Jurnal Koinonia: Fakultas Filsafat Universitas Advent Indonesia

Miracle Healing On Sabbath: An Exegesis Of Mark 3:1-6

Brian Pandeirot — 2025-06-25

The Sabbath, a cornerstone of biblical theology, embodies God’s creation, sanctification, and covenant with humanity. Over time, its observance became heavily burdened with legalistic stipulations, especially during the intertestamental period. These additions distorted its purpose, culminating in tensions between Jesus and Jewish leaders, particularly the Pharisees. Mark 3:1–6 portrays a critical confrontation where Jesus heals a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath, challenging rigid interpretations while emphasizing the day’s restorative essence. Scholarly discourse reflects diverse views on this episode. Some propose that Jesus redefined the Sabbath by prioritizing humanitarian acts, while others interpret it as a confrontation against Pharisaic legalism. Prior studies lack an in-depth exploration of Mark 3:1–6 within its historical and grammatical context. This study bridges these gaps by examining Mark 3:1–6 through a historical-grammatical lens, exploring its theological implications. It hypothesizes that Jesus’ Sabbath healing reaffirms the day’s divine intent as one of restoration and salvation, countering the prevailing legalism and redefining its role in the covenantal relationship.

Surrendering Worries to God Through a Philosophical and Theological Perspective on 1 Peter 5:7 in the Context of the Seventh-day Adventist Church

wahyu budiyanto — 2025-06-25

This study examines the philosophical and theological meaning of 1 Peter 5:7 within the framework of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. The study begins with the exegesis process of the text of 1 Peter 5:7, in order to understand its original meaning in the historical, linguistic, and pastoral context of the author to the Christian congregation. This verse emphasizes the importance of leaving all worries to God, a concept that is relevant in the context of an anxious life. Using theological hermeneutics and existentialistic philosophical approaches, this study explores the relationship between faith, reason, and free will in the practice of surrender to God. Ellen G. White's writings show that worry is often used by Satan to weaken faith, while surrender to God is an active act that strengthens man's spiritual relationship with Him. From a philosophical perspective, Soren Kierkegaard's thinking on the leap of faith and Stoicism regarding the acceptance of the uncontrollable also enriched the theological understanding of this verse. This study concludes that the concept of surrendering worries in 1 Peter 5:7 is not just a passive attitude, but an integration of faith and rationality that allows humans to face life's challenges with calm and complete trust in God.

Exploring the Life and Legacy of Stephen Haskell: Pioneer of Adventist Theology and Education

Franklin Hutabarat — 2025-06-25

Stephen Haskell (1833–1922) was a pivotal figure in the early development of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, making profound contributions to its theology, evangelistic efforts, and educational framework. This research investigates Haskell’s life and legacy, with a focus on his role as a theological pioneer and educational advocate. Haskell’s early conversion to the Adventist faith set the stage for his significant involvement in spreading the movement's message. As one of the church’s first theologians, Haskell helped shape core Adventist doctrines, particularly through his influential works on Biblical interpretation and the relationship between prophecy and Adventist beliefs.

In addition to his theological contributions, Haskell’s vision for Adventist education played a crucial role in the establishment of schools that were designed to offer both spiritual and academic development. His support for educational institutions was instrumental in shaping a system that emphasized holistic learning, grounded in Christian principles. This research also highlights Haskell's leadership in early missionary efforts, particularly in the establishment of churches and outreach initiatives across North America.

By analyzing Haskell's writings, missionary endeavors, and leadership within the church, this study explores his lasting influence on both Adventist theology and education. Haskell’s multifaceted contributions laid the foundation for the growth of Adventism in the 20th century, with his emphasis on theological integrity and educational advancement continuing to resonate in Adventist institutions today. Ultimately, Stephen Haskell's legacy as a pioneer of Adventist thought and education remains central to the identity of the Seventh-day Adventist Church.

The Concept of God's Timelessness Affects Religious Beliefs

Exson Eduaman Pane — 2025-06-25

This research examines the concept of timelessness and its significant implications for religious beliefs, focusing on theological, ethical, and spiritual dimensions. Employing a qualitative methodology, the study analyzes theological texts, ethical frameworks, and spiritual practices across various religious traditions to explore how the attribute of timelessness shapes believers' understanding of the divine.

Timelessness, as an attribute of God, emphasizes His eternal and unchanging qualities, influencing believers’ perceptions of their relationship with the divine and fostering a sense of intimacy and transcendence. Ethically, the belief in a timeless God provides a framework for moral decision-making, reinforcing the idea of absolute truths rooted in divine will. This perspective cultivates a sense of responsibility and accountability among believers, shaping their concepts of justice and mercy. Spiritually, the concept of timelessness impacts practices such as prayer, worship, and meditation, encouraging individuals to seek experiences of transcendence and connection with the eternal. Mindfulness and contemplative practices allow believers to cultivate a sense of presence that enriches their spiritual lives. The implications of timelessness on religious beliefs are profound, influencing theological understandings, ethical frameworks, and spiritual practices. Engaging with the concept of timelessness invites believers to explore the depths of their faith and spirituality, recognizing the connection between the eternal and the temporal. This research highlights the importance of timelessness in fostering a deeper sense of connection, purpose, and meaning in the lives of believers, encouraging a holistic approach to faith that transcends the confines of time.

An Evaluation of Bert B. Beach's Views on Ecumenism

Koberson Langhu — 2025-06-25

Bert Beverly Beach (1928-2022) was the leading Adventist theologian and an authority on Christian ecumenism. His foremost contribution to Adventist theology is his magnum opus, Ecumenism: Boon or Bane? He presents a broad overview of both the historical backgrounds and the major current issues of concern regarding the modern ecumenical movement. Beach died in 2022 but his views are well and alive. They have been a point of controversy and debate among Adventist theologians. The main purpose of the study is to review whether Beach’s views on ecumenism are consistent with the development of Adventists’ attitude to ecumenism in its mission. It employs a literary research methodology based on available historical and theological data. The study reveals that Beach possesses a positive outlook on ecumenism, advocating for Adventists to engage in dialogue and collaboration with other Christian denominations. However, it fails in some major aspects, such as the potential dilution of Adventist distinctiveness. The Adventist Church continues its engagement in ecumenical activities while upholding its theological distinctiveness. Thus, Beach’s views while not accepted in their entirety are acknowledged and valued for shaping the Church’s approach to ecumenism.