In my humble opinion, our leaders should end their crusade to prod our denomination onto the Global Warming Bandwagon. Some of us will not board peacefully or quietly to participate in the politicization of Christ’s church.
Swedish climatologist Hans Jelbring speaks for objective scientists when he exclaims, “The dysfunctional nature of the climate sciences is nothing short of a scandal.” Nobel Prize-winning physicist Robert Laughlin agrees: “Please remain calm: The Earth will heal itself. Climate is beyond our power to control. . . . ”
How then do we account for alarmist hysteria?
Climate alarmism is a profitable business. Tabloid scientists cash in on research grants; skeptics need not apply. The media fully understand that sensationalism sells. Activist organizations require a crisis to keep donations flowing. Climate tycoons like Maurice Strong and Al Gore are positioned to amass staggering fortunes through consolidation of the energy industry.
Alarmist scientists make no pretense of objectivity. Their operating philosophy is termed “post-normal science.” According to proponent Eva Kunseler, “scientific goals are controlled by political or societal actors.” Influential global-warming alarmist Mike Hulme admits, “‘self-evidently’ dangerous climate change will not emerge from a normal process of truth-seeking. . . . Scientists—and politicians—must trade truth for influence.” In other words, “science” has become a perverted technical means to a political end.
The problem for Christians is far more serious. Climate alarmism is pursued with religious fervor. The late scientist and popular author Michael Crichton observed that environmentalism has become “the religion of choice for urban atheists.” Likewise, atmospheric physicist John Reid warns, “Global warming is the central tenet of this new belief system in much the same way that the Resurrection is the central tenet of Christianity.”
This subject is powerfully explored in a new 12-part DVD series titled Resisting the Green Dragon. The project was headed by Presbyterian pastor and scholar Calvin E. Beisner. He enlists today’s top Christian-worldview thinkers to expose this eco-heresy. The series, along with its companion book by physicist James Wanliss, provides a mandatory curriculum for anyone seeking to effectively discern between authentic biblical stewardship and the green serpent. It is particularly critical for our church leaders, who have the responsibility to direct our denomination toward a position that is consistent with revealed truth in Scripture and our Reformed heritage.
See also: Why Christians Should Care About the Environment by Kathryn Guindon.
About the Author
Paul Rhoda is a support analyst and a member of Sunshine Community CRC in Grand Rapids, Mich.
