The Facts Concerning Gender Transitions Become Clear

President Trump issued an executive order to cut off federal funds for institutions that engage in the chemical and surgical mutilation of those under age 19. This reminds us of the struggles many people deal with as their children seek gender transitions. Like the abortion issue, gender transition is being decided by people who don’t understand the implications of their decisions. This is without any consideration of the religious implications involved in changing one’s gender. We are seeing the facts concerning gender transitions become clear.

Puberty blockers and cross-gender hormones are life-long medical interventions with severe complications. They become less effective with long-term use, the side effects are severe, the cost is enormous, and they result in shortened life expectancies. Other countries have reduced or eliminated government funding and the availability of gender treatment drugs. As the facts concerning gender transitions become clear, the U.K., Sweden, and Denmark all strictly limit their use.

To expect a child to make non-reversible life-changing decisions is a foolish course of action. Surgical actions, such as mastectomies and genitalia operations, along with chemical and drug treatments, can lead to permanent infertility and high costs. Trans kids can be excluded from athletic participation because they have a biological advantage over non-trans girls. The cause of gender dysphoria is hotly debated, but the fact that it affects troubled kids’ lives cannot be debated.

From a Christian standpoint, this issue is one where we must exercise compassion and empathy. Like other issues in dealing with the LGBTQ question, Christians cannot endorse these lifestyles because they bring suffering and medical issues to all who struggle with their feelings. God’s design of male and female is strong, and human attempts to change it are doomed to much collateral damage.

As the facts concerning gender transitions become clear, we must realize that physical attacks on LGBTQ individuals are wrong and must be condemned by the Christian community. We must all work together to bring stability into everyone’s life, obedience to God’s instructions, and conformity to the role God intends for us.

— John N. Clayton © 2025

  Reference: Presidential Executive Order January 28, 2025