In this book, biblical scholars and historians seek to redress problematic passages in scripture that seem to mitigate against a green reading, and uncover biblical passages and themes in a profound way that includes all of God’s creation, not solely humans, as intended beneficiaries of God’s economy and providence. Scholars of religion and specialists in the ecological humanities give frank appraisals of western culture largely driven by an unbridled consumerism that fuels environmental exploitation, pollution, and social injustice. The book also reveals what is happening at the grass roots level with faith communities in Australia and the Pacific regions, which are creating awareness and tackling climate change in their local environs.
A common theme that emerges is Christian hope. This is not mere wishful thinking but rather a cumulative and logical implication from understanding afresh the Christian scriptures and traditions that illuminate a profound picture of what it is to be human, of the importance of Earth and all non-human creation, and the role of creation, the incarnation, and eschatology in the economy of God. This Christian hope provides the impetus for change on all levels: from individual conduct, to local communities, to national and global priorities and policies. It is based on an awareness that we are not alone. Provided that we act quickly we may cooperate with God’s grace in sharing the world’s resources in a non-destructive, equitable, and sustainable way, and in adapting and developing a mutual resilience to a climate change that is happening now and threatens to escalate unless we act quickly.
