Kognisio

ETHICAL-THEOLOGICAL REVIEW OF THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF CONGREGATIONS, ELDERS, AND DEACENTS IN THREE GKJTU WITHOUT PAMULANG

Rinaldo Panggabean — 2025-07-31

This article presents an ethical-theological analysis on the responsibility of the congregation at GKJTU without pamulang. According to Tata Dasar GKJTU, pamulang are pastors and gospel teachers who hold special positions in the church, along with elders and deacons. This research focuses on three GKJTUs, namely Gedong, Tayeman, and Talitakum Sleker, which are located in Getasan, Kopeng. The research used qualitative method with a descriptive narrative approach. The data collection techniques used were observation, in-depth interviews and document review. Based on the research conducted, it was found that the role of the congregation was dominant in regulating services at GKJTU without pamulang. At GKJTU without pamulang, the congregation as moral agents in the social community plays an active, responsive, and responsible role for the achievement of the church's vision. This research concludes that without pamulang, the congregation is in the liminal stage of carrying out services through dialogical collaboration. This dialogue is a manifestation of Christian ethical responsibility that is built on the basis of a sense of belonging to the church.

Theology of the Womb:

Prionaray Bram M — 2025-07-31

In this study, we try to see how the theology of mercy speaks in the current context. The world health organization that also presents anxiety and worry in the scope of Christianity, also helps to oppress the lives of believers. The church must also contribute greatly to speaking to what extent the Bible speaks about the struggles of believers' lives. Christy Angelle Bauman's theology of mercy in her book reflects on the struggles of women which are considered as struggles in general. In this study, we use qualitative research with a literature study approach to strengthen the search for relevant theories. Through this study, we found that the theology of mercy seeks to compare God and women. In the bleeding that women must feel as a gift, it turns out to have similarities to the bloodshed carried out by Jesus for the source of life (salvation). The responsibility in seeing the current context, more specifically facing the phenomenon of the mother wound, requires humans to reflect on the mercy that exists. Part of God's care, the audience is the same as a woman who must breastfeed her child through her breast as a gift. Those who put their hope in the womb have the duty and responsibility to care for the womb. Not in the sense of conceptualizing sexual identity, but simply showing that the task and responsibility of maintaining mercy is a universal responsibility.

Should Pastors Work?

Wirna Tololiu — 2025-07-31

This study examines the ethical and theological dimensions of bivocational pastoral ministry as reflected in 1 and 2 Thessalonians. Using a qualitative theological-exegetical approach, it focuses on the Apostle Paul’s model of integrating manual labor with spiritual leadership. Field observations and interviews conducted among pastors across various denominations in Minahasa reveal that a significant number engage in secular work. This practice is not only a response to economic necessity but also aligns with Paul's example of not being a financial burden to the church. The findings emphasize that bivocational ministry, far from diminishing pastoral integrity, can be a form of faithful witness and responsibility. This article encourages a critical reevaluation of the traditional full-time ministry model and offers a contextual theology that affirms work as part of pastoral calling and Christian discipleship.

The Role of the Church in Shaping the Identity of Generation Alpha Based on Philippians 4:6–7

Kardia Kaligis — 2025-07-31

This study explores the role of the church in shaping the identity of Generation Alpha, based on Christian principles found in Philippians 4:6-7, which emphasizes the importance of living without worry. The main issue addressed is the increasing level of anxiety among Generation Alpha and the lack of a strong self-identity formed from an early age. The purpose of this research is to identify how the church can contribute to building a strong and spiritually healthy identity for Generation Alpha. This study uses a qualitative approach through literature review of theological and child psychology sources. The results show that Bible-based teaching, spiritual development activities, and active involvement in church communities significantly contribute to instilling Christian values and inner peace in children. In conclusion, the church plays a crucial role in fostering a firm identity free from anxiety through the application of Philippians 4:6-7.