A Gospel of Compassion for All Creation. By Dr. Chapman Chen
- Chapman Chen
- Jan 22
- 2 min read
In Mark 16:15 (NIV), Jesus commands His disciples:“Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
This verse has profound theological implications that extend beyond human salvation, offering a strong foundation for a Christ-centered vegan and animal-friendly ethic.
1. "All Creation" Includes Animals
The Greek word for “creation” (κτίσις, ktisis) does not refer exclusively to humans but encompasses all living beings and the natural world.
Romans 8:19-22 confirms that all creation groans for liberation, highlighting that God's salvation extends beyond humanity to all creatures.
This implies that the Good News is meant to benefit animals as well, reinforcing the idea that Christ’s mission involves restoring harmony to all life, not just humans.
Romans 8:21"The creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the freedom and glory of the children of God."
Implication for Veganism:
If the Gospel is for all creation, then humans should act as compassionate stewards, reflecting God's mercy toward animals.
A Gospel that brings suffering to animals (such as factory farming) contradicts the message of love and redemption.
2. Jesus' Compassionate Nature Extends to Animals
Throughout the Gospels, Jesus exemplifies compassion, which aligns with veganism:
He defended the weak (Matthew 25:40).
He valued all creatures (Luke 12:6).
He liberate animals from the Temple, objecting to their suffering (John 2:14-16).
Implication for Veganism:
The Gospel cannot be preached while ignoring cruelty.
If we are to preach to all creation, we must treat animals in ways that reflect Christ’s love, not exploit them.
Preaching the Gospel should include ethical living, meaning not supporting industries that inflict suffering on God's creatures.
3. Restoring the Edenic Vision: A Future of Peace for All Beings
In Genesis 1:29-30, God’s original diet for humans was plant-based.
Isaiah 11:6-9 describes a future of peace where animals will no longer suffer or be prey.
Isaiah 11:6-9"The wolf will live with the lamb, the leopard will lie down with the goat... They will neither harm nor destroy on all my holy mountain."
Implication for Veganism:
If God’s ultimate plan is a world of peace between humans and animals, then we should strive to live according to that vision now.
Veganism anticipates and embodies the coming Kingdom of God, where suffering will end.
4. Jesus’ Teaching of Mercy Applies to Animals
Matthew 9:13"I desire mercy, not sacrifice."
Proverbs 12:10"The righteous care for the needs of their animals."
Implication for Veganism:
Jesus rejects unnecessary suffering, and this should extend to animals.
Sacrificing animals for food is unnecessary and contradicts His call for mercy.
The most merciful lifestyle is one that does not exploit animals—veganism.
Conclusion: Mark 16:15 Calls for a Gospel of Compassion
✔ Jesus commands us to bring Good News to ALL creation, including animals.✔ If the Gospel means liberation, we should not enslave animals in factory farms.✔ God's future Kingdom is one of peace—why not live that way now?✔ A vegan lifestyle aligns with Jesus’ teachings on mercy, love, and justice.
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