Pastor Matt's Blogosphere

Environmental Stewardship In The Judeo-Christian Tradition

I am currently studying the above titled book (which I received free in the mail) from the Action Institute in Grand Rapids, Michigan. While I have not finished it, there are some good thoughts in this book. In fact, let me quote part of the introduction as it is given on the back cover.

"A fair and honest debate about religious responses to environmental issues should always distinguish theological principles from prudential judgments. The Cornwall Declaration and the accompanying essays in this volume were written to do just that. They were not written to provide theological rationale for current environmentalist fashion. Rather, they seek to articulate the broad Judeo-Christian theological principles concerning the environment, and to distinguish those principles from contrary ideas popular in the environmental movement." (Jay W. Richards)

Part 4 of the book really piqued my interest. It is entitled "A Biblical Perspective On Environmental Stewardship" and contains a section (Section IV) entitled "Some Human And Environmental Concerns For Present And Future". Within this section such issues as population growth, global warming, and species extinction are discussed. Section V, "Environmental Market Virtues," also promises to be a good read.

Besides this book, there seems to be a large undercurrent within the Judeo-Christian world to become "green." Sometimes we use the terminology of "eco-friendly" or "eco-conscious" but it basically has the same purpose. What is the general concensus on such a move? Is it warranted? Or should it be avoided at all cost? Is there some middle ground, and if there is, how do we reach it?