Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology
Verbum Christi is a scientific journal publishing various research findings out of theology exploration. Amidst its diversity, Verbum Christi focuses on the richness of the Reformed tradition, based on the theological foundations built by church reformers in the 16th century. Rooted out of its foundation, various study as biblical, systematic, historical, apologetic, philosophical, ethical, and practical theology developed as an instrument to live out the Gospel. As such, the latest published issues are not only accessible to researchers and theologians but also to the non-specialist.
The Phrase berit ‘ām in the Song of the Servant
The Hebrew phrase berit ‘ām is unique, occurring only twice in the entire Old Testament (Isa. 42:6; 49:8), yet Bible translators have struggled to provide a meaningful translation. Of the existing variants, two translations need to be particularly highlighted. TNK “a covenant people” and a covenant mediator (42:6, TB2). For this reason, it is first necessary to establish a translation of berit ‘ām based on Hebrew semantics and syntax. Then, the Hebrew phrase is interpreted in the context of the Song of the Servant and finally within the two scriptural contexts. In the context of Jewish scripture, non-Christological interpretation with Israel as the focus. In the context of Christian scriptures, christological interpretation with Jesus Christ as the personalization of the Servant. The result is an offer of a translation of berit ‘ām into Indonesian that adopts the dual mission of the Servant (national, universal), “a covenant for the people” (Israel), rather than a covenant for humanity.
Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
Love, Covenant, and Providence in 1 Samuel 18:1-5
This article analyzes the relationship between David and Jonathan in 1 Samuel 18:1–5 through an exegetical-theological approach in response to homoerotic interpretations that have developed in contemporary biblical studies. Several scholars interpret this passage as legitimizing same-sex relationships by emphasizing the intensity of affection between the two figures. This study argues that such interpretations tend to neglect the historical context, Ancient Near Eastern culture, and the broader narrative-theological structure of the book of Samuel. Using a library research method, this article conducts a lexical analysis of key Hebrew terms, particularly ahav (love) and berith (covenant), and places them within the literary and theological context of God’s providential anointing of David as king. The findings show that the relationship between David and Jonathan is more appropriately understood as friendship based on brotherly love, loyalty, and shared commitment to God and the nation of Israel. Furthermore, this relationship functions as a providential means through which God preserved Israel by protecting David during his journey toward kingship as the anointed king. Therefore, this article concludes that the David–Jonathan narrative does not support an erotic interpretation, but rather reflects the dynamics of friendship within the framework of providence and Israel’s salvation history.
Human beings are indeed made in God’s image as destined seekers of truth and in their multifaceted if fragile efforts to attain and communicate in both thought and action an element of correctness, certitude, consensus, coherence, commensurability, and fertile and liberating knowledge. Therefore, peace activists cannot be separated from the struggle to critically and introspectively apply the truth, with arguments ready to be tested.
Authors' Biography, Reviewer Acknowledgement, Author Guidelines
Theological and Pedagogical Aspects of the Heidelberg Catechism in Christian Education in Schools
In its historical development, objections have been raised that the Heidelberg Catechism is not adapted to children, either in their intellectual capacity or religious experience. Therefore, the writer analyzes the theological and pedagogical aspects of the Heidelberg Catechism in Christian Education, along with modern pedagogy critiques. From the analysis, the writer concludes that the Heidelberg Catechism possesses strong significance for Christian Education. Its content not only fosters a love for doctrinal instruction but also shapes students’ critical and spiritual awareness to respond to God’s covenant through faith and repentance, and to grasp the true meaning of living as Christians. This conclusion brought us to see the further reflection on the pedagogical significance inherent in embracing the Heidelberg Catechism within educational contexts. In this article, the writer deals with two Heidelberg Catechism’ pedagogical significances, Christ-centered teaching, and consistent Reformed instruction.
The Psalms of Lament as Covenantal Memory
Post-exilic Lament Psalms reflect the experience of the people of Israel who lost their land and their center of worship, while expressing profound grief over a crisis of collective identity caused by alienation and suffering. Although they do not contain literal genealogies, the Lament Psalms function as covenantal memory that implicitly affirms the importance of a genealogy of faith—namely, a spiritual connection with covenantal ancestors—as the foundation for the formation and preservation of communal identity in diaspora contexts. This paper explores the Lament Psalms as liturgical texts that strengthen communities experiencing displacement and persecution, particularly by relating them to the contemporary context of immigrant communities affected by war and humanitarian refugees in Asia. The paper highlights how the Lament Psalms can serve as a source of hope and genealogical identity for diaspora communities facing trauma, dislocation, and the search for meaning in foreign lands. Thus, the Lament Psalms are not merely a historical reflection of ancient Israel, but remain relevant as a spiritual resource and a source of identity for refugees and immigrants affected by conflict in the modern world.
There has been debate over the phrase “υἱοῦ τοũ θεοῦ” (Son of God) in Mark 1:1, which some textual critics believe is not original and was added later (known as the shorter reading). Conversely, other textual critics still argue that this phrase is original (known as the longer reading). This study will demonstrate that the presence of the phrase υἱοῦ τοũ θεοῦ in Mark 1:1 is justified. Considering external evidence, I find that although various witnesses support both the shorter and the longer readings and are evenly distributed across ancient manuscripts, examining the genealogical relationship provides strong evidence for the phrase’s existence. The omission of υἱοῦ τοũ θεοῦ in some majuscules should be understood as a homoioteleuton error made by scribes. Additionally, internal evidence also strongly supports the phrase’s presence, as seen in the frequent use of this phrase, which is closely related to the Messianic Secret and inclusio. This evidence leads to the firm conclusion that the phrase υἱοῦ τοũ θεοῦ truly appears in Mark 1:1. The inclusion of this phrase at the start of Mark’s Gospel conveys an extraordinary message that contrasts sharply with what first-century readers in Judaism, Hellenism, and the Roman Empire would have expected.
Virtual Church and the Challenges of Postmodernism
This article examines the phenomenon of the virtual church in the postmodern era marked by pluralism, relativism, and digitalization. It explores the extent to which virtual church practices are compatible with sixteenth-century Reformation ecclesiology. Drawing on the ecclesiological principles of Martin Luther and John Calvin, the study finds that both Reformers understood the church as a visible community constituted through the proclamation of the Word and the administration of the sacraments, which inherently presuppose physical fellowship. Even so, digital technology holds significant instrumental value for teaching, pastoral care, and congregational communication. Consequently, virtual church expressions may serve as supplementary means of ministry but cannot replace the physical church as the true ecclesial community. The study highlights the need for a discerning and theologically grounded integration of technology in contemporary church practice.
Authors Biography, Reviewers, & Author Guidelines
Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
The biblical idea of peace is deeply shaped by the meaning of the Hebrew word shalom. This term signifies more than just a ceasefire or the end of war and conflict. Shalom refers to a state of overall well-being and harmonious relationships with God, other people, and creation. The Fall into sin has taken shalom away from humanity. Nevertheless, Christ's redemptive work restores shalom to human life.
The global Christian mission faces the pervasive context of secularism, presenting challenges and opportunities that require robust theological engagement. Charles M. Taylor categorizes secularism into three definitions: (1) separation between the sacred and the secular realm, but religion is axiomatic; (2) declining religious adherence in the purportedly neutral public sphere; and (3) a plurality of options is available for humans to construct the meaning of life. How does biblical theology respond to these three forms of secularism according to Taylor’s proposed taxonomy? This article proposes a “cosmic sanctuary mission” as a biblical theology framework for addressing the challenges in each of Taylor’s definitions of secularity. Employing the thematic-intertextual exegesis, it analyzes the biblical motifs of Eden and New Jerusalem, which bookend the biblical metanarrative. The intertextual links between Eden, New Jerusalem, and the temple highlight God’s dwelling place among His people. This biblical theology of cosmic sanctuary implies a theology of mission: to expand God’s holy place, beginning from Eden (Gen. 2) and consummating in New Jerusalem, which encompasses the whole cosmos (Rev. 21-22). This cosmic temple theology provides a holistic biblical framework for Christian mission, offering responses to each of Taylor’s definitions of secularism.
This paper aims to compare and contrast the differences and similarities between Herman Bavinck's views and those presented in Psalm 1, particularly focusing on the concept of imitating God as it relates to the image of God, the imitation of Christ/God, and its implications for life in this world. The method used is a literature study presented with a qualitative-comparative approach. It can be concluded that Herman Bavinck and Psalm 1 both affirm that the image and imitation of God are essential to ethical transformation and spiritual flourishing. However, they approach the subject from different theological foundations and modes of application. Bavinck, through a Christocentric and Reformed lens, emphasizes that the image of God, though damaged by sin, is restored in union with Christ, leading to a life of obedience, self-denial, and virtue. Psalm 1, on the other hand, presents imitation through Torah meditation, fostering a righteous and fruitful life marked by justice and covenantal faithfulness. While Bavinck focuses on Christ as the model for restoration, Psalm 1 highlights Scripture’s formative power. Both agree, however, that true imitation of God brings inward renewal and outward transformation shaped by divine guidance.
This paper proposes a Reformed theological method for missiological interpretation of culture and cultural dialogue in terms of religious consciousness and uses classical Confucianism as a case study. The thesis of the paper is that, on the basis of the proposed method, a man called the Duke of Zhou was a Christlike figure for Confucius, and that therefore Confucius, for his immense influence, may or perhaps should be thought of as a herald, or rather a guardian, even an apostle untimely born, of the restorative ethic embodied in the Duke of Zhou.
Losing a parent is one of the most painful experiences in a person's life. Its impact can raise a profound existential question: "How do I live without them?" To answer this question, this article attempts to interpret Psalm 27:10 using a poetic-affective criticism approach that traces the psalmist's lamentation, emotions, recognition of God, and the dynamics of mood swings. By exploring the text of Psalm 27 in depth, it is found that the experience of being abandoned by parents does not lead the psalmist to loneliness but to a deeper recognition of God as light, salvation, and a fortress of life. This study also offers a new perspective on Psalm 27, namely as a reflection of mental and emotional health due to loss and loneliness, as well as a source of comfort and strength for those who are abandoned by their parents. In his solitude, the psalmist does not encounter emptiness but instead finds God, who welcomes him as a child.
Responses to the Theory of Nonfoundationalist Epistemology and Its Influence in Theology
The rise of postmodernism correlated with the emergence of nonfoundationalist epistemology theory. Nonfoundationalist epistemology theory critiques foundationalism, particularly modern classical foundationalism. In addition to providing a critique, this theory presents a viable option for Christian theology to be recognized as a legitimate epistemological theory for doing Christian theology. Nonetheless, the question of whether we can embrace nonfoundationalist epistemology in our theology comes up. To respond to this inquiry, the author will examine the shortcomings of modern classical foundationalism, which led to the development of nonfoundationalism as an alternative, using literature research. The evaluation of nonfoundationalism's perspectives and the theological issues it raises will follow.
The Interaction of Intellect and Will in John Calvin's View:
This article explores the interaction between intellect and will in education according to the thoughts of John Calvin, as well as its relevance to Paulo Freire's critical pedagogy. Calvin emphasizes the importance of balancing intellect and will in the pursuit of truth, which aligns with Freire’s principles that encourage students to think critically and reflectively. The process of contemplation in Calvin's thought, where individuals reflect on knowledge to influence their will, mirrors Freire's reflective approach in critical education. Furthermore, both emphasize the freedom in decision-making, where individuals should act based on true knowledge and moral values. Calvin's thoughts also highlight the importance of social transformation, in line with Freire's vision of creating individuals who are not only intellectually competent but also morally committed to improving society. This article employs qualitative research methods. The findings indicate that the thoughts of Calvin and Freire complement each other in shaping a framework for education that is critical and oriented towards social change.
This study analyses the concept of anamnesis in the Lord's Supper based on the perspectives of John Calvin from the Reformed tradition and Alexander Schmemann from the Eastern Orthodox tradition. Both theologians agree that anamnesis is not merely a cognitive remembrance but a divine act of the Triune God that deepens the believers' communion with Christ. However, differences arise in their interpretations of telos, the expression of Christ’s sacrificial love, and the scope of anamnesis, where Schmemann emphasizes the manifestation of the Kingdom of God in liturgy, while Calvin focuses on the justification and sanctification of believers. This study contributes to the ecumenical dialogue by offering a synthesis that values both traditions without compromising theological integrity. Thus, it enriches the understanding of anamnesis as a theological reality that brings forth God's salvific work in the Lord’s Supper and directs believers toward eschatological fulfilment.
Post-Reformation studies can be encouraged to investigate the question of whether and to what extent the theology that has developed in later times remains faithful to the teachings of the reformers. It is common and natural that in the following era, there was a development in theology compared to the previous era. The question is whether this development constitutes a substantial change. This article will highlight the differences in theological profiles between Calvin and the Heidelberg Catechism. There is continuity from Calvin to the Heidelberg Catechism in several aspects, while discontinuity is also found in non-substantial theological developments.
Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
This article presents ideas on how to view the attributes of a holy church. The purpose is motivated by the misunderstanding of the church's holiness with the church's existence in the world. This existence gives rise to the notion that the church has sinfulness and weakness. This view can make the church's holiness attribute vague. To answer the background of the problem, this paper uses the content analysis method of literature review. The author finds that the attributes of a holy church cannot be clashed with the reality of the pilgrim's church in the world with the weaknesses and sins committed by its people. Ecclesiological dimensions can help reveal how to view the church's holiness. The attributes of a holy church remain holy because they are related to God's act of sanctifying His church.
The Lloyd-Jones' Doctrine of the Baptism with the Holy Spirit Based on the Reformed Theological Perspective
The doctrine of baptism with the Holy Spirit remains a subject of theological debate, which has not yet reached a consensus among scholars within the Church traditions. These differences are not only found across church traditions but also within Reformed theology itself, as reflected in the views of Martyn Lloyd-Jones. This article examines and evaluates the main aspects of Lloyd-Jones' thought using the Reformed view as a primary framework. This analysis finds ambiguity in Lloyd-Jones' understanding of the baptism with the Holy Spirit. Although there are differences, Lloyd-Jones's views remain part of the broader Reformed view.
“To be Married or Not to Be, that is the Question!”
This article explores societal perspectives, particularly within Christian communities, on the concept of marriage, which has increasingly become marginalized due to societal priorities on education and career. This situation has led to more complex criteria and expectations for potential partners, where individuals are treated as consumable objects and are judged based on external standards, such as economic status and education. However, individuals can understand their personhood theologically and holistically through deep interactions, meaningful relationships, and mutual self-giving in interpersonal connections, as exemplified in marriage. The uniqueness of personhood is also realized through relating with another person. Through a theological reflection on the concepts of personhood and marriage, this article emphasizes the importance of marriage as a life calling that should not be a secondary option after career and educational achievements. This article concludes that the church should take an active role in addressing theological understandings of marriage and respond thoughtfully to the issue of singleness.
Current Issues in Reformed Evangelical Theology
Reformed theology rightly is drawn not just from Scriptural statements but also “what may be truly and certainly proved” from them. But what is the status of proofs (or logical consequences) from Scripture? And how many “consequences” can we take beyond Scripture before they become speculative and are no longer “good” or “necessary”? Reformed and Evangelical theology needs to explore a clearer understanding and formulation of what precisely constitute “good and necessary consequences” of Scripture.
Translation Techniques of Genesis 1-2 in the Second Edition of the Indonesian New Translation Bible
Translation of the Old Testament from Hebrew-Aramaic into other languages always raises textual issues. In the context of the Indonesian Bible, these textual issues have not received sufficient academic attention. With the release of the second edition of the New Translation Bible (TB2) in 2023, this paper will review the translation techniques of TB2 using textual criticism methods on a sample of Genesis 1-2. The first edition of the New Translation Bible (TB) will also be compared, along with the Masoretic Text (MT) and the Septuagint (LXX) where necessary. The findings are as follows: (1) TB2 shows consistency in word equivalence with MT, (2) TB2 includes a literal translation of MT, and (3) where verses are not problematic, TB2 appears to reflect MT more accurately as the Vorlage. It is hoped that this article will contribute insights into Bible translation techniques in Indonesian for the future.
Informal Teacher Leaders' Perspectives on Tolerance Education
The study aimed to criticize the weaknesses of the concept of tolerance education and analyze the components and concepts of John Calvin's cross-tolerance, which are used to strengthen and complement the perspective of teachers as informal leaders on tolerance education. The research method used is qualitative with a content analysis approach. The results of the current study found four main themes including the conceptual definition of tolerance, the dimensions of tolerance, the virtues of tolerance and the limits of tolerance. Cross tolerance teaches teachers as informal leaders that patience will not take root in humanity if there is no deep sorrow for evil and injustice to bear (a prerequisite for tolerance), doctrine and worship of God must be properly maintained to protect tolerance, and obedience to God is the mother and guardian of all virtues (including tolerance education). Thus, teachers as informal leaders in schools should not tolerate contamination of divine justice and true justice within the framework of a broader and fundamental virtue mindset.