NEW TESTAMENT ENVIRONMENTAL ETHIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY IN THE NIGER DELTA

Isiorhovoja, U. Osbert and Banwune Ejime .D

Department of Religious Studies, Delta State University, Abraka

Department of Religious and Moral Education College of Education, Agbor

E-mail:evanosbert@yahoo.com; ejimebanwune@yahoo.com

ABSTRACT

This paper examines the biblical background of creation that is traceable to God as the creator. The Genesis account established the primary assignment of man as given by God; that of tending the garden (environment) under His instruction as steward. Also, the New Testament background is likewise examined, considering the fall and the anticipated literature closely likened to the manifestation of the sons of men. The present wanton exploration of the environment without adequate care negates the order given by God. Thus, sustainability of the environment becomes the sure way out to bringing redemption to the environment at the manifestation of the sons of men as stewards of God, rested with such responsibility. The paper strongly recommend the biblical paradigm of nature, care and perseverance (sustainability) and the Traditional perspective (Operation Noah) to rescue certain species of creatures from extinction.