Caring for Creation: The Evangelical's Guide to Climate Change and a Healthy Environment

by Paul Douglas, Mitch Hescox

Faith-Based Solutions to Caring for the Earth

Climate change is a confusing and polarizing issue. It may also prove to be the most daunting challenge of this century because children, the elderly, and the poor will be the first to feel its effects. The issue is all over the news, but what is seldom heard is a conservative, evangelical perspective.

Connecting the dots between science and faith, this book explores the climate debate and how Christians can take the lead in caring for God's creation. The authors answer top questions such as "What's really happening?" and "Who can we trust?" and discuss stewarding the earth in light of evangelical values. "Acting on climate change is not about political agendas," they say. "It's about our kids. It's about being a disciple of Jesus Christ." Capping off this empowering book are practical, simple ideas for improving our environment and helping our families and those around us.

Genres: Environment, Nonfiction, Sustainability, Christian

186 pages, Paperback

Published October 4, 2016

Reviews

[Emma · Rating 3 out of 5]

Oh my word, was I excited to read this. A conservative evangelical voice promoting climate action and fighting climate denial?? Could this be the book America needs? (Or at least a book to send to my grandparents?) Now that I've finished, my answer to that question is: to an extent. This book will prove to be important if it can convince skeptical evangelicals to act on climate change and/or help liberal environmental advocates revise some of their tactics and expand their thinking. But there are some major issues with the assumptions in this book.

The Good: This book brings up a few very important points that liberal environmentalists tend to ignore and could benefit from listening to:
1. While climate change is having disastrous effects on the biodiversity of the world, it is also hurting people - specifically, children and the poor. The authors seem to realize that focusing on the human and personal impact of climate change is more likely to prompt people to action than bemoaning the loss of polar bears or other species that seem irrelevant to daily American life. (It would have been nice, however, if the authors hadn't made such mockery of environmentalists who defend endangered animals. The book is supposedly, after all, about creation care, which would involve animals.)
2. The book discusses the international conflicts and threats to national security that will likely result from climate change. I have read frequently about climate refugees, but had never considered the violence and militarization that could result from conflicts over dwindling resources. The authors even go so far as to predict specific nations that might go to war indirectly because of climate change, which fascinated me.
3. The first few chapters of the book simply and systematically explain what is happening/will happen because of climate change, what is causing it, and how we know. They are extremely readable, and this in itself is a feat.
4. The government does not need to subsidize clean energy in order for it to succeed in America. The renewable energy industry is flourishing on its own, but would move forward much more quickly if subsidies to fossil fuel companies were removed. (This is not going to happen under Trump.)

The Bad:
Despite frequent scriptural references, there does not seem to be a comprehensive spiritual framework underlying the book. I'm not sure the authors would have anything to say about creation care if climate change weren't happening. They focus on combating greenhouse gas emissions and say little (if anything) about how we should treat nature in general, mentioning only a general call to good stewardship without exploring the concept. The book says nothing of virtue cultivation or of reforming attitudes, and it ignores the twisted values that got humanity into this mess. There is no Christian condemnation of materialism, greed, or pride. There is no lamenting past sins or sadness about the destruction of the incredible richness of life on earth. The book doesn't even try to identify a reason why so many conservatives have decided to completely deny climate change until now. The book essentially says, "Sorry guys, climate change is a thing. But don't worry, it's okay to believe in it, because I've found a way that we can act to stop it without challenging our assumptions or lifestyles at all!" Without value change, can there be real progress?

The Ugly:
I cringe just thinking about the many appeals the book makes to "American exceptionalism" to save us from climate change. The book LITERALLY says at one point, when discussing breakthroughs in clean energy technology, "American exceptionalism? Let's prove it...again." As if America has ANY right to claim moral high ground or leadership in this field. Let's be clear: America was a major leader of the world INTO climate change. We have done a terrible job of leading out of it. Is this just a trick to get conservatives to think that investing in clean energy is patriotic? Maybe. But it's possible to call for innovation and technological excellence and also encourage humbly learning from other countries who are doing a much better job than us at curbing their emissions. (Confusingly, the authors do discuss how other countries are acting on climate, like China, yet still have the audacity to act like America is the best country in the world in this matter. Ugh, stoooop.)
The reason for this is probably because admitting America's culpability in causing climate change leads to some unpleasant political conclusions - for example, our contribution to rising temperatures and seas would suggest that we should have extra responsibility to accept climate refugees. But this point was not discussed.

The Bottom Line: If this book can truly convince white conservative evangelicals to accept climate change and support clean energy, then it is an extremely important book. But once that giant leap is made, we've got some talking to do.

Side note: Judging by the faith the authors have in the government's likelihood to remove support of fossil fuels, the book was obviously published before Trump was elected. I would love to see an updated statement on the government's role in climate change action.

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Being open to data, facts, and science doesn't make you liberal. It makes you literate."

While I might disagree with the authors politically, I so appreciate that they have found a compelling and convincing way to frame climate change in the language of conservative evangelicals that appeals to their priorities. They openly address that the issue needs to be de-politicized and that climate change will impact parts of our society that are of the highest priority to the Right (i.e. it's a pro-life issue.)

As a liberal Christian, I am thankful and relieved to see conservative Christians that are fighting for this issue. It was also very helpful for me to see that speaking to conservative evangelicals about climate change doesn't require trying to convince them to join the left - but that this issue can be discussed without issues of right/left even entering the conversation.

Would recommend to Christians on both sides of the aisle.

[Jeff McLain · Rating 5 out of 5]

This review is of Caring for Creation by Mitch Hescox and Paul Douglas. Released in 2016, Caring for Creation is an guide aimed at evangelicals on responding to the realities of climate change and fostering a healthy environment. Though many books have been written on stewardship and care of the environment for and by Evangelicals, there are minimal politically conservative authors who have addressed stewardship, while also taking on the role of wrestling through the politics and realities of climate change. These authors have a unique paradigm and experience to combat and correct modern conservative viewpoints.

Though I do not consider myself politically conservative (nor do I consider myself progressive), I own that there are many declared values by conservatives that I do connect with. I also realize that I live in an area where the urban centers are progressive, but the suburban and rural areas are radically politically conservative, and for many it has been that way for generations, almost like a rite of passage. As someone who lives, works, and plays in a politically conservative area – I approached this book with the hope of finding ways to connect those I love to healthier practices of stewardship and to help others comprehend the undeniable affects of a changing climate. This book is story, scripture, and science – and overall it is done fairly well, leaving me with great hope for what could be.

Mitch and Paul start their guide with a powerful challenge to the evangelical followers of Jesus, which have been sadly known and defined by their objections to and denials of the evidences of climate change. In their opening challenge, the authors clearly state that “being open to data, facts, and science doesn’t make you liberal. It makes you literate. Scientifically literate. It means you favor data, facts, and evidence over conspiracy theories, manufactured misinformation, and cherry-picked industry spin. We live in God’s creation and – as stewards – have a holy obligation to treat it as the remarkable gift it is.” This statement needs said, and said again, by many individuals, in many spheres of influence. As authors, they state their own purpose and mission as “caring for people, overcoming challenges, and providing a tangible hope for the future with clear air, pure water, a solid economy, and good jobs – that’s what we and countless others are attempting to do.” This is also the underlying theme and purpose of the book as it works through it’s various stories, scriptural mandates, and scientific facts (from across many spectrums of history and political thought).

Using story, science and scriptures, though perhaps science more firmly, the authors work through the evidences and affects of a changing climate and together they attempt to counter both conspiracies and common rebuttals to the science of climate change. They also outline that climate change is about saving the environment, but it is also about creating a better world for our children, as they explore the way increased pollution and climate change is changing our health and the necessities we need for full and healthy lives. I should note that though one of the two authors was/is a pastoral leader, neither are deeply theological or deep in their exegesis of scripture (there was more to be explored and stewarded here). However, like detectives they are political conservatives exploring the witness of the concerns of our natural world as they also wade through the settled and unsettled sciences, but speak to a need for faith and science to come together for a better tomorrow. That collaborative future needs to be our vision. That hope of a better tomorrow for all – from children to the natural world to the economy – needs to be a driving vision for addressing climate change. They authors point out that “social science research is clear: Fear doesn’t drive people to accept the reality of climate change.” This shared vision for a better tomorrow must be greater than fear.

In uniquely addressing conservatives for a little, the authors challenge, “Conservatives conserve. I remember a time, not that long ago, when conservative and conservation went hand in hand, and there was deep respect for the scientific method…Roosevelt kicked off America’s National Park System, the envy of the world. Harry Truman launched the National Science Foundation. Richard Nixon launched the Environmental Protection Agency. Ronald Reagan consulted with scientists, supporting a band on harmful chemicals eating away at the ozone layer. And George H.W. Bush signed the Clean Air Act into law and developed a market-based solution for acid rain…What changed? The balance between protecting our home and protecting the financial interests of campaign donors got seriously out of whack. When in doubt, follow the money.”[4] This statement of following the money is important.

As stated above, the authors describe themselves as Evangelicals and political conservatives. They are also not new to this conversation. Paul Douglas has been a meteorologist for over thirty five years on radio and television; and has become a successful entrepreneur. Mitch Hescox previously worked in the coal industry and as a pastor (for over 18-years), before leading the Evangelical Environmental Network (EEN). Mitch’s work with the Evangelical Environmental Network has brought him before Congress, the White House and countless media sources. As authors, they know and defend their paradigms and postures well.

For those of followers of Jesus, we must own that the earth, resulting from God’s creation, “was formed by and for God, for Jesus. Unfortunately, too many Christians, especially evangelicals, don’t understand the imperative to “tend the garden.”” We need to not just believe what is happening around us, but work at tending the garden. Regrettably, “those of us among the dwindling number who count ourselves as Christian, like the concept that Jesus’ death on the cross paid for our sins and wiped our slates clean. We love to have our mistakes taken care of so that we can get into heaven, but we really don’t want to change our ways.” That is most unsettling for me. I know many people don’t want to change our ways - not only in science and climate change - but addressing areas of sin and brokenness in our life too.

It is not just me and these authors that notice that inability to desire change and pursue better practices of caring for the natural world. Those around us notice too, and the authors point out, “Churches are losing many from the current generation. Why? Because many younger people…see no relevance in the church. They’re not looking for heaven; they want a better world. But all they’re seeing is an institution trying to preserve itself through the current culture wars; pointing fingers, hating, and especially not being filled with love or mercy. Secular humanism appears much more loving than the church to so many today.” Jesus took interest in us, moved into the neighborhood and gave us a way back to God (the Creator). Why then can’t we mirror his incarnational approach with those around us and in the next generation? The good news of a better world might help others see the source of good and ultimately the hope we have in a restored created order.

This book is for those interested in climate change – and the science and politics of it all. It counters conspiracies and calls for evangelicals (especially conservatives) to up their game. As I read this book, I was sitting on a warm September day in Ocean City, MD. The tide found its way up the beach embankment to my blanket as I was reading. It was almost like a prophetic imagery of the way the rising seawaters and affects of a changing (and polluted) climate are increasingly affecting our world and changing our way of life. I adjusted, moving my beach blanket back a little (as we will all have to), but noticed to my left a family who had dug a hole and filled it with plastic soda bottles and chip trash. They played on their phones as each tide took a little of their trash with it, and they seem unbothered. I looked to my right, and I saw a trash bag in the approaching tide, overflowing with the trash of another individual’s beach party. I surveyed everyone after this and I realized there was more trash on this Labor Day, than I ever remember seeing at the beach before. Lamenting and hopeless, as I got up to leave the sand, a young child playing in the water picked up a coke bottle that was floating out to sea and ran it up the sand and began to yell at his parents for their neglect. Perhaps there is hope after all.

[Tom Law · Rating 5 out of 5]

Evangelical environmentalism sound like the ultimate oxymoron. The two do not seem to go together at all. In fact, even the words sound like they are at war with each other. Yet the authors have pulled together the most important aspects of both to make a cogent well thought out presentation that should have us all talking.

As the authors point out to the Evangelical world, God has mandated that we take care of what belongs to Him. The world is not ours to do with what we want. We are stewards of what belongs to God and He will hold us accountable for how we have treated His property. If that is not enough, they go on to point out that in our self-interest we need to be concerned for our children and grandchildren. What kind of world are we leaving to them? This then is the appeal to the broader audience as we think about the world around us. What are we doing to ourselves and those we love?

But they do not focus on what some might call this sappy moralistic and religious perspective. They present a clear financially sound argument for why this also is in the best interest of those who bow at the altar of the all mighty dollar. Those of us in the evangelical camp say this with derision, but all too often we also find ourselves at this same altar. It is clear that it is possible to make money and still do good. They are not mutually exclusive.

It all begins with us. The authors main appeal is to the general audience called the American public. The chances of the government or of the business community getting it right are slim, though not beyond the realm of possibility. We, though, have the power to effect great change by the way that we act. As a result, the authors, have outlined specific initiatives that each individual and family can take to make a difference.

It begins with us. Buy the book. Change the world. Create a better future.

[Jenae · Rating 3 out of 5]

I found this book at Mardel on the $1 shelf. It made me sad thinking that the discount might be indicative of the book’s sales. As much as I can’t stand the term “evangelical” and how it has been over-politicized, I am thankful for books like this one! The authors are Christians and self-proclaimed “Reagan Conservatives” who have dedicated their lives to helping Christians see the importance of creation care. Sadly, politics has muddied what should be very clear waters on this issue. Much of the book was laying out evidence of global warming and how it ultimately impacts “the least of these” most harshly.

I really appreciated the information in this book. Where the book fell short for me (and why I didn’t rate it higher) was a lack of emphasis on personal responsibility. I don’t think the world “recycle” was used anywhere in the book. A lot was written on the evidence of climate change and then subsequently how we should get rid of subsidies for fossil fuel companies, invest in renewable energy, etc. but very little about what we can do in our own homes to turn the tide. As one person, I can’t control the government but I can control what comes into my home. I wish there had been a few more chapters added to the book that focused on this aspect of creation care rather that corporations and governmental regulations (which are important but I feel powerless as one individual in an overly politically polar climate).

[Mary Teresa · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book that many more than Evangelical's should read. While it is addressed to them all of us can benefit from the research and practical suggestions to care for our home the earth. Easy to read and understand.

[Debbie Carlson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Well, sorry authors, but fear won out and we are on our way back to Egypt. I doubt the people who should read this book would. He is only preaching to the choir. Some Christians see themselves as Republicans first, using the party guidelines as their bible. They also only get their news from conspiracy theory websites and irresponsible news channels. I read this book at the advice of one of my church pastors, however when he brought up the climate change issue in a church setting, some members were ready to stone him.
Back to the book itself, it is written like notes for a speaking engagement so it flowed a bit awkward. I felt unwelcome throughout the book since I'm not a Republican, and the authors seems to believe that all Christians must belong to that party and must be conservative. Groan. I happen to be a nonpartisan moderate, however I know many liberal Democrats who have a heart for God. My father was a devout Christian Democrat. Jimmy Carter is a good Christian man. God created each of us with varying ideas so that we would create a good balance when we work together. There are just too many comments in this book that make being a Christian like belonging to an exclusive club or a sports team. It rubbed me the wrong way, and I'm one who agrees on climate change.
What's wrong with caring for polar bears AND wanting our healthy life for our children? Polar bears are part of the environment we are protecting! Don't be fooled to think that we can lose species and vegetation in God's perfectly balanced ecosystem and there won't be consequences!
This book is already outdated. The current administration has set back the regulations at the EPA, denied climate change in order to bring back jobs in coal, and many more destructive measures. I don't understand putting God in a box by insisting that our faith cannot exist with science. God is the one who created science. I agree that science shouldn't be politicized. Christianity shouldn't be either! I like the last chapter of the book the most. I agree that we are the government and we need to work together, but unfortunately there are many who are happy in their fear and confident about leading us backward.

[Rebecca Bond · Rating 4 out of 5]

Something that is often missing in the climate justice and environmentalism movements, I think, is meeting people where they are. I’m no expert at it; it’s hard to stay calm and try to reason with people when you know what is at stake. While I am not Christian, I was raised in a mainline Protestant church, and I feel like I have a relatively good handle on what that denomination is about. And it has seemed like the scientific reports and activists and many of the books and documentaries that have been coming out trying to galvanize the public into action must be speaking the wrong language, since if you are paying attention, they are often falling flat. Sadly, things have only gotten more divisive since this book was published in 2016 with climate deniers in prominent positions of power.
This is a great read for people who want to understand more about how the Bible mandates and supports caring for the environment, and through reading it I have more of an understanding now about the worldview of Evangelical Christians and what might be turning them off about the current discourse on climate change. I have been pretty hurt overall by my family’s lack of response to my fear for my generation and for my future children because of the lack of action, but maybe their lack of belief in the ability of humans to change the climate is less about stubbornness or selfishness and more about humility before God and not wanting to claim power that is his. The coming decades will require so much understanding and grace from each of us, regardless of our beliefs, as the authors acknowledge toward the end. So I look forward to reading more books like this from perspectives different than my own, that I might be less angry or afraid and more understanding. Were there some things that made me uncomfortable in this book, as someone who isn’t in the target audience? Sure, but it isn’t about me or my viewpoints. We need to learn to sit with the discomfort and find where we have common ground. Grateful to the authors for having written this book.

[Ann · Rating 3 out of 5]

Paul Douglas is a respected meteorologist and a Christian in the Wesleyan tradition, and Mitch Hescox is an Evangelical preacher devoted to environmental causes. The meteorological data and other scientific findings presented throughout the book are interesting and eye-opening, and the authors' proposed remedies challenge governments at all levels and individuals to care enough about future generations to take action now. The book is obviously aimed at deniers that climate change is manmade – many of whom tend to be Evangelicals and Republicans, and the authors argue convincingly that their stance is consistent with conservative values and a conservative philosophy of government. Their use of Evangelical-speak in talking about science strikes me as somewhat forced, and Hescox's chapter about "Easter people" downright preachy; but these will doubtless not be off-putting for the target readership. The authors do acknowledge that mainline Christians, as well as people of other faiths or none, also care about creation, and they quote world religious leaders such as Pope Francis and the Dalai Lama as well as numerous secular political leaders and authors. This book is likely to be well-received by thoughtful Evangelicals. It fills a perceived gap in the literature on climate change and thus contributes to the general welfare.

[Frances · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn't know this book existed but it does. Two Republican Evangelical American men wrote a book about what is needed to save the world from climate change. One a reverend and the other a meteorologist, they talk about the need to quit subsidizing big oil and allowing new technology to have a level playing field so our children and grand children can live happy, healthy lives free of pollution and a warming climate.
They also talk about honoring God by being the stewards of his creation that he told Adam and Eve to be. We were given a beautiful world and we owe it to our children to leave it better than we found it.

[Jen Heininger · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an EXCELLENT read on what it means to be a Christian environmentalist (shouldn't we all be!?). (I so wish this was the direction our church went when they had their conference on creation care and the church last year....) Written by meteorologists you would think this would be fairly dull and overly scientific but it was just the right mix of interesting science and Scripture. I feel like I underlined at least a third of the book and kept wanting to take notes (which is saying a lot for me!). Very quick, easy, practical and compelling read.

[Pam Folk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two Aspects of Climate Change

I was surprised to find the mix of theology and science so appealing. As a Christian, the Biblical grounding of the need for change to better serve God and care for creation, reinforces ones commitment in that area.
While I have differing beliefs and approach to climate change, I appreciate the authors effort to convince conservative Christians.
Also, lots of good weather data!

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I differ hugely with the authors on some theological and political points but it's vital that we don't stay in our own silos when addressing climate change. I can see how this book is really helpful for conservative evangelicals. But also for people like myself, it's a reminder that we need to be able to listen well and respectfully and learn from each other so that we can together work to address the most important issue of our time

[Annie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Overall, a great message, but sometimes WAY too scientific for someone that's not as into numbers and facts as the authors.

[Krista Blasier · Rating 4 out of 5]

Completely agree with the overall message, I just got a little bored during a couple sections that seemed jammed with too many facts at once. Other than that, great read!

[Tori · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fantastic read!! You will have to get through a lot of science in the first few chapters (which I enjoyed!). After that, there are really practical ideas for starting a new ministry within your church, and community! Really thought provoking! Inspirational!