In search of relevant contemporary ecological insights from John Calvin (1509-1564): the case of CCAP Blantyre Synod in Malawi

Abstract

Ecology and ecological destruction have become significant multi-sectorial subjects for worldwide conversation in recent decades (Foster, 2005:4-5). Many ecological problems stem from human activity which suggests that Christian contextual theology might also have some solutions to mitigate destructive patterns of survival. The ecological damage that is perpetrated affects not only the health of population, but also the natural species that live in particular areas (WWF Global, 2019). John Calvin (1509-1564) believed that God commissions humans to rule over the whole creation in a way that sustains, protects, and enhances His works so that all creation may fulfil the purposes of God. Human beings are responsible for taking care of the creation, and sharing all the wonders and resources to the glory of God (Forster, 2005:1). The aim of this study is to understand some aspects of ecology, causes and impacts of ecological destruction and review relevant contemporary ecological insights from John Calvin (1509-1564), redefine interdisciplinary ecological approaches, and to consider how to apply the interdisciplinary contemporary approaches to the ecological destruction in the Blantyre Synod in Malawi and elsewhere.