Understanding the Doctrine of Stewards of Creation

What is Stewards of Creation?

Building on the introduction, the biblical concept of humans as stewards of creation centers on their divinely entrusted responsibility to care for God’s world.

The term stewardship originates in Genesis 1:28, where God commands humanity to 'fill the earth and subdue it' and to 'have dominion over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the ground.' This 'creation mandate' positions humans as caretakers, not owners, of the earth’s resources and ecosystems.

This role implies a balance between using creation for human flourishing and preserving it as a gift from God. By framing stewardship as partnership with the Creator, Scripture establishes a foundation for ethical environmental care that transcends exploitation.

Genesis 1:28 and the Creation Mandate

Genesis 1:28 outlines humanity’s divinely ordained role as stewards, balancing responsibility with reverence for creation.

The verse commands humans to 'be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth and subdue it,' followed by the charge to 'have dominion over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and over every living creature that moves on the earth.' This mandate is theologically nuanced: 'subdue' and 'dominion' do not authorize exploitation but establish a caretaker relationship, reflecting God’s own creative authority and benevolence.

Responsible interpretation emphasizes that stewardship involves both using creation’s resources for human flourishing and preserving its integrity as God’s gift. The Hebrew language and broader biblical context suggest a partnership model, not domination, aligning with later themes of Sabbath rest for the land and care for the vulnerable. This framework invites ethical reflection on modern environmental practices as extensions of the original creation mandate.

Theological Dimensions of Creation Care

The concept of stewardship deepens when considered as a reflection of God’s character and humanity’s divine purpose.

Psalm 24:1 declares, 'The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it,' affirming that creation belongs to God and thus demands responsible care. Genesis 1:27 emphasizes that humans, as image-bearers of God, are uniquely entrusted to reflect His creative and sustaining authority. This stewardship is not exploitation but a sacred partnership, mirroring God’s own care for His world. By tending creation, believers engage in worship, acknowledging God’s sovereignty and their role as His representatives.

As image-bearers, humanity’s stewardship inherently connects their purpose to God’s redemptive plan. This role calls for ethical practices that honor creation’s value as a divine gift, bridging the theological and practical dimensions of care.

Why Stewards of Creation Matters Today

The biblical call to steward creation holds urgent relevance for today’s environmental crises, challenging believers to align their practices with the ethical responsibility of caring for God’s world.

This stewardship, rooted in Genesis 1:28’s mandate to ‘fill the earth and subdue it,’ demands a balance between using resources for human flourishing and preserving ecological integrity. As Psalm 24:1 affirms, ‘The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it,’ emphasizing that creation belongs to God and thus requires faithful care. Modern challenges like climate change and resource depletion call Christians to advocate for sustainable practices, recognizing their role as caretakers entrusted with the planet’s future.

Believers today are called to translate this theology into action—supporting conservation efforts, reducing waste, and opposing exploitation. Such commitments honor God’s redemptive plan and reflect the hope that creation will one day be fully restored.

Going Deeper

To deepen your understanding of stewardship, consider key biblical passages that illustrate responsible care and accountability.

Genesis 2:15 states, 'The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it,' emphasizing humanity’s early role as caretakers. The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14–30 (NIV) further highlights stewardship as faithful management, as the servants who wisely used their resources were rewarded by the master.