Dominion

The concept of dominion is rooted in the creation narrative found in the Book of Genesis. In Genesis 1:26-28 , God declares His intention to create humanity in His own image and grants them dominion over the earth: "Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness, to rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air, over the livestock, and over all the earth itself and every creature that crawls upon it.' So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them. God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth.'"

This passage establishes humanity's unique role in creation as stewards of God's creation. The term "dominion" implies authority and governance, suggesting that humans are to manage the earth's resources wisely and benevolently. This authority is not absolute but is exercised under God's ultimate sovereignty, reflecting His character and purposes.

Responsibility

With dominion comes responsibility. The biblical mandate to "subdue" the earth and "rule" over its creatures is not a license for exploitation or abuse. Instead, it calls for stewardship that honors God's creation. In Genesis 2:15 , the Lord God places Adam in the Garden of Eden "to work it and take care of it." This indicates that humanity's role involves both cultivation and preservation, ensuring that the earth remains fruitful and sustainable.

The theme of responsibility is further emphasized in the teachings of Jesus. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the importance of faithful stewardship. The servants are entrusted with their master's resources and are expected to manage them wisely. The servant who fails to do so is reprimanded, highlighting the expectation of accountability in the exercise of dominion.

The Apostle Paul also speaks to the responsibility of believers in Romans 8:19-21 , where he describes creation as eagerly awaiting the revelation of the children of God, who will liberate it from its "bondage to decay." This passage suggests that humanity's redemption and responsible stewardship are integral to the restoration of creation.

Theological Implications

The doctrine of dominion and responsibility underscores the intrinsic value of creation and humanity's role within it. It affirms that all creation is good, as declared by God in Genesis 1:31 : "God saw all that He had made, and it was very good." This goodness calls for respect and care, reflecting God's love and purpose for His creation.

Furthermore, the biblical narrative reveals that dominion is not merely a privilege but a calling that requires humility, wisdom, and a heart aligned with God's will. The fall of humanity, as described in Genesis 3, introduces sin, which distorts the exercise of dominion, leading to exploitation and environmental degradation. However, through Christ, believers are called to redeem and restore their relationship with creation, embodying the principles of justice, mercy, and stewardship.

In summary, the biblical concepts of dominion and responsibility are intertwined, calling humanity to exercise authority over creation with care and accountability, reflecting God's character and purposes.