Ecological Sin and Cosmic Repentance: A Synthesis of Soteriology and Ecotheology in Light of Justification and Sanctification

Abstract

The deepening global ecological crisis calls for a theological response that goes beyond moralistic or technical approaches. This article proposes a soteriological-ecotheological framework that integrates the doctrines of justification and sanctification as the theological foundation for cosmic repentance. Ecological sin is understood as a violation against the work of the Triune God, specifically, the destruction of creation shaped by the Word and the rejection of the Holy Spirit’s sustaining presence within the cosmos. Within this framework, justification is viewed as the restoration of humanity’s relationship not only with God but also with creation, while sanctification is conceived as the transformative process toward ecological love and restorative action in the world. The model of cosmic repentance presented here involves both passive (ceasing to harm) and active (loving and healing the earth) dimensions, positioning believers as the body of Christ and agents of the Holy Spirit in the renewal of creation. By cultivating an ecological spirituality rooted in eschatological hope, this article affirms that Christian salvation entails not only vertical reconciliation with God but also active participation in the healing of a wounded world, as part of the fulfillment of God’s redemptive work in Christ and the Spirit. Using a conceptual-theological approach within the tradition of systematic theology, this study aims to construct a normative framework that bridges soteriology and ecotheology, providing a theological foundation for the Church’s spiritual and ethical engagement in responding to today’s ecological crisis.