Strategi Penginjilan Relasional dalam Kelompok Sel bagi Gen Z Studi Kasus di GBI Eben Haezer
Abstract
Generation Z responds more to authentic relationships than one-way, formal evangelism. This qualitative case study analyzes relational evangelism strategies within cell groups for Gen Z at Gereja Bethel Indonesia Eben Haezer. Data were gathered through in-depth interviews with six cell group leaders and analyzed thematically. Findings show that cell groups function as transitional spaces helping new believers enter church life gradually, safely, and free from formal religious pressure. Personal relationships serve as the main gateway for evangelism, building trust, emotional closeness, and openness in faith conversations. Nonformal activities such as sports and social interaction foster natural, inclusive community, while digital media bridges physical and online relational nurturing. Cell groups thus emerge as the core community of relational evangelism, offering belonging and spiritual family experience, rooted in love and Christ's ministry pattern that emphasizes personal encounter.
Abstrak
Gen Z lebih responsif terhadap keautentikan relasi dibandingkan dengan pola penginjilan formal satu arah. Penelitian kualitatif dengan desain studi kasus ini menganalisis strategi penginjilan relasional dalam kelompok sel bagi Gen Z di Gereja Bethel Indonesia, Eben Haezer. Data dikumpulkan melalui wawancara mendalam dengan enam pemimpin kelompok sel dan dianalisis secara tematik. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa kelompok sel berfungsi sebagai ruang transisi yang membantu jiwa baru memasuki kehidupan gereja secara bertahap, aman, dan bebas dari tekanan keagamaan secara formal. Relasi personal menjadi pintu masuk utama penginjilan karena membangun kepercayaan, kedekatan emosional, dan keterbukaan untuk berbicara tentang iman. Aktivitas nonformal seperti olahraga dan interaksi sosial memperkuat komunitas yang alami dan inklusif, sementara media digital berperan dalam menjembatani pembinaan relasional secara fisik dan digital. Kelompok sel dengan demikian menjadi komunitas inti penginjilan relasional yang menghadirkan rasa memiliki dan pengalaman keluarga rohani, berakar pada kasih dan pola pelayanan Yesus Kristus yang menekankan perjumpaan secara personal.
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