Paul's Admonition about Being a Trustworthy Steward
- Recall Paul's admonition to the Corinthians that we are to be trustworthy stewards: "Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy." (1 Corinthians 4:2, RSV.)
- Would you agree that being a trustworthy steward of God's creation means preserving its beauty and abundance for our children and all future generations?
We Have a Fiduciary Duty to God
- Are you familiar with the concept of a "fiduciary," found in the law? This legal concept offers an analogy for what God expects of us as trustees and stewards of God's creation. Let me explain.
- When we occupy a special position of trust-as a steward or trustee-to care for the property of another, we are deemed under the law be a fiduciary to the property owner. (See "Fiduciary," Wikipedia, at www.wikipedia.com.)
- As a fiduciary we are held to the highest standard of conduct in the performance of our stewardship, because of our special position of trust. This higher standard of conduct is called our "fiduciary duty." This fiduciary duty requires us to act with the utmost good faith, loyalty, and trust in carrying out our duties. (Ibid.)
It's The Future Generations' Problem
- As I understand your position, you believe that global warming is the future generations' problem-not our problem. Is this correct?
- Let's see if we can find some common ground based on our shared Christian values. This may allow us to understand how and why we have a difference of opinion.
- As Christians we acknowledge Jesus as Lord-would you agree?
- Because Jesus is our Lord, we believe his life and teachings must be our supreme moral guide-would you agree?
- Would you agree, because Jesus is our Lord, when confronting a complex moral issue, we should ask ourselves "What would Jesus do, based on what we know of his teachings?"
