Only Jesus Can Save the Planet

Many people have made it their mission to save the planet on which we all live. It is a noble calling. This planet is beautiful. It’s the place God created humans, who are made in His image (Genesis 1:27). It’s the place He finely tuned for human life. It’s the place He came to live among the people He made in order that He might die for their sins—and rise from the grave, beating death (John 1:14; 3:16-18). It’s the place He promises to return to in order to make every wrong right and to dwell with His people forever (Revelation 21:1-5).

And, yet, even though it is such a beautiful planet, we as humans sometimes ignore God’s instructions for us to take care of the creation He made (Genesis 1:26; 2:15; Leviticus 25:1-7; Psalm 24:1-2). We can be wasteful and unwise in the way we steward what God has given us—harming other humans, as well as other parts of God’s creation.

However, we can’t save the planet. Only Jesus can do that. What is more, we have His assurance that He will save it. He created it, He took on human flesh to live on it, and He is coming back to reign over it forever.

The Bible does say destruction is coming for this planet. Second Peter 3 compares this destruction to the flood of Noah. We aren’t exactly sure what this destruction will look like, but we know the planet will be cleansed of wicked people and any trace of them—all sin, brokenness, and death will be gone. Jesus’ people will dwell forever with Him on the new earth.

Does this mean we shouldn’t take part in environmental efforts? Not at all.
But we shouldn’t participate because we’re afraid the planet will die if we don’t. Instead, we steward creation as a way to declare the good news of Jesus: because we are eagerly and joyfully anticipating the return of Christ and His kingdom. We are looking forward to creation without brokenness—including garbage and pollution—full of life and beauty, to the glory of the Creator, Sustainer, and Restorer (Romans 8:19-25). • Kevin Zeller

• Does it seem surprising that Jesus cares about the planet? Why or why not?

• Christians do disagree about what good environmental stewardship looks like. And that is okay! What questions do you have about taking care of creation? Who are trusted Christians in your life you can talk with about these questions?

But, according to his promise, we look for new heavens and a new earth, in which righteousness dwells. 2 Peter 3:13 (WEB)

Read Verses:

2 Peter 3:3-13