Creation Mandate

Genesis Stewardship & Dominion: Devotional Guide

Author: Pastor Mat Tolentino • Date: 2026-06-06 • 5 min read

Before sin entered the world in Genesis 3, God gave humanity our original assignment in Genesis 1:26–28: the Creation Mandate. Salvation through Christ does not replace this mandate—it restores us back to God's original blueprint of faithful stewardship.

"Then God said, 'Let Us make man in Our image, according to Our likeness; let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, over the birds of the air, and over the cattle, over all the earth...'" — Genesis 1:26

DOMINION | 🍇 Radah (רָדָה) To govern, cultivate, and care for creation in a way that reflects the loving, protective character of the Heavenly King—never tyrannical exploitation.

1. Faithful Management (Katiwala): God remains the absolute Owner of the Earth (Psalm 24:1). As stewards, we own nothing, but are entrusted with everything—our time, family, career, and finances.

STEWARD | 🗝️ Oikonomos (οἰκονόμος) A trusted manager placed in charge of another's household assets, responsible for administering them for the master's honor and fruitfulness.

2. Practical Life Application: Evaluate your daily routine. Are you managing your health, household, and finances as a faithful manager of the King, or treating them as your own property?

Common Questions & Answers

Understanding the Message

What does Biblical Dominion mean for modern believers?

It means taking godly responsibility over your family, work, and community—cultivating fruitfulness and righteousness rather than living passively.

How does stewardship connect to our church's CSB Discipleship model?

It connects directly: CONNECT (restoring relationship with the Owner), STRENGTHEN (building character to manage greater entrustments), and BLESS (multiplying resources to serve others).

Deep Dive Study

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