Theological
Analysis of Christian Education Based on the Gospels
Famarudi
Halawa1*, Juspen
Siringo-ringo2, Ketler Sitohang3, Ova Eniwati Habayahan4, Robinson Marbun5, Simon Lumban Toruan6, Andar Gunawan Pasaribu7
State
Christian Religious Institute, Tarutung, Indonesia1*234567
Email: Famarudinhalawa1991@gmail.com1*, siringojuspen@gmail.com2, ketlersitohang82@gmail.com3, ovaeniwatihabayahan@gmail.com4,
robinsonmarbun261@gmail.com5, simonpetruslumbantoruan@gmail.com6, andargunawanpsaribu@gmail.com7
Abstract
The
book of Injl is one of the parts of the New Testament,
consisting of four books, namely Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. The gospel is the foundation for carrying out
educational actions for the world in which Jesus Christ has given instructions,
methods, and ways of implementation. The Gospel usually means the news about
God's saving activity in Jesus Christ or
the news that conveys the story of Jesus' life, death, and resurrection with
the aim of saving His beloved mankind. In an effort to trace this intent,
qualitative-descriptive research methods are used. The result obtained is that
the purpose of the PAK based on the gospel is to know that God takes the
initiative in saving the humanity he loves.
Keywords:
Gospel, God's Salvation; Theology of Christian Religious
Education; The purpose of Christian education.
Introduction
The Gospels are believed to be an
important guide to life for Christians. The gospel comes from the Greek word, ευαγγέλιον,
euangelion, which means good news
Education
is a process of humanizing human beings to a better, more advanced, more
valuable, and more civilized level. In addition, humans are also naturally
given the ability to think as a driving force to want to change, improve,
advance, and improve their standard of living, and all of this can only be
obtained through education. So, education is an integral part of human life
Education is one of the main concerns in the
Bible. In the Bible, educators and students play an educational process. This
role occurs between God and His people. The Bible testifies that God is a
peerless educator (Job 36:22) and that no one can teach Him (Job 21:22; Yes.
40:14). He taught knowledge to man (Ps. 94:10).1 God's teaching to man occurred
throughout human history, which can be seen from various events
The importance of education is expressed in the
Bible, and it has even become the main means of introducing every decree and
purpose of God. The Lord Jesus Himself when He was on this earth, education was
an important part of every ministry of His life. This can be seen in every
activity of the Lord Jesus
This mandate is known as the great commission
of the Lord Jesus. The great commission is the call to preach God's Word, which
has value and applies to every age. Therefore, this call is not only given by
the Lord Jesus, but His followers also emulate the same thing. The mandate that
is not only valid and intended for students but also for all believers,
including teachers as the main agent in the world of education, takes part in
the mandate. The great mandate is the basis for teachers in carrying out educational
actions for the world, which Jesus has provided methods and ways of
implementing so that this mandate becomes the center for the implementation of
education. Departing from such an understanding, then the author wants to trace
the purpose of Christian religious education from the perspective of the
theology of the Bible.
Research
Methods
This paper uses qualitative research.
Qualitative research is descriptive research with data analysis emphasizing
process and meaning more. In an effort to complete the data and information in
this paper, the author uses the library research method. Library research is
carried out by searching and researching information from books and related
documents. In collecting information, the author carried out several stages,
namely: First, presenting some definitions of the Gospels, the theology of the
PAK in the gospels, and the meaning of the PAK according to experts. As well as
drawing conclusions.
Results
and Discussion
History
History is
an important aspect of the Gospels, providing historical context and background
for recorded events. History in the Gospels covers many aspects, including:
- Historical
Background: Describes the political, social, and cultural
situation at the time of the writing of the Gospels, providing an
understanding of the context in which the Gospels were written and their
teachings.
- The Life Story
of Jesus: Recording the important events in the life of Jesus
Christ, from His birth to His resurrection, provides a foundation for
faith and an example for Christians.
- Mission Journey: Recounts the
journey of Jesus' apostles and followers in spreading Christianity,
providing an overview of the development of the early church.
- Persecution and
Martyrdom: Records the suffering and persecution faced by early
Christians, bearing witness to their faith and perseverance.
An understanding of the historical
aspects of the Gospels is essential for accurately interpreting its teachings,
appreciating the cultural and social context in which the Gospels were written,
and drawing inspiration from the life stories and faith journeys of biblical
figures.
Theology
Theology
is an important aspect of the Gospels because it is the main source of
Christian theological teachings. Theology literally means "the talk of
God," and it encompasses various aspects of God's nature, character, and
work, as well as His relationship with man and the world. Theology plays an
important role in the gospel because it provides a framework for understanding
and interpreting the teachings and stories recorded in it. For example, the
teachings of the Holy Trinity, the incarnation of Jesus Christ, and salvation
through faith are all based on the theological principles described in the
Gospels. Understanding theology in "about the gospel" is essential
for deepening faith and understanding of Christianity. Theology provides a
solid foundation for Christians to reflect on and respond to the teachings of
the Bible, as well as apply it in daily life. In addition, theology also serves
as a bridge for dialogue with followers of other religions and society at large
about spiritual and ethical issues.
Morality
Morality
is an important aspect of the Gospels because it contains moral teachings that
guide Christians in life. Morality in "About the Gospels" is not only
limited to rules and prohibitions but also includes broader ethical principles
and values. As an integral part of
"About the Gospels," morality has a close relationship with Christian
theological teachings. The teachings of love, justice, and forgiveness, for
example, have profound moral implications for the lives of Christians. Morality
in "about the gospels" comes not only from God's commandments but
also from the living example of Jesus Christ, who teaches unconditional love
and self-sacrifice.
Understanding
the morality in the book of Gospels is essential for Christians to live a life
in accordance with the teachings of Christ. Morality provides the foundation
for ethical decision-making, building healthy relationships, and creating a
just and loving community. By applying moral principles in their daily lives,
Christians can be an example to others and bring about positive change in
society.
Mukjizat
Miracles
are one of the important aspects of the Gospels, as they contain extraordinary
stories and events that transcend the laws of nature. Miracles are tangible
evidence of God's power and love at work in human history.
- Signs of God's
Power: Miracles demonstrate God's infinite power and
authority, proving that He is the sovereign Lord of the universe and human
life.
- A Sign of God's
Love: Miracles are also a sign of God's great love for
mankind. Through miracles, God expresses His care, meets needs, and
provides hope in the midst of adversity.
- The Messiah's
Mark: In "about the gospels," the miracles of
Jesus Christ are a sign that He is the promised Messiah. His miracles show
the grace and power of God that reveals His identity as the Son of God.
- Signs of Faith: Miracles also
serve as signs of faith. When a person believes in God and His power, they
can experience or witness miracles as a confirmation of their faith.
The
miracles in "About the Gospels" are not just amazing stories, but
they have profound theological significance. The miracle shows that God is
present and active in the world, revealing His power, love, and plan of
salvation for mankind. Understanding and meditating on miracles in "About
the gospel" can strengthen faith, deepen our relationship with God, and
provide hope in the midst of life's challenges.
Prophecy
Prophecy
is one of the important aspects of the Gospels, as it contains prophecies and
visions of future events. Prophecy in the gospels is not just a random
prediction but an integral part of God's plan of salvation for mankind. Prophecy serves as the fulfillment of God's
plan, which has been established since ancient times. Through prophecy, God
reveals His will and gives hope to His people. Prophecy also serves as evidence
of divinity in the Bible because many prophecies have been proven to happen
accurately.
One
clear example of prophecy in the gospel is the prophecy about the birth of
Jesus Christ. Centuries before His birth, prophets predicted the birth of a
Messiah who would save mankind from sin. This prophecy was then fulfilled in
the birth of Jesus Christ, which became the fulfillment of God's promise and
the hope of mankind. Understanding the prophecies in the gospels is crucial
because it provides confidence and hope for Christians. Prophecy shows that God
is in control of history and the future and that he will fulfill all of his
plans. Understanding prophecy also helps Christians to prepare for the end
times and to live according to God's will.
Testimony
In
the Gospels, testimony is an important aspect that provides evidence and
confirmation of the truth of God's Word. Testimony in this context refers to
personal experiences and statements about God's work and power in an
individual's life.
- Personal
Testimony: A
testimony given by a person based on his or her own
experience of God's love and power, often includes repentance, healing, or
deliverance from adversity.
- Biblical
Testimony: The testimony contained in "about the
gospels," both from and New Testaments, provides a
record of God's work in the lives of individuals and His people.
- Historical
Testimony: A
testimony recorded in the history of the church, which shows
how God continues to work throughout the ages through the lives of
believers.
- Archaeological
Testimony: Archaeological finds that support the events and
stories recorded in "About the gospels,” providing concrete evidence
of their historical truth.
Understanding
and appreciating testimony is essential in the gospel because it strengthens
faith, builds community, and expands the kingdom of God. The testimony shows
that God is not distant and indifferent, but is actively working in the lives
of his people. Testimony also inspires others to trust in God and experience
His power in their own lives.
Spirituality
Spirituality
is an important aspect of the Gospels, referring to the individual's personal
relationship and experience with God. This aspect includes the recognition of
God's presence, spiritual growth, and character transformation.
- Communion with
God: The essence of spirituality is to maintain an intimate
and loving relationship with God through prayer, worship, and reading
"about the gospel."
- Character
Transformation: True spirituality produces an inner change that is in
accordance with the teachings of "about the gospel.” Believers are
led to love God and others, live in holiness, and have humble hearts.
- Spiritual
Growth: Spirituality promotes continuous spiritual growth
through the study "of the gospel," ministry, and guidance of the
Holy Spirit. Believers grow in spiritual knowledge, faith, and experience.
- Influence of the
Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit plays an important role in
spirituality, providing comfort, strength, and guidance. The Holy Spirit
leads believers to understand " the gospel" and apply it in
their daily lives.
By
understanding and living the spiritual aspect, Christians can deepen their
relationship with God, grow in faith, and undergo transformation according to
the teachings "about the gospel." Spirituality is the foundation for
a meaningful and impactful Christian life, providing strength and guidance in
facing life's challenges.
Ethics
Ethics
is an inseparable aspect of "about the gospel" and plays an important
role in the lives of Christians. "About the Gospels" teaches moral
and ethical principles that guide His people in living a life in accordance
with God's will. The ethical principles in the gospels stem from God's holy and
perfect character. God is the source of all goodness and truth, so Christian
ethics is centered on a life that follows His example and commandments. The
book of the Bible gives clear instructions on how Christians should behave and
act in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to social
responsibility. For example, it teaches us to love others, forgive the mistakes
of others, and live in chastity.
Understanding
and applying the ethical principles in the gospel is essential for Christians
because it provides a solid foundation for daily decision-making and behavior.
By following Christian ethics, Christians can live in obedience to God, build
healthy relationships, create a just and loving community, and be an example to
the world. In addition, Christian ethics is also the basis for dialogue and
cooperation with followers of other religions and the wider community in
realizing universal moral and ethical values.
Christian
Religious Education (PAK)
Christian religious education (PAK) is the
starting point of the Gospel, which provides an understanding of the Gospel. It
is a collection of Christian scriptures that contain the teachings, life
stories, and miracles of Jesus Christ, as well as the writings of His
followers. The Gospel is a guide to faith and behavior for Christians. PAK is a
process of teaching and learning that is based on the Bible, Christ-centered,
and dependent on the Holy Spirit that guides every person at all levels of
growth through the teaching of the present toward the knowledge and experience
of God's plan and will through Christ in every aspect of life, and equips them
for effective ministry, centered on Christ the Great teacher and the maturing
command of the disciple". PAK is an
effort to develop the ability and insight of educators about the conception of
the kingdom of God so that they can handle entering the real world
With
the teaching of PAK, students' insights are developed so that they know Allah
and His work and have a clear grip in their lives. At the 1986 Christian
education consultation in Salatiga, it was stated
that PAK is an effort to help students grow and develop to achieve a complete
personality, as a reflection of human beings in the image and image of Allah
who has love and obedience to God, intelligence, skills, noble ethics and
responsibility to play a role in the development of society and the nation
From the description above, it is concluded
that PAK is a conscious and planned effort to provide knowledge, teaching and
guidance based on Christian teachings and values to every student so that they
actively develop all their potential and have religious spiritual strength with
intelligence, skills and noble morals that are useful for themselves and
society. PAK is assistance given to students in growing and developing into a
person who reflects the image and image of God.
Goals
of Christian Religious Education (PAK) according to Experts
In the book Christian Religious Education, Homrighousen said that Christian Religious Education (PAK)
is based on the fellowship of God's people, PAK began since Abraham was called
to be the ancestor of God's chosen people and even relied on God Himself as an
educator for His people
The essence of faith is faith, trust-filled
relationships and a living agape life. Through PAK learning, everyone will be
guided by teachings sourced from the Bible and then be able to believe, believe
and practice these teachings so that they can live with the true Christian
faith. In more detail, Sariaman Sitanggang stated that
the purpose of PAK is to introduce God the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit
and His works so that the faith and trust of students grow and emulate the
Triune Allah in their lives, instilling an understanding of God and His works
to students so that they are able to understand and appreciate it
In this explanation, the thing to be achieved
in PAK learning is to introduce the Triune Allah and instill an understanding
of Allah to students so that they are able to give appreciation to each work of
Allah. PAK basically aims to instill Christian values in the social and
personal life of students so that they grow to know the Triune God and His
work.
Theological
Analysis Based on the Gospels
Christian religious education is an integral
part of the formation of the character and moral values of Christians. The
Gospels, namely the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, are the main
foundation of Christianity's teachings and beliefs. An in-depth analysis of the
Gospels is important in understanding the essence of Christian religious
teachings and their application in the context of education.
1.
Analysis of the Book
of Matthew: The Book of Matthew contains moral teachings that are relevant in
Christian religious education, such as the teachings on love, honesty, and
mercy.
a.
Jesus' teaching of
moral principles and values: In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus teaches about the
importance of living according to the moral principles contained in God's law.
For example, in Matthew 5:17-48, Jesus taught about the virtue of love, forgiving
enemies, and increasing truth. This indicates the importance of moral education
in the Christian life.
b.
Education of faith and
trust in God: Matthew emphasizes the need for unwavering faith and trust in God
as the core of Christian religious education. For example, in Matthew 17:20,
Jesus taught how important it is to have strong faith and trust in God.
c.
Expansion of
understanding of the Kingdom of God: The Gospel of Matthew provides a
significant portion of Jesus' teaching of the Kingdom of God. Christian
religious education in this context includes an understanding of God's
authority, Jesus' leadership, and the duty of his followers in building the
Kingdom of God in this world.
d.
Education for the
renewal of the heart and soul: Matthew also emphasizes the importance of
renewing the heart and soul as part of Christian religious education. For
example, in Matthew 5:21-30, Jesus taught how important it is to guard the
heart and stay away from sins.
2.
Analysis of the Book
of Mark: The Book of Mark emphasizes the importance of faith and sacrifice in
following the teachings of Christ, which can be an example for character
education.
a.
Jesus' teaching of
love: Mark's Gospel highlights Jesus' teaching of unconditional love. For
example, in Mark 12:28-34, Jesus shows that love for God and fellow man are the
two greatest commandments that must be lived in Christian religious education.
b.
Education about
resisting temptations and trials: Mark describes Christian education through
the story of Jesus facing temptations and trials in His life. This approach
teaches Christians the importance of steadfastness in faith and efforts to
resist threatening temptations.
c.
Teaching about the
importance of serving others: Through the stories in Mark's Gospel, Jesus
taught about the importance of serving fellow humans as part of Christian
religious education. For example, in Mark 10:45, Jesus stated that He came to
serve, not to be served.
3.
Analysis of the Book
of Luke: The Book of Luke highlights aspects of service and social justice,
which can be used as inspiration in progressive Christian religious education.
a.
Jesus' teaching of
humility and forgiveness: The Gospel of Luke highlights Jesus' teaching of
forgiveness and humility. For example, in Luke 15:11-32, Jesus taught about
forgiveness given to prodigal children. This approach emphasizes the values of
forgiveness and humility in Christian religious education.
b.
Education on giving
priority to God: Luke emphasizes the importance of giving priority to God in
the Christian life. In Luke 10:38-42, Jesus taught about the importance of
choosing the best, which is to prioritize the relationship with God above all
else.
c.
Teaching about the
importance of prayer in the Christian life: The Gospel of Luke highlights
Jesus' teaching about the power of prayer in the Christian life. For example,
in Luke 11:1-13, Jesus taught about the importance of being persistent in
prayer and trusting that God will answer our prayers.
4.
Analysis of the Book
of John: The Book of John emphasizes personal relationships with God and the
teaching of love, which is the foundation of spiritual education in
Christianity.
a.
Jesus' teaching of
truth and eternal life: The Gospel of John emphasizes Jesus' teaching of truth
and the perspective of eternal life. For example, in John 14:6, Jesus declares
that He is the way, the truth, and the life. This approach teaches about the importance
of Christian religious education in guiding Christians to truth and eternal
life.
b.
Education about
knowing God as a loving Father: John highlights Jesus' teaching about a close
relationship with God as a loving Father. For example, in John 3:16, Jesus
taught about God's love that saves man. This approach teaches that Christian
religious education involves an understanding of a personal relationship with
God as a loving Father.
c.
Teaching about the
importance of witnessing faith in others: The Gospel of John emphasizes the
importance of witnessing faith in others as part of Christian religious
education. In John 13:34-35, Jesus said that all people will know us as His
disciples through the love we show one another.
Conclusion
Theological Analysis Christian religious
education based on the Gospels provides a deep understanding of the fundamental
values and teachings in Christianity. Christian religious education based on
the Gospels is able to form strong character and good morals in individuals. By
understanding these teachings, Christian religious education can be an
effective means of forming a generation with integrity and a positive impact on
society. By contemplating the riches and wisdom contained in the gospels, Christians
can find guidance, comfort, and strength to live in the light of God's word.
The study of the theology of Christian religious education based on the gospels
can provide in-depth insights into the foundations of the Christian faith,
moral teachings, and practical instructions for living a meaningful life.
Through an understanding of history, theology, and other important aspects,
Christians can deepen their relationship with God and transform their lives
according to His will.
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Famarudi Halawa, Juspen Siringo-ringo,
Ketler Sitohang, Ova Eniwati Habayahan, Robinson Marbun, Simon Lumban Toruan,
Andar Gunawan Pasaribu (2024) |
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First publication right: Advances in Social Humanities Research |
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