The Divine Origin and Purpose of Language: Foundations  for Christian Language Education

Billy Kurniadi; Jonathan Octavianus

doi:10.33856/didaskalia.v9i1.549

Authors

Billy Kurniadi Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Injili Indonesia Surabaya
Jonathan Octavianus Sekolah Tinggi Teologi Injili Indonesia Surabaya

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33856/didaskalia.v9i1.549

Keywords:

Language Pedagogy; Theological Linguistics; Christian Education; Faith Integration; Biblical Theology

Abstract

This article explores the theological foundations of language by critically engaging with three influential linguistic theories: Ferdinand de Saussure’s arbitrariness of the sign, Noam Chomsky’s universal grammar, and Steven Pinker’s evolutionary perspective. While these frameworks provide valuable insights, they remain limited within sociological, cognitive, or biological paradigms. Employing a qualitative research design with a conceptual and interdisciplinary approach, this study evaluates the limitations of secular linguistics through the lens of biblical theology. By conducting a thematic and grammatical exegesis of the Logos in John 1:1 and the Memra tradition in the Aramaic Targums, the paper situates language within the Trinitarian reality and the imago Dei, affirming it as both a divine gift and a medium of truth. Furthermore, the study analyzes the historical-theological significance of Babel and Pentecost to demonstrate God’s sovereign role in linguistic diversity and unity. Synthesizing these findings, the article proposes a "Redemptive Teaching" framework for Christian education, arguing that language instruction should nurture moral discernment and transcendent purpose alongside technical mastery. By integrating a biblical worldview into pedagogy, this study contributes to the dialogue between theology and linguistics, offering a distinct perspective on the divine origin and function of language in education.

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