Dominion

The concept of dominion in the Bible is rooted in the creation narrative found in Genesis. In Genesis 1:26-28 , God grants humanity 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, reflecting God's image and exercising authority over the earth. The term "dominion" implies a responsibility to govern and manage the created order in a way that reflects God's character and purposes. It is not a license for exploitation but a call to stewardship, where humans are to care for and cultivate the earth responsibly.

Stewardship

Stewardship is closely linked to the concept of dominion, emphasizing the responsibility and care that come with authority. The Bible presents stewardship as a divine mandate, where humans are entrusted with the care of God's creation. In Genesis 2:15 , it is written, "Then the LORD God took the man and placed him in the Garden of Eden to cultivate and keep it." This verse highlights the role of humanity as caretakers, tasked with maintaining and nurturing the environment.

The parable of the talents in Matthew 25:14-30 further illustrates the principle of stewardship. In this parable, a master entrusts his servants with varying amounts of money, expecting them to manage it wisely. The servants who invest and multiply their master's resources are commended, while the one who fails to do so is reprimanded. This parable underscores the expectation that individuals are to use their God-given resources and abilities for the advancement of God's kingdom and the betterment of creation.

The Bible also emphasizes the accountability that comes with stewardship. In Luke 12:48 , Jesus states, "From everyone who has been given much, much will be required; and from him who has been entrusted with much, even more will be demanded." This principle reinforces the idea that with greater resources and authority comes greater responsibility.

Throughout Scripture, the themes of dominion and stewardship are interwoven, calling believers to reflect God's character in their relationship with the world. The biblical mandate is to exercise dominion with wisdom, justice, and care, ensuring that creation flourishes under human stewardship.