S2 Chapter 3 - Care for the Environment

Question 1

Stewardship definition

Answer 1

Stewardship is the idea that because we live on the Earth and God provides for us, we have a responsibility to take care of the environment. This also involves consideration of issues concerning future generations..

Question 2

Leviticus 25:8-11

Answer 2

In the old testament, the Jews had the responsibility of taking care of the land. They were told to let the land rest once every fifty years so that it would produce more in the future.

Question 3

In the old testament, the Jews had the responsibility of taking care of the land. They were told to let the land rest once every fifty years so that it would produce more in the future.

Answer 3

Leviticus 25:8-11

Question 4

Deuteronomy 20:19

Answer 4

In times of warfare, instructions were given to conserve fruit trees and not to destroy them when attacking a city.

Question 5

In times of warfare, instructions were given to conserve fruit trees and not to destroy them when attacking a city.

Answer 5

Deuteronomy 20:19

Question 6

Christians today often look to the Bible in praise of creation at harvest time. Name a Christian denomination which carries on this tradition today.

Answer 6

In some Christian denominations, for example the Presbyterian Church, a Harvest Thanksgiving Service is held every Autumn to thank God for the wonder of his creation and provision of their needs.

Question 7

Comments on the environment - Luke’s Gospel

Answer 7

” … But I tell you that not even King Soloman with all his wealth had clothes as beautiful as one of these flowers.”

Question 8

Church comments on the environment - Methodist Church

Answer 8

Climate change = Threat to people everywhere

Drought, extreme weather affects LEDC’s

Concern for the environment is linked to faith and church theology

Action required

How do our actions harm others? (Love thy neighbour)

Question 9

Church comments on the environment - Roman Catholic Church

Answer 9

Earth = Gift from God

Share + Develop, not dominate and exploit

Actions have consequences

We are called to celebrate and not take our gift for granted

Balanced policy between consumption and conservation (Deforestation, Fish farms)

Consider welfare of future generations, earth’s resources

Question 10

Church comments on the environment - Church of Ireland

Answer 10

Climate change = Flooding, habitat destruction, desertification, pollution, urban expansion and famine

One third of fish species and one quarter of mammal species are at risk of extinction

1 billion people now suffer from a shortage of fresh water

Actions

• Prayer
• Indigenous people
• Forefront of worship
• God calls us
• Planetary crisis initiatives
• Publicise information
• Young people experience
• Planetary crisis training programs
• Energy conservation + sustainable energy
• Simplicity of lifestyle

Question 11

Church comments on the environment - Presbyterian Church

Answer 11

Problems - industrialisation, urbanisation, scientific and technological advances

Progressing backwards

Many people pay for our standard of living

Question 12

Church comments on the environment - Baptist church

Answer 12

Stewards of creation

• Conservation and sustainability of resources
• Global environmental issues
• Involvement in community initiatives aimed at renewing and sustaining the environment.

Question 13

Church leaders often point to the examples of certain Saints when discussing animal related issues. Name two saints who were concerned with animals rights issues.

Answer 13

St Francis of Assisi, patron saint day October 4th

St Philip Neri

Question 14

Proverbs 12:10

Answer 14

“Good people take care of their animals, but wicked people are cruel to theirs”

Question 15

“Good people take care of their animals, but wicked people are cruel to theirs”

Answer 15

Proverbs 12:10

Question 16

Christian views on animal rights

Answer 16

Many Christian thinkers believed that human beings were greatly superior to animals. For example, Thomas Aquinas taught that a hierarchy exists in the universe.

Question 17

Name some Christian charity organisations that carry out aid and development work motivated by faith.

Answer 17

Trocaire
CAFOD
Christian Aid
Tearfund

Question 18

Evaluation Question
“The Bible provides very little help for Christians on issues such as pollution and recycling.” Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (10 marks)

Answer 18

Answers may include:

References in Genesis and Psalms teach that God has created the world and given the responsibility for its care to humans; there are limited references as to what these responsibilities might include.

Many of today’s environmental concerns are the result of modern living and were not a problem centuries ago, so issues such as recycling or pollution are not mentioned in the Bible.

Jesus did not stress environmental issues in his teaching, although he did use birds and wild flowers to show that God cares for everything in nature, even something relatively small and ‘unimportant’.

On the other hand:

The Bible is God’s word and contains everything that Christians need to guide them in the 21st century.

Although specific modern day environmental problems are not mentioned, the Bible teaches the general principles that humans have been put in charge of God’s creation and must have a responsible attitude.

The account of Creation in Genesis teaches that humans are to look after the planet - not to destroy it.

Humans can use the earth’s resources to their benefit, but in a responsible way.

Therefore, the Bible contains a great deal of relevant teaching on today’s environmental issues.

Question 19

Evaluation Question
“Christians have a responsibility to be concerned with animal rights.” Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer. (5 marks)

Answer 19

Answers may include:

Animals are to be cared for: “A good man takes care of his animals but wicked men are cruel to theirs” Proverbs 12:10

In the sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught how God shows concern for all creation, even small birds and wild flowers (Matthew 6:26-28)

Following the example of famous Christians (e.g. St Francis of Assissi) it is important to show kindness to animals.

Practices such as vivisection, cruel sports and factory farming are wrong; Christians should take a stand against them.

On the other hand:

We live in a world where many people have to endure living conditions far worse than those of our animals, such as starvation and homelessness; Christians should be more concerned about the rights of disadvantaged people.

Animals do not have souls; only humans are made in the image of God.

Some Christians would argue that although human beings have a responsibility to treat animals decently, animals do not have rights in the same way people do.

Question 20

Evaluation Question

Explain why some Christians are against experiments on animals. (5 marks)

Answer 20

Answers may include:

The Bible teaches that animals are to be cared for: “A good man takes care of his animals but wicked men are cruel to theirs” (Proverbs 12:10)

Experiments on animals are cruel and unnecessary and go against the biblical idea of stewardship (Genesis 1:26-28)

Animals have the right not to be treated cruelly and animal testing involves suffering and pain.

On the other hand:

Humans have rights which animals do not have

Animals can be used in the laboratory if humans will benefit, for example testing new medicines.

Animals can be used responsibly for the benefit of humans; we are the only creatures made in God’s image.

Question 21

Name some of the ways in which people are harming the environment.

Answer 21

Air pollution
Water pollution
Soil pollution
Global warming/Climate change
Ozone Layer (CFC's)
Acid rain
E-waste
Non renewable resources and energy

Question 22

Name one way people can care for the environment.

Answer 22

Recycling
Using renewable energy when possible
Using your car less/ using public transport

Question 23

Name two animal rights issues.

Answer 23

Hunting
Factory farming
Cruelty to pets
Animals used for their fur
Animals in zoos, circuses, etc.

Question 24

Who did God put in charge of everything in the creation story in Genesis?

Answer 24

Adam

Question 25

Explain why some Christians are opposed to animal experiments. (5 marks)

Answer 25

• Using animals for experiments often involves their pain and suffering
• Animals are to be cared for; ‘A good man takes care of his animals but wicked men are cruel to theirs’ (Proverbs 12;10)
• In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught how God shows concern for all creation, even small birds and wild flowers (Matthew 6:26-28)
• Following the example of famous Christians (e.g. St Francis of Assisi) it is important to show kindness to animals
• Many Christians believe that animals have rights and should not be abused in this way.

Question 26

“Churches should be more active in looking after the environment.”

Do you agree or disagree? give reasons for your answer. (5 marks)

Answer 26

Answers may include:

• Churches should follow the practical example given by Jesus in his ministry; Jesus became involved in the society around him, so Christians could lobby the government on environmental concerns
• Churches should lead by example, such as being actively involved in recycling, sustainable energy alternatives or schemes to clean up part of the local environment
• Church leaders should encourage members of their congregation to take environmental issues seriously and examine their own lifestyles
• Churches could support groups working in the developing world, trying to encourage sustainable lifestyles and a better standard of living (e.g. Tearfund, Christian Aid).

On the other hand:

• Many churches already take enough action to show responsibility for the environment
• There are many other priorities for the church in the local and wider community, such as showing concern for disadvantaged people and being involved with the fight for social justice
• The church also has an important responsibility to nurture the faith of its members and give advice on pastoral issues.

Question 27

Why is air pollution a conservation issue?

Answer 27

Factories release millions of tonnes of chemicals into the air which can harm the environment. Air pollution has been linked to cancer and heart attacks. The World Health Organisation (WHO) says three million people are killed worldwide by outdoor pollution every year and 1.6 million indoors through using solid fuels.

Question 28

Why is water pollution a conservation issue?

Answer 28

People need fresh water for washing and to drink. Increasing pollution affects the amount of useable water. Rubbish that is buried underground produces poisonous liquids that can enter underground water supplies, causing pollution to people’s drinking water. Diseases carried in water are responsible for 80% of illnesses and deaths in developing countries.

Question 29

Why is soil pollution a conservation issue?

Answer 29

Contaminated land is a problem in industrialised countries, where former factories and power stations can leave waste like heavy metals in the soil. It can also occur in developing countries, sometimes used for dumping pesticides.

Question 30

Why is global warming/climate change a conservation issue?

Answer 30

The amount of carbon dioxide in the air has increased over the last century because more people than ever are driving cars. The use of electricity, oil and natural gas has also increased. High levels of carbon dioxide turn the atmosphere into a heat trap and so the Earth is becoming warmer. Global weather is changing with extremes of hot and cold, tornadoes, drought, flooding and raging forest fires are often the result.

Question 31

Why is the ozone layer a conservation issue?

Answer 31

A layer of ozone in the atmosphere protects people from the harmful rays of the Sun. Certain gases (CFCs, Chlorofluro-carbons) damage the ozone layer. There is an international ban on the use of CFCs; however, some countries still use them because they are cheap.

Question 32

Why is acid rain a conservation issue?

Answer 32

Harmful gases such as sulfur dioxide are produced by, for example, cars. Once in the atmosphere these gases combine with water to form ‘acid’ rain, which kills trees, plants and fish.

Question 33

Why is e-waste a conservation issue?

Answer 33

Old computers, mobile phones and other electronic gadgets are dumped into landfill sites. Computer and TV screens contain lead which is poisonous.

Question 34

Why are non-renewable resources a conservation issue?

Answer 34

Fossil fuels such as coal and oil have been used extensively to provide energy in our homes.

Question 35

Why are renewable resources a conservation issue?

Answer 35

There is a danger that forests will become depleted because people are cutting down too many trees. This is also a threat to wildlife.

Question 36

What practical ways can Christians care for the environment in their homes?

Answer 36

1. Switch it off - a TV left on standby can use 85% of the energy it uses when it is actually on.
2. Use energy efficient light bulbs.
3. Open the kitchen window instead of using the extractor fan.
4. Reduce, reuse, recycle

Question 37

Name a non-Christian international organisation concerned with environmental issues.

Answer 37

Green Peace

Green Peace is an international environmental organisation founded in 1969 by a group of Canadian environmentalists. The organisation uses non-violent, creative confrontation to bring environmental problems to the notice of the rest of the world. The aim is to encourage the introduction of solutions that will preserve the environment for future generations.

Question 38

On what conditions are animals used for food?

Answer 38

Most people believe that it is acceptable to use animals for food, as long as the animals are treated humanely in the process.

Question 39

What is a vegetarian?

Answer 39

Someone who does not eat meat.

Question 40

Name some of the uses of animals

Answer 40

Animals for food
Animals for research
Animals as companions
Working animals
Animals and hunting

Question 41

Why are animals used for research?

Answer 41

For medical research and to test the safety of new products.

Question 42

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using animals for research

Answer 42

+ Good done for human beings outweighs the harm done to animals
+ Avoids testing potentially harmful products on humans
- Cause severe pain to animals
- Morally wrong?

Question 43

What are animal activists and animal extremists concerned with achieving?

Answer 43

Preventing cruelty to animals

Question 44

Give some examples of cruelty to animals

Answer 44

1. Keeping animals in an inappropriate environment - fish in bowls or small tanks, large dogs in small flats or birds in small cages.
2. Not treating animals well - insufficient exercise, insufficient space, lack of veterinary care, cruelty, neglect and abandonment.
3. Using animals for painful experiments.

Question 45

What is an animal activist?

Answer 45

Most animal rights activists are concerned with preventing cruelty to animals.
Animal activists live their lives in an animal-friendly way and use acceptable means to promote animal rights. These include not eating animal products; avoiding products tested on animals or made with leather or fur; avoiding zoos and circuses; lobbying the government for pro-animal legislation; and campaigning about animals issues

Question 46

What is an animal extremist?

Answer 46

Animal extremists are campaigners against the use of the cruel treatment of animals and who believe in taking direct action and even use violence. Some of the tactics they use include:

• Damaging the premises of organisations that are regarded as anti-animal, such as laboratories or fur farms, or vandalising the homes of those who work there.
• Staging protests at laboratories or fur farms.
• Releasing animals from captivity.
• Sending threatening letters or making harassing telephone calls.
• Spreading false rumours.
• Physical assaults.

Question 47

What does the Bible say about the treatment of animals?

Answer 47

The Garden of Eden is an example of God’s ideal world, in which humans beings live in peace and harmony with animals. In the Old Testament it suggests that animals take second place to humans: “I am putting you in charge of the fish, the birds, and all the wild animals.” (Genesis 1:28)
Some Christians argue that this proves God has given people the right to treat animals whatever way they want.

However, there is also other evidence in the Old Testament to suggest that people should not be cruel to animals: “If an Israelite’s donkey or cow has fallen down, don’t ignore it; help him get the animal to its feet again.” (Deuteronomy 22:4)
“Do not muzzle an ox when you are using it to thresh grain.” (Deuteronomy 25:4)

Question 48

What does the Roman Catholic Church say about the treatment of animals?

Answer 48

The Catholic Church believes that animals are special and should be cared for. “I am happy to encourage and to bless all those who work so that animals may be considered and treated in a Franciscan way, as brothers and sisters … Scientists must abandon laboratories and factories of death.” Pope John Paul II

Question 49

What are some of the arguments for animal rights?

Answer 49

• Animals should be treated in the way that is best for the animals concerned - which may not be the way that suits humans.
• It is wrong for human beings to use animals for food, clothing, experiments or anything else.

Question 50

What are some of the arguments against animal rights?

Answer 50

• Animals were put on Earth to serve human beings.
• Animals do not have souls.
• Animals do not behave morally.
• Animals cannot think morally.

Question 51

Unit 8 2012 - Section B

7b) Explain why some Christians are against experiments on animals. [5]

Answer 51

Answers may include:
• The Bible teaches that animals are to be cared for: “A good man takes care of his animals but wicked men are cruel to theirs.” (Proverbs 12:10)
• Experiments on animals are cruel and unnecessary and go against the biblical idea of stewardship (Genesis 1:26-28)
• Animals have the right not to be treated cruelly and animal testing involves suffering and pain.
• However, humans have rights that animals do not have. Animals can be used in the laboratory if humans will benefit, for example testing new medicines.
• Animals can be used responsibly for the benefit of humans; we are the only creatures made in God’s image.
Accept valid alternatives

Question 52

Unit 8 2012 - Section B
7c) “The Bible provides very little help for Christians on issues such as pollution and recycling.”
Do you agree? Give reasons for your answers. [10]

Answer 52

Answers may include:
• References in Genesis and Psalms teach that God has created the world and given the responsibility for its care to humans; there are limited references as to what these responsibilities might include.
• Many of today’s environmental concerns are the result of modern living and were not a problem centuries ago, so issues such as recycling and pollution are not mentioned in the Bible.
• Jesus did not stress environmental issues in his teaching, although he did use birds and wild flowers to show that God cares for everything in nature, even something relatively small and unimportant.

On the other hand:
• The Bible is God’s word and contains everything that Christians need to guide them in the 21st century.
• Although specific modern day environmental problems are not mentioned, the Bible teaches the general principles that humans have been put in charge of God’s creation and must have a responsible attitude.
• The account of creation in Genesis teaches that humans are to look after the planet - not destroy it.
• Humans can use the Earth’s resources to their benefit, but in a responsible way.
• Therefore, the Bible contains a great deal of relevant teaching on today’s environmental issues.
Accept valid alternatives

Question 53

Unit 8 2011 - Section A

3b) Explain how local churches can show responsibility for the environment. [5]

Answer 53

Answers may include:
• Churches may follow the practical example given by Jesus in his ministry; Jesus became involved in the society around him, so Christians could lobby the government on environmental concerns.
• Churches can lead by example, such as being actively involved in recycling, sustainable energy alternatives or schemes to clean up part of the local environment.
• Church leaders can encourage members of their congregation to take environmental issues seriously and examine their own lifestyles.
• Churches can support groups working in the developing world, trying to encourage sustainable lifestyles and a better standard of living (e.g. Tearfund, Christian Aid).
Accept valid alternatives

Question 54

Unit 8 2011 - Section A
3c) “Christians have a responsibility to be concerned with animal rights.” Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer. [5]

Answer 54

Answers may include:
• Animals are to be cared for: “A good man takes care of his animals but wicked men are cruel to theirs” (Proverbs 12:10).
• In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus taught how God shows concern for all creation, even small birds and wild flowers (Matthew 6:26-28).
• Following the example of famous Christians (e.g. St. Francis of Assisi) it is important to show kindness to animals.
• Practices such as vivisection, cruel sports and factory farming are wrong; Christians should take a stand against them.

On the other hand:
• We live in a world where many people have to endure living conditions far worse than those of our animals, such as starvation and homelessness; Christians should be more concerned about the rights of disadvantaged people.
• Animals do not have souls; only humans are made in the image of God.
• Some Christians would argue that although human beings have a responsibility to treat animals decently, animals do not have rights in the same way people do.
Accept valid alternatives