Imago Dei as the foundation of Christian ethics in addressing the ecological crisis in Indonesia

Abstract

This study analysed the relationship between creation theology and environmental responsibility, with a focus on Imago Dei as the basis for Christian ethics in the context of the ecological crisis in Indonesia. The introduction outlines the ecological crisis, which includes worsening issues such as deforestation, pollution and climate change. The aim of this study was to investigate how the concept of Imago Dei can be utilised as a foundation for Christian ethics in environmental management. The methods employed include a theological approach and document analysis to assess the impact of creation theology on Christian environmental practices. The findings indicate that applying Imago Dei reinforces human responsibility as stewards of God’s creation and encourages more sustainable conservation efforts. The discussion highlights the importance of integrating creation theology into Christian environmental ethics to effectively support environmental preservation efforts.
Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This study has intradisciplinary implications within the fields of systematic theology, moral theology and ecotheology by enriching the understanding of the Imago Dei as an ethical basis for Christian involvement in environmental stewardship. Interdisciplinarily, this research opens dialogue between Christian theology and environmental science, social ecology and public policy. Emphasising ecological responsibility grounded in the Imago Dei can support ecotheological education in churches and encourage church engagement in environmental policy advocacy, thus offering practical contributions to addressing the ecological crisis through a cross-disciplinary approach.