Leading Through Sacred Boundaries: Christian Teacher Spirituality in Shaping Student Holiness Inspired by Exodus 26:33 at SDN No. 078521 Lewa-Lewa
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Abstract
This study examines the role of Christian teacher spirituality in shaping student holiness through pedagogical practice inspired by the theological symbolism of Exodus 26:33. Conducted at SD Negeri No. 078521 Lewa-Lewa, the research employed a qualitative experimental approach involving a population of 131 students, from which a purposive sample of 60 participants was selected. The intervention focused on intentional spiritual modeling by teachers through reflective practices, ethical consistency, relational mentoring, and value-based instruction. Data were collected through observation, interviews, and teacher reflective journals, and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify patterns of behavioral and attitudinal transformation. The findings reveal that teacher spirituality significantly influenced students’ moral awareness, relational sensitivity, and ethical conduct. Students exposed to spiritually modeled teaching demonstrated increased honesty, empathy, responsibility, and respect compared to those in the comparison group. Holiness was gradually understood not as an abstract religious ideal but as a lived commitment expressed through daily choices and interactions. The concept of sacred boundaries derived from Exodus 26:33 provided a meaningful framework that helped students internalize discipline as relational responsibility rather than external control. The integration of reflective spiritual practices contributed to improved emotional regulation and constructive peer relationships. The study also found that teachers experienced reciprocal spiritual growth through intentional modeling, reinforcing the idea that spiritual formation in education is a shared journey. Overall, the research highlights that Christian teacher spirituality serves as a transformative pedagogical force capable of nurturing holistic character development and guiding students toward ethical integrity and relational maturity.
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