Theological Foundations Research Articles

J. I. Packer’s Theology of Justification—His Reception and Appropriation of a Classic Protestant Doctrine

This article is a systematic overview of Packer’s theology of justification from the perspective of descriptive, analytical, and critical methodologies. A series of books written by Packer were investigated in order to identify various references to justification, which led to a categorization consisting of six features (justification as the legacy of the Reformation, eternal status, a precursor of sanctification, trust in Christ, covenant reality, and a divine promise). Two of Packer’s most important books used for this research, Keep in Step with the Spirit: Finding Fullness in Our Walk with God (2005) and Concise Theology: a Guide to Historic Christian Beliefs (2011), also revealed the theological foundation of justification, which I present as the two pillars on which Packer’s theology of justification stands: God’s being and Christ’s incarnation. These two pillars reveal not only God’s invisible being as Trinity but also his self-disclosure in Christ as an exclusive focus of the sinners’ belief of justification. The six features and the two pillars of Packer’s theology of justification demonstrate not only how he received and appropriated the classical Protestant teaching about God’s decision to consider sinners righteous despite their sins but also how it generates, through faith in Christ, a consistently new life.

The Christian union students’ perception of the influence of theological grounding on cultism in public universities in Kenya

The purpose of this study was to analyse the Christian Union (C.U.) students' perceptions of the influence of theological grounding on cultism in public universities in Kenya. Studies have shown that cultism is prevalent among university students, resulting in suicides, drug abuse, crimes, unrest, withdrawal from family, academic malpractices, failure, attrition, psychological and financial exploitation, among others. The study employed a descriptive research design. The study was carried out in six public universities in Kenya. A sample of 220 C.U. students was selected through simple random and stratified sampling methods. The study further included 60 small group Bible study leaders and 6 C.U. Patrons selected through purposive sampling. The study was guided by Bounded Choice Theory. This study established that theological grounding was perceived as contributing significantly to cultism (β=0.194; p<0.05). The study concludes that lack of adequate spiritual instruction may turn students to cultism since cults target students with a cursory familiarity with the scriptures, who lack a solid religious foundation, and who have been exposed to cultism as children. The study recommends training on cultism and on Bible study to enable students to attain spiritual strength prior to joining university. The Christian Unions should provide social support and discipleship for their members to shield them from cult recruiters. University Chaplains and C.U. Patrons should vet all preachers who come to the university to mitigate against cultic doctrines and practices.

Rejudaized Jesus: The Early Transylvanian Sabbatarian Concept of the Messiah

Abstract The sixteenth- and seventeenth-century Transylvanian Sabbatarians represented one of the most radical form of the Reformation whose only retained doctrinal link to Christianity was belief in Jesus. By the mid-nineteenth century, even this last doctrine dropped out of their faith and they officially converted to Judaism, thus founding the only proselyte congregation in contemporary Europe. They were immediately suspected of having ulterior motives for their conversion, and in the twentieth century, accusations proliferated of deliberate Jewish proselytizing and bribery. Here, we go back to the beginnings and search the Sabbatarians’ earliest texts for the original, theological grounds that they themselves asserted. The working hypothesis is that analysis of this key article of faith, belief in Jesus, is sufficient to mark out the later course of the Sabbatarians’ theological development. The interpretation of the messianic mission and tasks clearly indicates which side the Sabbatarians would lean to in the course of their several centuries of balancing between Christianity and Judaism.

TEOLOGI KEHENDAK BEBAS: LANDASAN TEOLOGI STRATEGI PEMURIDAN TERHADAP PERILAKU SEKSUAL

This study aims to formulate theology of free will as the theological foundation of discipleship strategy of sexual behavior based on 1 Corinthians 6:12-20. The purpose of this paper are based on the reality that there is no discipleship strategy of sexual behavior that are designed specifically to urge youth to control their sexual behavior. The method that are used in this paper is qualitative research method with literature study approach. The paper found that 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 shows discipleship strategy that are done by Paul to the congregation of Corinthians with emphasized to the theology of free will as the solution to control sexual behavior, so that can be the foundation of discipleship strategy of sexual behavior subject matters. Paul studied about free will in his letter by associate it with other theological themes, to wit anthropology, eschatology, christology, ecclesiology, flesh oneness, hamartology, pneumatology, proper, and soteriology. Comprehensive study that Paul has done shows that free will in fact take roles in determines way of life, especially related to someone’s sexual behavior. This paper can conclude that the theology of freewill can be the theological foundation of discipleship strategy of sexual behavior, especially in arranging discipleship of sexual behavior subject matters.

The Role of the Holy Spirit in Pentecostal Worship in the Light of John 4:20-26 and Ephesians 5:18-20

The importance of worship for the Pentecostal church can hardly be overstated, and the worship practices of the global church have been altered significantly by the influence of the Pentecostal movement. This article will address the biblical and theological foundations of Spirit-filled worship, focusing particularly on the role of the Holy Spirit in worship, through a literary-theological interpretation of two key biblical texts—John 4:20-26 and Ephesians 5:18-20. The study finds that from the viewpoint of these texts, the Holy Spirit is an indispensable element in Christian worship and is deeply active in the practices of worship.

Environmental Theology and Its Relevance to Islamic Law: Perception of Makassar Muslim Scholars, Indonesia

This article discusses environmental theology with Islamic law from the perspective of scholars and scholars in Makassar City, South Sulawesi. The research uses qualitative methods with a theological approach and Islamic law as an analytical tool. Theology is used to analyze Islamic concepts of the environment as opposed to Islamic law. In obtaining the data, researchers interviewed religious figures who became role models for the people of Makassar, in addition to using literature study techniques. The results showed that Makassarese Muslim scholars are well aware that environmental theology is an alternative solution to overcome the environmental crisis. They believe that the two main sources of Islam, the Quran and Hadith, pay great attention to the protection and maintenance of the environment. Similarly, Prophet Muhammad PBUH is the best example among leaders who care deeply about the environment. Furthermore, this study also concludes that first, environmental theology is a theology that not only discusses man's relationship with God but also discusses man's relationship with social, cultural, environmental, and social reality. Environmental theology focuses on the extent of human concern for nature and the environment. Second, the foundation of environmental theology can be traced from two main sources of Islam, namely the Qur'an, and Hadith. The Qur'an pays great attention to the protection and preservation of the environment. Likewise, Prophet Muhammad PBUH, in his various traditions also emphasized the importance of protecting and maintaining the environment. Third, environmental theology is closely related to Islamic law specifically ecological fiqh, which focuses on practical explanations of how to protect the environment. If environmental theology is oriented towards philosophical foundations in environmental conservation, then Islamic law requires the importance of protecting the environment as a benefit for humans and nature.

Whole child education in United States Catholic schools: a Roche center conceptualisation and framework for analysis

US Catholic schools have been known to educate the whole child. However, the Catholic sector has not widely embraced a shared understanding of whole child education or how it is operationalised, nor have researchers interested in this sector effectively measured the impact of approaches in any or all domains. This conceptual paper presents a framework for whole child education in US Catholic Schools, articulating five domains and key elements that help define holistic education in Catholic schools while providing a theological grounding for this framework. We offer a series of dilemmas that arise from the implementation of this Whole Child Framework, while recommending future lines of research to be explored around this conceptual framework.

Animal Theology According to Reymont

The paper analyses the human-nature-eschatology relationship from a historiosophical perspective, using as an example the motif of a dog in three different prose works by Władysław Reymont: Chłopi [The Peasants], the short story Dola [The Fate], and the anti-utopian novel Bunt [The Revolt]. The theme/motif/character of the dog constitutes an axis for the analysis of the problem of man’s duty towards weaker beings, which is the foundation of the animal theology formulated by Andrew Linzey. The paper reveals the mechanisms of violence against dogs in various circumstances and historical moments. The author explains the issues of the positive valuation of animal behavior present in Reymont’s prose, as well as the emotions shown by animals and the salvation of non-human beings. Despite blurring the boundaries between species, Reymont does not completely abandon the anthropocentric perspective.

Exploring the Intersection of Political and Critical Theology: A Case Study of the Soviet Era

The study of how different religious and political ideas from the past come together and clash due to changing beliefs and historical events is currently an important topic. This study explores the relationship between political theology and critical theology and their impact on religious thought and politics. The scope of the research includes a comprehensive historical analysis, a theological investigation, and a critical examination. The goal is a comprehensive understanding of the theological foundations of political and critical theology and how they manifested themselves in the specific socio-political landscape. Through case studies, textual analysis, and a comparative approach, this study seeks to discuss the practical implications of these theological perspectives. It also seeks to highlight not only the distinctive features of political and critical theology but also their convergence in shaping religious and political thought. The findings highlight the ongoing importance of religious thought in shaping historical events and emphasize the necessity for further critical examination of the connections between religion and politics.

Pembentukan Akhlak Berlandaskan Keimanan : Landasan Filosofis-Teologis Dalam Kurikulum PAI Pada Mata Pelajaran Aqidah Akhlak di Madrasah Ibtidaiyah

The dynamic development of the curriculum is essential to addressing the demands of contemporary times and Islamic education. However, the implementation of an independent curriculum, as an effort to simplify the previous one and strengthen the profile of Pancasila students, has not been fully realized in educational institutions, presenting challenges in adapting to current needs. This study aims to innovate the philosophical and theological foundations of aqidah and moral education in Madrasah Ibtidaiyah based on faith. The methodology used is a literature review, collecting data from journals, books, and conferences. The findings reveal that philosophical and theological foundations greatly influence the goals of Islamic education in nurturing individuals with noble character. The formation of tauhid within the family serves as the primary basis for establishing faith, which is a crucial asset in formal education. Teachers play a vital role in delivering materials related to Islamic values using various strategies and methods to integrate knowledge and moral development. By practicing faith in daily life through worship, students can cultivate sincerity in their actions. Therefore, a PAI curriculum grounded in strong philosophical and theological principles can help build morally upright and strong individuals.

Biblical and Canonical Grounds for assuming the fulfilment of Man in the Ecclesial Ministry

This text explores the path towards human fulfilment in ecclesial ministry. It sees man's call to growth as a path to realizing one's God-given potential. Although sin obscures this call, God gently guides man toward renewal, culminating in Christ's restorative work. Seeking the kingdom reorients one's priorities toward eternity and aligns personal gifts with God's will. The Church nurtures these gifts, making each believer a vital, responsible member of Christ's Body. Through partaking of grace, one becomes a witness to the world. However, authentic Christian living requires continual purification. The calling to priesthood represents the pinnacle of service through total dedication. Chosen for their maturity and theological grounding, priests devote themselves completely to equipping believers for ministry. Necessary qualities include blamelessness, prudence, and virtuous living. Pastoral ministry starts from an inner call later confirmed by the Church. One who feels drawn to service and theological study discovers through this process a crystallization of vocation, assuming responsibility for living out God's gifts.

Феномен наркозависимости в интерпретации Русской Православной Церкви

Drug addiction is a complex spiritual, political, medical, social and legal problem. Trying to solve it, the state is developed an anti-drug policy that includes a possibility for religious organizations to participate in the prevention of non-medical drug use and the rehabilitation of drug addicts. In 2012 the Church approved a document “On the participation of the Russian Orthodox Church in the rehabilitation of drug addicts” and actively developing social work. The Decree of the President of the Russian Federation "On the Approval of the Strategy of the State Anti-Drug Policy of the Russian Federation for the period until 2030" calls on religious organizations to develop a position that will enrich the anti-drug ideology according to "traditional values" . This calls the Church the task of developing a theological argument about the dangers of drug use. In this regard, it seems relevant to analyze the theoretical and practical developments of the ROC in this area. The author of the article asks the questions: What are the legal and theological grounds for the ROC's approach to the problem of drug addiction? What anthropological ideas are used to describe the phenomenon of drug addiction? The first part of the article presents a systematization of theoretical ideas related to the topic of drug addiction, reflected in the church regulations of the ROC. The second part presents an analysis of the opinions of clergy and lay practitioners. The author comes to the conclusion that by developing its own approach, the Church remains in the field of the political, medical, legal aspects of the problem, which leads to the ideologization of the language in which the Church speaks about the problem.

Ahlussunnah Wal Jama'ah (ASWAJA) as a Basic Value Base for the Movement and Thought of the Indonesian Islamic Student Movement (PMII)

The Islamic Students Movement of Indonesia is an organization aimed at the formation of Indonesian Muslims who are afraid of Allah SWT, righteous, knowledgeable, competent, and responsible in practicing their knowledge and commitment to the realization of the ideals of Indonesia's independence. The purpose of this research is to know and analyze the values contained in the Ahlussunnah Wal Jama’ah (ASWAJA), which is made PMII, as the basis of the value of thought and the theological foundation. The method used in this research is the qualitative descriptive approach, which is a way to find new meanings, explain a condition of existence, determine the frequency of occurrence of something, and categorize information. In this study, there are four principles of values that can be transformed into the direction of the PMII movement, which is a framework of thinking to be able to formulate concrete solutions to the problems that exist in the current reality. There are four kinds of worshippers in the Qur’an: al-Tawassuth, Al-Tawazun, al-Asamuh, and al-I’tidal.

Theological reflections in the age of climate change: a reflection on the jellyfish metaphor

This article weaves together philosophy and theology to explore the imperative of conservation in our increasingly interconnected world. Amidst the shadows of globalization, climate change, and global warming, this intellectual journey continues. The use of the thought-provoking metaphor of the jellyfish underscores humanity's central role in the story of ecological challenges. This pursuit underscores our deep moral duty to navigate complicated paths to viable solutions. While eschewing empirical or case-specific inquiry, this essay presents a concise analytical perspective that enhances our cognitive understanding of the intricate interplay between human societies and the pristine realms of the natural order. This treatise also adopts a theological perspective by weaving spiritual concepts into its fabric. By illustrating poignant instances of environmental degradation, intellectual inquiry brings into sharper focus the profound moral imperatives that underpin the call to address problems such as climate change. Drawing on philosophical and theological foundations, the essay expands our understanding of the intricate threads that connect humanity to the environment. It offers insights into the delicate web of intricate relationships that must be carefully nurtured and preserved. As theological perspectives enrich the discourse, important connections between faith, moral obligations, and our responsibilities to the planet become clear. This treatise offers a holistic perspective on the challenges of our time, combining philosophical and religious concepts to provide a comprehensive view of our current problems.

Book Review Essay: “The Drama of Atheist Humanism” by Henri de Lubac

In “The Drama of Atheist Humanism”, Henri de Lubac meticulously explores 19th-century efforts to overcome the limits of the divine and create a humanism. The book looks at the roots of modern atheism, focusing particularly on the influential contributions of figures such as Feuerbach, Nietzsche, and Comte. These figures were instrumental in shaping the path of contemporary humanism. De Lubac masterfully weaves together historical and philosophical currents with modern perspectives to expose the prevailing ideology that views Christianity as antiquated, a perspective that resonates throughout Eastern and Western societies. A unique aspect of the book lies in its harmonious interplay with literary and philosophical works, providing the reader with a deep insight into the philosophical underpinnings of contemporary atheism. This analysis is enriched by an examination of the theological foundations of humanism that incorporates perspectives from Islamic and Christian traditions.

How is the coming generation to go on living? Bonhoeffer's preservation orders for the ‘sixth extinction’

AbstractThis essay adapts Dietrich Bonhoeffer's ‘orders of preservation’ to address the sharp rise in species extinctions due to human causes. I argue that Bonhoeffer's creative use of preservation orders to build an international alliance provides the scope required to meet the present biodiversity crisis while pre-empting Karl Barth's criticism of static regionalism and avoiding problematic elements in Carl Schmitt's concept of the ‘restraining force’. Drawing on Bonhoeffer's 1932 address, ‘On the Theological Foundation of the Work of the World Alliance’, I present three convictions to guide the task of preservation today, which include the formation of alliances between ecclesial and scientific communities in order to properly specify God's commandment.

Theological Foundation: The Apostle Paul and his Framework of thinking

The author identifies several related problems in this scientific work. These problems are evident from the points that have been compiled as follows: First, there are indications that some Christians themselves think that evangelism is only a social activity or just a good life behaviour in society. Second, there are indications that most of our evangelism is direct evangelism. Third, there are indications that not all Christians are passionate about sharing the gospel. The author sees the danger in contextualization: “If contextualization is not carried out, theology will not be relevant; and the same danger is that if contextualization is carried out too vigorously, compromise and syncretism will occur. It is hoped that this research can be input for Christian educators, pastors, and elderly congregations to implement an evangelistic lifestyle under 1 Corinthians 9:1-27 and call the churches to follow him as he followed Christ. Furthermore, it is hoped that this research can be input for Christian educators, pastors, and elderly congregations in implementing an evangelistic lifestyle.

Demarcating the Foundations of Analytic Theology and Philosophical Theology

Analytic theology is a thriving research program at the intersection of theology and analytic philosophy. Prior to Oliver Crisp and Michael Rea’s launch of “analytic theology” in 2009, the discipline functioned under the moniker “philosophical theology.” Considerable ink has been spilled on what is analytic theology in the past decade, and most recently by William Wood (2021). Some theologians (e.g., Abraham 2009) have argued that it is systematic theology while others (e.g., Coakley 2013) have been content to remain in a family resemblance class rooted in philosophical theology. At the same time, analytic theology has welcomed Christian philosophers (e.g., Beall 2021) who have migrated into Christian doctrine via philosophy of religion. These philosophers are not systematic theologians, but, rather, philosophical theologians. This essay analyzes the relation between analytic theology, philosophical theology, and philosophy by examining their starting points and how they perceive and access truth, and then proposes a spectrum to graph their overlapping zones of research. I conclude that philosophical theology stands at the heart of the disciplines and thus remains an appropriate term for analytic theologians and Christian philosophers working somewhere in the vicinity of Jerusalem.

Canon Law as the Universal Law of the Catholic Church and the Proper Laws of Institutes of Consecrated Life

The course on particular law concerning the specification, complement and adaptation of universal law, has as its objective to show the importance of particular law through the specificity of ecclesial law both in its theological foundations and in its application in various juridical fields. One of the topics discussed in the course is about the relationship between universal and the particular law of the institutes of consecrated life. The aim of this paper is to considered the topic. This article will be divided into sections covering the important principles in relating universal law to the particular law of consecrated life.

Ahlussunah wal jamaah perspektif hasyim asy’ari

Ahlussunnah wal jamaah is a phrase that describes a people who follow the teachings of the prophet and his companions, but in this context ahlussunnah wal jamaah is in the theological sphere. Ahlussunnah waljamah refers to the thoughts of Abu Hasan Al Asy'ari and Abu Mansur Al Maturidi. The purpose of making this journal is to find out the big picture of ahlussunnah wal jamaah from the perspective of Hasyim Asy'ari. Data processing is carried out using the qualitative method with litetarure review type method. The research results obtained by the author that there are two reasons that make ahlussunnah wal jamaah the theological foundation from Hasyim Asy'ari's perspective,first ahlussunnah wal jamaah as the majority group this statement come from hadith “Indeed, Allah has protected my people from agreeing on misguided” and second ahlussunnah wal jamaah as a contemporary mazhab that are able to answer the problems according to the challenges of the times.