This Bible study tool was drafted by myself for use during July, 2011. I hope that it comes in handy for some of you also - It provides a list of scripture passages and points that deal with nature and God's creation. By using this Biblical overview, we studied in more depth how one can praise God through time spent outdoors, amidst nature.
Feel free to comment on various passages, give feedback on how the outline could be improved, and add to the conversation concerning nature.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nature, God, and Us
Psalm 29 - Seeing the power and majesty of God in the natural world.
1) The beginnings of creation and nature:
- + Genesis 1:(11-12) (21) (24-25)
There is a close bond between nature and humans:
- + Genesis 3:17-18 - Unavoidable connection
- + Psalm 96:10-13
At the same time, we are very different than the rest of nature:
- + Genesis 1:26-30 - Made in the image of God and given dominion over other creatures
- + Genesis 2:7 - Life (freewill, souls, etc.)
2) God uses nature to accomplish His will.
- + Job 37:1-13
- + Psalm 148:8
- + Psalm 29
3) Nature is an environment of worship.
- + Luke 6:12, Luke 5:16 - Jesus praying in nature
- + Mark 6:31-32
4) Nature reflects the magnificence of God.
- + Romans 1:20*
- + Job 12:7-10
- + Job 26:7-14
- + Psalm 19:1-2*
- + Psalm 8
Praise the creator not the creation .
(Key Point)
Psalm 148
Creation/Nature is a reflection of God’s majesty,
an aid to worship, and a tool of God.
I dig your key point... super crucial! But nature can definitely help us see God's majesty.
Great stuff dude!
thank you for your study. very helpful. and as stated in the post above...we must remember to worship the Creator and not the creation. I am studying ecopsychology and this is very helpful as I am a Christian above all things and everyday in pursuit of gaining a closer relationship with Christ and a better understanding. At this juncture in life, I am looking at nature to see God's glory more clearly.