Teachers’ Professional Competence in Christian Religious Education for Cultivating Students’ Understanding of Grace: A Study of Exodus 33:19 at SMP Swasta Prestasi Utama - Deli Serdang

Abstract

This study examines the professional competence of Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers in cultivating students’ understanding of grace, grounded in the theological perspective of Exodus 33:19. The concept of grace is central to Christian faith, yet its abstract nature often presents challenges for students, particularly at the secondary school level. Teachers’ professional competence plays a crucial role in translating theological concepts into meaningful learning experiences that shape students’ cognitive understanding, attitudes, and moral responsibility. This research was conducted at SMP Swasta Prestasi Utama, Deli Serdang, involving 36 Christian students and 6 Christian teachers, including CRE teachers. Employing a qualitative approach, the study integrates a systematic literature review (SLR) with simple semi-structured interviews to obtain both theoretical and contextual insights. The literature review draws on biblical studies, Christian education theories, and pedagogical competence frameworks, while interviews provide empirical data regarding teaching practices and challenges in the classroom. The findings indicate that professionally competent CRE teachers demonstrate mastery of biblical content, pedagogical adaptability, and reflective teaching practices that enable students to grasp grace not merely as a doctrinal concept, but as a lived reality expressed through gratitude, humility, and responsible behavior. The study concludes that teachers’ professional competence significantly influences the effectiveness of grace-centered learning and contributes to students’ spiritual formation. This research highlights the importance of continuous professional development for CRE teachers to ensure that theological instruction remains contextually relevant, transformative, and aligned with the holistic goals of Christian education.