Dear Ellen, I’m working through some challenging questions about intersex individuals and how to approach this from both a practical and biblical perspective. The topic feels complicated, and I want to make sure I respond with wisdom, love, and understanding. What insights can you share to help me navigate this well? Sincerely, Seeking Wisdom
Dear Seeking Wisdom,
Thank you for reaching out about such a tender and complex issue. I can hear your heart in wanting to balance theological understanding with love and compassion. This is indeed a delicate topic that deserves both clarity and kindness.
There’s much to consider when discussing intersex conditions. Let’s break this down into practical and personal aspects:
The Practical View
The term “intersex” is used today to describe individuals born with variations in their sex characteristics—genitalia, hormones, or chromosomes. However, in the vast majority of cases (about 99%), there is no ambiguity regarding a person’s biological sex. These individuals could be described as “a male with a physical abnormality” or “a female with a physical abnormality.”
It’s important to note that having these conditions do not create a “third gender.” Genesis 1:27 describes a clear binary—God created humans as male and female. Similarly, when Jesus referenced eunuchs in Matthew 19, He wasn’t introducing a third gender. A eunuch is still a man— just one without testicles (whether born that way, made that way, or chose to become that way). The physical abnormality did not change the individuals fundamental designation as “man.”
Personalizing the Issue with Compassion
While it’s essential to ground ourselves in a sound theological understanding, it’s just as crucial to approach this topic with humility and empathy. For many intersex individuals, there is often deep emotional pain—shame, confusion, fear, and a sense of abandonment by God. These feelings of incongruence in their bodies are incredibly challenging.
As believers, we’re called to reflect Christ’s love and grace. Even when we don’t fully understand every answer or theological nuance, our primary responsibility is to extend scandalous amounts of love and patience, just as Jesus did.
Additionally, we must humbly acknowledge that science—whether biology, psychology, or social sciences—is our limited attempt to understand God’s creation. Isaiah 55:8-9 reminds us that God’s ways and thoughts are far beyond our own. We live in the tension of doing our best to understand Him, even when we don’t have all the answers.
What About the 1% of Truly Ambiguous Cases?
For those rare cases where a child is born with ambiguous sexual characteristics, there may not be a straightforward biblical answer. In such situations, parents need to prayerfully seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit and of the medical team entrusted with their child’s care.
The comforting truth is that God is ultimately far more concerned with our hearts than with our bodies or gender. While the Bible teaches that our bodies matter, God’s focus is on our relationship with Him. This assurance offers hope and peace to families facing these difficult decisions.
I will be praying for you as you continue seeking God’s wisdom and clarity in this area. May His Spirit guide you as you walk with grace and love through this journey.
