Paul and the Environment: An Investigation of His Christology and Eschatology

Abstract

The role that Paul has played in shaping Christianity cannot be overemphasized. His influence continues even in contemporary Christian communities. This paper attempts to show how the teaching of Paul can be used to address the present ecological crisis. Specifically it looks at the Pauline doctrines of eschatology (1 Thessalonians 4:13-5:3 and 1 Corinthians 15) and Christology (Romans 8:18-23). It underlines that since Paul considered the eternal world to be here on earth, his teaching can be used to promote environmental conservation. The same is true of his Christology which equates human beings with all the other created order.