CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS, MY ROLE AS A PRESBYTERIAN IN PRESERVING THE ENVIRONMENT

 

SERMON ON THE THEME CLEANLINESS IS NEXT TO GODLINESS, MY ROLE AS A PRESBYTERIAN IN PRESERVING THE ENVIRONMENT 

SCRIPTURE TEXT

1^st Reading: Deuteronomy 10:12-14;

2^nd Reading: Psalm 89:8-15

3^rd Reading John: 1:1-3

 

Introduction

Dear beloved in Christ,

As Presbyterians and Christians alike, we are called to honor God by being good stewards of His creation. The adage "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" emphasizes the importance of caring for our environment as an expression of our love and obedience to the Creator. Today, we will explore the biblical foundation for environmental stewardship and our role as Presbyterians and Christians in preserving the environment. Let us turn to Deuteronomy 10:12-14, Psalm 89:8-15, and John 1:1-3 as we seek guidance on this vital aspect of our faith.

 

Body

God's Creation - A Testament of His Majesty

In John 1:1-3, we learn that Jesus, the Word, was present at the beginning of creation. God's divine creativity and wisdom are displayed in the vastness of the universe, the beauty of nature, and the intricate design of every living being. Psalm 89:8-15 further praises God's dominion over creation, stating that the heavens and earth testify to His faithfulness and righteousness.

Key Point am driving home is: Recognize that God's creation is a magnificent reflection of His majesty and serves as a constant reminder of His presence and power.

 

Stewardship - Our God-Given Responsibility

Deuteronomy 10:12-14 calls us to fear God, walk in His ways, love Him, and serve Him with all our heart and soul. As Presbyterians, Christians, we understand that stewardship goes beyond tithing and encompasses our responsibility to care for the environment. God has entrusted us with His creation, and we are called to be faithful stewards of the resources He has provided.

Understand this: We need to embrace our role as stewards by adopting sustainable practices, reducing waste, and conserving natural resources.

 

Environmental Preservation - A Reflection of Our Faith

Our commitment to environmental preservation is an act of worship and obedience to God. When we preserve the environment, we demonstrate our love for the Creator and His creation. By taking care of God's earth, we honor Him and display our gratitude for His gifts.

 

The key point here is: Our environmental efforts are not merely practical tasks but spiritual acts of worship and obedience.

 

Promoting Justice and Compassion

Environmental stewardship also involves advocating for justice and compassion toward the vulnerable. As we protect the environment, we consider the impact of our actions on communities, especially those most affected by environmental degradation. Preserving the environment includes promoting social justice, equitable distribution of resources, and caring for the marginalized.

Hence, our role as Presbyterians, Christians in preserving the environment includes advocating for justice and compassion in environmental policies and practices.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, as Presbyterians, Christians, we embrace the principle that "Cleanliness is next to Godliness" by fulfilling our role as faithful stewards of God's creation. Through Deuteronomy 10:12-14, Psalm 89:8-15, and John 1:1-3, we are reminded of God's majesty, our responsibility as stewards, and the significance of environmental preservation as an act of worship and obedience.

Let us heed the call to be good stewards of God's creation, taking steps to preserve and protect the environment. Our environmental efforts are not separate from our faith; they are deeply connected to our love for God and His people. May we, as Presbyterians and Christians in general, be shining examples of environmental stewardship, promoting justice, compassion, and a deep appreciation for God's magnificent creation. May God's name be glorified through our faithful care for His earth.

Amen.