Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology
type: channel
description: 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.
publisher: STT Reformed Injili Internasional
language: en
publication name: Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology
issn: 2355-6374
items: Peace Activist
items: Authors' Biography, Reviewer Acknowledgement, Author Guidelines
items: Editorial Boards & Contents
items: Theological and Pedagogical Aspects of the Heidelberg Catechism in Christian Education in Schools
items: The Psalms of Lament as Covenantal Memory
items: Is There "The Son of God" in Mark 1:1?
items: Virtual Church and the Challenges of Postmodernism
items: Authors Biography, Reviewers, & Author Guidelines
items: To Be A Peacemaker
items: The Cosmic Temple Mission
items: The Imitation of God
items: Zhou Gong Came to Serve
items: Abandoned but Not Alone
items: Responses to the Theory of Nonfoundationalist Epistemology and Its Influence in Theology
items: The Interaction of Intellect and Will in John Calvin's View:
items: Anamnesis
items: Heidelberg Catechism and John Calvin
items: Sanctification of the Church
items: The Lloyd-Jones' Doctrine of the Baptism with the Holy Spirit Based on the Reformed Theological Perspective
items: “To be Married or Not to Be, that is the Question!”
items: Current Issues in Reformed Evangelical Theology
items: Translation Techniques of Genesis 1-2 in the Second Edition of the Indonesian New Translation Bible
items: Informal Teacher Leaders' Perspectives on Tolerance Education
items: Theology of the Body Perspective in Understanding and Helping Adolescents with Depression
items: “But Saul Held His Peace"

Peace Activist
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: peace activist
  topic: keywords
subject: conflict resolution
  topic: keywords
creator: Semy Arayunedya
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05
starting page: i
ending page: v
doi: 10.51688/VC12.2.2025.editorial

Authors' Biography, Reviewer Acknowledgement, Author Guidelines
type: item
subject: Back Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05

Editorial Boards & Contents
type: item
subject: Front Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05

Theological and Pedagogical Aspects of the Heidelberg Catechism in Christian Education in Schools
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Heidelberg Catechism
  topic: keywords
subject: Christian Education
  topic: keywords
subject: Reformed instruction
  topic: keywords
subject: schools
  topic: keywords
subject: Rousseau
  topic: keywords
creator: Irene Florencia Christin Lawalata
creator: George Sulaiman Malelak
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-04-30
publication date: 2026-04-30
starting page: 27
ending page: 47
doi: 10.51688/VC13.1.2026.art2

The Psalms of Lament as Covenantal Memory
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Lament Psalms
  topic: keywords
subject: Post-exilic Israel
  topic: keywords
subject: diaspora identity
  topic: keywords
subject: covenantal memory
  topic: keywords
subject: genealogy of faith
  topic: keywords
subject: trauma and displacement
  topic: keywords
creator: Dwi Maria Handayani
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-04-30
publication date: 2026-04-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 25
doi: 10.51688/VC13.1.2026.art1

Is There "The Son of God" in Mark 1:1?
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Son of God
  topic: keywords
subject: textual criticism
  topic: keywords
subject: external evidence
  topic: keywords
subject: internal evidence
  topic: keywords
subject: Messianic Secret
  topic: keywords
subject: Editio Critica Maior
  topic: keywords
creator: Calvin Wu
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05
starting page: 151
ending page: 163
doi: 10.51688/VC12.2.2025.art4

Virtual Church and the Challenges of Postmodernism
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: virtual church
  topic: keywords
subject: postmodern
  topic: keywords
subject: true church
  topic: keywords
creator: Rendy Tirtanadi
creator: Frans Silalahi
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05
starting page: 165
ending page: 187
doi: 10.51688/VC12.2.2025.art5

Authors Biography, Reviewers, & Author Guidelines
type: item
subject: Back Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-07
publication date: 2025-08-07

Editorial Boards & Contents
type: item
subject: Front Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-07
publication date: 2025-08-07

To Be A Peacemaker
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
subject: war
  topic: keywords
subject: peacemaker
  topic: keywords
subject: shalom
  topic: keywords
creator: Surya Harefa
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-07
publication date: 2025-08-07
doi: 10.51688/VC12.1.2025.editorial

The Cosmic Temple Mission
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: secularism
  topic: keywords
subject: sacred space
  topic: keywords
subject: biblical theology
  topic: keywords
subject: cosmic temple
  topic: keywords
subject: missiology
  topic: keywords
subject: Charles Taylor
  topic: keywords
creator: Hendra Yohanes
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05
starting page: 131
ending page: 150
doi: 10.51688/VC12.2.2025.art3

The Imitation of God
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Herman Bavinck
  topic: keywords
subject: Psalm 1
  topic: keywords
subject: Imitation of God
  topic: keywords
creator: Novan
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-07-18
publication date: 2025-07-18
starting page: 55
ending page: 69
doi: 10.51688/VC12.1.2025.art4

Zhou Gong Came to Serve
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: missiology
  topic: keywords
subject: religious consciousness
  topic: keywords
subject: Confucianism
  topic: keywords
creator: Nathan Shannon
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05
starting page: 91
ending page: 110
doi: 10.51688/VC12.2.2025.art1

Abandoned but Not Alone
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Psalm 27
  topic: keywords
subject: poetic-affective
  topic: keywords
subject: emotion
  topic: keywords
subject: loss of parents
  topic: keywords
creator: Samuel Suryawinata
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-08-07
publication date: 2025-08-07
starting page: 71
ending page: 89
doi: 10.51688/VC12.1.2025.art5

Responses to the Theory of Nonfoundationalist Epistemology and Its Influence in Theology
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: foundationalism
  topic: keywords
subject: nonfoundationalism
  topic: keywords
subject: nonfoundationalism theology
  topic: keywords
subject: antirealism
  topic: keywords
subject: correspondence
  topic: keywords
subject: linguistic turn
  topic: keywords
creator: Thio Christian Sulistio
rights: Copyright (c) 2026 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2026-03-05
publication date: 2026-03-05
starting page: 111
ending page: 130
doi: 10.51688/VC12.2.2025.art2

The Interaction of Intellect and Will in John Calvin's View:
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: intellect
  topic: keywords
subject: will
  topic: keywords
subject: critical education
  topic: keywords
subject: social transformation
  topic: keywords
subject: critical awareness
  topic: keywords
creator: Yohanes Hasiholan Tampubolon
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-06-23
publication date: 2025-06-23
starting page: 37
ending page: 53
doi: 10.51688/VC12.1.2025.art3

Anamnesis
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Alexander Schmemann
  topic: keywords
subject: anamnesis
  topic: keywords
subject: Lord Supper
  topic: keywords
subject: ecumenical
  topic: keywords
subject: John Calvin
  topic: keywords
creator: Jeconiah Lunardi
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-04-30
publication date: 2025-04-30
starting page: 19
ending page: 36
doi: 10.51688/VC12.1.2025.art2

Heidelberg Catechism and John Calvin
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Zacharias Ursinus
  topic: keywords
subject: soteriology
  topic: keywords
subject: church
  topic: keywords
subject: later calvinism
  topic: keywords
subject: ordo salutis
  topic: keywords
creator: Billy Kristanto
rights: Copyright (c) 2025 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-04-30
publication date: 2025-04-30
starting page: 1
ending page: 17
doi: 10.51688/VC12.1.2025.art1

Authors' Biography, Reviewer Acknowledgement, Author Guidelines
type: item
subject: Back Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-01-16
publication date: 2025-01-16

Editorial Boards & Contents
type: item
subject: Front Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-01-16
publication date: 2025-01-16

Sanctification of the Church
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Ecclesiology
  topic: keywords
subject: Attributes of the Church
  topic: keywords
subject: Holy Church
  topic: keywords
creator: Pranazabdian Waskito
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-11-26
publication date: 2024-11-26
starting page: 143
ending page: 157
doi: 10.51688/VC11.2.2024.art3

The Lloyd-Jones' Doctrine of the Baptism with the Holy Spirit Based on the Reformed Theological Perspective
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Baptism with the Holy Spirit
  topic: keywords
subject: Martyn Llyod-Jones
  topic: keywords
subject: Reformed Theology
  topic: keywords
creator: Yohanis Runggang
creator: Hendry Ongkowidjojo
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2025-01-13
publication date: 2025-01-13
starting page: 179
ending page: 207
doi: 10.51688/VC11.2.2024.art5

“To be Married or Not to Be, that is the Question!”
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: singlehood
  topic: keywords
subject: marriage
  topic: keywords
subject: cohabitation
  topic: keywords
subject: concept of personhood
  topic: keywords
subject: theology of marriage
  topic: keywords
creator: Doni Herwanto Harianja
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-12-20
publication date: 2024-12-20
starting page: 159
ending page: 177
doi: 10.51688/VC11.2.2024.art4

Current Issues in Reformed Evangelical Theology
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Editorial
  topic: section
creator: Martin Foord
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-10-16
publication date: 2024-10-16
starting page: 83
ending page: 86
doi: 10.51688/VC11.2.2024.editorial

Translation Techniques of Genesis 1-2 in the Second Edition of the Indonesian New Translation Bible
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: Indonesian New Translation 2
  topic: keywords
subject: Genesis 1-2
  topic: keywords
subject: textual criticism
  topic: keywords
creator: Steven Yong
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-10-16
publication date: 2024-10-16
starting page: 119
ending page: 141
doi: 10.51688/VC11.2.2024.art2

Editorial Boards & Contents
type: item
subject: Front Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-07-09
publication date: 2024-07-09

Authors' Biography, Reviewer Acknowledgement, Author Guidelines
type: item
subject: Back Matter
  topic: section
creator: Sharon Budihardjo
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-07-09
publication date: 2024-07-09

Informal Teacher Leaders' Perspectives on Tolerance Education
type: item
description: 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.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: informal teacher leader
  topic: keywords
subject: John Calvin
  topic: keywords
subject: patience
  topic: keywords
subject: virtue
  topic: keywords
subject: tolerance education
  topic: keywords
subject: cross tolerance
  topic: keywords
creator: Zummy Anselmus Dami
creator: Indyah Novi Styorini
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-10-16
publication date: 2024-10-16
starting page: 87
ending page: 117
doi: 10.51688/VC11.2.2024.art1

Theology of the Body Perspective in Understanding and Helping Adolescents with Depression
type: item
description: The high prevalence of teenage depression in Indonesia warrants serious attention. Adolescents need assistance in effectively overcoming their depression to undergo a transformative process. This paper aims to elucidate a theological perspective on the body as a normative foundation for Christians to comprehend adolescents’ depression thoroughly and provide appropriate assistance. The research methodology employed in this study is the practical theology method advocated by Richard Osmer. The findings reveal that depression and its associated symptoms are not inherent designs of God for humans, who are "embodied beings." Adolescent depression disrupts the entirety of their selves, including their bodies. Furthermore, adolescents have the potential for transformation if depression is addressed holistically, considering both material and non-material aspects of an individual.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: theology of the body
  topic: keywords
subject: adolescents with depression
  topic: keywords
subject: practical theology
  topic: keywords
creator: Ivan Christian
creator: Peter Farrand
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-07-10
publication date: 2024-07-10
starting page: 65
ending page: 81
doi: 10.51688/VC11.1.2024.art5

“But Saul Held His Peace"
type: item
description: A problem raised in the text of 1 Samuel 10:27, since the word כמחריש in Masoretic Text is conspicous both in terms of the text transmission as well as in the level of exegesis. In the context of the narrative, after appointing Saul as the first king of Israel, some of the people seem to question Saul’s credibility. This leads to harsh comment on the new king. Interestingly, some interpretations seem to portray a kind of Saul’s response to the comment in 1 Samuel 10:27, while others completely silence. This article will come with a suggestion to the passage by imploring textual criticism, deciding the possibly fitting word for כמחריש, considering its larger narrative context, and then doing lexical-syntactical analysis to the passage. This article contends that the correction made by the LXX that supported by the DSS and Josephus’ writing is closer to the original.
subject: Articles
  topic: section
subject: 1 Samuel 10
  topic: keywords
subject: textual criticism
  topic: keywords
subject: lexical-syntactical analysis
  topic: keywords
subject: exegesis
  topic: keywords
creator: Steven
rights: Copyright (c) 2024 Verbum Christi: Journal of Reformed Evangelical Theology https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0
date: 2024-05-20
publication date: 2024-05-20
starting page: 37
ending page: 49
doi: 10.51688/VC11.1.2024.art3