Respect for God's created order is a fundamental theme woven throughout the Scriptures, emphasizing the divine design and purpose inherent in creation. This concept underscores the belief that God, as the Creator, has established a specific order and structure in the universe, which humanity is called to honor and uphold.

Creation and Divine Order

The Bible begins with the account of creation in Genesis, where God systematically brings the universe into existence. Genesis 1:1 states, "In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational verse sets the stage for understanding that all of creation is the work of a sovereign God who has imbued it with purpose and order. The six days of creation, culminating in the Sabbath rest, reflect a deliberate and orderly process, highlighting the importance of structure and sequence in God's design.

Humanity's Role

Human beings hold a unique place within God's created order. Genesis 1:27-28 declares, "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 reveals that humans are created in the image of God, tasked with stewardship over the earth. This stewardship is not a license for exploitation but a call to manage creation responsibly, respecting the order God has established.

The Fall and Its Impact

The fall of humanity, as described in Genesis 3, disrupted the harmony of God's created order. Sin introduced disorder and chaos into the world, affecting all of creation. Romans 8:20-22 speaks to this reality: "For the creation was subjected to futility, not by its own will, but because of the One who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God." Despite the fall, the call to respect and restore God's order remains.

Respecting Authority and Order

The New Testament further emphasizes the importance of respecting God's established order, particularly in the context of authority. Romans 13:1-2 instructs, "Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which is from God. The authorities that exist have been appointed by God. Consequently, whoever resists authority is opposing what God has set in place, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves." This passage highlights the belief that earthly authorities are part of God's order, and respecting them is an extension of respecting God's sovereignty.

Order in the Church and Family

The apostolic writings also address the importance of order within the church and family. In 1 Corinthians 14:40, Paul advises, "But everything must be done in a proper and orderly manner." This directive underscores the need for orderliness in worship and church practices. Similarly, Ephesians 5:22-33 outlines the order within the family, emphasizing mutual respect and love between husbands and wives, reflecting Christ's relationship with the church.

Environmental Stewardship

Respect for God's created order extends to environmental stewardship. Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This verse reminds believers that the earth belongs to God, and humanity is entrusted with its care. The biblical mandate to "tend and keep" the garden (Genesis 2:15) continues to resonate as a call to protect and preserve the environment, honoring the Creator by maintaining the integrity of His creation.

In summary, respect for God's created order is a multifaceted biblical principle that encompasses the recognition of divine authority, the responsible stewardship of creation, and the maintenance of order in various spheres of life. Through adherence to this principle, believers demonstrate their reverence for God and His sovereign design.