What God Says About Gender

In 2024, the understanding and societal definition of gender has undergone significant modifications compared to years past. Previously, gender and biological sex (associated with reproductive organs) were considered inseparable. However, the new ideology sweeping across our world defines gender as fluid rather than fixed. Many in our culture, especially Gen Z, now view gender as a social construct—an identity chosen by the individual, no longer being tied to one’s biological sex. 

This cultural shift has led to accepting and teaching a spectrum of gender identities beyond the traditional framework. Terms like ‘non-binary,’ ‘genderqueer,’ and ‘genderfluid’ have become part of everyday language in media and culture, reflecting the belief that gender is personal and can change over time. This perspective emphasizes self-examination and personal experience over biological determinism. Essentially, it’s another form of self-idolatry, and in a fallen world, that sells well. This new approach to gender aligns with the “you do you,” “you only live once,” and “follow your truth” mindset promoted by media and pop culture. 

These ideologies claim to provide inclusivity and freedom, but even without biblical wisdom, we can see many cases where the results lead to anything but freedom for those who follow its path. Before we explore what God says about gender, let’s briefly consider some non-biblical points about our culture’s new ideas: 

1️⃣ The fluid nature of gender can lead to confusion, especially among young people who are still developing their sense of identity. A study by the American College of Pediatricians highlights concerns about the long-term impact of gender fluidity on children’s psychological development. 

2️⃣ The belief that gender can be chosen or changed creates an unstable foundation, as it relies on subjective feelings rather than objective truths. This can result in inconsistencies and challenges in policymaking, healthcare, and education, which we’ve already seen many examples of. 

3️⃣ Studies have shown that individuals who identify as transgender or non-binary experience higher rates of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety. According to an additional study done by the American College of Pediatricians, transgender individuals are at a significantly higher risk of experiencing mental health disorders compared to the general population. 

4️⃣ The increasing visibility of gender fluidity has led more young people to question their gender identity. While self-exploration and discovery are normal parts of growing up, the pressure to question the truth and proceed to make permanent decisions (such as medical interventions) at an age where they are not yet capable of fully logical and rational decisions can and will have lasting consequences. 

So, what does God have to say about all of this? 

Thankfully, the Bible provides a clear and consistent view of gender that contrasts with the fluidity seen in contemporary culture. Let’s look at some key scriptures from the English Standard Version (ESV) Bible that speak to the Creator’s design for gender: 

➡️ Genesis 1:27: “So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.” This verse establishes that God created two distinct genders, male and female, each reflecting His image. Think about it for a moment– if this wasn’t for our best, why would God have included only this dynamic in Eden, which was a time of perfection before the fall? 

➡️ Genesis 5:2: “Male and female he created them, and he blessed them and named them Man when they were created.” This reiterates the binary nature of gender as part of God’s creation. 

➡️ Deuteronomy 22:5: “A woman shall not wear a man’s garment, nor shall a man put on a woman’s cloak, for whoever does these things is an abomination to the Lord your God.” This verse underscores the importance of maintaining clear distinctions between genders (*I have more to say about this below- so keep reading!). 

➡️ Matthew 19:4-6: Jesus affirms the creation account in Genesis, saying, “Have you not read that he who created them from the beginning made them male and female, and said, ‘Therefore a man shall leave his father and his mother and hold fast to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh?’” 

➡️ 1 Corinthians 11:11-12: “Nevertheless, in the Lord woman is not independent of man nor man of woman; for as woman was made from man, so man is now born of woman. And all things are from God.” This passage highlights the interdependence and equal value of both genders in God’s design. 

*I’ll be honest: Deuteronomy 22:5 used to annoy me, but I’ve realized that annoyance was just a result of confusion (this concept could be another blog—stay tuned). I used to think this verse was about gender expression, essentially how one expresses themselves as either male or female. This confused me because men historically wore skirts and wigs (our forefathers, for example), which was considered normal by Bible-believing Christians. Just as a boy playing with dolls or a woman loving the color black has nothing to do with biological gender. Instead, I think this verse refers to societal norms. Suppose it’s generally agreed that a certain act or item signifies a specific gender. In that case, God tells us not to INTENTIONALLY mislead ourselves and others by choosing to make ourselves or others believe we are the opposite gender. This verse encourages us to express ourselves in a manner that aligns with the truth, avoiding confusion or deception. 

How Do We Live Out Biblical Truth in a Changing Culture? 

As believers, we are called to navigate these cultural shifts with both truth and love. Here are some ways to approach conversations about gender with non-believers and believers who may find the subject confusing: 

1️⃣ Compassion and Understanding: Approach conversations with empathy, remembering your own brokenness and a genuine desire to understand the other person’s perspective. Listen actively and avoid being judgmental. 

2️⃣ Model Christ-like Love: Demonstrate the love of Christ in your interactions. Show kindness, patience, and respect. View others, regardless of their beliefs or identity, as beautiful parts of creation. 

3️⃣ Stay Grounded in Scripture: Always refer to the Bible as the ultimate source of truth. Share scriptures that affirm God’s design for gender and explain their significance. 

4️⃣ Educate and Inform: Provide accurate information about the biblical view of gender and the potential issues arising from the cultural perspective. Use credible research and statistics to support your points. 

5️⃣ Teach the Next Generation: Equip your children and young people in your life with a biblical understanding of gender. Encourage open discussions, answer their questions, and help them build a strong foundation of truth. Don’t be afraid to have honest conversations with them, as the world will be ready if you’re not. Help them understand the heart of God and His deep love for them. 

6️⃣ Stay Firm: I want to offer a challenge and encouragement with this one. God convicts each of us differently, but as we’ve previously discussed, there is also black-and-white truth in His Word. As the world continues to change and accept more and more ideologies that we know are unbiblical, stay firm in your convictions and stay firm in the truth of Scripture. Remember that the Holy Spirit is our helper. 

7️⃣ Offer Hope: Remind others of the hope we have in Christ. Despite changing cultural norms, God’s truth remains constant, and we can trust in His perfect design and plan for our lives. Know that as much as the world around us changes, the end has already been written. Jesus has the ultimate victory, which means those of us in Christ also do!