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GOD'S PRESENCE AMID WOMEN'S MARGINALIZATION AND SUFFERING: A CONTEXTUAL THEOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE ON GENDER AND GOD'S JUSTICE Gomgom Simorangkir; Riris Johanna Siagian
International Journal of Social Science, Educational, Economics, Agriculture Research and Technology (IJSET) Vol. 4 No. 12 (2025): NOVEMBER
Publisher : RADJA PUBLIKA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.54443/ijset.v4i12.1256

Abstract

This study highlights God's presence amidst the marginalization and suffering of women, particularly in the context of Batak culture, which remains steeped in patriarchal values. Using a qualitative approach and a contextual theology paradigm, this study reinterprets women's experiences as a locus theologicus to understand God's justice and provision. Women's marginalization is evident in various social, customary, and ecclesiastical aspects, where women are often positioned as "controlled" and denied full space in decision-making. Yet, Scripture demonstrates that God sides with the oppressed and upholds justice for marginalized groups. The story of Hagar, Jesus' ministry to the Samaritan woman, and the testimony of the resurrection entrusted to women affirm God's liberating presence and the restoration of human dignity. In light of the Holy Spirit's work, the church is called to transform gender relations equitably, transcending the boundaries of cultural patriarchy. Contextual theology serves as a critical tool for rereading Batak customs, particularly dalihan na tolu, so that their values ​​are lived out in the spirit of equality and justice in the Gospel. Thus, God's presence is not merely a theological discourse, but is evident in the solidarity, struggle, and liberation of women from oppressive social structures. The church is expected to be a prophetic community that presents signs of God's justice in an inclusive and transformative way in society.
FROM EXCLUSIVE TO INCLUSIVE-CULTURAL: DECOLONIZATION OF THE CHURCH'S MISSION TO CULTURE AT HKBP PARSAORAN DAME Hana Masta Pasaribu; Riris Johanna Siagian
International Journal of Social Science, Educational, Economics, Agriculture Research and Technology (IJSET) Vol. 4 No. 12 (2025): NOVEMBER
Publisher : RADJA PUBLIKA

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.54443/ijset.v4i12.1310

Abstract

This paper examines the dynamics of the church's decolonization of Batak culture in the context of the HKBP Parsaoran Dame congregation, as a theological effort to free itself from the hegemony of Western theology that historically shaped the colonial mission paradigm. To date, the church's mission has often operated within a dualistic framework that separates the Gospel from custom, faith from culture, and the sacred from the profane, thus creating epistemological tension between Christian faith and local cultural identity. Three theoretical frameworks are used: A. Afaradi's decolonial theology on epistemic liberation from Western domination; Homi K. Bhabha's concept of hybridity and third space, which explains the process of negotiating the meaning of faith in a cultural context; and Robert Sibarani's idea of ​​Dalihan Na Tolu as a source of Batak ethics and spirituality. HKBP Parsaoran Dame is experiencing a mission paradigm shift toward an inclusive, dialogical, and collaborative approach. This process of integration between faith and culture produces a form of religious hybridity that affirms the rootedness of Christian faith in Batak values ​​without losing its universal dimension. Theologically, mission decolonization is understood not merely as the replacement of Western symbols with local elements, but as an epistemic and spiritual liberation that places local culture as the locus theologicus of the space where God is presented and experienced through the language, symbols, and values ​​of society. This research emphasizes that a decolonized church is a church that is culturally rooted yet remains universal in the love of Christ, and makes the values ​​of marsiadapari (mutual cooperation) and marsilupahon (mutual support) the foundation of contextual, liberating, and transformative mission practice. This paper was developed with a qualitative approach through in-depth interviews and participatory observation, this research combines contextual theology and decolonial theory as the basis for analysis.
Dialog Gereja-Gereja dalam Merawat Alam Tanah Batak untuk Membangun Kesadaran Lingkungan dan Kolaborasi Antar Umat Ben Sitompul; Bona Ventro Simatupang; Eryn Napitupulu; Niar Sagala; Syerafin Silaban; Riris Johanna Siagian
Atmosfer: Jurnal Pendidikan, Bahasa, Sastra, Seni, Budaya, dan Sosial Humaniora Vol. 3 No. 3 (2025): Agustus : Atmosfer: Jurnal Pendidikan, Bahasa, Sastra, Seni, Budaya, dan Sosial
Publisher : Universitas Palangka Raya

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.59024/atmosfer.v3i3.1537

Abstract

The worsening ecological crisis, such as the floods that hit Parapat, demands a serious response from various elements of society, including religious institutions. This article highlights the role of the Church, particularly Huria Kristen Batak Protestan (HKBP), in caring for nature in Tanah Batak as a form of faith and social responsibility. Using theological and socio-cultural approaches, this study analyzes the contribution of HKBP teachings and Pope Francis' call in the encyclical Laudato Si' to the ecological awareness of the people. It emphasizes that the HKBP doctrine of the wholeness of creation and community-based ecological movements can be transformative solutions to environmental degradation. Through a case study of flooding in Parapat, this article demonstrates the urgency of church involvement in ecological advocacy and environmental education, and the importance of synergy between faith, Batak culture, and concrete action for the sustainability of God's creation. The HKBP's teachings on the wholeness of creation align closely with Pope Francis’ encyclical Laudato Si’, which calls for a radical shift in how humanity perceives and interacts with nature. By emphasizing the interconnectedness of all life, the HKBP doctrine encourages its followers to view environmental stewardship not only as a moral obligation but as an essential expression of faith. This view aligns with Pope Francis' call for an "ecological conversion," urging individuals and communities to recognize their role in caring for God's creation. Through the case study of flooding in Parapat, this article illustrates the real-world implications of ecological negligence and the importance of church involvement in ecological advocacy. The HKBP, along with other religious and community-based movements, can spearhead efforts to integrate environmental education into their teachings and local initiatives.
Manusia Menurut Teologi John Wesley dalam Membangun Toleransi dan Solidaritas Gereja Methodist Indonesia (GMI) di Wilayah I Hutauruk, Runggu; Pintor Marihot Sitanggang; Riris Johanna Siagian
Majalah Ilmiah METHODA Vol. 15 No. 2 (2025): Majalah Ilmiah METHODA
Publisher : Universitas Methodist Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar

Abstract

The doctrine of the Imago Dei is a fundamental Christian concept regarding human beings, which can be generally divided into three categories: capacity, function, and relationality, which distinguishes them from other creation. Capacity concerns the inherent abilities of humans, such as reason, emotion, and will. Function concerns humans as social beings and as stewards of themselves, others, and other creations. Relationality addresses the relationship with God as the source of life, both physical and spiritual. In relation to other creations, the Bible teaches that humans are noble creatures, given the image of God and stewardship over nature and other creations. Human dignity and worth are due to the image of God within them. This is a crucial concept for human dignity and human rights. In John Wesley's doctrine, man as the Imago Dei consists of a natural image; a political image; and a moral image. The natural image of God in man includes free will, intellect, and eternity. God gave man free will, but this free will is responsible, unlike the free will of animals, where humans can distinguish between right and wrong while animals cannot. Therefore, human freedom of will demands responsibility. Then, humans are given an intellect that exceeds that of other creations of God on earth. Humans with their intellect (reason) can understand the truth.
MARSIADAPARI SEBAGAI SOLIDARITAS SOSIAL BATAK DALAM GEREJA DAN MASYARAKAT Arif Ebenejer Simangunsong; Riris Johanna Siagian
Pendas : Jurnal Ilmiah Pendidikan Dasar Vol. 10 No. 04 (2025): Volume 10 No. 04 Desember 2025 Press
Publisher : Program Studi Pendidikan Guru Sekolah Dasar FKIP Universitas Pasundan

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.23969/jp.v10i04.40277

Abstract

This study aims to examine the social and spiritual values of the marsiadapari tradition as a distinctive form of solidarity within the Batak Toba community that remains relevant to the life of the church and modern society. The marsiadapari practice refers to a mutual cooperation system in agricultural work and social activities, founded upon togetherness, love, and collective responsibility. In a theological context, the values of marsiadapari reflect the Christian principles of koinonia (fellowship) and diakonia (service of love). Using a qualitative-descriptive approach, this research analyzes the interaction between Batak local traditions and Christian ethos in building contextual social solidarity. The marsiadapari practice can serve as a model for the church’s social praxis in realizing faith that works through love, while also addressing the challenges of individualism and social inequality in society. The church is called to revitalize the marsiadapari values as part of its social mission so that Christian faith is not only expressed in liturgy but also in concrete acts of solidarity with others. Thus, marsiadapari is not merely a cultural heritage but also a contextual expression of faith that strengthens social cohesion, deepens the spirituality of togetherness, and revives the spirit of loving service within contemporary Batak Christian communities.