Christianity Depth Study: Environmental Ethics

Question 1

General ethics come from?

Answer 1

Ten Commandments
Beatitudes
Jesus’ commandment of love

Question 2

Gen 2:15

Answer 2

“The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden to work it and take care of it.”

We have a responsibility to protect the environment & ensure it is fruitful

Question 3

Psa 24:1

Answer 3

“The Earth is the Lord’s and everything in it.”

Question 4

Psa 104:24

Answer 4

“How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom, you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures.”

Question 5

From these scriptures, why do Christians look after the environment?

Answer 5

Because God shows his greatness through creation.

We honour & obey God by looking after creation.

Question 6

Other people/guidance

Answer 6

St Francis of Assisi
Hildegard of Bingen
Jesus Christ - went out into nature to pray. Used imagery of nature.

Question 7

General Environmental teachings include?

Answer 7

The 6 Key Principles:

1. Goods of the earth to be shared by all
2. Live in a safe & life-giving environment
3. Diversity of life has inherit value - i.e. glory of God
4. Appreciation of beauty is path to knowledge & love of God
5. Don’t ignore the poor when solving environmental problems
6. New spirit of solidarity needed to resolve global issues.

Question 8

Quote from the Venice Declaration - Pope JP 2

Answer 8

“What is required is an act of repentance… [A solution] can only be found if we undergo… an inner change of heart, which can lead to a change in… unsustainable patterns of consumption & production. A genuine conversion in Christ will enable us to change the way we think & act.”

Question 9

What are 3 Christian organisations?

Answer 9

Catholic Earthcare - creation is sacred & endangers & should be protected for future generations.

European Christian Environmental Network (ECEN)

Christian Aid (other aid agencies) - how environmental abuse affects people’s lives. Just distribution of Earth’s resources.