Personality Competence of Christian Religious Education Teachers in Demonstrating Familial Love (Genesis 46:29): A Study at SMA Negeri 1 Aramo

Abstract

This study examines the role of personality competence in Christian Religious Education (CRE) in demonstrating familial love based on Genesis 46:29 at SMA Negeri 1 Aramo, South Nias. In this senior high school context, 20 Christian students are guided by three Christian teachers, including one CRE teacher. Personality competence, defined as emotional stability, integrity, maturity, wisdom, and exemplary conduct, constitutes a central dimension of teacher professionalism and plays a critical role in character-based religious instruction. Genesis 46:29, which narrates Joseph’s emotional reunion with his father Jacob, provides a theological foundation for exploring reconciliation, forgiveness, and enduring family love. This study aims to analyze the relationship between the CRE teacher’s personality competence and students’ understanding and internalization of familial love reflected in the biblical narrative. The research employed a quantitative descriptive method with a correlational approach. Total sampling was applied, involving all 20 Christian students as respondents. Data were collected through a validated Likert-scale questionnaire measuring two variables: teacher personality competence and students’ comprehension and internalization of familial love. The findings indicate that students perceive the CRE teacher’s personality competence at a high level, and students’ understanding of familial love is likewise high. Statistical analysis reveals a positive and significant relationship between personality competence and students’ internalization of biblical family love. Regression results confirm that personality competence significantly predicts students’ comprehension and application of reconciliation and forgiveness values. The study concludes that personality competence functions as an incarnational dimension of Christian education, where the teacher’s character strengthens the credibility and transformative impact of biblical instruction.