Introduction

The concept of "Creation Care" refers to the responsibility of humans to steward and protect the natural world, as outlined in the Bible. This responsibility is rooted in the belief that God is the Creator of all things and that humanity has been entrusted with the care of His creation. This entry explores the biblical basis for engaging in creation care, highlighting key scriptures and theological principles.

Biblical Foundation

1. Creation Mandate: The foundation for creation care is found in the opening chapters of Genesis. In Genesis 1:26-28 , God creates humanity in His image and grants them dominion over the earth: "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness, to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, and over all the earth itself and every creature that crawls upon it.' So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth.'"

2. Stewardship: The concept of stewardship is central to creation care. Genesis 2:15 states, "Then the LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it." This verse emphasizes humanity's role as caretakers, tasked with maintaining and preserving the environment.

3. Sabbath and Rest for the Land: The principle of rest, not only for humans but also for the land, is evident in the biblical command for the Sabbath. Leviticus 25:4 instructs, "But in the seventh year there shall be a Sabbath of complete rest for the land—a Sabbath to the LORD. You are not to sow your field or prune your vineyard." This command underscores the importance of allowing the land to rejuvenate, reflecting God's care for His creation.

4. Respect for All Creatures: The Bible also calls for respect and kindness towards animals. Proverbs 12:10 states, "A righteous man regards the life of his animal, but the tender mercies of the wicked are only cruelty." This verse highlights the moral obligation to treat animals with compassion and care.

5. God's Ownership of Creation: Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This verse reminds believers that the earth belongs to God, and humans are merely stewards of His creation.

Theological Implications

1. Imago Dei: Being made in the image of God (Imago Dei) implies a responsibility to reflect God's character in how we interact with the world. This includes exercising dominion with wisdom, love, and justice, mirroring God's own care for His creation.

2. Redemption and Restoration: The biblical narrative of redemption extends to all of creation. Romans 8:19-21 speaks of creation's longing for liberation: "The creation waits in eager expectation for the revelation of the sons of God. For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God."

3. Eschatological Hope: The hope of a new heaven and a new earth, as described in Revelation 21:1 , provides a future vision of restored creation. This eschatological promise motivates believers to engage in creation care as a foretaste of the coming renewal.

Practical Application

1. Sustainable Living: Christians are encouraged to adopt sustainable practices that minimize harm to the environment, reflecting their commitment to stewardship.

2. Advocacy and Education: Engaging in creation care involves advocating for policies that protect the environment and educating others about the biblical mandate for stewardship.

3. Community Involvement: Participating in community efforts to preserve and restore natural habitats can be a practical expression of creation care.

By understanding and applying these biblical principles, believers can fulfill their God-given role as stewards of His creation, honoring Him through their care for the world He has made.