How Do I Know If Students Understand the Gospel in Disability Ministry?

I’ve had this same conversation a few times over the past few months, with different people, in different settings. But the premise is always the same.

Someone shares the opinion that we don’t have to share the gospel with people with disabilities because they have an automatic “in” to heaven.

And every time, my heart sinks a little.

I get it—this belief often comes from a place of compassion. It comes from people who care deeply and don’t want to imagine that someone with a disability could be separated from God. But when we take a step back and really think about it, this mindset carries some pretty big assumptions.

It makes me ask questions like:

• What does this belief say about how we see people with disabilities?
• Are we assuming they can’t understand the gospel?
• Are we saying they are without sin and don’t need salvation?

The reality is, this way of thinking—though well-intended—can be dangerous. Because when we assume someone doesn’t need the gospel, we stop sharing it with them.

But here’s the truth:

Romans 3:23-24

"For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, and all are justified freely by his grace through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus."

That little word all? It’s important.

It means every single human being is in need of grace. Every person, regardless of ability, should have the opportunity to hear the gospel and respond to it.

So What’s Our Role?

I know this can feel overwhelming. Maybe you’ve thought, But what if they don’t understand? What if I don’t explain it the right way?

Take a deep breath. Here’s the good news:

Jesus never asked us to make people understand. He simply asked us to share.

Mark 16:15 says, “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to all creation.”

Notice what it doesn’t say:
🚫 “Go and make sure everyone understands perfectly.”
🚫 “Go and guarantee their salvation.”

No.
Our job is to go and share. God will take care of the rest.

He is above all understanding. He knows the heart. He makes a way.

So let’s not say “no” for people before they’ve even had the chance to hear. Let’s not assume that someone won’t understand and decide for them that they don’t need the gospel.

Instead, let’s keep presuming competence and keep sharing the gospel with everyone—including those with disabilities.

Because the greatest story ever told? It’s meant for them too. 💛

If you're ready to take the next step and learn practical strategies for sharing the gospel with students with complex learning needs, check out our membership where we give you a step by step framework for accommodating and sharing the gospel with all children in your church.