...Christians and the Environment Roger Smith, Jr. Liberty University Criminal Justice / APA Abstract The viewpoints that individuals hold concerning our relationship to nature change from calling it an unfathomable item, to an infection in which we are each a part of, and from a renewable resource to our mother. Notwithstanding the perspective, you use to look at the creation, most us on the planet are starting to comprehend that the state of our nature is disintegrating a result of our inefficient practices. Some people are convinced that the risk of a worldwide disaster can be avoided. For some, there is the conviction that if an appropriate instruction and money related security can be given to whatever, we can make individuals carry on dependable....
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...Christians and Stewardship of Their Environment 1. Introduction Our earthly habitat is not an unexpected occurrence of little worth, but rather, it is one to be highly valued and preserved. The biblical doctrine of creation helps the Christian to understand the true significance of the world in order to deal with the environmental crisis. The Bible says, “For thus saith the Lord that created the heavens; God himself that formed the earth and made it; he hath established it, he created it not in vain, he formed it to be inhabited…” (King James Version, Isaiah 45:18). In Christian teaching, God not only created Heavens and Earth, but expressed His delight in His creation. This creation meant, everything encompassing the trees, the rivers and all kinds of elements that go into preserving the environment (Genesis 1:31). Therefore, the destruction of the environment is against God’s will. The main problem in the stewardship model is the fall of mankind into a state of sin and depravity (Genesis 3). As a result of the fall, we are in rebellion against God. We no longer act as the stewards we ought to be regarding the earth and its resources. Therefore, we tend towards exploitation and abuse. In addition, the earth has been cursed as a result of the fall (Romans 8:20; Genesis 3:17-18). Action Institute expressed it this way; “Nature now produces floods, fires, earthquakes, weeds, and crop destroying insects (“A Biblical Perspective on Environmental Stewardship”). This...
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...A Christian View of the Environment Ray Bohlin V. The source of our ecological crisis lies in man's fallen nature and abuse of his dominion. 1. Man is a rebel who has set himself at the center of the universe. 1. Man has used his dominion wrongly. 2. Man has exploited created things as though they are nothing in themselves and as though he has an autonomous right to use them as he pleases. 2. Man's fallen nature has expressed itself with regard to the creation in his use of time and money. 3. Man's uncontrolled greed and haste have led to the deterioration of the environment. 4. We have been guided by the maxim that what we can do, we will do, particularly if it is the least time-consuming and least expensive alternative. V. The solution to the environmental crisis is the witness of the Christian community within the proper relationship between God, man, and nature. 1. We are called to exhibit our dominion rightly. 1. As Christians we must treat nature as having value in itself and exercise dominion without being destructive (Matt. 6:26, 10:29). 2. This requires both a human and economic cost. 3. There are numerous Old Testament examples of the care with which Israel was to treat the environment. 1. Israel was to care for the land (Lev. 25: 1–12). 2. Israel was to treat domesticated animals properly and respect wildlife (Deut. 25:4 and...
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...CHRISTIANS REPONSIBLITY OVER THE ENVIRONMENT ENGL 101 God’s involvement in creations is shown in all aspects of the creation in the Bible. With each aspect of creation, God expressed pleasure in what He created. God’s pleasure in his creation reveals the need for Christians to care for the environment. God shows man’s mandate given by God for creation in Genesis 2: 19-20. Since God gave the mandate to rule over the earth, man is also responsible for the environment. Global warming has affected the planet which is and has caused a climate change on earth. Natural disasters have increased due to the climate change. Christian’s responsibility for creation is to restore its landscape, agriculture, animal life, and human livelihood. Christians have a responsibility to preserve creation by recycling, proper disposal of hazardous waste, and create protection agencies for wild life. Christians have a responsibility to take care of creation, restore, preserve, and protect creation in all aspects which God has commanded man to do. God’s involvement in creation is understood for Christians in the Bible starting at Genesis 1. The Bible shows at the beginning God’s hand is expressed in all aspects of creation. The first day of creation God made space, time, earth, and light. On the second day, God created the atmosphere of the earth which then making it possible for life on earth. The third day, God made dry land and called it “earth.” God names the water “sea.” God also created...
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...What is the Christian role in managing the Environment? By JOHNSON OLAWUWO DEYI Environment is referred to as our surroundings, the conditions of our existence. It includes both living and non-living elements and provides resources to support life on Earth. Essential part of the environmental concept is establishing a relationship between living organisms and the natural habitat they live in. The connection between those two is built upon interdependency. The words ‘nature’ and ‘environment’ can be used as substitutes. Generally, it is believed that nature excludes everything made by man. So, there is man on one side of the equation and there is environment on the other. What should be found is balance between them, a way for them to be combined properly. And since we, as people, live in the surrounding environment, from our point of view, we are kind of in it but not exactly part of it. And because we look at the matter from the human perspective, we are not included. It can be concluded that environment is also everything that surrounds us, naturally existing but not manmade. This includes mountains, seas, forests, animals, other living organisms, natural forces. We are part of its environment. From our perspective, the ant is part of our environment. But both the ant and the man are excluded from their own environments when the matter is view through their eyes. Humans are given a very significant and...
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...What Specific Action(S) Should Christians Take Regarding The Environment And Its Preser Abstract Christian are required by God's law to obey the laws of man. Furthermore, the United States Government has Federal and State organization that will help protect our environment. There are many ways that Christian can protect the earth's environment and restore the earth national resources. For an example, Christians could recycle many natural resources; buy vehicles that are more efficient and not being wasteful is all very important. Christians cannot be disillusioned that everyone thinks the same way and there viewpoint are the same. There are many non-Christians that belief that there is a need protect the earth and we will have endless supplies of natural resources. Finally, Christians realize that efforts to protect the earth may not be enough, so we must prepare and plan to restore natural resources. As Christian followers of God, we must educate others about conserving the earth's natural resources. What Specific Action(S) Should Christians Take Regarding The Environment And Its Preservation Or Restoration? Could you imagine Jesus Christ driving a car that is not environmental friendly? According to the Christian faith, Jesus Christ was the only perfect person that ever lived on the earth that was perfect. Therefore, Christians understand that to be Christ like, it would mean Christian would have to preserve the environment and if necessary contribute...
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...ACTIONS THAT CHRISTIANS SHOULD TAKE CONCERNING THE ENVIRONMENT PRESERVATION OR RESTORATION Name: Institution: Introduction It is the duty of all human beings to take care of the environment and should they destroy it then they will have no place to stay. According to Isaiah 45:18 “God formulated the universe so that it can be occupied.” There are alternate biblical notions as well as details that show the significance of the environment and the desire to safeguard and keep it running. Environment fortification has constantly been the key concern among many socialists, ecologists as well as scientist thought the universe. Everybody is looking towards the welfare as well as the need for safeguarding the environment. Thus, the progression and creation of technology has smashed the earth to the larger extent and how it is very vital to take actions against the features that are hazardous to the environment. Consequently, this is never perceived as the responsibility of religion to concern about nature as well as the environment. The novel thoughts of Christianity along with environment restoration and preservation have offered the novel aspect of thought and new rationale to consider the significance of saving the environment. Therefore, this is the most outstanding issue of uniting the impression concerning Christianity with the environment protection...
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...THEOLOGY/TURABIAN PRESENTED TO PROFESSOR KEVIN HARTLESS FOR ENGL 101 – D09 BY REV. JOSEPH T. WHITAKER, III LU23755920 LIBERTY UNIVERSITY LYNCHBURG, VA AUGUST 11, 2015 2 Christian Environmental Responsibility The Holy Bible gives clear instructions concerning the natural environment and the Christian’s sacred duty to preserve and restore the planet Earth. God has provided direct instructions as well as guidelines in principle, for all Christians to obey and honor. The question arises, what conduct and actions are imperative and biblically mandated for Christians to engage in concerning the environment and its preservation and restoration? Research reveals that God requires mankind to contribute as caretakers and stewards over His wonderful creation. The Reason for Christian Environmentalism The dictionary definition for environmentalism is expressed as: “Advocacy of the preservation, restoration, or improvement of the natural environment; especially: the movement to control pollution.” The primary foundational reason for the practice of environmentalism is, because of the universal pollution inflicted upon all of creation as a result and consequence of mankind’s Original Sin. The fallen angel Satan introduced sin into the universe in his rebellion against God; and the first human...
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...Christians and the Environment Christians and the Environment Essay 3 “Christians and the Environment” What can Christians do to care for the environment? What ethics of Christians would be related to the preservation of the environment? These and other related questions are the major concern for Christians and the need to protect the environment. Christians seek to have environmental ethics that rely on awareness, faith, and care. The specific actions Christians should take regarding the environment and its preservation are recycling plastic, paper, preserving the wildlife, and conserving water and energy. If Christians do their individual part then it will affect the entire global community. The term “going green” should be the outline for the awareness on environmental issues. Starting a recycling bin, cutting back on water usage, and turning off the power when not used are good ways to use your “green” thumb. Christianity and the Scriptures alone provide the basis for a correct view of nature and man’s relationship with the environment. Protecting the environment is not the only cause of Christ, but it is certainly not our calling to plunder the earthly home that God has created for us. Genesis 1:29-30 states “And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in which is...
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...Christian Duty in the Natural World It is the responsibility of Christians across the United States, as well as globally, to protect, preserve and repair the natural environment of the planet. When individuals pollute or otherwise harm the planet, they are, in effect, disrespecting God. While this may seem farfetched, it is rational when one recognizes that humans first assumed the responsibility of tending the global environment when they entered into the very first covenant with God during the times of the Israelites. Additionally, while having broad focus on what to fix may be preferable to some, there are better methods for beginning the conservation work. In the very first book of the Holy Bible we see God demanding of us to be stewards of the environment. In the Bible we see, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” (ESV Study Bible: English Standard Version, Gen. 2:15) In this passage it is clearly apparent that God assigned the responsibility of stewardship of the planet to man. By taking a more allegorical approach to this particular piece of the Bible, a reader can see that the Garden of Eden is actually the planet Earth itself, pre-sin, and God’s placement of Man and directions to him as the charge put forth on maintaining the planet. Yet another example is found in Leviticus 25:23, “The land shall not be sold in perpetuity, for the land is mine. For you are strangers and sojourners with me.” In this verse...
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...Christianity and Its Relationship with the Environment McFague (2000) defines the term environment as the surroundings or conditions in which a human being, an animal or plants lives and operates within. In the context of theology advanced by Christians, the environment refers to the world that God created and humans are part and parcel of that creation. Modern and old works on Christianity, which includes the Bible, have advanced several thoughts regarding the environment and man. These thoughts can be classified into four categories, which include historical, modern, philosophical and theological perspectives about man and environment. In this context, this paper seeks to explore the manner in which Christianity perceive the environment and man. Particularly, the paper will evaluate the historical, modern, philosophical and theological perspectives. The historical thoughts about the environment and man can be derived from the Bible. As McFague (2000) indicates, the foremost chapter in the Bible presents two accounts regarding the creation of the Earth by God. The book, Genesis, indicates that when looking on each and every creation, God finds it “good”. Usually, most Christians fail to see these accounts as literal scientific explanations regarding the manner in which the world began. Rather, they see it as containing fundamental understanding regarding the relationship that exists between God and the Earth that God made for human beings to enjoy. Such a relationship is...
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...Chritians Must Take Action Christians Must Take Action to Restore the Environment Ashley Boosalis Manalili Liberty University Introduction As Children of God we have a duty to help the environment and restore all that God has created. In Genesis 2:15, the Bibles states that, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it.” We were put on the Earth that God has created to take care of everything He has placed on it in Adams place. We are to do so in His image. Some would argue that humans are more important and we need to worry about our existent before the environment, but that is not the case. By cutting down on pollution, recycling and conserving water; Christians are not only taking action to restore the environment, bet setting a good example on how to act and take care of Gods creation. Conserving Water “On average, 10 gallons per day of your water footprint (or 14% of your indoor use) is lost to leaks.” (National Geographic). There is so much water that goes uncalled for, and gets wasted by kids and even adults who do not even think about how much water they are using which goes into wasting day by day. Whether that is taking a long shower, leaving the sinks dripping by not turning them off all the way, or playing with the hose outside. Everyday we are hearing about different states being in droughts and not having enough water. There are so many ways in which Christians can save water and cut down...
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...Personal Position Paper: Environmentalism Caring for the Earth? Should Christians become Tree-Huggers? In today’s society, many environmental issues are being casually overlooked by the same people who constantly complain about them. It is an ever increasing problem that will eventually become irreversible if we Christians do not respond to the issue with definite action. The four key elements of the Wesleyan Quadrilateral provide strong evidence that God has called humans to make a difference in the environment. Several examples that are found in scripture, proven by reason, witnessed through experience, and guided by tradition aid in proving God’s desperate plea to us to care for the earth. By using the quadrilateral in its entirety, I will be able to provide sustainable information that will create a viable conclusion to why I personally believe that Christians should indeed become “tree-huggers”. What does scripture say in terms of protecting the environment? Scripture, the norming norm of all sources, is ultimately the main stemming source which provides moral guidance in helping humankind make wise decisions. It is an outlining source that answers many, if not most, of life’s difficult questions both indirectly and directly. As far as answering the question as to whether or not Christians should become “tree huggers”, several specific instructions provided in scripture are commands given from God to His followers to treat the earth and all the nonliving things within...
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...ENGL 101 Christian’s Caring For the Environment Christianity passionately teaches believers that God is the creator of all things. It is essential that Christians take the power given to them by God, to make a difference in the preservation, and the restoration of the environment. The book of Genesis provides us with environmental insight of the creation of the Earth in which God calls it “good.” (Genesis 1:10) Adam and Eve were instructed by God to maintain the garden of Eden as the care takers. From the beginning we see that God intended for Christians to be good stewards over what He graciously has given them. One way to demonstrate obedience to God, is to value the things He values. In demonstrating appreciation for the world we live in we are called to be accountable for it as imitators of Christ. The Bible says, “Imitate God, therefore, in everything you do, because you are his dear children.” Some ways to consider making changes for the better of the environment would be recycling, properly disposing personal waste, and using natural resources such as using solar or wind energy. Christians honor God in the way they live, and in doing so it is necessary to consider the world they live in. Whether you are a new believer, or have been living for Christ for years the environmental interest should be a concern for all Christians. The challenge is to change the way of thinking just as it must be done to effectively live like the example Jesus Christ...
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...LECTURER’S COMMENTS ON ASSIGNMENT STUDENT NAME identifying details removed for privacy UNIT CODE 541 ASSIGNMENT TITLE Essay 3: 1. Critical thinking: 2. Adequate Coverage: 3. Relevance: 4. Creativity: 5. Presentation: Name: removed for privacy STUDKEY: STUDNUMBER: Course: Unit Coordinator: Assignment: Number 3 – Make a critical assessment of the contribution of an author other than your lecturer to the development of your understanding of teaching in a Christian community. What are the key ideas of the writer that have proved particularly insightful for you? Reflect on the contribution of this writer to your thinking in the light of the course material you have studied and your reading of other authors. Due Date: Email Sent: I certify that this assignment is my own work. STUDENT’S SIGNATURE: Parker Palmer has made a significant contribution to my understanding of teaching in a Christian community. Through access to his published works “To Know As We Are Known, The Courage To Teach” and “Let Your Life Speak”, I have been enriched by Palmer’s viewpoints and themes on teacher’s, teaching and community. In many instances I found his viewpoints and philosophies insightful, exciting, challenging, daunting and confronting. In some instances I found his position unrealistic to my experience of teaching while also finding myself disagreeing with what I would see as being his liberal approach to theology. Other author’s...
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