Does our mission mandate also concern ecology

This written assignment, submitted for the course MC1000 ("Introduction to Missiology") at an unspecified seminary (likely in Hong Kong, based on context), explores the intersection of Christian mission and ecology. Authored by Polly Lam Po Lei, the paper addresses three key questions: (A) Whether the Christian mission mandate includes ecological concerns, arguing affirmatively based on biblical stewardship (Genesis 1:28, 1:31) and reconciliation with God (Mark 12:30), viewing environmental degradation as conflict with God's "very good" creation; (B) The role of the church and Christians as responsible stewards, not owners, tasked with maintaining ecological balance amid human-induced crises like climate disasters; and (C) Needed changes in faith communities, such as shifting from anthropocentric exploitation to justice-oriented practices that prioritize vulnerable populations and future generations. Drawing on theological sources (e.g., Anne Burghardt's Creation - Not for Sale, 2015) and environmental data (e.g., 50% of habitable land converted for agriculture, overfishing in oceans, 2.3 trillion tons of CO2 emissions), the paper highlights human sinfulness in distorting God's mandate, exemplified by local events like Hong Kong's 2023 "once-in-500-year" flood. It advocates for integrating ecology into mission through repentance, sustainable actions, and loving God via care for creation, extending the Great Commandment to include environmental justice. The document emphasizes that true mission involves restoring creation's innate beauty and interconnectedness, promoting harmony over destruction. This work is relevant for missiology, environmental theology, and Christian ethics, offering insights for addressing global climate challenges from a faith perspective.