Everyone has a seat at God's table, but not every seat is for everyone
Manage episode 505859990 series 3516263
What if we've been thinking about inclusion all wrong? While the world promotes the idea that inclusion means "I get to be wherever I want," genuine biblical inclusion offers something far more meaningful—the accessibility to serve exactly where God has called you.
This episode tackles the challenging terrain of what inclusion truly means within church communities, especially when it comes to disability ministry. Drawing from personal experience and biblical foundations, we explore how over 65 million Americans have disabilities (25% of the population), yet a staggering 80% remain outside church walls. This reality demands that we reconsider our approach to welcome, belonging, and purpose.
Through examining Scripture's guidance on welcoming others and utilizing spiritual gifts, we unpack the paradox that true inclusion isn't about erasing all boundaries, but rather creating the right spaces for people to thrive according to their divine design. Just as churches have youth ministries, women's groups, and other specialized communities, there's profound value in disability-specific ministries that provide understanding, connection, and equipping—all while maintaining pathways to full participation in the broader church body.
The heart of this message resonates beyond disability inclusion, challenging all of us to reconsider how we welcome, equip, and deploy every person according to their God-given gifts. Whether you're a ministry leader seeking practical wisdom or someone wondering about your own place in the body of Christ, this conversation offers a fresh perspective on what it means to create communities where everyone has the opportunity to know Christ, grow in Him, and serve with their unique gifts. How might your church's approach to inclusion change if you embraced this understanding?
Chapters
1. Introduction to Indispensable People (00:00:00)
2. True Inclusion vs. Worldly Inclusion (00:01:40)
3. Accessible Doors and Identifying Gifts (00:05:30)
4. Why Specialized Ministry Groups Matter (00:07:30)
5. Building Understanding Through Community (00:10:50)
6. Closing Thoughts and Resources (00:14:24)
112 episodes