cover
Contact Name
Bobby Kurnia Putrawan
Contact Email
bkputrawan@gmail.com
Phone
+6282110093693
Journal Mail Official
jurnalquaerens@widyaagape.ac.id
Editorial Address
Jalan Tawakal Rt.06, Nunukan Barat Kabupaten Nunukan, Kalimantan Utara
Location
Kab. nunukan,
Kalimantan utara
INDONESIA
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
ISSN : 27220869     EISSN : 27220753     DOI : 10.46362
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies is a place for publication of results of research on Christian theology and Christian Religious Education with the number ISSN: 2722-0753 (online), ISSN: 2722-0869 (print), published by the Indonesian Christian Theological Association. the scope of the research study are: Biblical, Systematic Theology, Christian Ethics, Pastoral, Christian Education, Church History, Christian Mission, and Theology Religionum.
Articles 68 Documents
MALE CIRCUMCISION: Interpretation Debate on Judaism, The New Testament, and Health Tanasyah, Yusak; Putrawan, Bobby Kurnia
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 5 No 2 (2023): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies (On Progress)
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v5i2.221

Abstract

Male circumcision is often practiced across the world for a variety of reasons including health, medical necessity, beauty, tradition, or religion. Jews have practiced male circumcision since Abraham's time and continue until now. This practice is obligatory for Jewish males soon after they are born. In the New Testament, we read Paul talks about circumcision as the practice of Jewish belief, and for Christians, he said spiritual circumcision is the new law of the New Testament. Now, male circumcision is not only related to religion, and culture but connect to the health issue. The interpretation of religion, culture, and health become an interpretation debate over many years. There is Circumcision either improves or decreases male sexual function or satisfaction. It is critical to understand how male circumcision (MC), especially when performed in childhood, impacts men's sexual satisfaction and performance. The topic is also quite contentious. Our objective is to give a comprehensive study of the studies on the influence of male circumcision from Jewish, Christian, and health interpretations.
THE CHARACTERISTICS OF PSEUDO-RELIGION: A Case Study of the Documentary Film In the Name of God - A Holy Betrayal Silalahi, Bonnarty Steven
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 5 No 2 (2023): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies (On Progress)
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v5i2.224

Abstract

The documentary film "In the Name of God: The Holy Betrayal" records interviews with former followers of four sects in South Korea, namely Jesus Morning Star/Jeong Myeong-seok, Five Oceans, Baby Garden, and Manmin Central Church. Through a case study, five similarities were found among these sects, namely individual cult (worshiping their leaders), religious fraud (misuse of money), religious abuse (exploitation to sexual harassment), isolation and exclusivism, and extreme mysticism. These five similarities are covered by a fanaticism that makes followers not question or criticize teachings, even if they are contrary to the law. Through a literature review of the cases in this documentary, this research concludes that these five similarities are part of the sect's character. This analysis has significance for introducing Christian movements and tendencies for teachings to become pseudo-religions. Film dokumenter “In the Name of God: The Holy Betrayal” merekam wawancara dari mantan pengikut empat sekte di Korea Selatan, yakni Jesus Morning Star/ Jeong Myeong-seok, Five Oceans, Baby Garden dan Manmin Central Church. Melalui studi kasus yang dilakukan, ditemukan lima kesamaan sekte ini, yakni kultus individual (menuhankan pemimpinnya), religious fraud (penyalahgunaan uang), religious abuse (eksploitasi hingga pelecehan seksual), isolasi dan eksklusifisme serta mistisisme ekstrim. Kelima kesamaan ini ditambah dengan sikap fanatisme yang membuat pengikutnya tidak mempertanyakan atau melakukan kritik terhadap ajaran-ajaran, meskipun itu bertentangan dengan hukum. Melalui studi pustaka atas kasus-kasus dalam dokumenter ini, penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa kelima kesamaan tersebut adalah sebagian dari karakter sekte. Analisis ini memiliki signifikansi bagi pengenalan gerakan Kekristenan dan kecenderungan ajaran menjadi agama semu.
A CRITICAL STUDY OF ACTS 2-4 IN THE LIGHT OF KARL MARX’S “RELIGION IS THE OPIUM OF THE MASSES” Ugochukwu, Obumneme Ezewudo; Kalu, Ngele Omaka; Uroko, Favour Chukwuemeka
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 6 No 1 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v6i1.227

Abstract

Karl Marx’s analysis and critique of religion captured in his statement: Religion is the opium of the masses is perhaps one of the most famous and most quoted by theists and atheists. Unfortunately, most of those doing the quoting do not really understand exactly what Marx meant, probably due to an incomplete understanding of Marx’s general theories on economics and society. Marx’s theory on religion as the opium of the masses is based on his belief that religion had certain practical functions both positive and negative to perform in the society. Such practical functions are seen and observed in the contemporary world. His theory was critically examined in the light of Acts 2-4 in order to discover its effect and implications for church and society using economic strait. The methodology adopted is historical critical method and redaction criticism in biblical scholarship. However, many factors are considered responsible for oppression and social disorder. In agreement with some aspects of Marx’s view on religion, this paper observes and recommends need for psychological emancipation from religious dogmatism.
A COMPARATIVE STUDY ON THE VIEWS OF KARL BARTH AND EMIL BRUNNER ON NATURAL THEOLOGY AND ITS RELEVANCE TODAY Amos, Jesse S.
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 6 No 1 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v6i1.229

Abstract

The purpose of this research is, by investigation into the views of Barth and Brunner on natural theology, to restate and emphasize its relevance for us today—in the first quarter of the twenty-first century. This is achieved via a comparative analysis—by which this research adopts the purely objective method as well as the critical theological analysis and biblical assessment. It is by design naturalistic, which means it is non- manipulative. The research-maintained neutrality and attentiveness to dynamics. The analysis is inductive; given each case its unique orientation, holistic perspective, and context sensitivity. Barth denied that God can be known outside of Christ. This is to say, he is against general revelation but only accepts special revelation. Brunner insists that there is a knowledge of God obtainable in nature — though dimmed as it may be serves as a point of contact between God and man. He accepts general revelation, but it is subservient to special revelation. The position reached in this research agrees more with Brunner, that: natural theology is relevant in that, we can make the most positive use of it for doing theology and witnessing Christ—in our time. While most works on natural theology rests merely on its importance in apologetics, this work have taken it farther, at least, for evangelistic purposes.
CHRISTUS SALVATOR: God’s Salvation in Christ, Christ’s Finality, and the Christian Mission within a Religiously Pluralistic World Oppong-Konadu, Kwame
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 6 No 1 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v6i1.231

Abstract

Considering the many diverse religious traditions coexisting in the same societies across the globe, the issue of how Christianity relates to other religions has become increasingly important. Theologians have developed three main approaches that address this issue: exclusivism, inclusivism, and religious pluralism. This article offers a critical examination of these approaches using a literature study. It also delves into the truth claim about Christ’s finality and salvific role in the world, exploring its implications for Christian missions. It argues that while adhering to Christ’s finality in the religiously pluralistic world is still relevant for contemporary Christians, it is necessary to engage respectfully and sensitively when approaching missions among people of other faiths. The article advocates a P-H-D model for missions, demonstrating the significance of three missional attitudes: Perseverance, Humility, and Dialogue.
APOLOGETIC EVANGELICAL CONTEXTUAL CHRISTOLOGY: A Pragmatic Approach in the Islamic Context Yunis Hakim, Aftab
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 6 No 2 (2024): Vol 6 No 2 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v6i2.208

Abstract

The conflict over Jesus Christ, the ‘Son of God,’ is not new. Thousands of years ago, the disciples faced similar trials; however, the challenge to solve this tension was not based on debates or natural theology, but rather to show the works of Christ. The researcher has argued that various studies on Christology have already been done, however, the Pakistani perspective demands the fullness of Christ in a quite unique way to reimagine Him in the context of socio-economic, political, and religious challenges. On the one hand, though the traditional way of doing Christology highly emphasized the personhood of Christ explaining Him from the eschatological perspective (though it is important), however, on the other hand, it makes Christ a pacifist Jesus who has no concern for the current issues. As a result, this kind of Christological articulation does not explain Christ’s presence in our struggles today. This piece further demonstrated that the context is not above Christ in discovering who He is in the midst of such a grave situation, but rather contextual realities provide the Pakistani Punjabi Church an opportunity to demonstrate the works of Christ. Furthermore, this study also argued that the real struggle is not being a minority in this context, but rather being marginalized (economically, politically, and religiously) is the real challenge. This study further argued that the core issue is the ecclesiastical responsibility to overcome all the issues in this context. As a result, ‘Apologetic Evangelical Contextual Christology’ has proposed seeing Christ in all His fullness in the Islamic Context.
Vulnerable Mission in Depth: Listening to God and Man in Indonesia Hutapea, Jusuf; Winanto, Natanael; Lumingkewas, Marthin Steven
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 7 No 1 (2025): Vol.7 No.1 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v7i1.226

Abstract

The Christian mission in Indonesia faces significant challenges amid the country's cultural, religious, and social diversity. With a majority Muslim population, it is crucial for the church to listen to both the voice of God and the voice of humanity in carrying out its mission. This study aims to explore how the Christian mission can be more effective by integrating these two aspects: listening to the voice of God through spiritual teaching and addressing the social needs of the community. The concept of a vulnerable mission, which prioritizes responsiveness to social and cultural challenges, forms the basis of this study. The research method used is a qualitative approach with a case study design, involving in-depth interviews with church leaders, missionaries, and community members, as well as document analysis to understand the application of both aspects in the diverse Indonesian context. The research findings indicate that successful Christian missions in Indonesia are those that can integrate spiritual aspects with social empowerment, thereby strengthening the church's relationship with the local community. The contribution of this research is the development of mission theory with a more inclusive and culturally sensitive approach. These findings are expected to provide insights for churches in Indonesia and similar countries in designing more adaptive, holistic, and relevant mission strategies.
Is Christianity A “Newcomer” to Africa? Rethinking the Religion-Political Conundrum in African Christianity Akibu, Samuel Olamiji
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 6 No 2 (2024): Vol 6 No 2 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v6i2.228

Abstract

In this paper, I argue that Africa is not alien to Christianity, and neither is Christianity a “Newcomer” religion to Africa. As Africa and Africans contributed immensely and significantly to the entrenchment of the Christian Gospel as well as the formulation of its theology, religion-political conundrum, namely, Western colonization and Prosperity Gospel/Theology engendered the suspicions and the distrusts laced towards Christianity by the post-colonial Africans- hence the need for a robust and wholistic theology that is devoid of the temporal contract of the Prosperity Theology but adequately responds to the religious, political, and socio-economic plights of post-colonial Africa. This article challenges the notion that Christianity is a "newcomer" to Africa by tracing its deep historical roots on the continent and emphasizing the significant contributions of Africans to Christian theology. It also critiques the religion-political conundrum, particularly the harmful influence of Western colonialism and the Prosperity Gospel, which has distorted the true message of Christianity in Africa.
From Sinai to Jerusalem: Shema Yisrael and the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit in a Pentecostal Perspective Johansja, Henky
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 6 No 2 (2024): Vol 6 No 2 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v6i2.328

Abstract

This article explores the theological trajectory from Shema Yisrael—the foundational confession of Israel’s monotheism—to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem as interpreted within the Pentecostal tradition. The background lies in the tension between Israel’s strict declaration of God’s oneness (יְהוָה אֶחָד) at Sinai and the Pentecostal experience of the Spirit (πνεῦμα ἅγιον) that shaped the global church. The purpose of this study is to demonstrate that Israel’s monotheism is not rejected but fulfilled in the Pentecostal encounter, where Shema is reinterpreted through Christ and the Spirit into a relational and living confession. Methodologically, the research employs a qualitative theological approach using biblical analysis, patristic interpretations, and contemporary Pentecostal pneumatology to examine Shema in its historical, liturgical, and theological dimensions. The findings reveal that Pentecostal theology sees a continuity: Sinai’s written law transforms into the Spirit’s living law, affirming the Shema in a Christocentric and pneumatological way. The contribution of this study is to show that Pentecostal faith and practice offer a unique perspective in bridging Jewish monotheism and Christian Trinitarianism, presenting Shema as the foundation for global mission, transformative spirituality, and ecclesial identity empowered by the Holy Spirit.
FEMINIST AGENDA: PAUL’S VIEW OF WOMEN IN 1 CORINTHIANS 11: 2 – 16 Odewole, Israel O.O.
QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies Vol 7 No 1 (2025): Vol.7 No.1 (2024): QUAERENS: Journal of Theology and Christianity Studies
Publisher : Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Widya Agape dan Perkumpulan Teolog Agama Kristen Indonesia

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.46362/quaerens.v7i1.240

Abstract

Apostle Paul’s view of women in 1 Cor. 11:2-16 has generated strong debate among scholars and theologians over the years. Many have tried to do an exegesis of this passage along the theme of the ‘Feminist Agenda’. Furthermore, there has been lot of 21st century cultural prejudices thereby side-lining the cultural milieu in which Paul wrote. This paper will examine 1 Cor. 11:12-16 in the light of the ‘Feminist agenda’ which has generated much heated debates even from both male and female sexes. Male chauvinists has always argued against inequality of both sexes with the female been subjugated. It becomes more worrisome if their argument is justified using the scriptures. The Church of ages has tried to solve the problems of men and women through a ministry composed exclusively of men. This is no more adequate to redeeming the world at present than an exclusively feminine ministry would be. Feminist’s voices and other similar ones will set the tone of this presentation which, simply indicate that there is a cry for “women approach” to their own affairs which must be articulated, controlled and sustained by them. It is against such a mood that I make this contribution by looking deeply to the passage in order to make suggestions and recommendation for modern churches.