Pedagogical Competence of Christian Religious Education Teachers in Teaching Obedience to the Word: A Reflection on Exodus 34:27 at SMP Negeri 1 Teluk Dalam

Abstract

This study investigates the pedagogical competence of Christian Religious Education (CRE) teachers in teaching obedience to the Word, with specific reflection on Exodus 34:27, at SMP Negeri 1 Teluk Dalam, Simeulue. In the context of faith-based learning within a public junior high school, pedagogical competence plays a crucial role in translating biblical teachings into meaningful educational experiences that shape students’ knowledge, attitudes, and character. This research aims to analyze students’ perceptions of CRE teachers’ pedagogical competence and to examine its relationship with students’ understanding and internalization of obedience to Scripture. A quantitative research design with a descriptive-correlational approach was employed. The participants consisted of Christian students enrolled in SMP Negeri 1 Teluk Dalam, with data collected through structured questionnaires using Likert-scale items. The instruments measured key dimensions of pedagogical competence, including lesson planning, instructional strategies, classroom management, student engagement, and assessment practices, as well as students’ attitudes toward obedience to the Word. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential techniques, including correlation and regression analyses. The findings indicate that CRE teachers were perceived to demonstrate moderate to high levels of pedagogical competence. This study contributes to the empirical literature on Christian education in Indonesia by highlighting the importance of pedagogical competence in fostering obedience to God’s Word. The findings provide practical implications for teacher professional development and institutional support to enhance the quality and impact of Christian Religious Education in public schools.