From Amazement to Transformation: Christian Pedagogy in Light of Matthew 7:28-29 at SD Negeri 118377 Perk Aek Pamingke

Abstract

This study explores the transformative power of Christ’s teaching authority as reflected in Matthew 7:28-29 and its implications for Christian pedagogy within the context of SD Negeri 118377 Perk Aek Pamingke, Labuhan Batu. The passage describes the crowd’s amazement at Jesus’ teaching, which was marked not merely by rhetorical skill but by divine authority that shaped understanding, conviction, and transformation. Grounded in this biblical perspective, the study seeks to examine how Christian Religious Education (CRE) can move beyond cognitive transmission of religious knowledge toward holistic formation that touches students’ attitudes, values, and spiritual awareness. Employing a qualitative research design, the study integrates exegetical analysis of Matthew 7:28-29 with a systematic literature review on Christian pedagogy and transformative learning, complemented by simple interviews with Christian teachers serving 48 Christian students at the school. The findings indicate that Christ’s authoritative teaching model emphasizes authenticity, moral integrity, and coherence between message and life, which are essential elements for effective Christian education. Teachers who embody these qualities foster deeper student engagement, respect, and openness to moral and spiritual transformation. This study concludes that Christian pedagogy inspired by Matthew 7:28-29 calls educators to teach not only with knowledge but with lived faith and credibility. Such an approach enables Christian Religious Education in public-school contexts to contribute significantly to character formation, spiritual growth, and the development of students who are responsive to God’s truth in their daily lives.