28: Communication through a Gospel Lens - Webinar

You can find the webinar on YouTube here.

How do we communicate the gospel in a way that serves the listener?

In this webinar episode, Larah explores a biblical theology of communication and introduces the LEARN framework, a practical approach for discipling autistic individuals and others impacted by disability. Drawing from the ministry methods of Jesus, Larah explains why communication is not primarily about the speaker, but about helping the listener understand and engage with truth.

Throughout the episode, you'll learn how to listen before speaking, enter another person's world, assume competence, respond with curiosity and patience, and nurture relationships over time. Larah also shares practical examples for parents, church leaders, and volunteers, including case studies involving a nonverbal child, a teen with social challenges, and an adult seeking belonging within the church.

Whether you're discipling your own child, serving in disability ministry, or simply seeking to communicate more effectively, this episode offers a gospel-centered framework that can transform the way you connect with others.

In This Episode

• Why communication is a ministry to the listener
• Examples of how Jesus adapted His teaching methods
• The LEARN framework for disability discipleship
• Why flexibility is a ministry tool, not a compromise
• The importance of assuming competence
• Coaching volunteers to respond with curiosity instead of correction
• Building trust through long-term relationships
• Practical case studies for children, teens, and adults
• Using visuals, routines, and sensory supports in discipleship
• Strengthening the partnership between parents and churches
• Resources available to support gospel conversations at home and church

Key Takeaways

• Communication serves the listener, not the speaker.
• Effective discipleship begins with understanding before instruction.
• LEARN: Listen First, Enter Their World, Assume Less, Respond with Curiosity & Patience, Nurture Relationships.
• Behavior should not automatically be interpreted as lack of understanding.
• Small accommodations often create significant opportunities for gospel engagement.
• Trust is often the bridge that allows truth to be received.
• Parents and churches accomplish more when they work together.
• You don't have to do everything at once. Start small somewhere.

Notable Quotes

"You can't disciple someone you refuse to understand."

"Flexibility is a ministry tool, not a compromise."

"Assume competence until proven otherwise."

"Seek understanding before solutions. Respond with curiosity and patience."

"The truth travels best through trust."

"Start small somewhere."

Resources Mentioned
Letters to Lindsey: Seeing Your Child's Autism Diagnosis Through a Gospel Lens