The stewardship of God's creation and environmental care
A stretch of cracked ground in a desert. ( Photo by Charl Durand from Pexels)
"This is the hottest temperature our planet has experienced in something like 125,000 years." - Andrew Pershing, Vice President, Climate Central
The analysis carried out during the past 12 months uncovers disturbing trends in global temperatures. A staggering 90% of the Earth's inhabitants have encountered a minimum of 10 days with extraordinarily elevated temperatures. These findings are profoundly troubling as one in four individuals has endured grueling heat waves that persist for five days, an occurrence now twice as probable due to the impact of climate change. The escalation of these temperatures can predominantly be attributed to the combustion of fossil fuels. This results in the release of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, thereby worsening the predicament.
The report also highlights the role of El Niño, a natural climate pattern that contributes to elevated temperatures by releasing ocean heat into the atmosphere. This dual influence of human-induced climate change and natural climate patterns emphasizes the urgent need for action to mitigate carbon pollution. The pervasive nature of the heat threat worldwide underscores the global reach of climate change, sparing few places from its impact.
In a world filled with technological advancements and bustling urban landscapes, the call to be stewards of God's creation is more crucial than ever for Christians. The Bible, serving as a guide for faith and practice, provides a foundation for understanding the Christian duty of environmental care. This duty extends beyond mere conservation; it involves active stewardship, responsibility, and a deep-seated reverence for the Earth God entrusted us. Transitioning to major environmental concerns, let's delve into the critical issues surrounding climate change, deforestation, plastic pollution, loss of biodiversity, and water scarcity.
Major concerns: Environment and climate
1. Climate change. The continual rise in global temperatures is indeed a cause for great concern. It leads to a more frequent occurrence of highly intense weather phenomena, heightened sea levels, and disturbances in delicate ecosystems. Debates frequently arise regarding the extent of human impact and the urgency of addressing this issue.
2. Deforestation. The degradation of forests, especially in tropical areas, poses a significant threat to the rich fabric of biodiversity. Moreover, one cannot overlook the profound impact such actions have on indigenous communities, who are deeply connected to these natural environments. Controversies often center around balancing economic interests like logging, agriculture, and environmental conservation.
3. Plastic pollution. The escalating accumulation of plastic waste in oceans and on land has far-reaching environmental and health consequences. Controversies focus on determining the most effective strategies for reducing plastic usage and enhancing waste management.
4. Loss of Biodiversity. The ongoing decrease in global biodiversity is a critical concern, driven by habitat destruction, pollution, and climate change leading to species extinction. Controversies often involve the delicate balance between conservation efforts and economic development.
5. Water scarcity. Numerous regions worldwide grapple with water scarcity due to over-extraction, pollution, and climate change. The accessibility of clean water is an escalating concern, and disputes over water resources can escalate into geopolitical tensions.
Biblical foundations of environmental care and stewardship
Do Christians Care About the Environment?
Let us unravel the profound Biblical roots of environmental stewardship. Navigate through verses illuminating the divine call for humanity to care for our planet. Discover the timeless wisdom that beckons us to be faithful stewards of the Earth. These biblical truths foster a harmonious balance between our spiritual beliefs and preserving our earthly abode.
Tending and keeping the Garden
"The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it" - Genesis 2:15
In the biblical narrative of the Garden of Eden, God entrusted Adam and Eve with the duty of tending and keeping the garden. This directive signifies a foundational principle of stewardship, emphasizing the dual role of cultivating the land and ensuring its protection. Tending involves the active care, nurturing, and development of the garden's resources. On the other hand, keeping entails safeguarding its ecological balance and overall well-being.
This divine command establishes a timeless template for human responsibility towards the environment, promoting a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature. The Garden of Eden story serves as a guide, advocating for the thoughtful and sustainable management of the Earth's resources for present and future generations.
The Earth belongs to the Lord
"The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it" - Psalm 24:1
This verse emphasizes God's ownership of the Earth, positioning humans as temporary caretakers. Recognizing God as the ultimate owner fosters a sense of accountability and responsibility in how Christians interact with the environment.
Christians are motivated to preserve the Earth's integrity and promote ecological harmony by understanding their role as custodians rather than absolute owners. This biblical principle inspires a conscientious and morally upright connection with our surroundings. It cultivates a deep dedication to preserving the Earth for the well-being of future generations.
Living out environmental stewardship in daily lifeTwo people holding posters. (Photo by Gustavo Fring from Pexels)
Sustainable practices at home
Practicing environmental stewardship starts at home. Simple lifestyle changes, such as reducing energy consumption, minimizing waste, and using eco-friendly products, align with this Christian duty. These actions reflect a commitment to responsible stewardship on a personal level.
Community engagement and education
Christians can actively engage with their communities to raise awareness about environmental issues. Hosting workshops and seminars or participating in local environmental initiatives fosters a sense of community responsibility. Education empowers individuals to make informed decisions that align with the principles of environmental stewardship.
Prayer and reflection
Spiritual practices regarding faith play crucial roles in nurturing a sense of environmental stewardship. Christians can incorporate prayers and reflections on creation into their spiritual routines. This intentional focus on the beauty and significance of God's creation helps cultivate a deeper appreciation for the environment and a desire to protect it.
The Garden of Eden restored
A tree beside a body of water. (Photo by Daniel Watson from Pexels)
Moving forward to the concluding vision in the Bible, Revelation 22:1-3 unveils a restored Garden of Eden, marking the culmination of the biblical narrative.
"Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations. No longer will there be any curse. The throne of God and of the Lamb will be in the city, and his servants will serve him." - Revelation 22:1-3
As John's revelation draws close, the Bible's captivating narrative completes its cycle. The curse pronounced in Genesis 3:17, a consequence of humanity's inherent disobedience to God, is lifted. A new covenant unfolds, centered around God's love, granting humankind the privilege of walking in fellowship with God again.
The culmination of John's revelation unveils a vision of a renewed Garden of Eden, where God and Jesus coexist with humanity. For many, this represents the ultimate goal—an afterlife devoid of strife and anxiety governed entirely by the protective hand of God. However, this heavenly reward is not bestowed freely. Driven by an innate survival instinct, humanity tends to be inherently self-centered and resistant to God's divine plan.
The downfall of humanity lies in its selfishness. Initially, humanity enjoyed a "heaven on earth" in the Garden of Eden but selfishly disobeyed God in pursuit of personal freedom. As a result, all of humanity was left to fend for itself, leading to a corresponding decline in environmental care. As individuals pursued self-centered objectives by any means necessary, they ignored God's desire for love and care among fellow beings.
Fortunately, God acknowledges humanity's flaws and, through love, provides a way out—salvation through Jesus. As a result, God forgives the world of its sins and again envelops humankind in his all-encompassing protection.
Despite the prophecy of the world's destruction in the end times, our mandate to tend to our earthly abode remains. In this ongoing pursuit, we find purpose, hope, and the opportunity to seek our identity in Christ and earn a seat in the promised eternal kingdom.
