The Synergy of Formal and Informal Christian Education in The Restoration of The Value of Truth in The Era of Relativism

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Sabarani Waruwu
Lasmaria Lumban Tobing
Elisamark Sitopu

Abstract

The era of relativism brings serious challenges to the world of education, especially Christian education which is based on the values of absolute truth from God's word. In the context of a modern society that tends to interpret the truth subjectively, Christian education faces the challenge of maintaining true moral and spiritual values. This article aims to analyze the synergy between formal and informal Christian education as a strategy to restore the value of truth in the midst of the current of relativism. This study uses a qualitative-descriptive with the library research method. The result show that formal education, such as schools and theological institutions, plays a role in the formation of an intellectual value ratio and system rooted in the Bible, while informal education especially in the family and church becomes a space for the formation of character and a living spirituality. Through the synergy of the two, Christian education not only transfers knowledge of faith, but also fosters ethical awareness and moral responsibility for students. An integrative approach to educational theology shows that the restoration of the value of truth must depart from collaboration between faith communities, families, and educational institutions to create a generation rooted in Christ and committed to divine truth. Thus, the synergy of formal and informal education is a tangible manifestation of the church's participation in returning the direction of education to its theological purpose, which is to glorify God through sanctifying truth.

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