Integration of Christian Religious Education Teachers’ Professional Competence with the Cultural Mandate (Genesis 1:28) of Students at SD Negeri 116897 Hapoltakan Nauli – Labuhan Batu Utara Regency

Abstract

This study examines the integration of Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers' professional competence with the cultural mandate as articulated in Genesis 1:28 among students at SD Negeri 116897 Hapoltakan Nauli, Labuhan Batu Utara Regency. The cultural mandate, which encompasses stewardship, creativity, and dominion over creation, serves as a theological framework for character formation and ecological responsibility. This research employed a qualitative descriptive approach with data collection through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis involving three CRE teachers and 45 students. The findings reveal that teachers' professional competence significantly influences the implementation of cultural mandate principles through pedagogical strategies, contextual learning approaches, and character integration in daily instruction. Teachers demonstrated competence in theological understanding, pedagogical skills, and contextual application, although challenges emerged in resource limitations and curriculum standardization. The integration manifested through environmental care projects, creative learning activities, and responsible stewardship practices. This study concludes that professional competence in CRE teaching is essential for translating biblical mandates into practical educational outcomes, contributing to holistic student development that balances spiritual formation with environmental and social responsibility.