Belonging (Lifebuilder Bible Study): Accessibility, Inclusion and Christian Community

God created us to be in relationship with him and with each other, but attitudes and systems of ableism create barriers to participation in God's kingdom work. Deborah Abbs' book Belonging guides us through nine Bible studies on inclusion, exploring the deep love and acceptance of our heavenly Father and the importance of disability inclusion in church. It is a valuable resource for anyone wanting to understand Biblical teaching on inclusion and acceptance better and make their church a more welcoming place for those with disabilities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 64 pages
Publication date: 20 January 2022
Publisher: Inter-Varsity Press

God's creation of humanity was intended to be a harmonious and interconnected relationship, where each individual was created to be in fellowship with him and with one another. However, for those with disabilities, attitudes and systems of ableism often create significant barriers to their full participation in God's kingdom work and can lead to profound hurt. When any members of the body of Christ are excluded or marginalized, it not only affects those individuals but also diminishes the collective strength and impact of the church.

In her book "Belonging," Deborah Abbs provides a comprehensive guide through nine Bible studies focused on inclusion. Through these studies, Abbs explores the deep love and acceptance of our heavenly Father, demonstrating how this understanding can shape our attitudes and actions toward others. The book draws from both the Old and New Testament stories and teachings on Christian community, highlighting how God responds with love and compassion to those who are often marginalized and excluded.

By examining these examples and lessons, "Belonging" helps us to understand the importance of disability inclusion in the church and provides valuable insights for creating a more welcoming and inclusive environment for people of all abilities. This book is part of the LifeBuilder Bible Studies series and includes questions that can be used both individually and in small groups, making it an excellent resource for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of Biblical teaching on inclusion and acceptance.

In conclusion, "Belonging" is a powerful and insightful book that offers a valuable perspective on disability inclusion within the church. By exploring the love and acceptance of God and drawing from Biblical examples, Abbs helps us to understand the importance of welcoming and valuing all members of the body of Christ, regardless of their abilities or circumstances. As we seek to build a more inclusive and compassionate church, this book provides a valuable roadmap for achieving that goal.

Weight: 96g
Dimension: 139 x 209 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781789743852