Does the Bible Address Climate Change?

Does the Bible Address Climate Change?

Our role as stewards of the earth raises questions about climate change and environmental responsibility from a biblical perspective. Scripture, such as Genesis 1:28, encourages humanity to care for creation, yet human actions have led to environmental degradation, reflecting creation’s “groaning” in Romans 8:19-22. Addressing climate change may involve both practical stewardship and spiritual reflection on our role in God’s creation.

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In recent years, climate change has become a pressing topic, sparking debates on its causes, effects, and solutions. As believers, we might wonder if the Bible has anything to say about this modern issue. Does Scripture speak directly or indirectly to the concept of environmental stewardship and human responsibility for the planet?

In exploring this question, it’s helpful to consider the broader biblical themes surrounding creation and humanity’s role. In Genesis 1:28, God appointed humans as stewards over the earth, calling us to “fill the earth and subdue it.” Yet, as Dr. Roger Barrier notes, environmental degradation has become a consequence of human actions, leading to changes in climate, habitat loss, and increased natural disasters.

The Bible also acknowledges creation’s groaning due to the brokenness of the world, awaiting redemption (Romans 8:19-22). Throughout the Bible, we see how sin has not only impacted people but also the world we inhabit. This raises questions about how our faith might inform our actions to care for creation while understanding that ultimate restoration will come through God.

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So, is climate change solely a natural progression, or do we bear responsibility in our treatment of the earth? And, importantly, how might biblical principles guide us in our response?
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For more insight, read the full article by Dr. Roger Barrier here:

How about quoting some scientists who specialize in climate change?

Of course it is a man made problem Christians of all people should be very concerned with our forests, air, and oceans.

Whether or not the Bible addresses an issue the writers could have no concept of has no bearing on the decency and urgency of environmental protection.

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Surely the biblical concept of being good stewards should be a sufficient directive for how we should relate to creation. For too many, “exercising dominion” is a license to rape and pillage the planet and engage in unspeakable animal cruelty. And weirdly, those who insist they are the most “biblical” are among the worst offenders.

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Does the Bible address climate change? Not in those exact Al Gore-glazed words, no. But Scripture absolutely does speak to the heart behind it—what you worship, how you steward, and whether your dominion smells like Eden or Babylon.

Genesis 1:28 wasn’t a green light for greed. “Subdue” doesn’t mean bulldoze. Dominion means responsibility, not recklessness. That Hebrew word kabash? It implies care with power, not carnage with permission. Adam was the first gardener, not the first gas executive. If your theology lets you torch the earth in Jesus’ name, you’re not following Christ—you’re freelancing sin with a biblical sticker slapped on it.

Romans 8:22 says creation groans. It’s not just poetic. It’s prophetic. The earth isn’t just broken because of tectonic plates—it’s broken because of transgression. Human sin fractured everything. And yes, that includes how we pollute, consume, and discard without thought. Christians should be the loudest voices for stewardship, not the last ones to the recycling bin.

Now, to Historyprof: I could quote scientists till your ears fall off, but I’m here for something higher—Scripture. You’re right that we should care for forests, air, and oceans. But don’t pretend science makes the Bible obsolete. The God who made carbon cycles didn’t need a climate summit to teach responsibility. The issue isn’t that the Bible “could have no concept.” The issue is that man, in every age, has had no reverence. If your morality outruns your theology, your foundation will crack when the winds of agenda blow.

And Bingo—bless your clarity. Yes, stewardship should be sufficient. But fallen man loves loopholes more than lordship. That’s why “biblical” dominion gets twisted into license for carnage. But newsflash: the most biblical people aren’t the ones waving the loudest flags—they’re the ones kneeling in the garden with dirt under their fingernails, honoring the Creator by how they tend His creation. And if some of the loudest “biblical” folks are trampling that truth? Then we call them to repentance too.

But don’t let cultural guilt hijack your theology either. Caring for the planet is right—but it’s not ultimate. The gospel is. So plant trees, yes. But preach Christ while you do it. Because no amount of carbon offsets will redeem a soul. Jesus will.

Care for creation. But don’t crown it. Worship the Creator. And don’t let climate activism become your new altar.

—Sincere Seeker. Scripturally savage. Here for the Truth.