The Bible, a foundational text for billions of Christians, was written millennia before the modern concept of anthropogenic climate change emerged. Consequently, it contains no explicit mention of greenhouse gases, fossil fuels, or climate models. Yet, within its narratives and teachings, readers find a rich source of theological principles that inform a wide spectrum of contemporary Christian responses to the environmental crisis. The ongoing debate largely centres on interpreting core concepts such as human “dominion” over the earth, the mandate of “stewardship,” and eschatological (end-times) beliefs.
The Mandate of Stewardship vs. the Interpretation of Dominion
A pivotal point of discussion originates in the Genesis creation accounts. In Genesis 1:28, God tells humanity to “subdue” the earth and have “dominion” over every living creature. Historically, some interpretations of this “dominion theology” have been criticised for fostering an exploitative attitude, suggesting that the earth exists solely for human use and consumption. This perspective can lead some to prioritise human economic prosperity and development over ecological concerns.
However, a contrasting and increasingly prevalent view emphasises “stewardship” or “creation care.” This perspective highlights Genesis 2:15, where God places Adam in the Garden of Eden “to work it and take care of it” (or “tend and keep it”). Proponents of this view argue that dominion means responsible guardianship, not reckless exploitation. The earth ultimately belongs to God (Psalm 24:1), and humans are tenants/custodians who will be held accountable for how they manage His creation. This interpretation is the basis for most Christian environmental activism, framing environmental degradation as a failure to love God and His creation.
Themes of Judgment, Restoration, and God’s Sovereignty
Biblical narratives link human actions with consequences for the land, such as the flood in Noah’s time or curses on the land described in Leviticus 26 and Jeremiah 2:7. This provides a framework for some to understand climate change as a symptom of human sinfulness and disobedience.
Conversely, other biblical passages are used to temper the urgency of climate concerns. Genesis 8:22, where God promises that “seedtime and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night, shall not cease,” is sometimes cited as an assurance of the Earth’s stability, suggesting that catastrophic human-made climate change is contrary to God’s covenantal promise.
Furthermore, varying eschatological beliefs influence opinions. Some Christians believe the world’s final end will come through God’s ultimate judgment and a future creation of new heavens and a new earth, which may lead to a view that human efforts to “save the planet” are futile or misdirected. Other theologians argue that these end-times texts promise the transformation and renewal of the current creation, urging Christians to participate in God’s redemptive work now.
The Call for Justice and Love of Neighbour
For many denominations and Christian organisations, the issue of climate change is fundamentally a matter of justice. The Bible consistently emphasises God’s concern for the poor and vulnerable. The impacts of climate change—drought, extreme weather events, and resource scarcity—disproportionately affect the world’s least fortunate populations. Therefore, caring for the environment is seen as a direct application of the second great commandment: to love one’s neighbour as oneself. Organisations like Tearfund and the Evangelical Environmental Network approach the crisis as a moral imperative rooted in compassion and justice.
Conclusion
The Bible serves as a powerful, though not prescriptive, moral compass for navigating the challenges of climate change. While Christians arrive at different conclusions regarding the science, urgency, and necessary policy responses, most agree on a fundamental moral obligation to care responsibly for God’s creation. The conversation continues within the Christian community, with a growing emphasis across denominations—from the Catholic Church’s encyclical Laudato si’ to Evangelical green movements—on integrating environmental ethics into a holistic Christian life that honours the Creator and protects all of creation for future generations.
