Re-Fashioning our Swords into Ploughshares

Abstract

The theme for this edition of Australasian Pentecostal Studies was precipitated by a meal. As sometimes occurs, sharing good food and robust conversation results in new endeavours. This particular meal was with a young couple, John and Hannah Griffiths, in Adelaide (Australia) in 2018. As a recent doctoral graduate in biblical studies, John was sharing his research interests and hopes. Hannah, a veterinarian doctor, was also sharing about her future work and aspirations. Both John and Hannah talked passionately about environmental issues. Hannah asked: “Why aren’t pentecostals talking more about this?” I responded that while there were a few pentecostal scholars writing on this topic, there are so many topics to cover in theology that each are often only given small attention. “But this is important” Hannah responded. She is right. The human imprint on our planet is pervasive. So should also be our responsibility as stewards of creation to ensure the well-being of our planet and all its inhabitants.[1] It sounds simple. As believers in Christ, it is imperative that we love our neighbour, which refers to people but arguably includes the animals, plants, and environment in which we live. Yet, such a simple declaration of commitment towards the flourishing of creation can cause division and angst. The discussion of the environment and its care has become politicised.

[1] Bruce C. Birch, et al, Bible and Ethics in the Christian Life: A New Conversation (Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2018), pp.10-1.