We previously examined the dominion mandate in depth during our study of verse 26. Here, we will revisit it briefly, focusing specifically on how it relates to Genesis 1:28, where God gives humanity the directive to “subdue” the earth and “have dominion” over its creatures. While these terms have often been misunderstood as justifying exploitation or unbridled authority, a closer reading reveals that they are better understood as a divine commission to stewardship. This responsibility, rooted in humanity’s role as bearers of the imago Dei (image of God), emphasizes care, cultivation, and accountability to the Creator. By exploring theological insights and biblical interpretations, we can see that dominion is not about ownership or self-serving power but about reflecting God’s character in how we manage His creation.

I. Dominion as Stewardship: A Reinterpretation of Subduing and Ruling

John Walton, in The NIV Application Commentary: Genesis (2001, p. 135), reframes the commands to “subdue” and “rule” in Genesis not as entitlements but as responsibilities. Humanity’s dominion over creation is a privilege tied to stewardship rather than ownership. Walton emphasizes two key aspects of this commission:

• Subduing the Earth: This involves engaging with the natural world to cultivate, manage, and harness its resources in ways that bring order and promote flourishing. Subduing is not a call to domination but to responsible interaction that fosters the environment’s well-being.
• Ruling Over Living Creatures: Dominion focuses specifically on the animals, calling humanity to responsible domestication and care. Walton rejects interpretations that endorse exploitation or tyranny, advocating instead for a caretaking role that reflects God’s love and compassion for all creation.

This understanding is further clarified by Walton’s analogy of a house sitter. Humanity’s stewardship is akin to being entrusted with the care of a home in the owner’s absence. The earth remains God’s property, and humans are accountable for its maintenance, protection, and flourishing until His return (2001, p. 141). This perspective aligns with Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.”

II. Biblical Foundations for Stewardship

The stewardship model of dominion aligns closely with the biblical narrative. Genesis 2:15 provides an early example of this principle when God places Adam in the garden “to dress it and to keep it.” These terms imply both cultivation (active engagement) and preservation (protection). Humanity’s role is to interact thoughtfully with creation, ensuring its balance and health.

Other scriptures affirm that the earth and all within it belong to God. Psalm 19:1 declares, “The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament sheweth his handywork,” emphasizing creation’s purpose in glorifying its Creator. Humanity’s role as stewards is thus a sacred trust to honor God’s design and reflect His character through actions that prioritize care, sustainability, and reverence.

III. The Dominion Mandate as a Divine Commission

Henry Morris, in The New Defender’s Study Bible (1995, p. 13), describes the dominion mandate as humanity’s “first commission.” This reframing highlights the active and purposeful nature of the instruction, portraying it as a mission to manage creation for God’s glory and humanity’s benefit.

Morris emphasizes two essential aspects of this commission:

• Study and Application: Humanity is called to study creation (science) and apply that knowledge (technology) to benefit all living things while honoring God’s purposes.
• Boundaries of Dominion: Importantly, the dominion mandate excludes authority over other humans. Before the Fall, humanity existed in harmony with one another and with creation. Sin disrupted this harmony, introducing strife and altering humanity’s relationship with the natural world.

After the Flood, God expanded His instructions to Noah, reflecting the challenges of stewarding a fallen creation. Despite these challenges, the dominion mandate remains a sacred calling to ensure the flourishing of all creation.

IV. Theological Reflections on Dominion and Stewardship

Theologians throughout history have reflected on the implications of dominion, particularly in light of the fall. Augustine, responding to the Manichean objection that humans cannot claim dominion over animals that harm or kill them, argued that the fall disrupted the original harmony between humanity and the natural world. Nevertheless, he maintained that humanity retains a unique ability to tame and govern many animals. Augustine observed that, while the frailty of the human body renders it vulnerable to certain wild animals, humanity’s intellectual and spiritual capacities reflect its God-given authority over creation (Oden, 2001, pp. 40-41).

Gordon Wenham, in Word Biblical Commentary: Genesis 1–15 (1987, p. 33), draws a compelling analogy between mankind’s dominion and the responsibilities of ancient oriental kings. These rulers were expected to act as benevolent protectors of their subjects, particularly the weakest and most vulnerable. By upholding justice and promoting peace, these kings fostered prosperity for all. Similarly, humanity is called to govern creation as God’s representative, exercising dominion with the same care, wisdom, and justice that God Himself embodies. Wenham notes that Noah serves as a model of this stewardship, demonstrating righteousness and concern for creation by building the ark to preserve life during the flood.

V. Christian Biocentrism: A Theological Perspective on Creation’s Value

A Christian approach to biocentrism recognizes the intrinsic value of all creation as God’s handiwork. Genesis 1 repeatedly affirms that creation is “good” (vv. 10, 12, 18, 21, 25), independent of its utility to humanity. Psalm 148 celebrates creation’s role in glorifying God, from the heavens to the smallest creatures.

While secular biocentrism emphasizes equality among all living beings, Christian biocentrism introduces a theocentric hierarchy. Humanity holds a unique position within creation as bearers of the imago Dei. This distinction underscores responsibility rather than privilege, calling humanity to act as caretakers who ensure the flourishing of all living things for God’s glory.

VI. Implications for Modern Christians

These various interpretations of subduing and dominion offer valuable guidance for addressing contemporary ecological challenges. Humanity’s impact on the environment—whether through deforestation or pollution—demands a response rooted in theological principles.

• Sustainability: Christians are called to manage resources in ways that promote long-term health and balance.
• Justice: Ethical stewardship requires prioritizing the well-being of all creation, especially vulnerable ecosystems and species.
• Accountability: Recognizing God’s ownership of creation encourages a mindset of humility and reverence.

This perspective challenges believers to view environmental care as an act of obedience, aligning with God’s design and honoring His sovereignty.

VII. Dominion as Sacred Stewardship

The biblical mandate to “subdue” and “have dominion” is not a license for exploitation but a divine calling to stewardship. Humanity is entrusted with the care of creation as a reflection of God’s wisdom, love, and justice. By fulfilling this sacred commission, Christians honor the Creator, promote the flourishing of all life, and anticipate the ultimate restoration of creation in God’s eternal plan.

This renewed understanding invites believers to embrace their role as faithful stewards, cultivating and preserving the earth for God’s glory and the benefit of future generations. As caretakers of creation, humanity is called to reflect God’s character through actions that prioritize care, sustainability, and reverence, ensuring that all creation fulfills its purpose in glorifying Him.