July 17, 2025

Is Disability Ministry a Ministry to the Least of These? With Dr. Chris Hulshof Ep 155

Key Ministry

Is Disability Ministry a Ministry to the Least of These? With Dr. Chris Hulshof Ep 155

Disability ministry often draws from Matthew 25:40 — “whatever you did for the least of these…you did for me.” But is this passage really talking about individuals with disabilities? In this insightful podcast, Dr. Chris Hulshof challenges common assumptions and calls us to a more thoughtful, biblically-grounded approach to disability ministry.

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Is Disability Ministry a Ministry to the Least of These?

The Common Misuse of Matthew 25:40

A Familiar Scenario

  • A church family notices growing disability needs in their church.
  • They suggest using Matthew 25:40 to support starting a disability ministry.
  • But does this verse really apply the way they think it does?

Three Core Problems with Misapplying This Verse

1. The Problem of Perception

  • Labeling people with disabilities as “the least of these” promotes a top-down view of ministry.
  • This framing creates inequality between those serving and those being served.
  • It fails to reflect mutual worth and dignity within the body of Christ.

2. The Problem of Study

  • One-verse devotional reading leads to a shallow understanding of Scripture.
  • Matthew 25 must be read alongside chapters 23 and 24 for full context.
  • The passage is eschatological—focused on end times—not simply about general compassion.

3. The Problem of Context

  • “The least of these” refers specifically to Christ’s followers, not just anyone in need.
  • Jesus identifies personally with His followers throughout the New Testament.
  • Proper interpretation begins in Matthew 23 and continues through chapters 24 and 25.

Understanding the Bigger Picture

Chapter 24: What, Not When

  • Jesus answers: When will these things happen? What are the signs?
  • His focus:
    • Be alert
    • Be ready
    • Serve faithfully

Chapter 25: Parables that Illustrate

  • Parable of the 10 Virgins – Be alert and prepared.
  • Parable of the Talents – Serve while you wait.
  • Parable of the Sheep and Goats – Judgment based on how we treat Christ’s followers.

The Real Identity of “The Least of These”

  • “The least of these my brothers” refers to fellow believers, not all people in need.
  • Jesus closely identifies with His followers — what is done to them is done to Him.
  • This reinforces a theology of internal Christian care and discipleship.

Key Takeaways for Disability Ministry

Focus on the Gospel

  • Effective disability ministry helps individuals hear and respond to the Gospel.
  • It prepares them to be alert, ready, and serving when Christ returns.

Embrace Natural Compassion

  • Kindness should be spontaneous, not driven by programs.
  • In the parable, the sheep didn’t act out of obligation—they simply lived kingdom-shaped lives.
  • The Holy Spirit works through believers to express Christ’s love naturally and authentically.

Final Thoughts

Disability ministry is not about reaching “the least of these” from a place of superiority. It’s about walking alongside fellow image-bearers, empowered by the Spirit, with mutual dignity and love. When ministry reflects the spontaneous compassion of Jesus, the church truly becomes a place where everyone belongs.