Evangelical Perspectives on Land Use
Private Property and the Common Good
Evangelicals and the "Takings" Issue cont.

WE AFFIRM that governmental authorities have a legitimate, God-ordained role in guarding justice and fostering a proper balance between private property interests and common interests (Romans 13:1-7).

WE SUPPORT the right of individuals to own property and make legitimate use of it, so long as that use does not unduly interfere with protection and stewardship of creation, including species, wilderness, and natural habitats.

WE SUPPORT efforts to find new ways to better ensure that both justice and environmental protection are guaranteed.

WE ENCOURAGE Christians to study the Scriptures that set forth principles governing property ownership, social responsibility, and stewardship of creation.

WE ENCOURAGE Christians to be vigilant against legislative efforts to undermine a biblical understanding of the common good.

WE ENCOURAGE Christians to implement Scriptural principles of environmental stewardship and responsible property ownership and management.

THEREFORE, we call upon all Christians to educate themselves and others concerning Scriptural principles of property ownership and the common good; and we empower the Evangelical Environmental Network to speak on behalf of the evangelical community before legislative bodies and the public concerning these issues.

Calvin B. DeWitt
President of the Council

Ann Alexander
Advocacy Committee

(Passed by unanimous vote, October 26, 1996)