What does the Bible say about transgender children?

Origins of Gender in Creation

Genesis presents a foundational perspective: “So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them” (Genesis 1:27). This passage shows two distinct sexes ordained within creation’s original framework. The Bible does not explicitly discuss transgender experiences or terminology, but it does consistently distinguish male and female throughout its narrative.

In many biblical manuscripts—such as the early Hebrew texts of Genesis found among the Dead Sea Scrolls—this creation account remains stable and unaltered, indicating a consistently preserved emphasis on the distinctiveness of man and woman. While ancient cultures did not face modern questions about transgender identity in the same way contemporary societies do, the Bible’s broader pronouncements about human identity and stewardship of the body are consistently interpreted as rooted in these two created sexes.

Children and Identity Formation

Scripture portrays children as cherished blessings: “Children are indeed a heritage from the LORD” (Psalm 127:3). Throughout biblical accounts—such as Hannah’s dedication of Samuel (1 Samuel 1:27–28), or Jesus welcoming children (Matthew 19:14)—the care, dignity, and protection afforded to children is upheld.

When considering questions of gender identity, many Christian interpreters emphasize that the formative years are a time of growth, where children need guidance, patience, and nurturing. Biblical instruction about guiding children, such as “Train up a child in the way he should go” (Proverbs 22:6), is often understood as an exhortation to direct them towards wisdom and maturity, relying on scriptural truths of God’s design.

Scriptural Principles of Holiness and Sacredness of the Body

Though the Scriptures do not directly address the term “transgender,” they do include overarching principles about body stewardship and identity—particularly the call to honor God with one’s body. Paul writes, “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit?” (1 Corinthians 6:19). This passage highlights the sacredness of the human body, entrusted to believers to be used for God’s glory.

Texts such as Deuteronomy 22:5 have frequently been referenced in discussions about clothing and the outward expression of gender: “A woman is not to wear a man’s clothing, nor is a man to put on a woman’s clothing, for whoever does these things is detestable to the LORD your God.” While cultural garments shift over time, many interpreters have seen an abiding principle: maintaining a clarity of the male-female distinction that God originally set forth. This conviction is often applied to modern questions surrounding gender, though believers differ on the specific applications.

Compassion and Pastoral Care

Throughout both Old and New Testaments, love stands as a central theme (Leviticus 19:18; Matthew 22:37–39). Jesus demonstrated compassion by extending grace and practical help to those in need, especially the marginalized (Matthew 9:35–36). When it comes to children or individuals facing identity struggles, the biblical witness directs believers to show humility, mercy, and understanding.

Paul’s letters reiterate this posture: “Bear one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2). Rather than ignoring or belittling anyone’s struggles, the biblical call is to walk alongside those in need, offering prayer, discipleship, and caring guidance. Thus, even when Christians hold a traditional understanding of gender, they are also instructed to extend patience and empathy.

The Fall, Brokenness, and Redemption

Central to a biblical worldview is the fall of humanity (Genesis 3). The disorder, pain, and confusion observed in life—including questions about identity—are understood to stem from that primal brokenness. Scripture teaches that all creation is subject to the effects of sin (Romans 8:20–22). Human beings may experience various forms of brokenness, whether physical, emotional, or psychological.

In Romans 7, Paul poignantly narrates the inner conflict that can occur between one’s desires and the will of God. Some interpreters apply these themes to gender dysphoria, recognizing that personal conflicts, including those about identity, can emerge from a fallen world. Yet the message of the Bible is also one of hope and redemption: “If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation” (2 Corinthians 5:17). The gospel offers ultimate reconciliation to God and eventual restoration of all things in the new creation (Revelation 21:5).

Practical Guidance for Parents and Communities

Ephesians 6:4 exhorts parents: “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger; instead, bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord.” In addressing questions of gender identity, many draw from this passage to emphasize a balanced approach—firmly rooting children in biblical teaching while also applying patience. Christian parents are often encouraged to:

• Provide a sense of belonging, acceptance, and unconditional love, mirroring Christ’s love for His people.

• Seek wise counsel from trusted pastoral leaders and professionals who respect biblical convictions.

• Keep open lines of communication, ensuring children are heard and not dismissed in matters of emotional or psychological struggle.

Church communities likewise play a role. Jesus’s own example of welcoming children in Mark 10:14–16 forms a model for churches to support families in a spirit of grace, while guiding them toward what they view as a true understanding of God’s design.

Relevant Historical and Archaeological Insights

Archaeological evidence—such as biblical manuscripts from Qumran (Dead Sea Scrolls) and early Greek papyri—continues to reaffirm the reliable transmission of the scriptural text. The core teachings about creation, the fall, redemption, and God’s plan for humanity have been preserved with remarkable consistency. These manuscripts reveal that biblical instructions about male and female identities have been understood as central tenets of the faith across centuries.

While some historical cultures may have had varied understandings of gender expression, the biblical perspective focusing on male and female distinction remains stable in every extant copy of the relevant passages. This consistency is often cited by those who hold the view that the divine design of creation does not change with cultural shifts.

Concluding Reflections

The Bible’s overarching message recognizes that children, including those who may experience gender-related questions, are valued and beloved. It consistently affirms two created sexes, grounded in God’s design, and encourages care, guidance, and compassion for any child navigating identity issues. Followers of Scripture draw from these principles to support children through thoughtful parenting, loving community, professional wisdom, and prayerful reliance on God’s grace.

While biblical passages do not mention “transgender” specifically, believers who uphold a traditional view conclude that the Bible provides enduring principles on identity, holiness, compassion, and the sacredness of the body. From a perspective shaped by these texts, the aim is to love children wholly, direct them toward discovering their worth as beings made in God’s image, and trust in the transforming power of redemption found in Christ.