Marine Debris

Thoughts Regarding a Biblical Perspective on Domesticated Animals

What is the significance of our domesticated animals in the kingdom of God? Does He care about life and death of a pet? How much should a Christ-ian care? Which sacrifices are appropriate, given that there are many people we could sacrifice for instead?

I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd sacrifices his life for the sheep.

John 10:11

Is this verse relevant? It is a metaphor, no doubt. However, in order for the metaphor to work, there must be a shepherd who would literally give his life for the sheep. Let's remember that this is likely a hired shepherd, too. Note also the significance: Christ uses this metaphor to describe his death on Calvary, with which He bought eternal life for all humanity! Clearly, then, Jesus Himself affirms that animals are not just objects of little or no value.


Counter-Point:

It isn't right to take food from the children and throw it to the dogs.

Mark 7:27

Does this say anything about domesticated animals? Firstly (according to my understanding), dogs were not really domesticated then. They were roaming freely, and stole what food fell off the table. They didn't get a bowl of food better than what 95% of the world population get to eat. Yet, the principle that stands behind Jesus' words is clear: humans have a greater value than animals. Applied to our lives, how much energy, effort, and resources can be put into animals as long as there are countless humans in need of care?


The Conclusion

You didn't seriously think I'd burn my fingers by posting a conclusion here and now?

Praise The Lord! and Hallelujah!

Wow. I'm doing some research about church web sites for my class, and I came across one that started like this:

[Church Name]
Bubble 1: Praise the Lord! Help us spread the word of God by donating to our cause
Bubble 2: Hallelujah! Become an ordained minister of the [church name] today!

Hmmm.


Then, there's the Church of R_eality ("if it's r_eal, we believe in it"), which has a link on their main menu to "Our Hidden Agenda."