Disciple Dojo Stewards of Eden: Why God cares about environmentalism (w/ Dr. Sandra L. Richter)
Mar 28, 2026
Dr. Sandra L. Richter, an Old Testament scholar who makes biblical theology accessible, explains why Scripture calls people to care for creation. She explores tending and guarding Eden, covenant land laws, eschatology and creation’s future, and practical local stewardship. Short, thoughtful reflections on politics, farming, animal welfare, and parish-level action.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Scripture Trumps Partisan Environmentalism
- Scripture should determine Christian environmental posture rather than modern political alignment.
- Sandra Richter argues American polarization makes Christians avoid environmental concern because it's been coded as a Democratic issue.
Eden As A Land Grant Stewardship Model
- Genesis/Eden functions as a suzerain-vassal land grant where God gives humanity stewardship of the land.
- Richter links Adam's mandate to later Israelite treaty language to show stewardship is covenantal responsibility.
Genesis 2:15 Means Tend And Defend
- The Hebrew verbs in Genesis 2:15 mean to serve (avad) and to guard/watch (shamar), implying both cultivation and protection.
- Richter connects shamar to watchman and Deuteronomic covenant observance, sharpening duty to defend the land.
