God and the Transgender Debate

Rob S. Smith

The transgender debate is one that easily arouses passions – on both sides. With gospel clarity and Christ-like compassion, Andrew Walker skilfully navigates a path between the folly of affirming transgenderism and the cruelty of dismissing the distress of those who experience gender incongruence. In so doing, he helps us to see why the gospel of Jesus Christ is good news for the transgendered and how Scripture equips the church for the good work of loving the LGBTQ community. I highly commend this clear-headed and warm-hearted introduction to one of the most challenging issues of our time.

Ed Shaw

This will not be the last word on this complex experience but the author’s tender application of God’s Word to our muddled lives today should make this book one of the first places to turn for Christ-like grace and truth as we seek to love all our neighbours as ourselves.

"A pastoral approach"

Andrew Walker has done the church a great service. … All Christians, but especially pastors and elders, must think clearly, faithfully, and lovingly on the transgender issue—and for that reason, should read this book.... continue reading

"Deserves a wide reading"

There is certainly no doubt that following the high-profile transitions of Bruce Jenner to Caitlyn, of film directors Andy and Larry Wachowski to Lilly and Lana, and boxing promoter Frank Maloney to Kellie, issues concerning gender and gender dysphoria have never been more in the public eye.

Walker claims that, too often, Christians have been on the back foot and have been too slow in responding to these social changes – and, above all, in responding well to the individuals involved. He wrote his book so that Christians might understand, love and relate to transgender people (and to the wider culture) in a biblically-authentic manner.... continue reading

“A mixed bag”

Two things stood out for me while reading this book. First, Dr. Walker’s compassion and generosity of spirit, demonstrating his sincere desire to know and do the will of God, shines through this book. Second, Dr. Walker doesn’t know what transgenderism is. From his definition early in the book to examples throughout (e.g., the story about the man who claimed he was a “6’5” tall Chinese woman”), the writer proves that he doesn’t understand the condition that transgender people suffer nor the experiences they live through. The danger of this is that it can be a “blind guide” (Matt. 15:14) leading to confusion, division, and pastoral and missional failure. Christians would do better to access Lead Them Home ministries; or read “Understanding Gender Dysphoria,” by Mark Yarhouse, which provides a much better understanding of what it means to be transgender. Better yet, reach out and befriend actual transgender people, especially transgender Christians. Get to know them and understand them first-hand, rather than depending on teachers who, no matter how well-meaning, don’t understand the issue they’re teaching about.

“Extremely helpful”

I would agree with the other testimonials shown here. It was a relief to find a book which covers the ground in such a well-informed yet incredibly gentle way. All of us are getting so confused by the gender debate, we really need help to make sense of it - the terms being used, and the philosophy implied. Here we get both theological principles and pastoral warmth: we'll be needing all of that!

“Appreciation”

The writer tackles a subject that many Christians are reluctant to face or talk about. His real life honesty and high view of scripture, rate it highly in my opinion. I've bought several to pass on to fellow leaders, as I think every Bible believing leader should read and digest, and enter the arena that we will all eventually be pushed into!
A great easy-read, and opens the subject for others to take it further maybe. Great value for a worthy write!