Background Information
Dominion in Christianity is the belief that because of Jesus’ sacrificial death, believers are given ownership and oversight of the planet earth. It is found in the Bible. In Genesis 1:26-28, humankind is given a special place in God’s creation; he is Sovereign and in charge. Additionally, in Psalm 8:6-8, humankind is given dominion over the earth. Dominion in Christianity is a belief that applies to society and the environment. It describes our God-given authority and how we use it. Frankly, the implications are God-honoring and far-reaching.
Dominion In Christianity
Dominion in Christianity implies that people have God-given authority in their lives and over the environment. In the Bible, God gives a specific job to humans: to be stewards of His creation. This means taking responsibility for the well-being of the planet and of man. This includes taking good care of ecological systems, treating animals humanely, stewarding natural resources responsibly, and administrating justice. Believers understand that these are not just details to be managed, but a call from God to operate out of love and responsibility.
Christian dominion also means that believers are to exercise authority over their own life and circumstances. This is not about control, but rather a call to plan and think carefully about the choices we make and the things we do. Believers are called to use their authority in the context of grace and kindness, understanding that God is in charge.
Why is Dominion In Christianity Important?
Dominion in Christianity is important because it gives believers an opportunity to become part of God’s kingdom on earth. Believers are to be stewards who care for and manage the resources that God has given them. This can mean environmental stewardship, social justice working, spiritual mentoring and teaching, or anything else that serves the greater good. Secondly, dominion in Christianity encourages believers to think carefully and responsibly about the choices they make.
Dominion in Christianity is a reminder that believers are to imitate Christ in all their decisions and activities, both big and small. It means exercising authority guided by love, grace, and humility. The Bible tells us in Matthew 5:5
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.”
Meekness is the perfect example of dominion in action.
Conclusion
Dominion in Christianity is an important concept that shapes how we understand and relate to our world. People are expected to treat the environment and its creatures with kindness, take responsibility for the resources they’ve been given, and think carefully about their choices. By imitating Jesus’ example of love, grace, and humility, believers can bring the kingdom of heaven to earth.
Types of Dominion In Christianity
Dominion in Christianity takes many different forms. It can describe the type of love and responsibility that believers are to show towards the environment, or justice and reconciliation for victims of injustice. Dominion in Christianity is about managing and stewarding the resources God has given us, and walking with Him in humility.
For instance, some Christians are called to use their resources to help those in need, while others are called to serve their local community. Believers can manage their finances with Godly wisdom, carry out justice initiatives, or use their platform to share the Gospel. Dominion in Christianity is about using the authority and resources God has given us to serve the greater good.
Christian Dominion and Love
At the core of Christian dominion is love. God has called us to be stewards of His creation but also to love our neighbor. Jesus said in Matthew 22:39 “‘Love your neighbor as yourself.” In order to exercise dominion over the environment and justice initiatives, believers must first love their neighbor. This means challenging ourselves to be more proactive in our service, to think about our decisions from a love perspective, and to continue to model Jesus’ example of servanthood.
Love is at the heart of dominion in Christianity. It means divesting from degradation, investing in justice, and operating with a heart of compassion. It means sharing resources with those in need, laughing together, and engaging in conversation with people we disagree with from a place of love.
Dominion In Christianity and Empowerment
Dominion in Christianity is about empowerment. It helps believers to see that they possess the power, resources, and skills to serve the world in ways that honor God’s kingdom. They are not simply spectators on this earth, but rather they are pieces of the puzzle that contribute to God’s grand design.
Dominion in Christianity gives believers the opportunity to be stewards who, through intentional decision-making, work to bring God’s will to fruition. It can mean partnering with organizations that are fighting injustice, investing in causes that support sustainable development, or simply loving your neighbor.
Dominion in Christianity is also about living a lifestyle that models Jesus. We are to abide by His character and imitate His example by stewarding the world with grace and justice.
Dominion in Christianity and Social Responsibility
Dominion in Christianity means that believers are to accept responsibility for their impact on the world. This means being responsible for the resources God has given them and for the effect their lifestyle choices have on the local and global environments. Practically, this can mean reducing or eliminating one’s carbon footprint, eating less meat, advocating for justice, and investing in companies that create sustainable and ethical products.
Believers also have a responsibility to engage with their local communities. This could include offering food, clothing, and housing to those who are struggling; volunteering in local initiatives that are working to reduce poverty and hunger; and advocating for a fairer distribution of resources.
Conclusion
Dominion in Christianity is a call to more than just stewardship but also loving others and being proactive in our service. It is an opportunity to utilize the resources and authority that God has given us to bring His kingdom to earth. We are to accept responsibility for our actions and positively influence our communities through actions that honor and glorify God. Dominion in Christianity is about empowerment, social responsibility, and love.
