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Modern society faces multidimensional complexities, ranging from spiritual crises and technological disruption to social inequality. Muslims, with their theological and intellectual capital, are often perceived as suboptimal in responding to these challenges contextually and applicatively. This article aims to analyze the fundamental problems faced by Muslims in formulating answers to the problems of modern society and to explore the strategic role of Islamic higher education institutions, specifically the Muhammadiyah University of Malaysia (UMAM), in bridging this gap. This research uses a qualitative approach with a case study method at UMAM. Data was collected through literature study, observation, and structured interviews with academics and policymakers at UMAM. The findings indicate that the main problems lie in: (1) the dichotomy between naqli and aqli sciences, (2) a static approach to religious texts, and (3) a lack of integrative and innovative solution models. UMAM strives to address these issues through three main strategies: integration of knowledge in the curriculum, problem-based research, and empowering community engagement. This article concludes that UMAM has the potential to become a model social laboratory of Islam that combines the Muhammadiyah renewal ethos with the Malaysian socio-cultural context to produce relevant, humanist, and rahmatan lil 'alamin solutions.

The phenomenon of the dual role of wives is a complex social reality amidst the patriarchal culture that is still deeply rooted in Indonesian society. In this social system, women often bear the double burden of domestic responsibilities as well as public roles, which often gives rise to gender inequality, role conflict, and psychological stress. This article aims to analyze the dual role of wives in a patriarchal culture using a gender perspective and maqasid sharia as an analytical framework. The research method used is a literature study with a qualitative-descriptive approach to various relevant literature. The results of the study indicate that patriarchal culture tends to limit access and recognition of women's roles, thus contradicting the principle of gender justice. Meanwhile, maqasid sharia emphasizes the values ​​of balance, justice, and benefit in husband-wife relations. The principles of hifz ad-din, hifz an-nafs, hifz al-aql, hifz an-nasl, and hifz al-mal provide theological legitimacy for women's social and economic roles as long as they are carried out within the framework of justice, shared responsibility, and family harmony.  

State-based conservation in Indonesia often faces institutional failure and social resistance, resulting in continued deforestation. Conversely, Indigenous conservation models in West Java, specifically the Leuweung Larangan (forbidden forest), demonstrate significant ecological resilience. However, the legal standing of these customary practices within Islamic jurisprudence remains under-theorized, creating a dichotomy between Adat (custom) and Sharia. This study proposes a juridical reconstruction of the Sundanese taboo mechanism (Pamali) as Jarimah Ta’zir (discretionary sanction) to strengthen environmental law enforcement. Utilizing a socio-legal approach and ecological hermeneutics, this research analyzes Yusuf al-Qardhawi’s concept of Fiqh al-Bi’ah and Seyyed Hossein Nasr’s sacred science, alongside relevant empirical data on Indigenous forest governance. The findings demonstrate that Leuweung Larangan structurally manifests as Hima Syar’i (sacred protected zone). Operationally, Pamali functions not merely as a cultural myth, but as a preventive legal instrument (Sadd al-Dzari’ah) where environmental violations constitute religious criminal acts. This creates a "Sundanese Eco-theology" model that establishes a double-layered compliance system—social sanctions and theological liability—proving more effective for carbon preservation than state regulations alone. The study recommends integrating this model into the Green Constitution framework to resolve tenurial conflicts and enhance climate resilience.

Education in Islam plays a vital role in developing human potential holistically, where knowledge serves as the primary indicator of an individual's quality. This study aims to examine the virtue of knowledgeable people from the Quranic perspective, focusing on the theological and pedagogical analysis of Surah Al-Mujadalah verse 11. The method employed is descriptive qualitative through library research with a thematic exegesis (tafsir) approach. The results indicate that QS. Al-Mujadalah verse 11 establishes a hierarchy of human dignity based on the integration of faith and knowledge, rather than social or material status. These findings confirm that the elevation of rank encompasses a worldly dimension in the form of moral authority and an otherworldly dimension in the form of high positions before Allah. The implications of this research for contemporary Islamic education emphasize the importance of eliminating the dichotomy between religious and general sciences to cultivate the insan kamil (perfect human), who possesses a balance of intellectual intelligence, spiritual depth, and social responsibility. The study concludes that the virtue of knowledge in Islam is always grounded in transcendental values that bridge theory, faith, and practical deeds.

This study examines the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Christian Religious Education (PAK), using four Biblical principles love, justice, truth, and stewardship as a framework. Employing a qualitative approach with thematic triangulation through interviews with leaders, lecturers, and students, the research aims to understand how AI can be used ethically in PAK. The findings indicate that AI, when applied thoughtfully and ethically, can significantly enhance the learning process. The principle of love emphasizes the importance of honesty, empathy, and a compassionate approach in the use of AI. Justice calls for equitable access to AI tools, ensuring that all learners can benefit regardless of their backgrounds. The principle of truth encourages theological discernment in the application of AI, ensuring that it aligns with Christian teachings. Stewardship highlights the responsibility to manage AI technologies wisely, using them to serve God's purposes. AI is viewed not as a replacement for human educators but as a tool to serve and glorify God in the educational process. The study suggests that theological institutions should create ethical AI guidelines to ensure responsible use and should focus on enhancing faith-based digital literacy among students, preparing them for the digital age while remaining rooted in their faith.

Gender equality in the religious sphere in Indonesia is a complex phenomenon, shaped by the interaction between theological doctrines, institutional practices, and the socio-cultural context of each tradition. This study employs a qualitative-descriptive approach through literature review to analyze six major religions in Indonesia: Catholicism, Protestantism, Islam, Hindu Dharma, Buddhism, and Confucianism. The analysis focuses on three main dimensions: theological perspectives regarding gender roles and positions, social changes influencing gender relations, and transformations in institutional structures and practices that support gender equality. The findings indicate that historically, women were often placed in subordinate positions due to patriarchal norms, although the core teachings of these religions contain egalitarian principles and recognition of women’s dignity. Contemporary transformations are reflected in the reinterpretation of religious texts and practices that promote gender equality: Catholicism emphasizes the recognition of women’s dignity within the clerical hierarchy; Protestantism opens opportunities for the ordination of female pastors; Islam reinterprets the principles of Qawwamun and family law rights; Balinese Hindu Dharma adjusts women’s roles in rituals and public spheres; Buddhism revives the bhikkhuni order within the sangha; and Confucianism modernizes the interpretation of Wu Lun and San Cong to emphasize mutual responsibilities between husband and wife. In conclusion, despite persistent patriarchal challenges, this study affirms that religion has the potential to act as an agent of social transformation promoting gender equality while maintaining the moral, spiritual, and traditional values distinctive to each tradition. These findings contribute significantly to academic literature, interfaith dialogue, and the development of more gender-inclusive policies.

The Presbyterian-Synodal system of church government is based on the ideal theological foundation of Christocracy, the confession that Christ is the sole Head of the Church who rules directly through His Word and Spirit. Theoretically, this model rejects hierarchy, affirms the parity of all ecclesiastical officers (ministers, elders, deacons) as servants, and views the local church council as a complete church (ecclesia completa). However, in historical and contemporary practice, a fundamental tension exists whereby this system consistently deviates into hierarchical and clerical practices. This deviation manifests as a hierarchy of office (clericalism) and a hierarchy of assemblies (Synod-centrism), where authority shifts from Christ to official figures and Synodal structures that are viewed as the "highest court." This article aims to analyze the fundamental causes of this authority shift. Using a qualitative library research method, the author conducts a systematic-theological, historical-critical, and comparative analysis of the works of Reformers (especially Calvin), historical church order documents, and contemporary case studies (such as in Malawi and GMIM). This study concludes that this authority shift stems from two primary factors: First, a "theological deficiency" in many church order documents, which fail to affirm Christ's rule "through His Word and Spirit," stating instead only His rule "through the ministry of officials," thus effectively equating official authority with Christ's authority. Second, the historical legacy of Scottish "national covenant" ecclesiology, which was historically intentionally designed with a centralized authority structure for "godly officials" to "rule over" a mixed populace. The author recommends that churches in this tradition revise their church orders to explicitly re-assert the supremacy of Christ's rule through His Word and Spirit over any human official or synodical authority.

This study examines the implementation of Servant Leadership within GMIM Syalom Lelema and its influence on congregational attendance in worship fellowship. Rooted in the theological model of leadership exemplified by Jesus Christ, Servant Leadership emphasizes humility, empathy, presence, and service as core leadership values. Using a qualitative case-study approach, data were collected through observations, interviews, and documentation to understand the relational dynamics between church leaders and congregational participation. The findings reveal that the congregation highly values leaders—pastors, elders, and deacons—who demonstrate genuine care, pastoral presence, and willingness to serve. Acts of pastoral visitation, listening to members’ struggles, and showing humility significantly strengthen emotional and spiritual bonds within the community, resulting in higher attendance and engagement in various worship activities. Conversely, leaders who lack servant-like attitudes tend to receive weaker responses from the congregation, which negatively impacts their participation in worship. The study concludes that Servant Leadership is not merely a theological ideal but a practical necessity within the communal culture of GMIM Syalom Lelema. The model effectively fosters stronger relationships, increases congregational commitment, and enhances the vitality of church fellowship. Keywords: Servant Leadership, Pastoral Ministry, Worship Attendance, Ecclesial Leadership, GMIM Syalom Lelema.

This study examines the role of digital church music as a medium for evangelism and discipleship within the digital ecosystem. It employs a mixed methods approach using a sequential explanatory design, in which quantitative data collection is followed by qualitative exploration. Quantitative data were gathered through an online survey of at least 200 respondents to measure the intensity of digital worship music consumption, perceived gospel understanding, faith reflection, and spiritual engagement. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with 15–20 key informants and digital content analysis of worship songs, service videos, and social media interactions. The findings indicate that digital church music contributes to strengthening gospel understanding, encouraging faith reflection, and expanding discipleship practices through online spaces. A moderate positive correlation between music consumption intensity and spiritual engagement suggests that music functions as a contextual medium for faith formation. This study highlights the importance of adaptive theological and pastoral strategies for church music ministry in the digital era.

Contemporary church ministry is often trapped in a seasonal pattern, with increased activity only during major events like Christmas and Easter, while stagnating at other times. This phenomenon indicates a fundamental problem in leadership patterns that are not poverty-oriented. This article analyzes the roots of seasonal church ministry through a qualitative-descriptive approach and theological reflection based on Osmer's framework. Literature reviews by Barna, Maxwell, Banks & Ledbetter, as well as the leadership principles of Jesus Christ, show that seasonality is eliminated by reactive leadership that lacks a long-term vision, minimal spiritual training, and a weak ministerial cadre system. As a solution, this article offers a sustainable leadership model that emphasizes a year-round discipleship vision, ministerial training and regeneration, systematic ministry evaluation, and the spiritual example of leaders. This model is believed to help churches experience stable growth, establish a consistent ministry rhythm, and present relevant evidence to the world. Thus, sustainable leadership is a strategic and theological approach to addressing seasonal ministry and strengthening the mission of the church today.

Humans, as creations of Allah SWT, are entrusted with the mandate to prosper the earth; therefore, divine revelations were sent down, culminating in the Qur’an as the ultimate guide for life. Islam, as a universal religion, emphasizes education as a means to achieve a complete and meaningful life. Islamic education, as defined by scholars such as al-Syaebani, Zakiah Drajat, and Muhaimin, is a process of transforming human behavior in personal, social, and environmental contexts based on Islamic values. This study employs a library research method with a thematic tafsir (maudhu’i) approach to examine the Qur’anic foundations of Islamic education. The findings indicate that verses such as QS. Al-‘Alaq [96]:1–5 highlight the importance of literacy as the starting point of education, QS. Al-Mujadalah [58]:11 affirms the elevated status of the learned, QS. An-Nahl [16]:78 emphasizes human innate potential, QS. Luqman [31]:12–19 stresses character education, and QS. Ali Imran [3]:190–191 underscores the integration of spirituality and intellect. Thus, the Qur’anic foundation provides theological, philosophical, and practical bases for the development of Islamic education aimed at forming insan kamil—individuals who are knowledgeable, faithful, and morally upright. QS. Luqman: 13–19 highlights education based on monotheism and morals, where Luqman advises his children to have faith, do good deeds and be patient. QS. Al-Māidah: 67 emphasizes trust and courage in conveying knowledge, as Allah commanded the Prophet to convey revelation without fear

The ecological crisis affecting Central Kalimantan reveals systemic environmental degradation, ranging from deforestation and river pollution to peatland destruction caused by massive extractive activities. The impact of this crisis extends beyond ecological damage, disrupting the social, cultural, and spiritual order of the Dayak Indigenous communities. This article aims to reflect on Dayak communal spirituality as a path toward ecological conversion in the light of the encyclical Laudato Si’. Employing a qualitative approach through theological–contextual hermeneutics and library research, this study examines the dialogue between Dayak cosmology, communal life values, and the Catholic Church’s vision of integral ecology. The findings indicate that Dayak communal spirituality affirms a reciprocal relationship among humans, nature, the community, and the Creator, which resonates with the call for ecological conversion articulated in Laudato Si’. This article argues that integrating Dayak communal spirituality into the Church’s pastoral praxis holds transformative potential in fostering ecological awareness, strengthening the inculturation of faith, and encouraging the active participation of the faithful in caring for our common home in a sustainable manner.

The concept of the Day of the LORD in the prophetic tradition of the Old Testament is often narrowly understood as a day of victory and salvation for Israel. However, the book of Amos offers a sharp critique of such an interpretation. This study aims to examine the eschatological meaning of the Day of the LORD in Amos 5:18–24 as a moment of judgment and restoration. This research employs a qualitative method with a biblical hermeneutical approach, particularly historical-contextual and theological analysis of Amos 5:18–24. The findings indicate that the Day of the LORD is portrayed as a divine event that brings judgment against social injustice, religious hypocrisy, and ethical deviation among the people of Israel. At the same time, the text opens the possibility of restoration through the demand for justice and righteousness as expressions of true worship. Therefore, Amos’s eschatology is not speculative about the future but functions as a prophetic critique that calls for repentance and social transformation. This study affirms that the Day of the LORD remains contextually relevant for the contemporary church in integrating faith, worship, and social justice as an inseparable unity.

This study aims to explore the contribution of Christian Religious Education in developing the character of people with disabilities, grounded in Jean Vanier’s perspective on inclusive community and human dignity. People with disabilities are often marginalized due to persistent social stigma, which limits their access to education, meaningful participation, and employment opportunities, particularly within faith-based educational contexts. Employing a qualitative research approach through an in-depth literature review, this study examines key concepts in Christian Religious Education, the characteristics and lived experiences of individuals with disabilities, and the challenges and strategies associated with inclusive educational practices. The findings indicate that Christian Religious Education can function as an effective empowerment framework by integrating spiritual formation with the development of social skills, self-confidence, and communal belonging. Based on Jean Vanier’s inclusive vision, the study highlights practical implications for local churches, Christian schools, and faith-based communities, such as fostering inclusive learning environments, implementing participatory pedagogical models, and strengthening community-based support systems for people with disabilities.Furthermore, reducing social stigma through value-based education and community engagement emerges as a critical strategy to enhance educational participation and social integration. These findings contribute to the discourse on inclusive Christian education and offer contextual strategies applicable to local academic and ecclesial settings in promoting the dignity and empowerment of people with disabilities.

This study aims to implement the Christian Religious Education and Character Education (PAK) teaching module in grade V of SDN 1 Sabaru, Palangka Raya, with a focus on the topic “Jesus Was Crucified, Died, and Risen for Me.” The learning process is designed to support students’ spiritual and character development through an interactive and project-based approach. Teaching methods include group discussions, the use of miniature media as visual learning aids, collaborative activities, and guided reflection on Christian values relevant to students’ daily experiences. The results of classroom observations show that most students are active, enthusiastic, and involved in the learning process, able to understand the theological meaning of the crucifixion, death, and resurrection of Jesus, and apply the values of love, gratitude, and responsibility in everyday life. Obstacles found include a lack of self-confidence in some students and less optimal group dynamics during activities. These findings serve as important evaluation materials for improving the effectiveness of future learning implementation

This study aims to review the historical development of theology from the classical period to the contemporary period and its relationship with Islamic theological thought in the modern era. Theology plays an important role as a basis for understanding the creed and an intellectual response to the challenges of thought in every period of Islamic history. This study uses a qualitative approach with a literature study method on ten major scientific works that discuss the development of Islamic theology. Data were collected through document review and analyzed using descriptive-analytical techniques to trace the evolution of theological thought. The results show that theology of theology experienced three main phases of development: the classical period which emphasized rational defense of faith, the medieval period which combined reason and revelation in theological thought, and the modern period which focused on the issue of pluralism and contemporary socio-religious challenges. This study concludes that Islamic theology is a dynamic discipline and continues to adapt to the intellectual and social contexts of each era.

This study discusses the concept of lifelong education from an Islamic perspective by highlighting the thoughts of Ibn Khaldun as a prominent figure in the history of education. Using a qualitative method based on a literature study, this research examines sources from the Qur’an, Hadith, and related scholarly works to understand the theological and philosophical foundations of lifelong education. The findings indicate that education in Islam is viewed as a continuous process that takes place from birth until the end of life. Ibn Khaldun emphasized the importance of a gradual and systematic learning process, as well as the use of methods that align with learners’ developmental stages. This concept is consistent with the demands of modern education, which emphasize active, creative, and adaptive learning. Furthermore, the study highlights various forms of lifelong education implementation, such as vocational, professional, civic, and cultural education. These findings affirm that lifelong education is an essential necessity in responding to social, technological, and civilizational dynamics, while also constituting an act of worship and a human responsibility as khalifah (stewards) on earth.

In the context of modernity, characterized by secularization and existential anxiety, traditional models of Christian faith formation often appear disconnected from the lived reality of believers, particularly regarding the doctrines of salvation and eschatology. This study investigates the crucial role of the church in bridging this gap by developing a pedagogical approach that integrally links ecclesial education with eschatological hope. Employing a qualitative descriptive analysis method, this research examines theological literature, contemporary church documents, and case studies of Christian formation programs. The analysis reveals that a robust eschatological perspective oriented towards the hope of salvation, resurrection, and the renewal of all things is not merely a final chapter of doctrine but an essential, transformative framework for all faith education. It shapes Christian identity, ethics, and mission in the present. The study concludes that for faith formation to be salvific and relevant today, the church must intentionally reconfigure its educational praxis. This reconfiguration involves moving from a compartmentalized teaching of "last things" to fostering an eschatological imagination that informs discipleship, worship, and social engagement, thereby presenting salvation as a comprehensive hope actively shaping Christian life in the modern world.

This study aims to analyze the difficulties experienced by students in understanding abstract concepts in Islamic creed (akidah) and to evaluate the effectiveness of Islamic-based animation learning media as an innovative and interactive solution. The research employs a qualitative Classroom Action Research (CAR) approach, conducted in two learning cycles using observation, interviews, documentation, and questionnaires as data collection techniques. The implementation of Islamic animation learning media demonstrated a significant improvement in students’ conceptual comprehension. The results indicate that the average understanding score increased from 35.25% in the preliminary stage to 89.25% after the final cycle, showing a substantial rise in students’ achievement levels. In addition, students’ enthusiasm, motivation, and active participation in classroom activities increased markedly when learning materials were presented through animated visualization rather than conventional lecture-based instruction. Expert validation confirmed that the developed instructional media meets pedagogical, didactic, and visual quality standards, and responses from teachers and students revealed positive perceptions regarding the relevance and attractiveness of animation-based learning. The findings highlight that Islamic-based animation learning media serves as an effective educational tool capable of simplifying and concretizing abstract theological concepts, enabling learners to construct deeper understanding through visual and contextual illustration.Therefore,the study recommends the broader application of animation-based Islamic instructional media in akidah education to enhance comprehension, engagement, and learning outcomes in schools.

This article examines the meaning of repentance and baptism in the Acts of the Apostles through an eschatological theological approach. Repentance and baptism are considered two important aspects in the journey of salvation and the development of the Christian faith. The methodology used in this research is qualitative with a literature study to explore the meaning, application and relationship between repentance and baptism from an eschatological theological perspective. Research findings reveal that repentance is a transformation of the heart that prepares a person to receive baptism as a symbol of new birth and the washing away of sins by the Holy Spirit. These two concepts complement each other and have significant theological consequences in the teaching and practice of the church's faith today. This research provides in-depth insight into the role of repentance and baptism in the context of gradual and eschatological salvation.