Model Terjemahan dalam Teologi Kontekstual: Prinsip, Tantangan, dan Penerapannya dalam Konteks Indonesia

Abstract

Contextual theology is an important approach to communicating the Gospel to communities with diverse languages, cultures, and social backgrounds. One approach within contextual theology is the Translation Model, which seeks to communicate the Gospel through functional equivalents appropriate to the cultural context of the recipients without altering the essence of Christian teachings. This study aims to examine the definition, fundamental principles, strengths, limitations, and application of the Translation Model in contextual theology, particularly within Indonesia's culturally diverse society. This study employs a qualitative approach using a literature review method by examining relevant literature on contextual theology, missiology, and Bible translation. The findings indicate that the Translation Model emphasizes dynamic equivalence in communicating the Gospel so that its message can be understood and embraced by people from different cultural backgrounds. Its strengths include preserving the integrity of the Gospel, drawing on a long-standing tradition of Christian mission, and providing a relatively accessible framework for church ministry. However, its application also presents several challenges, including determining the transcultural core of the Gospel, the tendency to position recipient cultures as passive objects, the risk of syncretism, and insufficient attention to the sociopolitical dimensions of culture. Therefore, the application of the Translation Model requires a thorough understanding of biblical texts and the cultural contexts of recipient communities. This approach is expected to support culturally relevant church ministry while maintaining faithfulness to the essence of the Gospel.