| I would have to say that there are valid points about the proper treatment of animals but there is also a hyper sensitvity that is packaged with the whole movement. The O.T. law is gives us some good principles to draw from. Animal life is, in one sense, sacred. Meaning, we must discern what freedoms and limitations of actions we have in relationship to the animals, in the context of God's will for the proper use of His creation. It is obvious, through a general reading of the O.T., that we have the freedom to enslave an animal for productive means, food, and, in the dispensation of the old covenant, use them as symbolical sacrifices that point to Christ's sacrifice. It is also stated that we are not to ABUSE the animals that we have in our possesion. Here is the foundational principle for a Biblical "animal rights" movement. The modern day treament of live chickens, cows, etc., in the food industry, would seem to fall into the "abuse" principle. I have lightly pondered these ethical questions the last couple years and think that they are legitmate concerns within a Biblical worldview. We, as Christians, should listen to the "animal rights activists" and enviromentalists with a critical lense, rather than not listen at all. These movements usually have some valid points that demand ethical responsibility towards animals and our enviroment. That being said, we must not fall into their hypersensitivity which can bring forth wild exaggerations and idolatrous passions. |
