A Christian Tirade Against Global Warming
March 7, 2007
I admit that I could be classified as something of a ‘green freak.’ I don’t generally feel like one, I more often feel like I don’t do nearly enough to live a sustainable life; but, granted, I am interested in the topic, I do blog about it weekly, etc. So, perhaps my view is not unbiased …
Yet, as a Christian, I am baffled by other Christians who are not uninterested in Global Warming, but totally against any attempt to talk about or reform it. I understand (though secretly I might think you’re a little slow or lazy or unwilling to see the truth) if you don’t think Global Warming is an issue that requires your attention. Fine. Go ahead and ignore scientific warnings and continue living lives that put this planet in jeopardy - your choice.
But, why, why are there Christians who are fighting against those who are trying to improve our planet? When did prophetic care for this beautiful, God-given earth become alarmist? And, so what if that’s all that it is? Why does something that is alarmist harm you? Why do they care if other people are interest in this issue? What is the down side to them?
I just don’t get it. But I find it rather scary and obnoxious. Cut it out.
For the original article, go here. For a commentary on it, go here.
Posted in eco-green by Sarah
Steve said:
March 7th, 2007 at 3:20 pm
Bill McKibben spoke to this topic today (the “gathering storms” image seems especially on target:
“You can almost hear the desperation creeping into James Dobson’s voice. His attacks on Rich Cizik (and all the other millions of evangelicals working on creation care) are ludicrous. There is not a “heated controversy throughout the world” about whether global warming is real. Instead, worldwide, there’s melting ice, gathering storms, and spreading disease. The U.N. estimates that climate change will produce 150 million environmental refugees by mid-century. And very few of them will have done anything to cause the problem - while we in the U.S. produce a quarter of the world’s carbon dioxide. Jerry Falwell talks about the need to preach the gospel. Well, the “love your neighbor” part isn’t going so well at the moment. It’s more like “drown your neighbor” right now.
“Here’s the really sad part: this is one of those moments for which the church was born. It will be hard for society to make the changes it needs to make, but our churches can actually remember some reason for human existence other than accumulation. They can summon up the love, hope, and faith necessary to take difficult steps in the years ahead.”