As we work to refresh our vision and purpose for this newsletter, we faced the challenge of identifying the right starting point. What topics would be both informative and helpful for us to understand the foundational principles of our faith? As followers of Jesus, we believe God's priorities are revealed through Scripture and are meant to be applied to the urgent issues we face today. We believe creation care is not only a current real-world issue and crisis but also something we were called to do from the beginning of our time on earth.
Taking Our Cue from the Beginning
From the very start, Scripture tells us God is Sovereign and has crafted the physical world; His image and likeness are forged and embedded within each of us. We bear the cosmic responsibility of caring for this planet and all its living beings with great care and compassion.
"Then God said, 'Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.'" Genesis 1:26-28
Just as God’s Spirit nurtures everything around us, we also have our roles, our callings, and responsibilities to protect and cultivate this garden we call home. Each of us is entrusted with the care of our environment, not just in a physical sense but also in how we interact with one another and the world at large.
Adam placed in the garden to work it and take care of it "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
It may be challenging for us to fully embrace our role because we often view the Earth's resources merely as commodities to be consumed, treating them like inanimate objects that exist solely to satisfy our desires. Or, as Christians, we may think that God will eventually restore everything, so why should we even make an effort now? Then again, what difference can we make in a world where it seems the real players are those who hold the material and political wealth, and their decisions manipulate the rest of us.
The God of Scripture Sees It Differently
In their book Creation Care, Douglas and Jonathan Moo emphasize that Genesis 1:26-28 is a foundational text for understanding humanity's role in relation to the natural world. They highlight several key aspects of this passage:
Humanity as Image-Bearers (Imago Dei): The fact that humans are created "in our image, in our likeness" sets them apart from the rest of creation. This unique status means humans are God's representatives on earth, called to reflect His character and reign. This is not about human supremacy in a way that leads to exploitation, but rather a unique responsibility.
Dominion (Radah and Kabash): The verbs "rule over" (radah) and "subdue" (kabash) are crucial. The Moos argue against a purely exploitative interpretation of "dominion." Instead, they interpret it as a vice-regency or stewardship. Humanity is not the owner of creation, but rather a manager or steward under God's ultimate ownership. This "rule" should be exercised in a way that reflects God's own benevolent and caring rule. It's about bringing order, cultivation, and development to creation, not about irresponsible domination.
Fruitfulness and Multiplication: The command to "be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth" is given to both humans and animals. This indicates a shared blessing of fruitfulness and a call for humans to promote the flourishing of all life, not just their own.
Connection to the Earth: While distinct, humans are also deeply connected to the earth. Genesis 2:7, which describes humanity being formed from the dust of the ground, reinforces this natural connection. Humans are part of creation and get their sustenance from it, emphasizing that caring for creation is also caring for themselves.
The Moos argue that Genesis 1:26-28 describes a calling for humans to lead the earth as God's representatives, not as independent rulers. This leadership is meant to promote the well-being of all creation, showing God's own joy in what He has made. It's a call for responsible and loving care, recognizing that creation belongs to God and that our health is linked to the health of the earth.
All for now with more to come,
