Displaced Peoples and Creation’s Groaning: Toward a Biblical Ecotheological Ethic for Climate Migration

Abstract

Forcible human displacement caused by climate change disproportionately affects vulnerable communities already burdened by poverty, conflict, and social instability (UNHCR, 2024). Ecological degradation, including soil erosion, water scarcity, and ecosystem loss, intensifies both human suffering and environmental decline (UNEP, n.d.). Despite growing Pentecostal and wider Christian engagement with ecological issues, theological and ethical responses to climate induced migration remain underdeveloped. This study develops a biblical ecotheological ethic for climate migration, emphasizing justice, ecological stewardship, and human dignity. The methodology combines theological analysis of Psalms 104, 148, and Romans 8:18–25 with systematic examination of UNHCR and UNEP data. Trends in climate displacement, environmental indicators, and humanitarian impacts were analyzed to identify patterns and inform ethical reflection. The research explores themes of lament, suffering, and hope to formulate specific ethical principles, including hospitality, care for creation, equitable resource distribution, and advocacy for displaced populations. The study has three objectives: to document climate displacement patterns, to analyze biblical and ecotheological sources for normative guidance, and to propose practical recommendations for policy makers, civil society, and faith communities. By situating human mobility and ecological vulnerability within the biblical narrative of creation’s groaning and divine concern, this study provides a framework for scholarly reflection and practical action. It equips leaders and communities to respond to climate displaced populations with justice, dignity, and ecological awareness while broadening Pentecostal engagement with environmental and social crises.