* What does the Bible say about caring for creation?

What does the Bible say about caring for creation, encompassing not just direct statements about environmental stewardship, but also broader themes of responsibility, dominion, interconnectedness, and the inherent value of the natural world? I’m interested in specific passages from both the Old and New Testaments, and different interpretations of those passages regarding human’s role and duty towards the environment, including perspectives on sustainability, conservation, and the potential consequences of neglecting creation. Furthermore, how have different Christian denominations and theologians historically interpreted and applied these biblical teachings to contemporary environmental challenges such as pollution, deforestation, and climate change?

Answer

The Bible speaks extensively about humanity’s role in caring for creation, encompassing both responsibility and stewardship. These themes are woven throughout the Old and New Testaments.

Genesis: Creation and Dominion

• Genesis 1:26-28: God grants humans dominion over the earth and all its creatures. This is often interpreted as a mandate to rule and care for creation responsibly, not to exploit or destroy it. The Hebrew word "radah" (dominion) can imply responsible rule and "kabash" (subdue) implies utilizing resources sustainably, managing and cultivating, not dominating in a destructive way.
• Genesis 2:15: God places Adam in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it." The Hebrew words "avad" (work/serve) and "shamar" (keep/guard) suggest a responsibility for cultivation and preservation. This highlights a proactive and protective role for humanity.

The Law and Prophets: Justice and Stewardship

• Leviticus 25:1-7: God commands the Israelites to let the land rest every seventh year (Sabbatical Year) to allow it to recover. This demonstrates a concern for the long-term health and productivity of the land.
• Deuteronomy 22:6-7: The law prohibits taking a mother bird from her nest along with her eggs or young. This shows compassion and respect for life, even in the animal kingdom.
• Deuteronomy 20:19-20: During a siege, fruit trees should not be destroyed. This promotes responsible use of resources, even in times of conflict.
• The Prophets (e.g., Isaiah, Jeremiah, Hosea): Often condemn the people of Israel for their injustice, which frequently included exploitation of the land and disregard for the poor, who depended on its bounty. They warn of the consequences of environmental degradation and social injustice. For example, Isaiah laments the desolation of the land due to the people’s sin (Isaiah 24:4-6).

The Wisdom Literature: Observing Creation’s Order

• Job 38-41: God reveals His power and wisdom through descriptions of the natural world, emphasizing its intricate design and inherent value. God’s speeches highlight the vastness and complexity of creation, emphasizing human limitations in fully understanding it.
• Psalm 104: This Psalm celebrates God’s creation and describes the interdependence of all living things. It illustrates God’s provision for all creatures and the beauty and order of the natural world.
• Proverbs: Proverbs emphasizes wisdom in all aspects of life, including the responsible use of resources and the avoidance of greed.

The New Testament: Renewal and Reconciliation

• Jesus’ teachings: Jesus frequently used examples from nature (e.g., lilies, birds) to illustrate spiritual truths, reflecting an appreciation for creation. While Jesus’ primary focus was on spiritual redemption, his teachings emphasize love, compassion, and responsible living, which can be extended to our relationship with the environment.
• Romans 8:19-22: Paul writes that creation is groaning, waiting for redemption. This suggests that the fate of creation is linked to the fate of humanity and that its restoration is part of God’s ultimate plan.
• Colossians 1:15-20: Christ is presented as the creator and sustainer of all things, and through him, all things are reconciled to God. This emphasizes the importance of creation in God’s plan of salvation.
• Revelation: The book of Revelation speaks of a "new heaven and a new earth" (Revelation 21:1), suggesting a restored creation free from the effects of sin and corruption.

Overall Themes:

• God’s Ownership: The Bible consistently affirms that God is the ultimate owner of creation. Humans are stewards, entrusted with its care.
• Interconnectedness: The Bible illustrates the interconnectedness of all living things. Human actions have consequences for the environment, and vice versa.
• Justice and Equity: Caring for creation is linked to social justice. Environmental degradation often disproportionately affects the poor and vulnerable.
• Responsibility and Accountability: Humans will be held accountable for how they treat creation.
• Hope and Restoration: The Bible offers hope for the restoration of creation. God’s ultimate plan includes the renewal of all things.

In summary, the Bible presents a compelling vision of creation care as a central aspect of our faith and responsibility as humans created in God’s image. It calls us to act as stewards, protecting and preserving the environment for present and future generations, reflecting God’s love and justice in our relationship with the world around us.

Pray This Prayer

Heavenly Father,

We come before you today humbled by the beauty and complexity of the world you have created. Your Word tells us that you fashioned the earth and all that is in it, breathing life into every corner, from the smallest seed to the mightiest mountain. We acknowledge that you entrusted this magnificent creation to our care, calling us to be stewards of its bounty.

Forgive us, Lord, for the times we have failed to honor this sacred responsibility. Forgive us for our carelessness, our greed, and our apathy that has led to the degradation of the earth, the pollution of its waters, and the depletion of its resources. We confess that we have not always lived in harmony with your creation, but have instead exploited it for our own selfish gain.

Your Word speaks of your concern for the land, for the animals, and for the future generations who will inherit the earth after us. Help us to see your creation through your eyes, to recognize its intrinsic value, and to understand the interconnectedness of all living things.

Guide us, Lord, to live more sustainably and responsibly. Give us wisdom to make choices that protect the environment and preserve its beauty for generations to come. Inspire us to be advocates for conservation, to speak out against injustice, and to work towards a world where all of your creation can flourish.

Help us to remember that caring for creation is not just an environmental issue, but a spiritual one. It is an act of worship, a reflection of our love for you and our obedience to your commands.

Grant us the courage to change our ways and the strength to persevere in our efforts. May we be faithful stewards of your creation, reflecting your love and grace in all that we do.

In Jesus’ name we pray, Amen.