Relating Ecomissiology and Creation Care to the Mission of God

In an era of environmental crisis, creation care has emerged as a vital aspect of Christian mission. Far from being a peripheral concern, environmental stewardship is deeply rooted in Scripture and integral to the Gospel. Caring for creation not only reflects God’s redemptive mission but also serves as a powerful testimony of His love for all that He has made. This blog will explore the theological and missional foundations of creation care, demonstrating how it functions as a tangible expression of Christian faith. By embracing environmental stewardship, Christian believers can communicate God’s transformative love to the world, embodying the Gospel in practical ways.

 

The Biblical Foundation of Creation Care

Creation as a Reflection of God’s Glory

The Bible begins with a declaration of God’s creative power: “In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth” (Genesis 1:1). Each element of creation—the land, sea, sky, plants, animals, and humans—bears witness to God’s glory and goodness (Psalm 19:1). Humanity’s role within creation is unique, as we are made in God’s image (Genesis 1:26-27) and entrusted with the responsibility to steward His handiwork.

Creation care is not merely an ecological duty but a spiritual practice that honors the Creator. By tending to the earth, we affirm its value as God’s masterpiece and fulfill our calling as image-bearers. Neglecting or exploiting creation, on the other hand, distorts this relationship and obscures the divine testimony embedded in the natural world.

The Fall and Its Impact on Creation

The harmony of creation was disrupted by humanity’s rebellion in Genesis 3. Sin introduced decay, suffering, and conflict, not only among humans but within the entire created order (Romans 8:20-22). The brokenness of the environment—manifested in pollution, deforestation, and climate change—is a direct consequence of this fall. The state of the world now is in stark contrast with Eden.

Yet, God’s redemptive mission encompasses more than human salvation; it includes the restoration of all creation. Colossians 1:20 declares that through Christ, God is reconciling “all things” to Himself, whether on earth or in heaven. This holistic vision of redemption compels Christians to engage in environmental stewardship as a way of participating in God’s plan to renew the world. The opposite of this is a view where humans are at the center (anthropocentric worldview). 

 

Creation Care as a Missional Imperative

Reflecting God’s Character

As followers of Christ, we are called to imitate God’s character in our actions. God’s care for creation is evident throughout Scripture, from His provision for the animals (Psalm 104:27-28) to His covenant with all living creatures after the flood (Genesis 9:8-17). By caring for the environment, we reflect God’s love, generosity, and commitment to the flourishing of all life.

Creation care also aligns with the Great Commandment to love our neighbors (Matthew 22:37-39). Environmental degradation disproportionately affects vulnerable populations, leading to food insecurity, health issues, and displacement. Addressing these challenges through sustainable practices is a tangible way to demonstrate Christ’s love and compassion.

Proclaiming the Gospel Holistically

The Gospel is often reduced to a message of personal salvation, but its scope is much broader. Revelation 21:1-5 envisions a new heaven and a new earth where God’s presence dwells with His people and all things are made new. This eschatological hope affirms that the Gospel encompasses the restoration of the entire created order.

By engaging in creation care, Christians embody the comprehensive nature of the Gospel. Acts of environmental stewardship—such as planting trees, reducing waste, and advocating for climate justice—serve as visible signs of God’s redemptive work. They communicate that the Gospel is not only about spiritual transformation but also about healing and renewing the physical world.

 

Practical Expressions of Creation Care

Individual Action

Individual Christians can integrate creation care into their daily lives through simple, practical steps:

• Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimizing waste and repurposing materials aligns with the biblical principle of stewardship.
• Sustainable Consumption: Choosing products that are ethically sourced and environmentally friendly supports creation’s flourishing.
• Advocacy: Speaking out on behalf of environmental policies that promote sustainability and protect vulnerable populations is a way to seek justice and shalom.
• Lifestyle Changes: Walking, biking, or using public transportation reduces carbon emissions and demonstrates a commitment to caring for God’s creation.

Collaborative Efforts

Creation care often requires collective action. Partnering with local organizations, environmental groups, and other faith communities can amplify the impact of Christian stewardship. These collaborations provide opportunities to build relationships, share resources, and demonstrate the unity of the body of Christ in addressing global challenges.

Churches have a unique opportunity to model creation care within their communities. Practical initiatives can include:

• Energy Conservation: Retrofitting church buildings with energy-efficient lighting and heating systems.
• Community Gardens: Providing space for congregants and neighbors to grow food sustainably.
• Recycling Programs: Organizing collection points for recyclable materials and educating members about waste reduction.
• Environmental Education: Hosting workshops and Bible studies on the theological basis for creation care.

These efforts not only reduce the church’s ecological footprint but also serve as a witness to the broader community, demonstrating the church’s commitment to stewardship and justice.

 

Creation Care as Spiritual Formation

Deepening Our Relationship with God

Engaging in creation care fosters a deeper connection with the Creator. The natural world reveals God’s attributes—His power, wisdom, and beauty—in ways that inspire awe and worship (Romans 1:20). Spending time in nature, tending to a garden, or marveling at a sunset can become acts of spiritual formation, drawing us closer to God.

Cultivating Humility and Gratitude

Caring for creation reminds us of our dependence on God and the interconnectedness of all life. It cultivates humility by highlighting our role as stewards rather than owners of the earth (Psalm 24:1). Gratitude grows as we recognize the abundance of God’s provision and respond with faithful stewardship.

Practicing Sabbath Rest

The biblical concept of Sabbath extends beyond human rest to include the land (Leviticus 25:1-7). Observing rhythms of rest and restoration for both people and creation aligns with God’s design for flourishing. This practice can inspire sustainable living and a greater appreciation for the Creator’s provision.

 

Overcoming Barriers to Creation Care

Theological Misunderstandings

Some Christians view environmental concerns as secondary to spiritual matters or dismiss them entirely due to an emphasis on the earth’s eventual destruction. Addressing these misconceptions requires a biblical understanding of creation’s value and God’s plan for its renewal.

Practical Challenges

Limited resources, knowledge, or support can hinder individuals and churches from engaging in creation care. Overcoming these barriers involves education, community partnerships, and incremental steps toward sustainability.

Cultural Resistance

In some contexts, environmental issues are politicized or viewed with skepticism. Christians can navigate these challenges by framing creation care as a faith-driven response to God’s call rather than a political agenda.

 

Conclusion 

Creation care is not an optional add-on to Christian life but a core expression of our faith and mission. By stewarding the environment, we reflect God’s character, proclaim the holistic Gospel, and participate in His redemptive work. Whether through church initiatives, individual actions, or collaborative efforts, creation care offers a tangible witness to God’s love for the world.

As we engage in this sacred task, let us remember that our efforts are not in vain. God’s promise to renew all things assures us that even small acts of stewardship contribute to His eternal purposes. Together, let us embrace creation care as a powerful expression of Christian witness, joining in God’s mission to restore His beloved creation.

 

Sources

• The Holy Bible, ESV.
• Lausanne Movement, The Cape Town Commitment, 2010. Read it here
• Missional University, Creation Care resources.
• Sleeth, M. 2007.  Serve God, Save the Planet: A Christian Call to Action. Zondervan.
• Toly, N.J. & Block, D.I. 2010. Keeping God’s Earth: The Global Environment in Biblical Perspective. IVP Academic.