The Pedagogy of Relationship: Matthean Perspectives on Social Competence in Christian Education - A Study at SD Negeri 2 Petak Bahandang

Abstract

This study examines the role of teacher social competence, informed by Matthean relational principles, in shaping students’ socio-spiritual development at SD Negeri 2 Petak Bahandang, Gunung Mas. Grounded in the relational ethics of the Gospel of Matthew, particularly teachings on love of neighbor, humility, reconciliation, and the Golden Rule, the research explores how biblical perspectives contribute to professional social competence in Christian Religious Education (CRE). The study involved 61 Christian students and was conducted within a school community supported by eight Christian teachers, including the CRE teacher. Using a quantitative descriptive design with a correlational approach, data were collected through a validated Likert-scale questionnaire measuring two primary variables: teacher social competence and students’ socio-spiritual development. Statistical analysis included descriptive statistics, Pearson Product-Moment correlation, and simple linear regression at a 0.05 significance level. The findings indicate that teacher social competence is perceived at a high level, particularly in areas of empathetic communication, fairness, inclusive interaction, and restorative conflict resolution. Regression results further demonstrate that teacher relational competence significantly predicts students’ empathy, cooperation, and willingness to practice forgiveness. The study concludes that the pedagogy of relationship reflected in Matthew provides a meaningful theological and practical framework for strengthening social competence in Christian elementary education. By embodying humility, reconciliation, and reciprocal love, educators contribute significantly to the formation of compassionate and community-oriented learners.