Being the Image and Likeness of God: The Integration of Genesis 1:27 into the Spiritual Competence of Christian Religious Education Teachers at SMP Negeri 2 Mandrehe

Abstract

Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers play a crucial role in shaping students' spiritual and moral development. The theological concept of imago Dei (image of God) from Genesis 1:27 provides a foundational framework for understanding human dignity and spiritual identity. However, the integration of this biblical principle into teachers' spiritual competence remains underexplored, particularly in Indonesian educational contexts. This study examines how Genesis 1:27 is integrated into the spiritual competence of Christian Religious Education teachers at SMP Negeri 2 Mandrehe, exploring the theological understanding, practical application, and challenges faced in embodying the imago Dei concept. A qualitative descriptive approach was employed, utilizing in-depth interviews with six CRE teachers, classroom observations, and document analysis. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes related to spiritual competence and theological integration. Three major themes emerged: (1) teachers demonstrated varied theological understanding of Genesis 1:27, ranging from basic knowledge to deep theological reflection; (2) integration into teaching practice occurred through character modeling, pedagogical approaches emphasizing human dignity, and creating inclusive learning environments; (3) challenges included limited theological training, cultural-contextual tensions, and difficulties translating theological concepts into practical pedagogy. The integration of Genesis 1:27 into spiritual competence requires intentional theological formation, contextual application strategies, and institutional support. Recommendations include developing comprehensive spiritual formation programs, establishing mentoring systems, and creating theological-pedagogical resources tailored to Indonesian contexts.