The topic of ‘transgenderism’ might seem new but it is not. There really is nothing new under the sun because people are remarkably the same in every generation. The only difference is we are talking openly about something that has always existed. The hurt, pain, and rejection that cause and result from gender identity issues are as old as the fall of humanity.
We are created in God’s image, male and female. We are created in God’s image even if we identify as transgender. Nothing removes that amazing beauty of being His image bearer. Gender, like age, is not self-determined. We are born with the chromosomal combination that determines whether we are male or female. We may be content with our gender or consider it the source of deep emotional pain but no external physical modifications will alter the chromosomal combination with which we were born. Transgenderism is self-rejection at the most basic level.
Our Common Brokenness
We all struggle in many ways but Jesus does not distance Himself from us no matter how our brokenness manifests itself in our lives. At Calvary He demonstrated that He values everyone such that He paid the penalty for our sin, provided for our healing and paved the way for our reconciliation to God. He loves us passionately and chose crucifixion rather than leave us in our broken condition. He made a clear path for us all that we might be restored. No one is exempt from following that path.
In a world that has grown accustomed to hate speech the greatest lie about those struggling with gender identity issues is to say, “God loves you just like everyone else. However, your pain and struggles are unique so you have to work it out yourself”.
Ministering to those Dealing with Transgenderism
We are ministers of reconciliation, not debate. Much has been lost over the years by those who hate evil more than they loved good. Don’t get caught up discussing things which can only distract from the love of God. We love others and minister to their deepest needs by focusing on how we are the same not by debating our differences.
Gender identity issues or not, we all long to be known and loved, even though we are deeply flawed. Only Jesus can love like that. Transgender or not, we all must come to the end of ourselves and realize we are powerless to change apart from the grace and mercy of God. The successful businessman who takes pride in his career is no different than the transgender teen trying to find a path in life. Both are lost and self-deceived apart from the loving grace and healing mercy of Jesus Christ.
We are broken people in a broken world. Jesus came to heal and restore us and no manifestation of our sin and brokenness is exempt. We have a testimony that no one can refute, “Jesus heals our brokenness”. Jesus never shamed the hurting. Shame never transformed anyone but the infinite love and grace of Jesus does.
Things You Did Not Learn in Bible College 