Autism is a condition that affects many individuals and families, and some wonder how it fits into God’s plan. The Bible doesn’t mention autism directly, but it does speak to the value of every person, the diversity of God’s creation, and His love for all. These principles can offer comfort and guidance for those navigating life with autism.
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What Does The Bible Say About autism
Psalm 139:13-14
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well.”
This verse reminds us that every person, including those with autism, is fearfully and wonderfully made by God. It affirms the intrinsic value and worth of individuals with autism, emphasizing that they are part of God’s divine creation.
Regardless of the challenges they may face, this verse encourages us to appreciate and celebrate the unique strengths, gifts, and abilities of individuals with autism, recognizing their inherent dignity as cherished children of God.
Exodus 4:10-12
“But Moses said to the Lord, ‘Pardon your servant, Lord. I have never been eloquent, neither in the past nor since you have spoken to your servant. I am slow of speech and tongue.’ The Lord said to him, ‘Who gave human beings their mouths? Who makes them deaf or mute? Who gives them sight or makes them blind? Is it not I, the Lord? Now go; I will help you speak and will teach you what to say.'”
In this passage, Moses expresses his insecurity about his speech impediment, but God reassures him that He is the one who gives people their abilities and disabilities. It serves as a reminder that individuals with autism, like Moses, are not defined by their limitations.
Just as God helped Moses to overcome his challenges and equipped him for his purpose, this verse reminds us that God can also empower individuals with autism to fulfill their unique calling in life, providing them with the necessary support, guidance, and opportunities for growth and success.
1 Corinthians 12:12-14
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so the body is not made up of one part but of many.”
This passage highlights the concept of unity within the body of Christ. It emphasizes that every believer, regardless of their differences, is an integral part of the body of Christ, with unique gifts and contributions to offer.
This verse reminds us that individuals with autism are valuable members of the spiritual community. They have specific abilities, perspectives, and talents that can enrich the body of Christ, fostering a culture of inclusivity, understanding, and acceptance within the Church.
Mark 9:22-24
“But if you can do anything, take pity on us and help us.” ‘If you can?’ said Jesus. ‘Everything is possible for one who believes.’ Immediately the boy’s father exclaimed, ‘I do believe; help me overcome my unbelief!'”
This interaction between Jesus, a father, and his son with an unclean spirit reveals the struggle and desperation faced by families of individuals with autism. It reflects the yearning for healing, understanding, and support.
The response of the boy’s father demonstrates the tension between faith and doubt often experienced by parents and caregivers of individuals with autism. It serves as an encouragement to lean on God, seeking His guidance, strength, and intervention in the midst of challenges and uncertainties.
Isaiah 40:11
“He tends his flock like a shepherd: He gathers the lambs in his arms and carries them close to his heart; he gently leads those that have young.”
In this verse, God is portrayed as a loving and compassionate shepherd who cares for His flock. It illustrates God’s tender care for all individuals, including those with autism, depicting Him as a gentle guide who leads them in their unique journeys.
This verse offers comfort and assurance to individuals with autism and their families, indicating that God understands their needs, comforts them in their struggles, and walks alongside them, providing guidance, protection, and unwavering love.
Matthew 25:40
“The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.'”
This verse, part of the parable of the sheep and the goats, teaches us the importance of compassion, empathy, and kindness towards others, especially those who are marginalized or considered “the least.”
It calls us to recognize that in serving or ministering to individuals with autism, we are not only demonstrating love for them but also expressing our love and obedience to Christ Himself, as He identifies with the marginalized and vulnerable in society.
John 9:1-3
“As he went along, he saw a man blind from birth. His disciples asked him, ‘Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?’ ‘Neither this man nor his parents sinned,’ said Jesus, ‘but this happened so that the works of God might be displayed in him.'”
In this narrative, Jesus encounters a man who was born blind. The disciples raise a common belief of that time, attributing the man’s disability to sin. Yet, Jesus corrects their understanding and reveals a broader purpose behind the man’s condition.
This verse reminds us that disabilities, including autism, are not necessarily a consequence of sin or anyone’s wrongdoing. Instead, it presents an opportunity for God’s power to be manifested and His purposes to be fulfilled, as individuals with autism can contribute to society and inspire others through their unique experiences, perspectives, and talents.
Isaiah 35:4-6
“Say to those with fearful hearts, ‘Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, he will come with vengeance; with divine retribution he will come to save you.’ Then will the eyes of the blind be opened and the ears of the deaf unstopped. Then will the lame leap like a deer, and the mute tongue shout for joy. Water will gush forth in the wilderness and streams in the desert.”
These verses prophesy the coming of the Messiah and the restoration that will accompany His arrival. It speaks of physical healing for the blind, the deaf, the lame, and the mute.
While these verses primarily refer to physical restoration, they can also offer hope and anticipation for individuals with autism. It encourages them and their loved ones to trust in God’s promises and look forward to the day when all brokenness, including the challenges associated with autism, will be redeemed and transformed in the presence of Christ.
Jeremiah 1:4-5
“The word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.'”
These verses depict God’s calling of Jeremiah as a prophet, emphasizing that God had a purpose and plan for him even before he was born.
Similarly, this verse communicates the truth that individuals with autism have been uniquely created and set apart by God for a specific purpose. It encourages them and those around them to recognize and nurture their God-given gifts, talents, and passions, trusting that they have a significant role to play in fulfilling God’s purposes on earth.
Romans 12:4-6a
“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ, we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others. We have different gifts, according to the grace given to each of us.”
These verses speak to the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ. It highlights that each believer has been uniquely gifted according to God’s grace and purpose.
In relation to individuals with autism, these verses remind us that their unique abilities, perspectives, and contributions are essential for the flourishing of the Church. It promotes a mindset of inclusion and appreciation for the diverse gifts and strengths that individuals with autism possess, recognizing their vital role within the body of Christ.
John 5:6-9
“When Jesus saw him lying there and learned that he had been in this condition for a long time, he asked him, ‘Do you want to get well?’ ‘Sir,’ the invalid replied, ‘I have no one to help me into the pool when the water is stirred. While I am trying to get in, someone else goes down ahead of me.’ Then Jesus said to him, ‘Get up! Pick up your mat and walk.’ At once, the man was cured; he picked up his mat and walked.”
In this account, Jesus encounters a man who had been paralyzed for a long time. Jesus initiates a conversation with the man, asking if he desires healing, and proceeds to miraculously restore his ability to walk.
This verse reminds us of the transformative power of Jesus Christ in the lives of individuals with disabilities, including autism. It encourages us to approach them with compassion, engage in meaningful dialogue, and empower them to discover their potential and pursue their dreams with renewed hope and faith.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.'”
In this passage, Samuel is choosing a king based on external criteria, but God instructs him to look beyond external appearances and focus on the heart.
This verse reminds us that God’s perspective differs from our human judgments. It challenges our tendency to evaluate individuals solely based on outward abilities or disabilities. Instead, God sees the true essence of a person, including their inner qualities, character, and potential. We are called to emulate God’s perspective, recognizing the intrinsic worth and value of individuals with autism, beyond any external limitations or differences.
Psalm 34:17-18
“The righteous cry out, and the Lord hears them; he delivers them from all their troubles. The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.”
These verses express the nearness of God to those who are brokenhearted and crushed in spirit. It emphasizes God’s attentive care and deliverance in times of distress.
Individuals with autism, along with their families, face unique challenges and often experience feelings of brokenness and discouragement. This verse offers encouragement and assurance that God is intimately present, providing solace, strength, and deliverance in their moments of despair, bringing hope and restoration to their hearts and souls.
Proverbs 31:8-9
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.”
These verses call for advocacy and justice for the vulnerable and marginalized. They prompt us to use our voices to speak out on behalf of those who cannot speak for themselves.
For individuals with autism, who may struggle with communication or face societal misunderstandings, this verse compels us to be their allies, ensuring their voices are heard, their rights are protected, and they are treated with fairness and dignity. It calls us to actively stand against discrimination, ignorance, and stigmatization, working towards a society that embraces and empowers individuals with autism.
Psalm 23:1-4
“The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing. He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters, he refreshes my soul. He guides me along the right paths for his name’s sake. Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.”
These familiar verses from Psalm 23 provide solace and assurance of God’s provision, guidance, and comfort. They offer comfort in times of difficulty, portraying God as a caring and trustworthy shepherd.
Individuals with autism, like anyone else, face various challenges and uncertainties in life. This verse affirms that God is their faithful guide and protector, leading them along the right paths, providing much-needed rest, refreshment, and solace. It assures them that even in the midst of the darkest valleys, they can find comfort, courage, and strength, knowing that God is with them every step of the way.
James 2:1-4
“My brothers and sisters, believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism. Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, ‘Here’s a good seat for you,’ but say to the poor man, ‘You stand there’ or ‘Sit on the floor by my feet,’ have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?”
These verses address the issue of favoritism and discrimination within the Christian community, reminding believers of the importance of treating all people with fairness, regardless of their outward appearance or social status.
For individuals with autism, who may face exclusion, prejudice, or misunderstanding, this verse calls us to create a culture of acceptance, inclusivity, and equality within the Church. It inspires us to break down barriers and overcome biases, honoring the inherent worth and dignity of every individual, including those with autism, and ensuring they are welcomed, valued, and embraced as equals in the family of faith.
Luke 10:25-37
“On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. ‘Teacher,’ he asked, ‘what must I do to inherit eternal life?’ ‘What is written in the Law?’ he replied. ‘How do you read it?’ He answered, ‘”Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind”; and, “Love your neighbor as yourself.”‘ ‘You have answered correctly,’ Jesus replied. ‘Do this and you will live.’ But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, ‘And who is my neighbor?’ In reply, Jesus said: ‘A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side. But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn, and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. “Look after him,” he said, “and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.” Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?’ The expert in the law replied, ‘The one who had mercy on him.’ Jesus told him, ‘Go and do likewise.'”
This well-known parable of the Good Samaritan teaches the importance of compassion, empathy, and loving our neighbors as ourselves. It challenges us to extend kindness and mercy to those in need, regardless of their background or circumstance.
For individuals with autism, who may experience social difficulties or feel isolated, this parable encourages us to actively reach out, demonstrate empathy, and offer practical support. It invites us to show compassion, understanding, and acceptance to those with autism, embodying the principle of loving our neighbors as ourselves, and reflecting the heart of Christ in our interactions and relationships.
Proverbs 17:17
“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.”
This proverb highlights the enduring and supportive nature of true friendship. It emphasizes the importance of loyalty, love, and companionship, especially in times of difficulty and adversity.
For individuals with autism, who may face challenges in forming and maintaining friendships, this verse encourages us to be steadfast friends, offering unwavering support, understanding, and acceptance. It challenges us to cultivate relationships characterized by patience, kindness, and genuine care, standing by individuals with autism through the highs and lows of life, and being a source of strength and encouragement.
Matthew 7:12
“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets.”
Commonly referred to as the Golden Rule, this verse encapsulates the essence of Christ’s teachings. It calls us to treat others with the same kindness, respect, and fairness that we would desire for ourselves.
When applied to individuals with autism, this verse serves as a reminder to extend understanding, patience, and acceptance, recognizing their inherent worth and treating them with dignity and compassion. It challenges us to create an inclusive and supportive environment where individuals with autism are valued, included, and valued as equals, fostering a culture of empathy and love.
2 Corinthians 12:9-10
“But he said to me, ‘My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.’Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me. That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.”
These verses showcase the apostle Paul’s understanding of God’s grace and strength in the midst of weakness. It communicates his willingness to embrace weakness and rely on Christ’s power, recognizing that God’s strength is magnified in our moments of vulnerability.
For individuals with autism, who often face challenges and societal misconceptions, this verse brings comfort and encouragement. It reminds them that God’s grace is more than sufficient to sustain them, and that even in their weaknesses and struggles, they can experience His strength and power working through them. It inspires them to embrace their uniqueness, celebrating the ways in which God’s power can be magnified in their lives.