The Scriptures—and especially the Psalms—repeatedly and emphatically declare the wonders and beauty of God’s creation. The Earth is the Lord’s! (Psalm 24) The heavens declare the glory of God! (Psalm 19) How many are your works, Lord! (Psalm 104) Creating humankind in his image, God entrusted us to wisely steward his rule, yet our relationship with God’s world is distorted and damaged. In this three-part series we explore the goodness of God’s creation and our rule, the problem and impact of sin, and how we are to live in anticipation of New Creation. Caring for God’s creation is not a responsibility for some, but a calling for every Christian. 

As John Stott, puts it:

“Scripture tells us that “the earth is the Lord’s” (Psalm 24:1) and also that “the earth he has given to man” (Psalm 115:16). These assertions complement rather than contradict each other. The earth belongs to God by creation and to us by delegation. This does not mean that he has handed it over to us in such a way as to relinquish his own rights over it, but rather that he has given us the responsibility to preserve and develop the Earth on his behalf.”  

We are neither to worship creation nor exploit it, but to serve God’s purposes in cooperation with and dependence on him.