Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” – Genesis 1:26
God’s Command of Dominion
We see in the Bible that God gave us the command to exercise dominion over all living things on earth. This is not merely authority but a responsibility stemming from being made in God’s image. We are tasked with stewardship, ensuring that we care for God’s creation and manage the earth in a way that reflects His character. This includes our treatment of the animals, plants, and the environment. Understanding this responsibility helps us to appreciate the beauty of nature and our role as custodians of it.
Genesis 1:26
Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” – Genesis 1:26
Psalm 8:6
You made them rulers over the works of your hands; you put everything under their feet. – Psalm 8:6
Genesis 1:28
God blessed them and said to them, “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground.” – Genesis 1:28
Psalm 115:16
The highest heavens belong to the Lord, but the earth he has given to mankind. – Psalm 115:16
Revelation 5:10
You have made them to be a kingdom and priests to serve our God, and they will reign on the earth. – Revelation 5:10
Joy in Exercising Dominion
When we look at the concept of dominion, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the responsibility it entails. However, we should also see the joy and authority that comes with it. As we engage with creation, we discover the beauty and wonder of what God has made. Enjoying nature, caring for animals, and nurturing plants can bring immense satisfaction and peace into our lives. In every task, big or small, we honor God by fulfilling this divine command joyfully and with gratitude.
1 Timothy 6:17
Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. – 1 Timothy 6:17
John 10:10
The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full. – John 10:10
Psalm 37:4
Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. – Psalm 37:4
Ecclesiastes 3:13
That each of them may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all their toil—this is the gift of God. – Ecclesiastes 3:13
Psalm 104:24
How many are your works, Lord! In wisdom, you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. – Psalm 104:24
Wisdom in Our Dominion
As we exercise dominion, wisdom plays a critical role. We are called to be wise stewards of what has been entrusted to us. This wisdom comes from understanding the balance of creation and our responsibilities. With every action we take, we should question how it impacts our surroundings and those who share this planet with us. Seeking God’s guidance and relying on His understanding will help us navigate our dominion responsibly, enabling us to create harmony instead of discord.
Proverbs 4:7
Wisdom is supreme; therefore get wisdom. Though it cost all you have, get understanding. – Proverbs 4:7
James 1:5
If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you. – James 1:5
Colossians 1:9
For this reason, since the day we heard about you, we have not stopped praying for you. We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives. – Colossians 1:9
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding. – Proverbs 3:5
Psalm 111:10
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom; all who follow his precepts have good understanding. To him belongs eternal praise. – Psalm 111:10
Serving Others Through Dominion
Dominion is not just about authority; it’s also about serving others. As we govern creation and care for the world, we are called to show love and compassion towards people and animals alike. This can be expressed through our actions, decisions, and the way we treat others. By using our dominion to uplift and empower others, we follow the example of Christ, who came not to be served but to serve. Being in a position of dominion allows us to create positive change for those around us.
Galatians 5:13
You, my brothers and sisters, were called to be free. But do not use your freedom to indulge the flesh; rather, serve one another humbly in love. – Galatians 5:13
John 13:14
Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. – John 13:14
Matthew 20:28
Just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many. – Matthew 20:28
Mark 12:31
The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these. – Mark 12:31
Philippians 2:3
Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves. – Philippians 2:3
Creation’s Response to Our Dominion
Creation has a unique way of responding to our actions and attitudes of dominion. When we show kindness and care for the environment and its inhabitants, we witness its beauty and capability flourish. Every time we choose to be mindful and respectful, we contribute to a healthier planet. This response is a reminder of the delicate relationship we maintain with creation. As stewards, acknowledging this relationship encourages us to protect our environment and nurture all forms of life.
Romans 8:19
For the creation waits in eager expectation for the children of God to be revealed. – Romans 8:19
Isaiah 55:12
You will go out in joy and be led forth in peace; the mountains and hills will burst into song before you, and all the trees of the field will clap their hands. – Isaiah 55:12
Colossians 1:16
For in him all things were created: things in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or powers or rulers or authorities; all things have been created through him and for him. – Colossians 1:16
Luke 19:40
I tell you, he replied, if they keep quiet, the stones will cry out. – Luke 19:40
Psalm 104:25
There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number—living things both large and small. – Psalm 104:25
Future Hope of Dominion
As we look toward the future, we find hope in the dominion that God promises. We are assured that our role as stewards does not end but evolves into a glorious victory through Christ. The promises of restoration and renewal remind us that we will one day have a perfect dominion where all creation lives in harmony. Embracing this future with faith helps us to stay strong in our current responsibilities and enables us to view the earth as our shared home, destined for beauty and life.
2 Peter 3:13
But in keeping with his promise we are looking forward to a new heaven and a new earth, where righteousness dwells. – 2 Peter 3:13
Revelation 21:4
‘He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’ – Revelation 21:4
Revelation 22:5
There will be no more night. They will not need the light of a lamp or the light of the sun, for the Lord God will give them light. And they will reign for ever and ever. – Revelation 22:5
Isaiah 11:6
The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat, the calf and the lion and the yearling together; and a little child will lead them. – Isaiah 11:6
Matthew 25:34
Then the King will say to those on his right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world.’ – Matthew 25:34
Final Thoughts
As we have explored the concept of dominion in the Bible, we are reminded of our roles as stewards of God’s creation. We embrace this responsibility with joy, wisdom, and love, nurturing our environment and its inhabitants. In doing so, we honor our Creator and foster a spirit of service towards others. With a hopeful outlook on the future, we trust that our efforts today will have lasting impacts for generations to come.
As we engage with the world around us, let’s take heart in the wisdom of the Scriptures and find strength in our shared mission. Let us be diligent in caring for creation, serving others, and exercising dominion in a manner that glorifies God. We have a beautiful opportunity to live out our faith while making a positive difference in the world.
If you wish to learn more about similar topics, feel free to check out these insightful discussions on God’s existence and responsibility in our lives.