Biblical Answer

The Nature of Disability

The Bible teaches that humanity is created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27). This image includes the capacity for reason, creativity, and moral responsibility. However, due to the fall of humanity into sin, our bodies and minds are subject to various forms of disability and disease. Disability is not a result of God's original design, but rather a consequence of the fall. This perspective highlights the need for compassion and care for those with disabilities, as they are not defined by their limitations.

Identity and Disability

The question of personal identity in relation to disability is complex. Some may view disability as a loss of identity or a diminishment of personhood. However, this perspective is not supported by the Bible. The Bible teaches that our identity is rooted in our relationship with God, not in our physical or mental abilities. As Christians, we are called to recognize the inherent value and dignity of every human being, regardless of their abilities. This means that individuals with disabilities are not defined by their limitations, but by their worth and value as children of God.

A Biblical Perspective on Disability

From a biblical perspective, disability is not a determinant of a person's worth or identity. The Bible teaches that all people are created in the image of God and are loved and valued by Him. This includes individuals with disabilities, who are not defined by their limitations, but by their relationship with God. As Christians, we are called to live out our faith in a way that reflects this perspective, by showing compassion, care, and inclusion towards those with disabilities. This means recognizing the inherent value and dignity of every human being, and seeking to remove obstacles that prevent them from fully participating in life. By doing so, we can live out the biblical principle of loving our neighbors as ourselves, regardless of their abilities. (Mark 12:31)