Science vs. Tradition in the Church

Throughout history, the Church has often prioritized tradition over scientific truth, leading to dire consequences. A notable example is Galileo, who supported Copernicus’ heliocentric model but faced opposition and house arrest from the Church, which held onto a literal interpretation of scripture. Galileo's insights were truthful, positioning him as a prophet while those who resisted him acted as false prophets.

In contemporary times, we possess scientific methods for understanding the future—yet many in the Church stubbornly resist ideas that conflict with their traditions or economic interests. This reluctance raises important questions about our role as stewards of the earth, as we witness conservative politicians leveraging Christian voices to obstruct beneficial environmental policies.

God's Command for Stewardship

In the Book of Genesis, God tasked humanity with caring for the earth, a duty we have often neglected. Failing to respect creation is a violation of God's first commandment to oversee the earth responsibly. Regrettably, our churches have remained silent while corporations ravage our environment. We often dismiss environmentally responsible practices as "socialist" or "liberal," overlooking the truth that unbridled environmental exploitation is sinful, particularly impacting the most vulnerable among us.

God's Concern for the Environment

The Sabbath represents a divine principle opposing modern notions of scarcity. God's economy allows for rest on the seventh day, emphasizing that both the land and its creatures require a break from labor. Ignoring this principle leads to environmental degradation. Instead of advocating for an economy that respects rest, many Christians dismiss global environmental crises as "fake news."

In the face of this crisis, we must recognize that our inaction could have lasting repercussions on future generations. History shows that ineffective leadership can exacerbate environmental disasters, as seen in Genesis when Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dream about impending famine. Pharaoh's willingness to heed Joseph's advice saved countless lives, demonstrating the importance of leadership that prioritizes the well-being of the community over personal gain.

The Time for Action

It is crucial to acknowledge that God is warning us through the signs of climate change. We do not need prophetic dreams; scientific evidence is available to alert us to the urgent situation we face. The planet is changing, and ignoring these warnings is not an option. Even if we were not facing imminent collapse, as stewards of creation, we should actively oppose pollution, extinction, and deforestation—issues that scientists unequivocally identify as detrimental to our planet.

Which Side Are We On?

Aligning ourselves against the truth distances us from God. The evidence of our planet's decline is undeniable, yet many leaders in our churches remain silent, fearing backlash from their congregations. It is time for us to confront our errors and embrace repentance—an opportunity to change our hearts and minds.

While change is still possible, the window of opportunity is closing. We must act now to fulfill our divine calling as caretakers of the environment.