A Stewardship Betrayed: The Biblical Call to End Fossil Fuels and Heal Creation
A Stewardship Betrayed: The Biblical Call to End Fossil Fuels and Heal Creation
Church of Deets
A Stewardship Betrayed:
The Biblical Call to End Fossil Fuels and Heal Creation
Scripture Reading:
Genesis 2:15: "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it."
Micah 6:8: "He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God."
Isaiah 24:4-6: "The earth dries up and withers, the world languishes and withers, the heavens languish with the earth. The earth is defiled by its people; they have disobeyed the laws, violated the statutes and broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore a curse consumes the earth."
Introduction: The Crisis of Creation and Our Call to Care
At the heart of the Bible lies a call to stewardship—a command that has echoed since the moment humanity was placed in the Garden of Eden. This command is not a mere suggestion; it is a divine mandate that defines our relationship with God’s creation. Genesis 2:15 reminds us that we were entrusted with the care of this planet: "The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it." In that simple but profound charge, God established the foundation of what we now recognize as environmental stewardship.
But stewardship, in our modern context, faces a profound crisis. The earth is groaning under the weight of pollution, deforestation, and environmental degradation. Most troubling of all is our reliance on fossil fuels—coal, oil, and natural gas—which not only damage ecosystems but are the primary drivers of climate change. These fossil fuels release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, which trap heat in the earth’s atmosphere and accelerate global warming.
As a result, we see a world destabilized by climate-related disasters: stronger hurricanes, prolonged droughts, more intense heat waves, rising sea levels, and mass displacement of people. These effects are not theoretical but present realities that threaten the lives of millions across the globe. And yet, while this harm affects us all, the burdens of climate change are not distributed equally—a concept called "climate change redlining" makes clear that the marginalized are disproportionately affected.
Our response to this crisis must be grounded in Scripture. Just as we are called to act justly (Micah 6:8), we are called to care for the most vulnerable and marginalized, who bear the brunt of environmental degradation. This care must include seeking alternatives to fossil fuels, such as renewable and efficient energy sources like solar, wind, and nuclear energy, which are not only more sustainable but also help mitigate the harm caused by climate change.
In this sermon, we will explore the biblical foundations of creation care, the moral urgency of climate justice, the concept of climate change redlining, and the role that nuclear energy can play in fulfilling our divine duty to care for God's creation. As we navigate these pressing issues, we will come to understand that addressing climate change and moving away from fossil fuels is not only a scientific or political issue—it is a deeply spiritual and moral imperative rooted in our faith.
The Biblical Call to Creation Care: A Sacred Responsibility
From the outset of creation, God’s relationship with the earth and humanity was one of partnership. God created a world filled with beauty, complexity, and abundance and invited humanity to participate in its flourishing. In Genesis 1:28, we are told that humanity is to “fill the earth and subdue it,” but this does not imply domination and exploitation. The Hebrew word for "subdue" (kabash) is better understood in the context of stewardship, not reckless exploitation. It is an invitation to guide creation towards its intended purpose, in harmony with God’s design.
The theme of stewardship is further amplified in Genesis 2:15, where humanity is placed in the Garden of Eden “to work it and take care of it.” The word "care" here (shamar) implies careful guarding, protecting, and nurturing. Just as a shepherd tends to the needs of his flock or a gardener prunes and waters plants, so too are we called to protect the earth with reverence, understanding its interconnected systems and the delicate balance that sustains life.
Yet, we have not fulfilled this sacred duty. Our modern society, built upon the extraction and combustion of fossil fuels, has pushed creation to its limits. The overuse of these resources has caused the earth to groan under the weight of our neglect, and the consequences of our actions are seen in the changing climate. Isaiah 24:5-6 warns us of this reality: “The earth is defiled by its people; they have disobeyed the laws, violated the statutes and broken the everlasting covenant. Therefore a curse consumes the earth.” Climate change, brought on by human activity, is nothing less than the manifestation of this curse.
The damage is profound. Every time we burn fossil fuels, we not only desecrate the land, air, and water that God has given us, but we also violate the covenant that was meant to sustain creation for future generations. Our role as stewards demands that we take responsibility for this crisis and work to rectify it.
The Moral Imperative of Climate Justice
Climate change is not just an environmental issue; it is a justice issue. Those who contribute the least to the problem are the ones who suffer the most from its consequences. Developing nations, low-income communities, and people of color often live in areas most vulnerable to the effects of climate change—coastal regions, floodplains, or industrial zones where air and water pollution are rampant.
This disparity is known as "climate change redlining," a term that draws from the historic practice of housing redlining. In the mid-20th century, redlining was used to deny home loans to people of color, forcing them into economically disadvantaged and environmentally hazardous areas. Climate change redlining works similarly, as marginalized communities are disproportionately exposed to the negative effects of environmental degradation. These communities face higher risks of flooding, toxic pollution, extreme heat, and other climate-related impacts.
When a hurricane devastates a coastal city, it is often the poorest neighborhoods that are least protected, left to face the brunt of the destruction. When heat waves intensify, it is the urban poor who are most vulnerable, lacking access to air conditioning and green spaces. When droughts strike, it is often subsistence farmers in developing nations who suffer, watching their crops wither under the scorching sun.
Scripture calls us to seek justice for the oppressed. In Micah 6:8, we are reminded that God requires us “to act justly and to love mercy.” Jesus himself speaks directly to the importance of caring for “the least of these” in Matthew 25:40: “Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” To ignore the cries of those suffering from climate change is to ignore Christ himself.
The continued reliance on fossil fuels perpetuates this injustice. By clinging to an energy system that enriches the powerful while harming the vulnerable, we are complicit in a moral failing. If we are to walk in the ways of Christ, we must advocate for policies and practices that reduce carbon emissions, mitigate the effects of climate change, and ensure that the most vulnerable are protected. This is what it means to seek climate justice—a justice that is not only social and economic but also environmental and spiritual.
The Role of Nuclear Energy: A Path to Sustainability
As we seek alternatives to fossil fuels, it is essential to consider all available options for clean, sustainable energy. Renewable sources like wind, solar, and hydropower are crucial, but we must also address the potential role of nuclear energy in mitigating climate change.
Nuclear energy has long been a controversial topic. Some fear the risks of accidents, waste disposal, and radiation exposure, while others see it as a necessary tool in the fight against climate change. The truth lies somewhere in the middle. When managed responsibly, nuclear energy offers several key advantages over fossil fuels and even some renewables.
Low Carbon Emissions: Unlike coal or natural gas, nuclear power generates electricity without producing greenhouse gases. This is a crucial factor in combating climate change, as reducing carbon emissions is the most effective way to slow global warming.
High Energy Output: Nuclear power plants produce vast amounts of energy compared to wind and solar farms. This makes them a reliable source of electricity that can meet large-scale demand, especially in industrialized nations.
Stability and Reliability: While renewable energy sources like solar and wind are dependent on weather conditions, nuclear power provides a stable and continuous source of energy. This stability is essential for ensuring that the transition away from fossil fuels does not lead to power shortages or disruptions.
Of course, nuclear energy comes with its own set of challenges. The risk of accidents, such as those that occurred at Chernobyl and Fukushima, cannot be dismissed. However, advancements in technology and safety protocols have significantly reduced the likelihood of such disasters. Moreover, the issue of nuclear waste is one that must be addressed with responsible long-term storage solutions.
As Christians, we must approach nuclear energy with both caution and openness. We are called to be wise stewards, using the resources available to us in ways that honor God and protect creation. Nuclear energy, when carefully managed, can play a crucial role in the transition to a carbon-free future. By investing in both renewable and nuclear energy, we can reduce our dependence on fossil fuels and move toward a more sustainable and just energy system.
Practical Steps: Moving Toward a Sustainable Future
The call to care for creation is not abstract—it demands action. As individuals, congregations, and communities, we must commit to making changes that reflect our biblical mandate to be stewards of the earth.
Here are some practical steps we can take to fulfill our responsibility toward God’s creation and mitigate climate change:
1. Advocate for Policy Change
One of the most impactful ways to address climate change and reduce reliance on fossil fuels is through policy advocacy. The transition from a fossil-fuel-driven economy to one based on renewable energy will not happen without structural change. As citizens and followers of Christ, we have a moral obligation to engage with our political leaders and advocate for policies that prioritize climate action, renewable energy development, and environmental justice.
Support renewable energy subsidies: Governments must invest in clean energy technologies like solar, wind, and nuclear energy. Lobby for legislation that increases subsidies for renewable energy while phasing out subsidies for fossil fuels.
Promote carbon pricing: Carbon taxes or cap-and-trade systems can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making it more expensive to pollute. Such policies incentivize companies to invest in cleaner alternatives.
Support international climate agreements: Climate change is a global issue that requires global cooperation. Support international treaties like the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit global warming and reduce carbon emissions across nations.
By advocating for such policies, we fulfill the biblical mandate to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute” (Proverbs 31:8). Climate justice is a form of justice for future generations and for those currently marginalized by the climate crisis.
2. Reduce Personal and Congregational Carbon Footprints
While systemic change is necessary, individual and congregational actions also have a role to play in reducing carbon emissions. Every small step matters when multiplied by millions of believers worldwide.
Energy efficiency in homes and churches: Retrofit homes and church buildings to be more energy efficient by upgrading insulation, using LED lighting, and installing energy-efficient appliances. Consider transitioning to renewable energy sources such as solar panels.
Sustainable transportation: Encourage carpooling, biking, public transportation, or the use of electric vehicles where possible. As a congregation, consider organizing carpool groups to reduce the environmental impact of Sunday services.
Reduce waste and consumption: Encourage waste reduction by practicing recycling and composting at church events. Promote ethical consumption by choosing locally-sourced and sustainably-produced goods. Every decision, from what we eat to how we travel, can reduce our contribution to climate change.
These individual and collective actions reflect our commitment to the biblical principle of stewardship. As it says in Luke 16:10, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” By demonstrating responsibility in small ways, we prepare ourselves for greater tasks in the work of environmental restoration.
3. Educate and Equip the Church for Creation Care
The Church must take a leading role in the climate movement by educating and equipping its members to care for creation. This can be done through sermons, Bible studies, workshops, and special events that focus on the biblical imperative to steward the earth.
Theological teaching on creation care: Preach sermons that connect environmental stewardship with Scripture. Highlight the numerous passages that speak to God’s love for creation, our role as stewards, and the importance of justice for the marginalized.
Engage youth and children: Equip the next generation to be climate leaders by teaching them the importance of environmental stewardship. Encourage youth-led initiatives such as community clean-ups, tree-planting projects, and advocacy campaigns. Integrate creation care into Sunday school curriculum and youth group activities.
Church partnerships with environmental organizations: Partner with local or global environmental organizations that focus on sustainable development and climate justice. These partnerships can provide opportunities for congregants to get involved in hands-on environmental work, whether through mission trips, service projects, or advocacy.
By raising awareness and building capacity for creation care, the Church can become a powerful force for change in the fight against climate degradation.
4. Address Climate Change Redlining and Environmental Justice
As mentioned earlier, climate change redlining ensures that marginalized communities face the brunt of environmental harm. The Church is uniquely positioned to address this injustice by centering its outreach efforts on the needs of the most vulnerable and by advocating for environmental justice in public policy.
Support climate adaptation for vulnerable communities: Advocate for government programs that help communities most at risk from climate impacts, such as flood defense systems, improved infrastructure, and accessible disaster relief. Work with local governments to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to resources that can help them adapt to the changing climate.
Church outreach and support: Develop outreach programs that provide assistance to communities suffering from climate impacts. This could include offering shelter and resources during extreme weather events, such as heat waves or hurricanes. Churches can also assist in providing clean drinking water or air purifiers for areas suffering from pollution.
Promote local environmental justice initiatives: Partner with environmental justice organizations to address issues of air and water pollution, food deserts, and access to green spaces in marginalized communities. Together, the Church can stand in solidarity with those who are most affected by environmental injustice, amplifying their voices and ensuring that they are included in the policy-making process.
In doing this, the Church embodies the radical love and justice of Christ, who cared for the marginalized and lifted up the oppressed. As Isaiah 1:17 exhorts us: “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed.”
5. Embrace Nuclear Energy as Part of the Solution
While renewable energy sources like wind and solar are essential to combat climate change, nuclear energy must also be considered as part of a holistic strategy for reducing carbon emissions. As Christians, we must be willing to embrace scientific advancements that align with our values of sustainability, stewardship, and justice.
Nuclear energy presents an opportunity to move away from the carbon-intensive processes of fossil fuel extraction and combustion, providing a stable and reliable source of power. Unlike coal and natural gas plants, nuclear reactors do not emit greenhouse gases during operation, making them a key player in the fight against climate change.
Educate the congregation about nuclear energy: Many people hold misconceptions about nuclear power, often associating it with dangerous accidents or harmful radiation. The Church can help dispel myths by providing accurate information on the benefits and risks of nuclear energy and its role in reducing carbon emissions.
Advocate for safe nuclear energy policies: Support policies that encourage the development of safer, more efficient nuclear technologies. These include advancements in waste management, improved safety protocols, and the development of small modular reactors (SMRs), which reduce the risks associated with traditional nuclear power plants.
Ensure equitable energy transitions: Advocate for policies that ensure marginalized communities benefit from clean energy investments. Ensure that the jobs, infrastructure, and economic development that come with the transition to nuclear energy and renewables are equitably distributed.
When responsibly managed, nuclear energy represents an important tool in our collective effort to care for creation. It offers a pathway to achieve the large-scale reductions in carbon emissions necessary to combat climate change while supporting the reliable energy needs of our society.
Conclusion: A Biblical Call to Environmental Action
As we reflect on our relationship with God’s creation, we must acknowledge that the continued use of fossil fuels is not only unsustainable but deeply unbiblical. Scripture is clear that we are called to care for the earth, to act justly, and to love mercy. We cannot continue to defile the world that God has entrusted to our care. Climate change is a moral issue, and our faith compels us to respond with urgency and compassion.
The transition to renewable energy sources, including wind, solar, and nuclear power, is not simply a matter of technological advancement—it is an expression of our commitment to stewardship, justice, and love for our neighbors, especially the most vulnerable. By advocating for environmental justice, addressing climate change redlining, and reducing our reliance on fossil fuels, we fulfill our biblical mandate to care for creation.
In the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:14-16, “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden... let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Let us be that light, shining with the love and care of Christ for all creation, and let us work together to build a future where God’s earth is healed, justice prevails, and all people can flourish.
Amen.
Resources:
Deets On Climate Change Timeline
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