Reassessing the Emerging Church Movement in Indonesia

An Evangelical Theological Review

Authors

  • Pieter G.O. Sunkudon Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Injili Indonesia Palu, Indonesia
  • Ester Lengkong Kementerian Agama Kota Palu, Indonesia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.46495/sdjt.v15i1.354

Keywords:

Emerging Church Movement, Evangelical Theology, ; Contextualization, ; Theological Orthodoxy, Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

This study reassesses the Emerging Church Movement (ECM) and its theological implications for Evangelical churches in Indonesia through a Systematic Literature Review (SLR). The review synthesises 41 peer-reviewed sources published between 2013 and 2025, analysed thematically using both deductive and inductive coding. Originating in Western postmodern contexts as a reaction to the perceived rigidity of traditional churches, ECM’s influence has expanded into Indonesia, where it interacts with a theologically diverse and culturally plural society. The literature reveals a striking paradox: while ECM promotes participatory worship, digital engagement, and contextual expressions of faith that help churches reach younger generations, it also exhibits tendencies toward relativism, pluralism, and syncretism that threaten the Evangelical commitment to the authority of Scripture and the exclusivity of salvation in Christ. The analysis argues that ECM should neither be dismissed outright nor accepted uncritically. Instead, Evangelical churches must discern between constructive and compromising elements, embracing innovation only insofar as it aligns with biblical truth. Such discernment enables the Indonesian church to remain faithful to its theological foundations while maintaining cultural relevance amid rapid social transformation.

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Published

2025-12-27

How to Cite

Sunkudon, P. G., & Lengkong, E. (2025). Reassessing the Emerging Church Movement in Indonesia: An Evangelical Theological Review. SANCTUM DOMINE: JURNAL TEOLOGI, 15(1), 85–102. https://doi.org/10.46495/sdjt.v15i1.354

Issue

Vol. 15 No. 1 (2025): December

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Articles

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