Environment

The Salvation Army believes that:

As people made in the image of God (Genesis 1:27), we have a responsibility to use the resources of the earth in a way that ensures that people in this and future generations do not suffer from poverty or injustice. This is part of our stewardship of the earth and our love of others. In the modern world, Christian stewardship implies large scale and permanent changes in attitudes and behavior towards God's creation, so that we begin to 'replenish the earth' (Genesis 1:28).

Responsibility was given to humanity to 'cultivate and keep' the earth (Genesis 2:15), but humanity has destroyed or is destroying much of God's creation (Isaiah 24:4,5).

God's instruction to 'subdue' the earth and 'rule' over every living thing (Genesis 1:28) cannot be interpreted as justifying exploitation. God gave His people rights and privileges, but these included duties and responsibilities.

Given the finite resources of the world and its expanding population, together with the impact of industrial and rural activities, development must take into account the need to preserve the earth as an exercise in responsible stewardship.

Therefore Salvationists affirm the following principles:

(i) Concern and regard for all life forms, not only human life.

(ii) Adoption of a responsible lifestyle that will protect and enhance the environment.

(iii) Care for those who are adversely affected by environmental stewardship policies and who are the victims of environmental vandalism.

Position Statement

Salvationists are encouraged to consider seriously their personal responsibility for the environment by taking practical steps to preserve and renew God's creation.