Te Deum (Jurnal Teologi dan Pengembangan Pelayanan)

Paul F. Knitter’s Model of Acceptance in Christian Mission for Religious Pluralism

Rio Rocky Hermanus, Erlita Silvia, Geovanius Wilson Parassa — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 08:14:18 +0000

Pluralism becomes a discourse in religious life, it cannot be denied that it then becomes a space for dialogue between different religions. In dialogue, it should reach the point of accepting differences because at any time there will be no common ground if the debate is about the teaching principles of a religion. The qualitative-descriptive method strengthens this article to see how Christian mission needs to be constructed properly to contribute to Christian religion positioning itself for dialogue with different religions. Starting from this basis, it is necessary to complete it by creating a basis for thinking as well as a basis for dialogue. One effective way is to use the approach offered by Paul Knitter regarding the Acceptance Model. So the result of this article is to create a space for harmonious dialogue that is able to penetrate the boundaries of space that claims mutual truth.

Give Me Neither Poverty nor Riches

Bertha Wandasari Sinukaban — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This paper examines the meaning of Agur the son of Jakeh's prayer in Proverbs 30:7-9 as a text that offers simple life. This research uses qualitative methods with interpretation-design of wisdom literature which analyzes text, structure, and sentence form. This research finds that Proverbs 30:7-9 reflects simple life which is very relevant to apply in today's life. Simple life is a simple way of life that is appropriate to prevent consumerism, hedonism, and greed. This finding can be seen in Agur the son of Jakeh's request for a 'middle state' (neither poor nor rich) and the motivation for life that is echoed in his prayer. This research is an input and reminder for every believer and church to live their simple life by Biblical values as a form of gratitude, trust, and loyalty to God.

The Meaning of the Names Antipas, Balaam, and Jezebel and Their Implications for Character Building

Aska Pattinaja, Andris Kiamani, Jani — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 08:37:30 +0000

One of the distinctive features of the book of Revelation is its abundant use of symbols, including names that serve as lessons and warnings to believers. Revelation 2:13, 14, and 20 mention three names—Antipas, Balaam, and Jezebel—that carry rich symbolic meaning. However, many scholarly studies on Revelation often overlook the theological significance of these figures as important messages for the church. Therefore, this research seeks to explore the meaning and relevance of these three names for character formation. Using a qualitative hermeneutic method focused on symbolic analysis, this study finds that Antipas represents faithfulness and integrity amid persecution; Balaam represents deceit and moral compromise, which calls for vigilance and ethical discernment; and Jezebel symbolizes immorality and idolatry, which must be rejected and guarded against. These messages provide crucial guidance for believers in building character and living righteously according to Biblical truth, especially in facing challenges in the last days.

The Concept of Education According to Psalm 128

Sihar Daniel Manurung — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 09:08:44 +0000

The fragile mental resilience of today’s youth—often called the strawberry generation—motivates this study. While outwardly creative and appealing, many young people lack strength to face life’s pressures and challenges. This contrasts sharply with the image of children as olive shoots in Psalm 128, representing strength, endurance, and fruitfulness. This research examines how family-based education rooted in Biblical principles can cultivate a resilient, steadfast generation. Using a qualitative literature review and hermeneutic analysis, the study concludes that nurturing faith in God, modeling responsibility and integrity, and sustaining consistent, personal education are key in raising a generation strong like olive trees, able to endure life’s trials and remain productive and faithful.

A Study of the Function of Eldership in 1 Timothy 3:1–7 and Its Relevance to the Santapan Rohani Indonesia Church

Ayub Rusmanto, Yohanes Joko Saptono — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

In the Santapan Rohani Indonesia Church, church councils and officials often follow the opinions of prominent figures within independent congregations. This has led to a lack of uniformity in the use of the term “elder.” This study explores the function of eldership based on 1 Timothy 3:1–7, viewing it as a noble task within the church. The researcher uses a qualitative investigative approach to understand perspectives from both the independent congregations and the synod regarding the elder as a noble calling. Data analysis includes verification steps to ensure the accuracy, generalizability, and potential replication of the study. Interview results provide information that is then descriptively broken down into representative constructions. The elder is seen as someone who willingly desires a noble and honorable task—serving the congregation according to God's will. Thus, eldership is understood as a sacred and meaningful calling within the life and ministry of the church.

“The Son of Man” in Daniel 7:13

Robi Prianto, Irwanda — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

The concept of the “Son of Man” in Daniel 7:13 holds deep theological significance and is closely connected to the Christian hope in the second coming of Jesus Christ. This study aims to explore the interpretation and application of this text within the context of Christian theology using a qualitative method with a biblical exegetical approach. The findings reveal that the “Son of Man” is not merely a collective symbol of God’s people but refers to the person of Jesus Christ, who will return in glory to fulfill God’s plan of salvation. This concept enriches eschatological understanding regarding eternal rule, final judgment, and the restoration of creation. The study emphasizes that the “Son of Man” is central to Christian eschatological hope, providing a strong theological foundation for faith in Christ’s return.

Soteriological Dimension of the Imperative in the Gospel of Matthew

Haposan Silalahi, Elisamark Sitopu — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

This study aims to analyze the imperative dimension of soteriology in the Gospel of Matthew. Using a library research method, it explores how salvation in Matthew is inseparably linked to the actions and obedience of believers. The findings show that Matthew presents salvation not merely as a passive gift but as something that demands an active response—a life of obedience. Like an unfruitful tree that is cut down, faith without action is considered incomplete. The imperative soteriology of Matthew is expressed through Jesus’ teachings that call believers to do the “will of God,” rooted in grace and the covenant of forgiveness through Christ. The Greek verb poieō (“to do”) plays a central role in Matthew’s soteriological vision, signifying wholehearted obedience to God’s commandments. This imperative element encourages a transformative faith, where believers demonstrate their salvation by actively living in alignment with God’s will in both attitude and action.

Ecotheology and the Church's Responsibility for Forest Encroachment in Indonesia

Rusliadi, Yohanes Hasiholan Tampubolon — Mon, 30 Jun 2025 00:00:00 +0000

God, as the Creator of the earth and everything in it, declared all creation good, including nature. Through nature, God provides for the survival of all living beings. This paper focuses on forests as part of God’s good creation, emphasizing their crucial role in sustaining ecological balance and providing food sources. However, Indonesia’s forests are in crisis due to rampant encroachment driven by various factors. As stewards of creation, believers—and especially the church—are called to respond. This study urges the church to actively reject forest encroachment and fulfill its cultural mandate as a form of ministry and service. The church must engage in practical steps to protect forests, such as delivering context-relevant environmental sermons, encouraging holistic land stewardship among congregants, offering environmental education, and promoting collective awareness and responsibility. In doing so, the church contributes to preserving God’s creation and demonstrates faithful obedience to the Creator’s mandate.