The Image of God and Disability

In this video, Dr. Mike Bird proposes that we should understand the imago dei, the "image of God" from Genesis 1:27-28, in light of disability. He further suggests that a robust understanding of the imago dei as universal in all people, irrespective of ableness, constitutes the epicenter of a Christian account of humanity and forms the basis of human rights.
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Video created using Invideo AI and the thumbnail was made using the AI image generator on substack.

[@caseyloomis2168]

That is a message that deserves repeating.

[@michaelcourian]

Thank you so much for this Michael. Very grateful that you have prioritised this message. Amen!

[@rosehammer9482]

I remember attending a conference at a local church in 1981 where Joni Erickson addressed us concerning people with disabilities and how the church could minister to them. I was a recreation Director in a long-term care at that time so it was helpful for ministering to those outside the church. Many volunteers assisted by having services or Bible studies and ministering to personal needs. Joni and Husband continue to minister to the handicap. Thankful for those who reach out. Thanks for bringing this needed message for today

[@dennistoufexis5790]

Thanks Michael, what a blessing this was too me, and I pray that this can go out to all the churches. God loves everyone He made.

[@MichaelMurrayIsMessy]

Thanks, Mike. As someone with cerebral palsy, I appreciate you bringing this topic up!

[@michelleslomp3031]

Crying. Thank you for this. So important to be said.

[@elliotwalton6159]

I think you may have a topic for an upcoming book.

[@Leviticus_is_fun]

❤ great words brother

[@Jim_Kinghorns_World]

I agree. I have had close friends with disabilities. I was disturbed in the Pentateuch, God does not allow disabled persons to approach the Tent of Worship. Why?

[@Leviticus_is_fun]

i’ve struggled with this same question. It seems God is discriminating. But i think it’s a signpost pointing forward, rather than a prohibition. It’s less “this is what you must be like” and more “this is what you will be like”. God is pointing forward to the day when humans and God will live together, and there will be no disability. In God’s life giving presence, everyone and everything will be restored, and made right. Hope this helps a little bit

[@UndeaKnight]

This is a wonderful approach to reorienting our understanding of the Imago Dei! A thought I had while listening... If being known by God is to what it means to have the Imago Dei would that not mean the animals would also have the image? If not then that seems to mean there's something bestowed uniquely to us? Is that the breath of life or something else? Tangent aside, thanks for the video!

[@TrevorJamesMusic]

Amen! 🙏🏻

[@magnobraga4619]

They are treated like walking abortions. Sad...