challenge and an opportunity for Christian religious education (PAK) teachers in carrying out their roles as educators and servants of God in a pluralistic society. This study aims to analyze the strategic steps of PAK teachers in integrating Gospel values ​​with local culture without eliminating the identity of the Christian faith or damaging the noble values ​​of customs. The research method used is a qualitative approach and literature study. The results of the study indicate that PAK teachers need to have three main strategic steps, namely contextual understanding by studying in depth the values, symbols, and practices of local customs, a transformational approach, namely presenting Gospel values ​​through education that respects culture but leads to renewal of life and pedagogical implementation through creative and reflective learning methods that foster students' awareness of faith and social responsibility. With this strategy, Christian Religious Education teachers can become agents of transformation, bridging the gap between Christian faith and local culture, ensuring that evangelism is not confrontational but contextual, dialogical, and builds lives rooted in the love of Christ.

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 research aims to examine how the functions of Christian counseling (preventive, curative, developmental, and pastoral) can be integrated into the practice of Christian Religious Education as an effective strategy to support adolescents’ faith development. The background of this study arises from the fact that adolescents experience a crisis of faith that is not only related to theological aspects but also affects their psychological and emotional well-being. On the other hand, christian religious education practices in schools often remain focused on the transfer of doctrinal knowledge without being balanced by adequate personal guidance. This study applies a qualitative method through literature review and conceptual analysis of christian counseling theory, theories of adolescent faith development, and pedagogical practices in christian religious education. The findings indicate that integrating Christian counseling functions into the design of christian religious education learning can create a dialogical, reflective, and pastoral classroom atmosphere, providing opportunities for adolescents to develop spiritual discernment, self-awareness, and the ability to make responsible moral decisions. This article discusses the relevance of counseling to adolescents’ spiritual development, the characteristics of their faith development, the challenges of implementing counseling in Christian educational institutions, and the design of learning based on dialogue, reflection, and mentoring. In this way, the integration of christian counseling in christian religious education is considered a holistic approach that enriches the meaning of faith education and supports adolescents’ faith growth in a contextual, profound, and sustainable manner.

This article examines the dialogue between John Calvin’s educational thought and the Merdeka Curriculum within the context of Christian Religious Education (PAK) in Indonesia. Employing a qualitative-comparative approach with descriptive analysis, this study traces the points of convergence and tension between Calvin’s educational principles particularly the concept of imago Dei, holistic education, and the God-centered purpose of education and the principles of the Merdeka Curriculum such as flexibility, differentiated learning, and the Profil Pelajar Pancasila (Pancasila Student Profile). The analysis reveals significant convergence in terms of respect for the potential and uniqueness of learners, holistic educational orientation, and the role of teachers as facilitators and character formers. However, fundamental tensions also exist regarding Calvin’s theocentric theological foundation vis-à-vis the secular Pancasila foundation, the concept of discipline and authority versus student freedom, and the ultimate goal of education glorifying God versus forming the Pancasila Student Profile. Based on these findings, this article offers practical recommendations for PAK curriculum design based on the Merdeka Curriculum, a Kingdom of God-nuanced project-based learning approach, holistic assessment, and Christian character formation within the Profil Pelajar Pancasila framework. This research contributes to filling the gap in studies that dialogue the Reformed theological tradition with contemporary Indonesian national education policy.

This study aims to analyze the relevance of Robert Raikes' Christian educational thinking to the character formation of children in contemporary Sunday School services. This study uses a qualitative approach with a library research method. Data were obtained from various literature sources such as books, scientific journals, and research articles related to Christian education, character education, and the history of Sunday School development. Data analysis techniques were carried out through the stages of data reduction, grouping themes, interpretation, and drawing conclusions using descriptive qualitative methods. The results show that Robert Raikes' thoughts remain relevant in modern Christian education, especially in the formation of children's character through the teaching of God's Word, discipline, role models, and the instilling of Christian values. Sunday School plays an important role as a means of fostering faith, morality, and social responsibility in children from an early age. In addition, the challenges of the digital era require churches to develop more creative, interactive, and contextual learning methods without abandoning the basic values ​​of the Christian faith. This study confirms that the success of children's character formation depends not only on the church, but also on the role of Sunday School teachers and families who work together to build a conducive spiritual environment. Thus, Robert Raikes' thinking makes an important contribution to the development of Christian education that is relevant in the modern era.

This study starts from the observation that Christian education is still often delivered in a one-way, top-down manner. As a result, learners are less actively engaged in understanding their faith and social lives. Paulo Freire’s ideas on critical education offer an approach that emphasizes dialogue, participation, and social change. This study aims to examine Christian educational theology through Freire’s perspective and to explore how his ideas can be applied in learning processes. A qualitative approach was used, employing library research methods—reading, note-taking, and analyzing written sources related to Freire’s thought and Christian educational theology. The findings indicate that Freire’s approach can shift education from teacher-centered to learner-centered. Learning becomes more dialogical, encouraging critical thinking and deeper understanding of reality. Christian education then focuses not only on knowledge of faith but also on character development and spiritual life. Consequently, Christian education should be developed to be more open, participatory, and dialogical through activities such as group discussions, open Q&A sessions, and faith reflection. This enables learners to grow in faith while developing stronger social awareness. Future research is recommended to study the direct application of Freire’s ideas in Christian educational institutions.

This study analyzes the integration of pedagogical leadership and professional competence in the Christian Religious Education (CRE) learning strategy course among undergraduate students. Employing a quantitative approach with a descriptive-correlational survey design, the research involved 26 respondents. Data were collected using a Likert-scale questionnaire, with the results analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation. The findings show that both pedagogical leadership (85%) and professional competence (86%) are categorized as high. The Pearson correlation test reveals a strong and significant relationship between the two variables (r = 0.78). These results suggest that pedagogical leadership and professional competence are effectively integrated in the learning process. The course plays a strategic role in shaping students into professional and reflective learning leaders, providing them with the necessary skills to apply their leadership in educational settings. This integration enhances students' readiness to excel in their future roles, emphasizing the importance of these competencies for becoming well-rounded and effective educators.

Teaching biblical principles to elementary school children plays a significant role in shaping their faith and character, as childhood represents a formative stage for spiritual, intellectual, and moral development. This study aims to examine developmentally appropriate Bible teaching tactics and emphasize the role of Christian Religious Education teachers in the faith-learning process. The approach used is a literature review that combines theological insights, developmental psychology, and Christian didactics. The findings of this analysis indicate that effective teaching methods include the use of storytelling, visual and creative aids, interactive activities, spiritual music, and the teacher's life example. These methods enhance children’s understanding of biblical teachings in a concrete and contextually relevant manner. This research confirms that Bible teaching should not be seen simply as conveying information, but rather as a holistic process of faith formation. The results of this study provide both theoretical and practical benefits, especially for Christian Religious Education teachers, Christian schools, churches, and families in supporting children's holistic faith development.

Christian Religious Education (PAK) learning is undergoing significant changes in the Digital 5.0 era with the utilization of technology as the main support. This study explores the challenges in Christian learning and explores technological solutions that can improve student engagement and material comprehension. Through the literature study, the main challenges identified include the limitations of traditional learning resources and the lack of attractiveness of the materials. Solutions are proposed by integrating E-Learning, Virtual Reality, Augmented Reality, and mobile applications in the curriculum. Teacher training and support from the community and church are key in implementing this approach. Continuous evaluation and problem solving are the focus to ensure success and sustainability. The results show that technology contributes significantly to creating an interactive and relevant learning environment, building a solid foundation for increased student engagement and understanding of Christian teachings. By stepping with technology, this article presents a foundation for enhancing Christian Religious Education learning amidst the dynamics of the digital world

Middle order thinking skills (MOTS) questions are very important in Christian religious education learning. Evaluation of Christian religious education learning needs to be carried out by educators (teachers) based on each learning material so that students' academic achievement can be achieved well. In general, educators (teachers) do not fully understand the concept of middle order thinking skills (MOTS), as well as low order skills (LOTS) and high order skills (HOTS), so that some students find it difficult to answer questions given by educators (teachers) during learning evaluations. The type of research used is qualitative research with a literature review/literature study approach. The purpose of the study is to explain the understanding of the meaning of MOTS in Christian religious education learning on materials that are in accordance with learning objectives, so that students' academic achievement can be achieved well through learning evaluations. The results of the study are students are able to answer questions well from the middle order thinking skills (MOTS) type of questions when educators (teachers) create learning evaluation questions based on learning materials. Conclusion; To create evaluation questions for Christian religious education learning that students can answer and achieve academic success, ideally, questions should be based on the learning material they have learned.

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.

Counseling etymologically derives from the noun counsel, which originates from the Latin consilium, rooted in consilere, meaning “to consult,” or to seek the views and advice of others as guidance for consideration and decision-making. As a verb, to counsel or counseling refers to the act of providing advice, guidance, warnings, encouragement, and instruction aimed at fostering self-surrender in addressing problems and managing negative behaviors among students. Educational guidance and counseling aim to strengthen Christian students to live victoriously in the Lord Jesus Christ by bringing them to an understanding of the light of God’s Word and the acceptance of themselves as God’s grace. This Classroom Action Research was conducted to address and resolve the problems of Christian students based on the research formulation, particularly through the application of intellectual, moral, and social approaches as strategic steps to enhance educational counseling services. The study employed a qualitative approach, with data collected through in-depth interviews and field notes. Data analysis was carried out by categorizing findings to generate emerging themes. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with three teacher participants and two student participants. The findings revealed that several students required special attention due to tendencies toward delinquent behavior, while one case indicated a student’s involvement in narcotics. These findings demonstrate that student-related issues require special intervention efforts to improve their spiritual and mental well-being, leading them to a deeper knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ as their personal Savior. The ultimate goal is the salvation of students’ souls and the glorification of the name of the Lord Jesus Christ.

This study examines the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum for Christian Religious Education (PAK) in junior high schools (SMP), focusing on the challenges and strategies for its implementation. The Merdeka Curriculum, introduced in 2022, offers flexibility in instructional design; however, its implementation in the field of PAK requires specific adaptations to maintain the relevance of Christian values such as love, justice, and responsibility. This study employs a descriptive qualitative approach using library research combined with empirical content analysis of various case studies in Indonesian Christian schools. The findings indicate that the primary challenges include resource constraints, the readiness of PAK teachers, technological infrastructure gaps, and the influence of secular digital culture. Effective strategies include the development of a contextual curriculum based on Christian values, the utilization of digital technology in learning, the enhancement of teachers’ professional competencies, and collaboration between schools, families, and churches. The implications of this study suggest that the integration of Christian values into the Merdeka Curriculum can foster the holistic character of junior high school students, equipping them with integrity, resilience, and the ability to face the challenges of the digital age.

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 aims to analyze the implementation of pedagogical competence among Christian Religious Education teachers and its implications for students’ learning interest at SMTK Katharos Bekasi. The study is based on the importance of teachers’ pedagogical competence in creating effective learning environments and increasing student engagement in the classroom. A qualitative approach with a descriptive design was applied in this research. Data were collected through classroom observations, questionnaire-based interviews with students, and literature review. The findings show that teachers’ pedagogical competence is categorized as good, with an average score of 33.8 or 75.1% of the maximum score, reflecting effective classroom management, appropriate material delivery, and proper student guidance. Students’ learning interest is also categorized as good, with an average score of 32.8 or 72.9%, indicating active participation and positive engagement in the learning process. Therefore, pedagogical competence positively influences students’ learning interest, and continuous improvement is needed to enhance learning effectiveness.

Christian Religious Education (PAK) plays a crucial role in helping students develop faith based on the truth of God's Word. Therefore, a theological foundation plays a crucial role in the implementation of PAK, ensuring that educational activities are not only focused on knowledge transfer but also directed toward holistically shaping character and strengthening students' faith. This article aims to examine the theological foundation of Christian Religious Education in the process of developing students' faith based on Christian teachings. The method used in this study is literature analysis, examining various theological sources, the Bible, and writings related to Christian education. The findings of this study indicate that the theological foundation of PAK stems from God's calling as a true educator, the example of Jesus Christ as the Primary Teacher, and the role of the Holy Spirit in fostering and maintaining faith. Christian Religious Education based on strong theology can help students experience true growth in faith, internalize Christian values, and implement them in their daily lives.

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

This study examines the role of understanding Christian theology in improving the quality of Christian Religious Education (CRE) learning. The focus of the study is how theological foundations can shape students’ character, morals, and spiritual development, as well as how teachers’ instructional strategies can support the achievement of these learning outcomes optimally and sustainably. The method used is a qualitative literature review, analyzing various relevant books and journal articles related to CRE, teaching approaches, and the integration of faith values into the educational curriculum. The findings indicate that mastery of Christian theology serves as an essential foundation in learning, as it enables students to understand their faith deeply while also internalizing Christian principles in their daily lives. In addition, interactive, contextual, and participatory learning methods have been shown to increase student engagement and motivation in the learning process. The role of the teacher as a moral and spiritual role model is also a key factor in strengthening the internalization of these values. Thus, an understanding of Christian theology not only supports cognitive aspects but also contributes to shaping students’ character and ethical behavior, making CRE learning transformational and holistic.