Environmentalism as a Religion (2)

Environmentalism as a Religion (2)
Tim Haile, for the Parkway church of Christ

I pointed out last week that the “New Age” movement has joined forces with a radical form of environmentalism, resulting in the formation of a new religion. God has often warned humans against worshipping the creation (Deuteronomy 4:19), yet people of all times and places have tended to engage in such idolatry. Let us consider some of the major tenets of the religion of environmentalism:

1. Belief in some “force of nature” that is greater than man. The god of radical environmentalists is the earth itself. Humans are seen as inferior to the earth. Their purpose is to serve and “sustain” the earth by their eco-friendly activities.

2. A “belief system.” Even though no scientific evidence can be produced that proves that global warming and ozone depletion are man-made, it is nonetheless accepted on the basis of blind “faith.” Of course, Bible faith is based upon eyewitness testimony. Referring to the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ, Peter said, “We are witnesses of these things” (Acts 2:32; 5:32). Bible believers do not blindly believe.

3. There is a “priesthood” (of certain scientists) whose assumptions and predictions it is considered sacrilegious to even question.

4. There is a “high priest” in the form of some prominent person who is seen as the authority figure and chief spokesman for the movement. Right now this appears to be Al Gore, who has become popular among many radical environmentalists, including many of the Hollywood crowd.

5. Heresy: Rejection of the basic doctrines of radical environmentalism amounts to heresy against the “infallible” pronouncements of some.

6. Sacrifice: Humans are called upon to sacrifice certain rights, comforts and privileges in the interest of being at one with nature. Some people have actually become sterilized in order to help solve the problem of alleged earth overpopulation. Some give up their “carbon emitting” vehicles, air conditioners, electricity…etc.

7. Penance: Some are paying for “carbon credits” in order to offset their “carbon footprint.” Indeed, environmentalism has become a religion for many!

View past articles at http://parkwayarticles.blogspot.com. Please join us for worship and Bible study at our building located at 125 Hilltopper Ave, Bowling Green, KY 42101. We meet each Sunday at 10:00AM and 6:00PM for worship, and Sundays at 9:00AM and Wednesdays at 7:00PM for Bible study. Our radio program is aired each Sunday morning at 8:00AM on the WKCT 930AM band. Phone: (270) 842-2049 – Email: timhaile@mac.com.