The topic of sex and gender has become increasingly controversial and confusing in our modern world. Many secular voices claim that sex and gender are two completely separate things – that one’s biological sex at birth does not necessarily determine one’s gender identity. From a biblical perspective, however, the answer is not quite as simple. While the Bible does not speak directly to some of the more complex gender theory issues we face today, a careful study of Scripture reveals that God does have an intended design for human sexuality and gender.
Key Points from Scripture
Here are some key biblical points that help provide clarity on this issue:
- God intentionally created humans as male and female – two distinct sexes designed to complement each other (Genesis 1:27). Gender is directly tied to biological sex in Scripture.
- Gender roles presented in the Bible assume a binary view of gender tied to biological sex – with distinctions made between men and women (1 Corinthians 11:3-16, Ephesians 5:22-33, 1 Timothy 2:8-15).
- God condemns any attempt to blur established gender/sex boundaries and categories through cross-dressing or other means (Deuteronomy 22:5).
- Homosexual relations are consistently prohibited and presented as a distortion of God’s intended sexual design in Scripture (Leviticus 18:22, Romans 1:26-27, 1 Corinthians 6:9).
- While some individuals may genuinely experience psychological distress or confusion about their gender, the Bible would point them to finding their identity in Christ first and foremost (Galatians 3:28, 1 Peter 2:9-10).
- Redemption is found in aligning one’s beliefs and identity with God’s design, not rejecting biblical truth in favor of subjective feelings or cultural trends (Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 10:5).
In summary, the consistent biblical perspective is that God created humanity to exist as either male or female, with complementary roles and functions. Sex and gender are treated as interrelated rather than disconnected concepts in Scripture. Any confusion or ambiguity introduced into this binary view of gender is depicted as distortion of God’s intent. At the same time, the Bible calls for compassion towards individuals struggling with genuine gender questions or distress. Biblical justice and mercy, not affirmation of every self-perception, is presented as the solution.
Old Testament Teaching
From the very first chapters of Genesis, we see God’s binary design for human sexuality established. Genesis 1:27 reads, “So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.” The distinction between man and woman is fundamental to the imago dei – being made in the image of God. The emphasis is on humanity being created as two distinct but complementary sexes – male and female.
This sexual distinction continues to be emphasized throughout the Old Testament as gender roles and expectations are laid out that assume a male/female binary view of gender tied to biological sex. For example, Deuteronomy 22:5 condemns cross-dressing, implying that blurring the lines between the sexes is contrary to God’s design: “A woman must not wear men’s clothing, nor a man wear women’s clothing, for the Lord your God detests anyone who does this.”
Likewise, homosexuality is categorically condemned in passages like Leviticus 18:22, which states clearly: “Do not have sexual relations with a man as one does with a woman; that is detestable.” Here the Bible rejects same-sex relations as an immoral distortion of God’s plan for sexuality.
While some today claim multiple genders or a disconnect between gender and sex, no such categories exist in the Old Testament. Sex/gender categories are limited to either male or female, man or woman, with marital relations prescribed only between the two. Biblical laws and commands presume only two possible genders/sexes and reject any blurring of this clear binary distinction.
New Testament Affirmations
The New Testament affirms this same understanding of gender and sexuality. Jesus himself cites Genesis 1:27 and 5:2 to emphasize God creating humanity as male and female (Matthew 19:4-6). The presupposed gender binary is evident in his teachings on divorce as well. Paul also assumes the male/female binary as he instructs the Corinthians that “man is the image and glory of God; but woman is the glory of man” (1 Corinthians 11:7). Distinct roles and norms are taught for both men and women in passages like Ephesians 5:22-33 and 1 Timothy 2:8-15.
As in the Old Testament, homosexual relations are uniformly condemned in the New Testament. Romans 1:26-27 makes clear that same-sex erotic activity is “contrary to nature” and a depraved outworking of rejecting God’s intent for human sexuality. 1 Corinthians 6:9 and 1 Timothy 1:10 include homosexuality in vice lists of unacceptable behaviors that characterize the unrighteous. So the New Testament reinforces God’s design for gender and sexuality.
Some raise questions about passages like Galatians 3:28 that suggest in Christ there is “no male and female.” However, this passage does not eradicate all gender distinctions – it teaches that men and women are equal before God in terms of value, spiritual status, access to grace, and inheritance in Christ. It does not abolish gender itself. In fact, throughout his letters, Paul continues to teach distinct roles for men and women rooted in creation.
In the end, the New Testament upholds the binary view of gender found in the Old Testament. Sexual complementarity in marriage, prohibitions against homosexuality, and distinct roles based on gender all presume that God created and redeems humanity as either male or female. There is no Third category presented for gender or sex in Scripture.
Practical Implications
So how might we apply biblical teaching on gender and sex to some of today’s more complex questions? Here are a few implications to consider:
- We should have compassion for those struggling with genuine gender dysphoria – the distress someone feels when their biological sex doesn’t align with their inner sense of gender. At the same time, we cannot affirm transgender identities that contradict God’s design. Counseling must point them to Christ for wisdom and comfort in embracing their biological sex.
- Children should not be encouraged to transition or permanently alter their bodies at young ages. This violates the biblical call to steward our bodies well (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). Children need time, counsel, and guidance to evaluate complex gender identity questions from a biblical perspective.
- Cross-dressing, sex-change surgery, and gay marriage cannot be endorsed biblically. However, those struggling with gender confusion or same-sex attraction can and should be loved and supported as image-bearers of Christ.
- Churches should approach gender questions with both conviction and compassion. Biblical truth must not be compromised, but the body of Christ should also be a refuge for those wrestling through gender and sex-related struggles.
The Bible does not address every nuance we face today, but its binary view of gender and call for sexual ethics grounded in God’s design still provide guardrails for navigating these difficult issues. With the Spirit’s help and biblical wisdom, the church can offer hope and clarity in the midst of much cultural confusion about human sexuality and gender.
Common Objections
Those who reject the biblical view of gender often raise various objections. Here are some of the most common, along with concise responses informed by Scripture:
- Objection: Sex is biological but gender is a social construct – they are separate realities.
- Response: Scripture consistently ties gender identity and roles to one’s biological sex. Social constructs that contradict God’s design for humanity must be rejected.
- Objection: People should be able to choose their own gender identity based on inner feelings and self-perception.
- Response: Our inner feelings are impacted by the fall and must be subjected to God’s truth. Self-perception does not define reality when in conflict with Scripture.
- Objection: Biblical authors had no understanding of modern gender and sexuality issues.
- Response: While ancient cultures differed, biblical truths transcend culture. Scripture’s principles remain authoritative and relevant.
- Objection: Faithful Christians can affirm gay marriage and transgender identities today.
- Response: This requires denying the clear testimony of Scripture. God defines marriage and gender – we cannot redefine them to suit modern sensibilities.
At the end of the day, the biblical binary view of gender and sexuality remains authoritative for faith and practice. Cultural pressure to conform does not change timeless scriptural truths.
Guidance for Gender-Questioning Youth
As gender identity questions arise more frequently today, many youth and families in the church are understandably confused. They desire biblical faithfulness matched with compassion. Here are some key guiding principles for minsters and parents guiding youth wrestling with gender-related issues:
- Listen well – resist quick answers or judgmental reactions. Seek to truly understand the child’s thoughts and questions.
- Extend unconditional love – emphasize their identity and acceptance in Christ regardless of specific struggles.
- Explore possibilities – sometimes gender questions arise from issues like trauma, mental health challenges, social dynamics, etc. Gently consider other factors at play beyond just gender.
- Seek professional counseling – Christian therapists can help families process gender questions and distinguish between genuine dysphoria and other influences.
- Affirm biblical categories – God beautifully designed humanity as male and female. His design is always best, even when difficult.
- Allow time – youth need space to process and integrate their gender identity. Avoid pressure for quick decisions on gender transition.
- Make Christ central – remind them that our ultimate identity is found in Jesus. All other identifiers fade in importance.
The path forward will look different for each child. But with prayer, counsel, and dependence on the Spirit, families and youth can discover God’s affirming love while still aligning gender identity with biblical truth, not just personal preference. Patience, compassion and speaking the truth in love are key.
A Redemptive Approach for the Church
How then should local congregations approach complex gender and sexuality questions? Here are some suggested guidelines:
- Preach the full biblical vision of gender and sexuality. Do not shy away from passages that are countercultural today.
- Call all people to sexual wholeness – alignment with God’s good design, not simply affirming all expressed identities.
- Equip parents to have wisdom-filled conversations about gender with their children.
- Provide biblically grounded counseling for youth and adults wrestling with sexual identity.
- Celebrate stories of redemption that align gender identity with God’s design.
- Foster a welcoming community for anyone seeking help in submitting their sexuality and gender to Christ.
- Make church a “safe space” to struggle without affirming unbiblical identities.
- Season truth with grace. God’s word convicts; His Spirit comforts and provides mercy.
Churches grounded in Scripture can offer hope and moral clarity amidst confusion. Pastors, parents and ministry leaders all have a role to play in shepherding those conflicted about gender identity into God’s redemptive design for human flourishing. With wisdom, compassion and dependence on the Spirit, the body of Christ can be used by God to restore people to wholeness.
An Identity Rooted in Christ
At the end of the day, Christians struggling with any form of sexual or gender confusion must be pointed to finding their identity in Christ above all else. As believers, our union with Jesus defines us more than anything else, including sex, gender, race or socioeconomic status (Galatians 3:28). All other idols and identifiers must be surrendered to Him.
This liberating truth allows those wrestling with gender dysphoria or same-sex attraction to rest in who God says they are. They are a new creation in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). They have been adopted as beloved sons and daughters of the King (Romans 8:15). They have value, dignity and worth that transcends earthly categories. They belong to Christ.
From this secure identity, believers are then empowered to resist cultural narratives and surrender their minds, bodies, desires and perceptions to the renewing work of the Spirit. Transformation may be difficult, but intimacy with Christ makes it possible. His grace provides both the comfort and power to align our lives with God’s life-giving pattern for human dignity and flourishing.
Conclusion
The Bible leaves no room for subjectivity or confusion when it comes to essential questions of gender and sexuality. According to Scripture, God created and redeems humanity as either male or female, with marriage between the two sexes as the sole legitimate context for sexual intimacy. All people are called to align their sexual values, relationships and behaviors with this standard. Those who experience distress or confusion regarding their gender or sexuality require biblical counsel and compassionate support from the church as they find their identity in Christ. But God’s design for his image-bearers as male and female remains steadfast – an objective standard grounded in creation and reiterated throughout Scripture.
Our tumultuous cultural moment demands that the church remain tethered to the word of God when addressing the most foundational aspects of human identity. With conviction, courage, wisdom and grace, may pastors, parents and all Christians anchor their understanding of gender and sexuality to the unchanging revelation of the word of God and not the shifting tides of public opinion or sexual politics. As society’s paradigms shift dramatically, the church must remain grounded in timeless biblical truth regarding gender, sexuality and what it means to be human.