Te Deum (Jurnal Teologi dan Pengembangan Pelayanan)

Collective Repentance Narrative in 2 Chronicles 12:1-12

2026-07-02T01:03:06+00:00

This study aims to reconstruct the narrative and theological dimensions of 2 Chronicles 12:1–12 and to examine their relevance for a Christian leadership paradigm. While previous scholarship has highlighted the pedagogical and theological functions of Chronicles, the theme of collective repentance and its implications for Christian leadership have received comparatively limited attention. This research employs a qualitative method utilizing narrative criticism. The findings reveal a consistent narrative-theological pattern: pride leads to downfall, prophetic rebuke prompts reflection, collective repentance invites divine mercy, and communal restoration becomes the ultimate goal. This pattern underscores that Christian leadership is grounded in humility, openness to prophetic correction, and responsibility toward the community. Based on these findings, the study proposes a Chronicler’s leadership model consisting of four key elements: responsible authority, openness to prophetic rebuke, collective repentance as a response to crisis, and communal restoration as the ultimate purpose of leadership.

Quality Culture and Participatory Christian Leadership in Addressing the Literacy Crisis in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT)

2026-07-02T01:22:58+00:00

The literacy crisis in East Nusa Tenggara (NTT) reflects structural challenges that extend beyond low reading interest, encompassing educational, social, cultural, and economic factors. Limited access to reading materials, disparities in teacher capacity, linguistic transitions, and inadequate digital infrastructure continue to hinder literacy development. This study examines how the integration of Total Quality Management (TQM) and participatory Christian leadership can strengthen literacy initiatives in NTT. TQM provides a systematic framework for continuous quality improvement through planning, implementation, evaluation, and stakeholder involvement. Complementing this approach, participatory Christian leadership fosters collaboration among principals, teachers, parents, and local communities in developing culturally relevant and community-based literacy programs. The synergy between quality culture and participatory leadership promotes sustainable, low-cost, and context-sensitive literacy interventions. The study concludes that improving literacy in NTT requires not only educational resources but also organizational transformation, community participation, and collaborative leadership to achieve inclusive and sustainable educational development.

Digital-Era Spirituality

2026-07-02T14:44:57+00:00

Abstract

The rapid development of digital technology has transformed not only social and economic life but also the spiritual practices of contemporary society. This study examines the emergence of digital spirituality and its influence on Christians’ understanding and experience of faith in the digital era. Using a descriptive method with a library research approach, the study explores the opportunities and challenges of spirituality within digital contexts while highlighting technology’s role as a medium for spiritual formation. The findings indicate that social media functions not only as a tool for ministry but also as a theological and existential space that shapes how Christians understand, experience, and express their faith. Consequently, churches are encouraged to develop a contextual, critical, and transformative digital spirituality that enables technology to support discipleship, character formation, and the strengthening of Christian communities while maintaining the authenticity of faith in an increasingly digitalized world.

The Spectrum of Christological Syncretism in Asia Minor after the Council of Nicaea (AD 325–451)

2026-07-02T15:06:56+00:00

Abstract

This study examines Christological syncretism in post-Nicene Asia Minor (AD 325–451), moving beyond the traditional orthodoxy–heresy dichotomy. Using an interdisciplinary library research approach, it synthesizes textual evidence, including patristic writings and hagiographies, with archaeological evidence such as architecture, funerary art, and amulets. The findings demonstrate that Christological syncretism functioned along a dynamic spectrum rather than as a single phenomenon. Three operational levels are identified: conscious adaptation, in which pre-Christian forms were reinterpreted without altering Christian doctrine; pragmatic fusion, where Christ’s name and power were incorporated into local ritual practices; and conceptual assimilation, in which Christ’s nature was redefined through regional cultural narratives. The study concludes that syncretism was not merely doctrinal deviation but a significant mechanism of inculturation. By proposing a spectrum model of Christological syncretism, this research offers a nuanced analytical framework for understanding the diversity of lived Christianity in Late Antiquity.