The Personal Competence of Christian Religious Education Teachers in Instilling Intergenerational Faithfulness Values (Genesis 48:20): A Contextual Study at SD Negeri Banyu Landas

Abstract

This study explores the role of personal competence among Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers in instilling intergenerational faithfulness values grounded in Book of Genesis 48:20 at SD Negeri Banyu Landas, East Barito. The research is motivated by the theological significance of Jacob’s blessing over Ephraim and Manasseh as a model of covenant continuity across generations. In a small Christian school community consisting of five Christian students and five Christian teachers, including the CRE teacher, personal character and relational integrity become highly visible and formative in shaping faith identity. Using a qualitative case study approach, data were collected through semi-structured interviews, classroom observations, and document analysis. Thematic analysis was employed to identify patterns related to integrity, emotional maturity, relational mentoring, and narrative continuity. The findings reveal that teachers interpret Genesis 48:20 as a mandate for generational faith transmission and embody this calling through consistent behavior, humility, transparent communication, and spiritual resilience. Students perceive these qualities as credible expressions of Christian faith and respond with strengthened commitment to faithfulness and communal identity. The study concludes that personal competence in Christian education functions as a living bridge between generations. By embodying covenant values rather than merely teaching them, CRE teachers contribute significantly to sustaining intergenerational faith continuity within their school community.