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The development of digital media has transformed YouTube into one of the most influential platforms for Islamic preaching, shaping public understanding of religious issues, including religious tolerance. This study aims to analyze the representation of religious tolerance, the patterns of tolerance message delivery, and the tendency of interpreting religious tolerance in Felix Siauw’s YouTube content. The research employs a qualitative approach using content analysis of videos discussing interfaith relations and social diversity.The findings reveal that religious tolerance in Felix Siauw’s content is represented as respect for the rights of followers of other religions in social life without compromising the boundaries of Islamic creed (aqidah). Messages of tolerance are conveyed through persuasive narratives supported by Qur’anic verses, Hadith, and scholars’ perspectives, emphasizing the importance of maintaining Islamic identity within a pluralistic society. The study also indicates that the interpretation of tolerance promoted in the content tends to emphasize social tolerance rather than theological tolerance, namely respecting diversity and fostering peaceful coexistence without equating religious beliefs. Therefore, digital Islamic preaching functions not only as a medium for disseminating religious teachings but also as a platform for shaping public understanding of religious tolerance.

This study aims to develop a strategy for developing praise and worship services through a deeper biblical theology of Psalm 150, as a fundamental solution for congregational growth at YHS Eka Sinta Church in Kapuas Regency. The main premise of this study is based on the crucial disconnect between contemporary church music practices, which tend to be performative, and the essence of the doxology authoritatively contained in the text Scripture. By integrating descriptive qualitative methods and an exegetical biblical theology approach, this study explores the imperative meaning and poetic structure of Psalm 150 and then engages them in intercultural dialogue with the sociocultural context of local churches in Kalimantan. The results reveal that the biblical theology Psalm 150 emphasizes the totality of instrumental use and the universality of the subject of praise as an absolute reflection of God's sovereignty and might. Field findings indicate that the effectiveness of music services is often hampered by technical limitations and theological shallowness of liturgical ministers. This study concludes that healthy congregational growth, both in terms of spiritual quality and quantity, is rooted in the extent to which the church able to actualize biblical theological values ​​in expressions of praise that are relevant and resonate with the cultural background and local identity of its congregation. The resulting strategy offers a holistic ministry model, in which church music returns to its essential function as an instrument of faith transformation and a means of growing the Kingdom of God, adaptively yet faithful to the biblical text.

The use of hermeneutics in Qur'anic studies has long generated debate among Muslim scholars. Some view hermeneutics as a methodological tool that can bridge the historical distance between the revealed text and contemporary life, whereas others regard it as an epistemological threat that may weaken the authority of the Qur'an. This article aims to analyze the arguments of both proponents and critics and to identify possible areas of convergence. Using a descriptive-analytical approach and library research, this study examines relevant works by scholars who support and oppose the application of hermeneutics in Qur'anic interpretation. The findings show that proponents, such as Fazlur Rahman, Nasr Hamid Abu Zayd, and Mohammed Arkoun, argue that hermeneutics can enrich interpretive methods and help contextualize meaning. Conversely, critics, such as Adian Husaini and scholars who emphasize the authority of established tafsir traditions, argue that hermeneutics emerged from the problems of Biblical interpretation and therefore cannot be applied directly to the Qur'an, which is believed to retain its authenticity. The study concludes that the debate stems from different theological assumptions about text, revelation, and interpretation. It recommends the selective adaptation of hermeneutics as a supporting analytical tool, not as a replacement for the science of tafsir.

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 study examines John 15:1–8, highlighting its Christological, ecclesiological dimensions, and pastoral implications in a contemporary context, particularly in West Kalimantan. Employing an exegetical approach integrated with theological reflection, the metaphor of the “true vine” is understood as a declaration of Jesus’ identity as the source of authentic life and the relational foundation of the community of disciples. The concept of “abiding” is interpreted as an ongoing existential connectedness with Christ, expressed through practices of faith such as engagement with the Word, prayer, and love. Meanwhile, “bearing fruit” is not merely ethical output but an authentic manifestation of life grounded in this relational union. Furthermore, the study argues that Johannine ecclesiology is organic in nature, portraying the church as a living community deriving its existence from and in Christ, rather than a purely institutional structure. The pastoral implications of this metaphor are significant in addressing local challenges such as individualism, ecological crisis, religious plurality, and the spiritual formation of youth. Using a praxis–reflection–praxis framework, the text is integrated into theological education as a model linking faith reflection with concrete action. The findings affirm that Christ-centered spirituality fosters personal and communal transformation relevant to the contemporary church.

The study critically examines the Gospel of John as a theological text integrating the incarnate Logos and sacramental symbolism. Using a qualitative, library-based approach with historical-critical and hermeneutical analysis, it shows that John’s Gospel not only narrates Jesus’ life but constructs a symbolic, existential, and transformative theological reflection. The Logos shifts from a metaphysical principle to a personal reality in history through the incarnation, enabling a concrete encounter between God and humanity. Within this framework, symbols such as water and bread function as media of revelation guiding individuals toward a living, relational faith experience. Furthermore, sacramental symbolism in the Gospel of John is ontologically grounded in the incarnation of the Logos. Faith is thus understood not merely as intellectual assent but as participation in divine life that transforms human existence. The integration of Christological and sacramental dimensions indicates that faith is holistic, encompassing spiritual, material, and relational aspects. Thus, the Gospel of John presents a theological vision of faith as a concrete and dynamic existential encounter, relevant for contemporary theological reflection.

The study examines the symbolic meaning of the “Bread of Life” in John 6 through an exegetical-theological approach, using intertextual and narrative-semiotic perspectives. It uncovers the dynamics of Johannine Christological revelation, which moves from miracle as sign, through theological discourse, and culminates in the sacramental understanding of the Eucharist. The Gospel of John is read as a text that employs symbolism and patterns of misunderstanding to lead readers from a literal reading toward deeper faith in Jesus as the source of true life. In this framework, the “Bread of Life” functions not merely as metaphor but as a revelatory symbol integrating Christological, soteriological, and ecclesiological dimensions. Findings show that this symbol is rooted in Old Testament motifs such as manna, Exodus, and wisdom, reinterpreted Christologically in Jesus. The feeding miracle points beyond physical sustenance to divine revelation, culminating in the statement “I am the Bread of Life.” John 6:51b–58 intensifies this sacramental meaning, forming the basis for Eucharistic theology, where participation in Christ’s body and blood signifies existential communion with God. The study concludes that John integrates Christology and sacramental theology, portraying faith as movement from sign to reality, recognition to participation, and revelation to communion with Christ.

Divorce is an increasing social reality within Christian congregations, including in Indonesia, bringing profound psychological, social, and spiritual impacts while simultaneously presenting serious challenges for the church's pastoral ministry. This article examines the theological foundation and practical approaches in pastoral accompaniment for congregation members experiencing divorce, employing library research methodology within a pastoral theology framework. The study reveals that the church is called to be present not as a judge, but as a healing, supportive, and restoring community. Effective pastoral accompaniment encompasses empathetic pastoral counseling, a compassionate congregational community, intentional attention to affected children, and a long-term restoration commitment rooted in Gospel grace. The church is called to move beyond stigmatization toward genuine acceptance of wounded individuals, reflecting the redemptive love of Christ. This article concludes that the church's response to divorce must balance biblical integrity with deep compassion, affirming both the sanctity of marriage and the dignity of broken individuals. Thus, the church can become a safe space for every congregation member to experience genuine restoration and rediscover hope in Christ.

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 overhaul the conventional understanding of tourism through a missiological lens, by positioning social interactions at the Parbubu Tarutung Soda Water Tourism Object as the locus of Missio Dei (God's Mission) manifestation. Amidst the tendency of modern humans to be trapped in egocentrism, alienation, and minimal openness due to secular routines, God is present with a mission to transform human relations. Using a qualitative descriptive-theological method, this study analyzes three axes of social interaction (inter-tourists, tourists-managers, and tourists-local communities). The results of field research indicate that although the pattern of interaction between visitors is still minimalist and egocentric-group due to a purely physical recreation orientation, there is a strong spiritual modality in the service aspect (hospitality) of the managers that reflects the restoration of the image of God (Imago Dei). The absence of social conflict and the presence of sincere hospitality are identified not merely as business strategies, but as real implications of the work of the Holy Spirit who precedes the church (prevenient grace) in destroying human egoism. This study concludes that tourism can be an eschatological means by which social interactions are transformed into encounters that bring about God's Shalom, meaning that tourism can be a way to bring about God's peace through authentic encounters between tourists, rather than simply ordinary tourist transactions. The author recommends the reconstruction of public spaces in this destination as inclusive communal spaces that facilitate reconciliation and social transformation.

The development of social media has significantly changed human communication patterns. On the one hand, digital media provides a space for freedom of expression, but on the other hand, it has also given rise to digital judgmental cultural phenomena such as Cancel culture and cyberbullying. These phenomena often give rise to verbal violence, public humiliation, and massive social exclusion in cyberspace. This article aims to analyze the phenomena of Cancel culture and cyberbullying from a Christian ethical perspective. The research method used is a literature review with a theological-ethical approach. The results of the study indicate that the digital judgmental culture contradicts the principles of love, respect for human dignity as the Imago Dei, and Christian communication ethics taught in the Bible. Christian ethics views every individual as having value before God, so the practices of humiliation, digital bullying, and public judgment are unjustifiable. The church and believers are called to present constructive, loving, communication in the digital space.

This article discusses the dynamics of Christian students’ spirituality in the digital era, characterized by the currents of globalization, information overload, and a culture of virtual communication that influence patterns of thinking, lifestyles, and character formation. The novelty of this study lies in its analysis of the direct relationship between the digital-global context and the process of students’ faith formation through an integrative theological–pedagogical perspective. This research aims to analyze the implications of digital globalization for the spirituality of Christian students and to formulate directions for faith formation that are relevant to the contemporary context. The method employed is a qualitative approach using a library research design through conceptual, theological, and pedagogical analysis of various relevant scholarly sources. The findings indicate that the digital era presents both opportunities and challenges for faith development, in which students experience a dynamic tension between the strengthening of spiritual insight and the potential value crisis resulting from exposure to global ideologies. In conclusion, contextual, reflective, and selective strategies of faith formation are required to ensure that the spirituality of Christian students remains firm, critical, and relevant amid the currents of digital globalization.

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 article aims to explain the theological meaning and implications of the word "worship" (προσκυνέω/proskuneō) in Matthew 2:2 in the context of the birth of Jesus Christ, and its relevance to the worship practices of the church today. This study uses a qualitative method with a contextual-historical analysis approach to the biblical text, supported by a review of theological literature related to worship in the Christian tradition. The results of the study indicate that proskuneō does not only refer to an act of reverence, but also contains the meaning of acknowledgment of divine authority, an attitude of humility, and a deep spiritual commitment. In the context of Matthew 2:2, the actions of the Magi represent theological, relational, and transformative worship. These findings confirm that true worship involves acknowledging God's sovereignty, a readiness for sacrifice, and an openness to renewal of life. The practical implication for the church today is the need to enrich the understanding and practice of worship that goes beyond the liturgy, but is manifested in personal intimacy with God, acts of social benevolence, and service that reflects a God-fearing life. This article contributes to a biblical understanding of worship and its application in the context of the believer's spiritual life.

Digital technology has significantly transformed adolescents’ lives, including the process of character formation. While the digital era provides broad opportunities for accessing information and developing personal potential, it also presents challenges such as identity crises, individualism, instant culture, cyberbullying, moral relativism, and declining spiritual engagement. These conditions create unique challenges for Christian adolescents in maintaining values and character grounded in biblical teachings. This study aims to examine the challenges of Christian adolescent character formation in the digital era, analyze the perspectives of the Christian worldview and educational psychology on character development, and explain the relevance of integrating these perspectives in addressing contemporary challenges. The research employed a qualitative approach using a library research method. Data were collected from books, scholarly journals, and other relevant academic sources and analyzed through content analysis. The findings indicate that the Christian worldview provides a theological foundation for shaping identity, values, and character based on biblical truth, while educational psychology offers scientific insights into adolescent development and effective character-building strategies. The integration of these perspectives creates a holistic approach that addresses spiritual, moral, social, emotional, and cognitive dimensions. Therefore, this integration is essential for helping Christian adolescents navigate the challenges of the digital era wisely, responsibly, and in accordance with Christian values.

This article examines the influence of cell group (komsel) leadership, Christian lifestyle, and discipleship on the growth of the congregation at Christian Ministry Church (CMC) Jakarta. Employing a quantitative correlational design with 140 respondents, the study operationalizes three independent variables (X₁ = cell leadership; X₂ = lifestyle; X₃ = discipleship) against the dependent variable (Y = congregational growth). Pearson correlation analysis reveals significant correlations between cell leadership and lifestyle (r = .800, p < .01) and between cell leadership and discipleship (r = .591, p < .01), whereas direct correlations with Y were non-significant individually. Multiple regression yielded R = .752 and R² = .566, indicating that collectively the three predictors account for 56.6% of variance in congregational growth. These findings reinforce the argument that organic church growth is multidimensional and that the synergistic interaction of cell leadership, moral integrity, and discipleship constitutes a coherent growth ecosystem. Theological and pastoral implications are discussed within frameworks of contemporary missiology and cell ecclesiology.

This study aims to explore how the inquiry approach functions as a pedagogical strategy in Christian Religious Education to enhance students’ spiritual discernment. The background of this research arises from the tendency of learning practices that remain predominantly focused on cognitive aspects, thereby not fully cultivating spiritual sensitivity in life decision-making. This study employs a qualitative method with a descriptive-analytical approach through a review of theological and pedagogical literature, conceptual analysis, and reflection on classroom learning practices. The analysis focuses on the relationship between the core elements of inquiry questioning, investigating, dialoguing, and reflecting on knowledge and the process of developing the ability to discern God’s will in the real-life contexts of students. The findings indicate that inquiry effectively creates a reflective learning experience that integrates cognitive, affective, and behavioral dimensions, enabling students not only to understand faith teachings theoretically but also to consider Christian values in concrete situations. This approach encourages active participation, constructive and critical dialogue, and fosters habits of faith reflection, moral sensitivity, and personal responsibility. Thus, inquiry is proven to be a relevant pedagogical method for achieving the theological goal of Christian Religious Education, namely the formation of spiritual discernment that guides students’ attitudes, decisions, and actions in daily life.

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 impact of dehumanization in the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the formation of the personality of future priests in light of the teachings of Pastores Dabo Vobis, particular number 43-44, as well as from Philosophical and theological perspectives. The development of AI brings significant changes in the way human think, relate, and build their self-identity. On the one hand, AI offers great opportunities to support intellectual formation through access to information, pastoral simulations, and digital learning. However, on the other hand, the dominance of technology has the potential to cause dehumanization, namely a reduction in the quality of interpersonal relationships, the depth of reflection and sensitivity. This study employs a literature review method, examining relevant theological, philosophical, and scientific literature. The findings indicate that excessive reliance on AI can disrupt the development of the human dimension in seminarians, particularly regarding affective maturity, relational competence, and the integrity of personal identity. From a philosophical perspective, humans are understood as free, rational, and relational beings; thus, reducing humans to mere components of an algorithmic system contradicts their very nature. Meanwhile, theology affirms human dignity as the Imago Dei, which cannot be replaced by technology. Therefore, a critical and prudent formation approach is required, one that positions AI as an aid, not a substitute for human relationships.

This article theologically analyzes the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of believers through a study of the doctrine of pneumatology, traced from the testimony of Scripture to its impact on the practice of Christian faith. The purpose of this study is to explain how the work of the Holy Spirit is understood not merely as a theological concept, but also as a spiritual reality that shapes the identity, character, and dynamics of believers’ service. The method employed is qualitative research with a library research approach, involving the analysis of relevant theological and biblical sources to construct a conceptual framework concerning the work of the Holy Spirit in guidance, conviction, the sealing of salvation, spiritual transformation, and empowerment in ministry. This research is necessary because there remains a limited understanding of pneumatology that tends to be doctrinal and disconnected from concrete faith experiences. The findings of this study indicate that the presence of the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in leading believers into truth, forming Christian character, strengthening their identity as children of God, and empowering them to serve effectively within the community. Therefore, pneumatology holds significant practical relevance in fostering a dynamic, reflective, and transformative life of faith in the contemporary Christian context.