A Biblical Response to Climate Change

The Nature Conservancy posted a list of steps to take to save the environment and prevent climate change by 2030.

Their "about page" states that humans should“boldly address the biodiversity and climate crises. We're overcoming barriers to the change our planet needs.”

Climate change is seen as detrimental. Our internet and social media feeds are flooded with information about the possible dangers that will arise if we don’t take action now. It's April and Earth Day is around the corner. It is believed that humans are the causes of climate change and that we are supposed to protect and save the planet. 

How Should Christians View Climate Change?

In the internet age, we have portable devices that can access information quickly. Gen Z Christians especially may have difficulty responding to current issues. This is why Scripture should come first before embracing any ideology.

The Earth Is Not Our Home

The first thing to remember is that the world is not our home. (Hebrews 13:14-15) Our real home is in heaven. If you believe in Jesus and repented of your sins you are saved and a new creation. As such you will recognize that the earth is only temporary. Our real home in heaven is forever. Yes, God will create a new heaven and a new earth. (Revelation 21:1-4) However, while we are living on this earth we should do our best to spread the Gospel and pray that others will come to know Christ. 

We Are To Have Dominion Over The Earth and Care For It. 

Our duty is to care for the planet. Genesis 1:28 says that God gave humans dominion over the earth and that we should “fill the earth and subdue it.” Yes, this doesn’t mean we should throw trash in our backyards. I do believe in recycling and using trash cans as part of caring for God's creation. 

Heaven and Earth Will Pass Away

Matthew 24:35 says that heaven and earth will pass away but Jesus' words won’t. In the end the earth will eventually rot away no matter what we do. Because we live in a fallen world, everything and everyone will die. 

Stewardship

As Earth Day approaches we must remember that our duty is to worship God. We should not worship the creation more than the creator. (Romans 1:25) God put Adam in the garden to care for the planet but not to save it.