Dangerous Assumptions Discussion

Introduction:

There is a term you may or may not be familiar with called Ableism.

Ableism is a form of discrimination or prejudice against individuals with disabilities, based on the belief that people with disabilities are inferior to those without disabilities.

This often results in the marginalization and exclusion of people with disabilities from various aspects of society, such as education, employment, housing, and social interactions.

Ableism is often rooted in societal attitudes and beliefs that equate physical or mental ability with worthiness, productivity, or success.

It can manifest in various forms, including stereotyping, stigmatization, and physical or verbal abuse.

This type of thinking was the norm during the time of Jesus…there was a thought that if someone had a disability, or if they were poor that they somehow deserved it…Maybe they were irresponsible or they were paying for some Sin they or someone in their family had committed.

In John 9:1-41 tells the story of a man born blind who was healed by Jesus. The story raises questions about suffering, disability, and the role of faith in healing.

Let’s explore these themes and encourage reflection on how we can respond to those who experience disability or marginalization in our communities.

READ Scripture here.....

Discussion Questions:

In the story, Jesus and his disciples encounter a man born blind. The disciples ask Jesus, "Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?"

How might we understand this question and Jesus' response that "Neither this man nor his parents sinned"?

What does this suggest about the relationship between sin and disability?

After Jesus heals the blind man, the Pharisees question him about the healing and his identity.

What might the Pharisees' skepticism and rejection of the healed man suggest about their attitudes towards disability? How might this reflect broader attitudes towards disability in society?

Throughout the story, the healed man and his parents are questioned and doubted by the religious authorities.

What might this suggest about the experiences of people with disabilities or marginalization in our own communities?

How can we work to create more inclusive and welcoming spaces for people with diverse abilities and backgrounds?

The story raises questions about the role of faith in healing.

What might this suggest about the ways we understand and respond to suffering and illness?

How can we support and care for those who are experiencing physical, emotional, or spiritual challenges?

Finally, the story emphasizes the importance of bearing witness to what we have seen and experienced.

How might this apply to our own lives and communities? How can we be advocates and allies for those who are marginalized or excluded? Or should we?

Conclusion:

John 9:1-41 offers a powerful reflection on the experiences of people with disabilities and the role of faith and community in responding to suffering and exclusion.

As we engage with these themes, may we be inspired to create more inclusive and welcoming spaces for all people, and to bear witness to the transformative power of healing and compassion.