Semper Reformanda

Kajian Biblika tentang Doktrin Kematian dalam Gereja Masehi Advent Hari Ketujuh Berdasarkan Kejadian 2:17

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0700

One of the essential concepts in Christian theology is the understanding of death, and the Seventh-day Adventist Church offers a distinctive perspective on this doctrine. This article aims to examine the doctrine of death based on Genesis 2:17 as the primary theological foundation, which affirms that death is the direct consequence of human disobedience. Using a biblical-theological approach and an analysis of Adventist literature, this study finds that the Seventh-day Adventist Church rejects the notion of a soul that continues to live after physical death, understanding death instead as a state of unconscious “sleep” until the resurrection at Christ’s second coming. The findings reveal that the Adventist doctrine of death rests on three central pillars: (1) the holistic unity of body and soul as depicted in Genesis 2:7, (2) the total unconsciousness of the dead as affirmed by Ecclesiastes 9:5 and Psalm 146:4, and (3) the resurrection as the core of eschatological hope for believers. Thus, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the biblical foundation of the Adventist doctrine of death and its implications for the faith and hope of the church.

Implikasi Etis dan Spiritual Frasa 'Jangan Menyembah Berhala' Dalam Kitab Keluaran 20:3-5

Jefrie Walean , Soneta Sang Surya Siahaan — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The prohibition against idol worship in the Book of Exodus (Ex 20:3-5) is a fundamental part of the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) that affirms Judeo-Christian monotheism. However, its theological meaning is often reduced to merely a literal prohibition, without a deep exploration of its ethical and spiritual implications in the context of contemporary society. This research aims to uncover the theological meaning of the prohibition against idolatry thru hermeneutical analysis, as well as its relevance to contemporary ethical and spiritual life. This article argues that the prohibition of idol worship in Exodus 20:3-5 should not be understood merely as a cultic prohibition against statues, but rather as a theological call to align the faithfulness, morality, and life orientation of the people exclusively toward God. This qualitative research uses Paul Ricoeur's hermeneutical approach (explanation, interpretation, and application) to analyze the text of Exodus 20:3-5 in its historical, literary, and theological contexts. The prohibition against idol worship is not only ritualistic but also contains ethical dimensions (rejection of injustice and dehumanization) and spiritual dimensions (sanctification of life to God). In contemporary society, "idols" can be understood as materialism, absolute power, and ideologies that distort the relationship between humans and God, as well as among themselves. This research shows that the theological message "do not worship idols" in the Book of Exodus is the foundation for the formation of faith identity, ethical integrity, and authentic spirituality, making it relevant to critique various forms of modern idolatry.

Peran Pemahaman Kekayaan dan Pemberian dalam Kristus terhadap Perubahan Perilaku Memberi Jemaat GBI Victory Kebon Jeruk Jakarta

Nuh Gosianes, Alloysius Jondar, Martin Luther Manao, Zet Reinaldo Linansera — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0700

This study aims to explore the understanding of the congregation of Bethel Church of Indonesia Victory Kebon Jeruk Jakarta regarding the concept of wealth and giving in Christ and its implications for behavioral transformation. Using a qualitative descriptive and interpretative approach, the research found a shift from a materialistic orientation to the awareness of being God’s stewards. Wealth is no longer perceived as a measure of success but as a means to glorify God and bless others. Giving in Christ is not merely a religious obligation but an expression of love and obedience to God. Behavioral transformation is evident through faithful worship, simplicity of lifestyle, and active participation in ministry. The study emphasizes that the concept of wealth and giving in Christ plays an essential role in shaping God-centered spiritual character and fostering a lifestyle of love and generosity both in church and in society.

Demokratisasi Pemilihan Majelis Gereja: Antara Panggilan Ilahi Dan Partisipasi Jemaat

Martin Luther Manao, Asmat Purba, Soneta Sang Surya Siahaan — Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The selection of church council members, particularly Deacons and Elders, is an important aspect of the life and ministry of the church that is not merely administrative but also carries profound theological and ecclesiological dimensions. This study aims to examine the process of selecting church leaders within the framework of the tension between divine calling and congregational participation. The research employs a qualitative approach using a literature study method, analyzing various theological sources, the Bible, and relevant academic literature. The findings indicate that the selection of church leaders in the biblical tradition always involves two main dimensions: the sovereignty of God in calling leaders and the active involvement of the congregation in the selection process. This study affirms that the selection of church council members should be understood as a spiritual process that involves shared responsibility between God and the congregation. Therefore, a balance between spirituality, moral integrity, and responsible congregational participation is necessary. Consequently, the church is expected to conduct the process of selecting council members in a transparent and fair manner, grounded in Christian faith values, in order to produce leadership that serves and builds up the life of the congregation.

Kajian Teologis tentang Makna Sabat dalam Perjanjian Lama dan Implikasinya bagi Gereja Masa Kini

Sat, 25 Apr 2026 00:00:00 +0700

The Sabbath is a divine ordinance that has an important theological foundation in the Old Testament. Since the creation narrative, the Sabbath has been established as a day blessed and sanctified by God, and it serves as a sign of the covenant relationship between God and His people. In the life of the contemporary church, the understanding of the Sabbath is often viewed differently, especially since most Christians worship on Sunday. Therefore, a study of the meaning of the Sabbath in the Old Testament is important in helping believers understand its true nature. This research aims to examine the theological meaning of the Sabbath in the Old Testament and to explain its implications for the church today. The method used in this study is library research with a biblical review approach to Old Testament texts related to the Sabbath. The results of the study show that the Sabbath in the Old Testament carries the meanings of rest, sanctification, fellowship with God, covenant sign, blessing, and liberation. Thus, the church today needs to view the Sabbath not merely as a matter of the day of worship, but as a call to live in obedience, holiness, fellowship, and reverence before God. This study is expected to contribute to the development of theological understanding among theology students and believers in appreciating the meaning of the Sabbath in church life