Created in God’s image to care for creation

Indonesian pastor and LWF Council member Rev. Telaumbanua considers our call to be good stewards of the earth 

From childhood, many of us learn the profound truth that we are made in the image of God. This concept, often summarized by our possession of intellect, emotions, will, and a sense of eternity, sets us apart from all other living things. But what does it truly mean to bear this image? And what incredible implications arise from our unique position among all creation? 

More than just theological theory, this is a question worth deep contemplation, for our special status is not without purpose. God created us intentionally with a specific role to fulfill. 

In Genesis 1:26-28 we read: "Then God said, 'Let us make humankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground. So God created humankind in God's own image, in the image of God they were created; male and female God created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.'" 

You might wonder why God uses seemingly harsh words like "rule" and "subdue." Does God want us to be arrogant because of our unique position? Absolutely not! The word "rule" (Hebrew: radah - רָדָה) in this context refers to the authority and power given to humans to manage God's creation. It's not about dominance, but about the responsibility to care for and nurture the earth and all its inhabitants. Similarly, "subdue" (Hebrew: kavash - כָּבַשׁ) in this context means to manage and utilize God's creation for good, not to exploit or destroy it. 

Therefore, humanity's uniqueness is deeply connected to the principle of stewardship and care for God's creation. God made us special so that we could be God's partners in maintaining this world. As it says, "God saw all that God had made, and it was very good." 

A Local Awakening: Churches as Friends of Nature 

Here in Nias, Indonesia, the issue of ecotheology is increasingly gaining traction. While perhaps not yet a mainstream conversation, young people are beginning to grasp the vital importance of caring for the environment as God's co-workers. 

This concept of humanity’s divine purpose was recently brought to the forefront by the BNKP’s Diakonia Department. Their commitment to raising awareness and responsibility among humans as God's co-workers in this world is being implemented through Bible study and interactive sessions launched at the BNKP Resort 1 Youth Forum on 17 May 2025. Entitled ‘Gereja Sahabat Alam’ (Church, Friend of Nature), the goal of this program is to initiate change for environmental preservation, starting right from within the church.  

During one of the Bible study sessions, Rev. Oinike Harefa shared an insightful parallel, when she said: "Like Noah, if there is one righteous person or one righteous family, then life can be preserved." This powerful reminder deeply resonated with all participants, underscoring that the action of even a single individual can powerfully contribute to sustaining life on earth. All participants expressed a deep hope that such activities would continue and ultimately spark significant change originating from the church itself. For them, this wasn't just a theoretical concept; it was a lived experience. 

Consequently, discussing being made in the image of God is incomplete without addressing our responsibility to care for creation. Our unique position is not fully understood if we only focus on ourselves. We are not just a reflection of God's character; we are called to be God's agents in the world. Furthermore, our understanding of being created in God's image is incomplete if we don't extend this "good news" to all of creation (Mark 16:15). Because within this unique position lies the profound responsibility to nurture and protect the world entrusted to us. This is just a small step; much more is possible. Are you ready to extend your divine worth, as God's image, to all creation?  

Questions to reflect on:  

1. How does understanding the Hebrew meanings of "rule" and "subdue" change your perspective on humanity's role in creation? 
2. Inspired by the "Gereja Sahabat Alam" initiative, what practical steps can your church or community take to become a greater advocate for environmental care? 
3. Beyond environmental conservation, what other aspects of "creation" (e.g., social justice, care for the vulnerable) might fall under our responsibility as God's image-bearers?

This post is part of the monthly LWF Youth theological series called “Global Faith Unfiltered.” It features reflections from young theologians on the most pressing issues and topics across their communities, from a perspective of the priorities highlighted at the 2023 LWF Assembly.