📖 Overview
What Does God Think? examines transgender identity through both biblical and modern Christian perspectives. The author combines research on scripture interpretation with insights from transgender Christians and their families.
Evans analyzes key Bible verses and passages that are often cited in discussions about gender identity and expression. She explores historical context, original language translations, and various denominational viewpoints on these texts.
The book incorporates personal stories and interviews that illustrate how different Christian communities approach transgender acceptance and inclusion. Medical and psychological perspectives on gender identity are also presented alongside the theological discussion.
This work contributes to the ongoing dialogue between faith and gender identity, challenging readers to consider the intersection of religious belief and human experience. The narrative invites reflection on how ancient texts can inform modern understanding of gender and spirituality.
👀 Reviews
Readers report finding this book to be a balanced exploration of transgender topics from both biblical and modern perspectives. Multiple reviewers noted the author's personal connection to the subject matter through parenting a transgender child.
Readers appreciated:
- Clear explanations of gender identity concepts
- Thorough examination of relevant Bible verses
- Respectful tone toward both religious and LGBTQ viewpoints
- Personal stories and examples
- Well-researched citations and sources
Common criticisms:
- Some felt theological arguments were oversimplified
- A few readers wanted more depth on specific Bible passages
- Conservative readers found it too liberal in interpretation
Ratings:
Amazon: 4.5/5 (220+ reviews)
Goodreads: 4.3/5 (100+ ratings)
Notable reader quote: "This book helped me bridge my faith and my child's identity. The author doesn't tell you what to think, but provides information to help you form your own conclusions." - Amazon reviewer
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This Is My Body: Hearing the Theology of Transgender Christians by Christina Beardsley and Michelle O'Brien First-person accounts from transgender Christians paired with theological reflection on embodiment and faith.
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This Is My Body: Hearing the Theology of Transgender Christians by Christina Beardsley and Michelle O'Brien First-person accounts from transgender Christians paired with theological reflection on embodiment and faith.
Outside the Lines: How Jesus Changed Everything for a Trans Pastor by Hannah Soldner A memoir that weaves together scripture interpretation, church history, and personal experience as a transgender faith leader.
🤔 Interesting facts
🔹 Author Cheryl B. Evans wrote this book after her own child came out as transgender, documenting her journey as both a Christian parent and someone seeking to understand transgender issues through a biblical lens.
🔹 The book examines original Hebrew and Greek biblical texts to analyze whether modern interpretations about gender identity match the historical context and original meanings.
🔹 Evans spent over two years researching and consulting with religious scholars, medical professionals, and LGBTQ+ advocates before publishing the book in 2017.
🔹 Despite addressing controversial topics, the book maintains a 4.5/5 star rating on Amazon, with readers particularly praising its balanced approach to faith and gender identity.
🔹 The book challenges common interpretations of Genesis 1:27 ("male and female He created them"), exploring how ancient Near Eastern understandings of gender were more complex than modern binary views.