Journal: Bibliotheca Sacra
Volume: BSAC 179:716 (Oct 2022)
Article: From The Editor
Author: Glenn R. Kreider

From The Editor

Glenn R. Kreider

God is the source and sustainer of life. He spoke living creatures into existence (Gen 1). To the creatures he had given life, the Creator said, “Be fruitful and increase in number and fill the water in the seas, and let the birds increase on the earth” (v. 22). He created humans in his image and likeness, and he blessed them with the instruction to rule over the earth: “Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it” (v. 28).

God provides what his creatures need: “All creatures look to you to give them their food at the proper time” (Ps 104:30). In saying this, the psalmist does not mean that only God provides what creatures need. God has delegated this responsibility to imagers.

Life is from God. It is a precious gift. All living things owe their existence to him and thus humans should care for living things, especially our fellow human beings. Creatures in the sea need an environment that nurtures health. Creatures that fly in the sky need an environment that allows them to survive. Creatures on the earth, particularly humans, need an environment to help them thrive.

Recognizing life as a gift impacts decisions about the beginning of life and also the end. Life belongs to God; only He can make ultimate decisions about life and death. We thank God for the gift of life.