Alexandra Mann 2.7.17 In Class Discussion (Malia's Discussion Leader)

Malia asked a question during our class period. “If we consider ourselves a Christian, does that mean we have to be an environmentalist?” 

In class, we had varying opinions. Some students said being a Christian means being an environmentalist, while others very much disagreed with statement. I believe that Christians have a responsibility to steward and subdue the earth. This is directly seen through the command in Genesis. Most Christians can agree on that. 

My next question is, “What does it mean by stewarding and subduing the land?” and “How far is too far?” I would say that being an environmentalist means respecting nature, caring for nature and believing that God gives nature as a gift.  Christians, in my opinion should view nature in this way. Christians should not value nature above humans. To an extent, Christians need to be the ones to protect the world and its resources from being abused. On the other hand, Christians have been given nature as a gift. It is here for us to eat, and advance. The point where this becomes dangerous is when we try to play our own God. This is seen through Genetically Modifies Organisms. The concept of a GMO is trying to play the role of God. Even though we can never be God or do what God does, ee still try to be our own Gods.