Blessing Quote by Andrew Linzey
“If it was really true that predation is God's will, it would have to follow for Christians that the life of Jesus -- what after all is the self-disclosure of God -- manifested and vindicated this predator/prey relationship. Such a gospel would be substantially different from the one we currently have… Instead of raising Lazarus from the dead, the Predator Jesus could only comment that death is God's blessing. Instead of preaching the good news of the coming kingdom of God, the proclamation would run: "Eat and be eaten.”
About This Quote
Source Book: Animal Ethics and Christian Theology, Andrew Linzey, 2008
The quote challenges the idea that predation is divinely ordained, arguing that such a view would contradict core Christian teachings about Jesus and salvation.
In simple terms: Predation as God's will conflicts with Christian doctrine.
Key Takeaway
Reconsider theological claims about nature.
Themes
theology
ethics
animal rights
Christianity
Mood
thoughtful
critical
inquisitive
Type
theological
ethical
philosophical
When to use this quote
- church sermons
- ethical debates
- environmental policy
- personal belief
- academic study
Key Concepts
predation
divine will
salvation
theodicy
Questions to Reflect On
- How does this view affect our treatment of animals?
- Can Christian faith accommodate a non‑predatory worldview?
A Different Perspective
The argument assumes a literal reading of scripture that may not account for metaphorical interpretations.
