MAKNA ROH DAN KEBENARAN DALAM YOHANES 4:23-24 DAN RELEVANSINYA BAGI PENYEMBAHAN MASA KINI

Abstract

This study examines the meaning of the phrase "spirit and truth" in John 4:23-24 and its implications for contemporary biblical and theological education. Through hermeneutical and exegetical approaches, this research analyzes the grammatical construction ἐν πνεύματι καὶ ἀληθείᾳ (en pneumati kai aletheia) in the Greek text. The main debate centers on the function of the conjunction καί (kai): whether it connects two different concepts or forms a hendiadys referring to the "Spirit of Truth". This study argues that interpreting καί as a coordinating conjunction is more exegetically adequate, indicating two dimensions of true worship. Contextual analysis shows that true worship is no longer bound to geographical locations or the requirement to face Jerusalem or Mount Gerizim, but rather centers on a right heart attitude with the help of the Holy Spirit and proper understanding of God through Christ. The research methodology includes semantic-lexical analysis, contextual exegesis, and consideration of the Sitz im Leben of the Johannine community. The research findings affirm that worship of God must be conducted in both spiritual (pneumati) and epistemological (aletheia) dimensions in a balanced manner. The practical implication for contemporary church life is the understanding that the essence of worship lies in internal transformation and correct knowledge of God, not merely in external rituals or places of worship.