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Affirming God's Image: Addressing the Transgender Question with Science and Scripture
What is a knowledgeable, faithfully biblical response to transgenderism?
In Affirming God's Image , J. Alan Branch takes a fair, respectful, and factual tone in addressing this complex issue through a biblical lens. You'll
The book ends with two practical chapters for families and churches, giving you guiding principles for how to address this issue in a loving, Christ--honoring way.
The first step to responding well to any situation is understanding it. Affirming God's Image equips you with the biblical, scientific, and practical knowledge you need for a wise response.
In Affirming God's Image , J. Alan Branch takes a fair, respectful, and factual tone in addressing this complex issue through a biblical lens. You'll
The book ends with two practical chapters for families and churches, giving you guiding principles for how to address this issue in a loving, Christ--honoring way.
The first step to responding well to any situation is understanding it. Affirming God's Image equips you with the biblical, scientific, and practical knowledge you need for a wise response.
208 pages, Paperback
Published June 5, 2019
37 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
October 9, 2025
Overall, this was a good overview. It concisely and accessibly covered the basic biblical and scientific reasons that transgenderism is spiritually, mentally, and physically harmful. Some of the data and scientific conclusions need to be updated, and I didn’t agree with Branch’s flexibility on whether or not a Christian should use someone’s preferred name/pronouns. Otherwise, this was pretty solid!
July 27, 2023
Branch’s Affirming God’s Image is an interesting read that seems to miss the mark in a few areas.
An element of Branch’s work I found unhelpful were the assumptions he seemed to have throughout his book that were undiscussed. For example, at the start of his second chapter, Branch affirms that acting on transgender desires is an “extreme deviation from biblical standards.” Whether or not this statement is true is totally irrelevant if the case for its truthfulness isn’t set forth clearly beforehand. Although one could argue that the basis for this is found at the conclusion to Branch’s first chapter, this was far too brief to make a claim as direct and confrontational as this. Branch’s book would have been helped greatly if he’d set forth a coherent and extended biblical basis for this position from the outset. An additional example can be found through Branch’s use of the natal pronouns from the outset of chapter 1, with the only discussion of pronouns throughout the book being an affirmation that both viewpoints are acceptable (appearing late in the book), and no argument provided for why Branch himself chooses not to use preferred pronouns.
Additionally, these statements were often sweeping and not pastoral. To open the chapter on how Scripture interacts with transgenderism (chapter 3) by asserting, in the very first line, that a transgender minister in the USA has “abandoned any sense of biblical authority,” is totally unhelpful and disengaging for dissenters. Branch’s book would have been far better if he avoided these aggressive assertions, at the very least until after presenting his case in favour of the assertion. In his eighth chapter, Branch differs from this, writing “I will argue that…” before his thesis statement for that chapter - a crucial addition that certainly would have been helpful in each previous chapter.
One final weakness of Branch’s book was that his arguments in opposition to gender reassignment surgery relied primarily on present scientific observations (rather than psychological ineffectiveness, which he mentions only briefly, for example). Although this may be positive normally due to the objectivity of scientific observation, in the case of Branch’s book, it meant that most of his arguments were dependent on either a lack of evidence for the positivity of Gender Reassignment Surgery (GRS) and the fallibility of present research suggesting otherwise, or the reality that current scientific limitations mean that true gender reassignment isn’t actually possible. Arguing on these grounds left the book feeling like it could age incredibly quickly and be quickly dismissed by secular scholars as modern science develops.
Branch’s strongest section is his section on the subjectivity of human feelings and emotions, laid out clearly towards the end of his seventh chapter on GRS. He utilises the Scriptures well here and presents a clear and coherent argument that can be readily understood by both affirmers and dissenters.
Overall, Branch’s book is an interesting and articulate discussion offering the conservative stance on transgenderism. Although his book seemed to be lacking in certain areas (as has already been discussed) and missing a few vital areas of discussion (such as a discussion around the retrieval ethic approach to transgenderism and why Branch evidently doesn’t agree with it), Branch’s book offers an interesting take that is worth consideration.
An element of Branch’s work I found unhelpful were the assumptions he seemed to have throughout his book that were undiscussed. For example, at the start of his second chapter, Branch affirms that acting on transgender desires is an “extreme deviation from biblical standards.” Whether or not this statement is true is totally irrelevant if the case for its truthfulness isn’t set forth clearly beforehand. Although one could argue that the basis for this is found at the conclusion to Branch’s first chapter, this was far too brief to make a claim as direct and confrontational as this. Branch’s book would have been helped greatly if he’d set forth a coherent and extended biblical basis for this position from the outset. An additional example can be found through Branch’s use of the natal pronouns from the outset of chapter 1, with the only discussion of pronouns throughout the book being an affirmation that both viewpoints are acceptable (appearing late in the book), and no argument provided for why Branch himself chooses not to use preferred pronouns.
Additionally, these statements were often sweeping and not pastoral. To open the chapter on how Scripture interacts with transgenderism (chapter 3) by asserting, in the very first line, that a transgender minister in the USA has “abandoned any sense of biblical authority,” is totally unhelpful and disengaging for dissenters. Branch’s book would have been far better if he avoided these aggressive assertions, at the very least until after presenting his case in favour of the assertion. In his eighth chapter, Branch differs from this, writing “I will argue that…” before his thesis statement for that chapter - a crucial addition that certainly would have been helpful in each previous chapter.
One final weakness of Branch’s book was that his arguments in opposition to gender reassignment surgery relied primarily on present scientific observations (rather than psychological ineffectiveness, which he mentions only briefly, for example). Although this may be positive normally due to the objectivity of scientific observation, in the case of Branch’s book, it meant that most of his arguments were dependent on either a lack of evidence for the positivity of Gender Reassignment Surgery (GRS) and the fallibility of present research suggesting otherwise, or the reality that current scientific limitations mean that true gender reassignment isn’t actually possible. Arguing on these grounds left the book feeling like it could age incredibly quickly and be quickly dismissed by secular scholars as modern science develops.
Branch’s strongest section is his section on the subjectivity of human feelings and emotions, laid out clearly towards the end of his seventh chapter on GRS. He utilises the Scriptures well here and presents a clear and coherent argument that can be readily understood by both affirmers and dissenters.
Overall, Branch’s book is an interesting and articulate discussion offering the conservative stance on transgenderism. Although his book seemed to be lacking in certain areas (as has already been discussed) and missing a few vital areas of discussion (such as a discussion around the retrieval ethic approach to transgenderism and why Branch evidently doesn’t agree with it), Branch’s book offers an interesting take that is worth consideration.
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October 4, 2024Lots of great information on different studies and findings that have been done in search of a biological cause or component to dysphoria/transgender tendencies.
Offered a Christian perspective and advice on how to lovingly interact with people whose choices in this area you may not agree with.
It was good! It was just 90% information I already know as I've watched videos from many transgender individuals discussing various stages of transition/their experiences/etc.
BUT if you're not like me and you didn't research this topic on a regular basis this would likely be informative and factual 👍
Offered a Christian perspective and advice on how to lovingly interact with people whose choices in this area you may not agree with.
It was good! It was just 90% information I already know as I've watched videos from many transgender individuals discussing various stages of transition/their experiences/etc.
BUT if you're not like me and you didn't research this topic on a regular basis this would likely be informative and factual 👍
December 31, 2019
Affirming God’s Image by J. Alan Branch is a wonderful resource on transgenderism. This book is very well researched (19 pages of endnotes and an 18-page bibliography). Branch discusses transgenderism from a variety of angles—the history of transgenderism, what the Bible says about gender, brain science, genetics, and more. I found this a helpful overview of the topic and it was very informative, especially showing how puberty suppressants and gender reassignment surgery are not as safe as we are often told they are (see chapters 6 and 7).
As a side note, I suggest having a copy of Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood by Piper and Grudem handy for reference (many of the passages of Scripture that are critical in the complementarian vs. egalitarian discussion are also critical passages in the transgenderism discussion). Branch provides a biblical understanding for gender, but RBMW offers a more in-depth rebuttal of the objections to Scripture on questions surrounding gender.
Branch has written a resource on transgenderism that is well-researched, biblically-sound, and compassionate. This is often hard to read (I confess the discussions of surgery made me a bit squeamish!) but not an issue Christians can ignore. Our hearts should break over suffering and we should seek to help others. But, as Branch points out, the most loving thing we can do is affirm God’s design as found in the Bible (pages 143-144).
5 stars; highly recommended.
As a side note, I suggest having a copy of Recovering Biblical Manhood and Womanhood by Piper and Grudem handy for reference (many of the passages of Scripture that are critical in the complementarian vs. egalitarian discussion are also critical passages in the transgenderism discussion). Branch provides a biblical understanding for gender, but RBMW offers a more in-depth rebuttal of the objections to Scripture on questions surrounding gender.
Branch has written a resource on transgenderism that is well-researched, biblically-sound, and compassionate. This is often hard to read (I confess the discussions of surgery made me a bit squeamish!) but not an issue Christians can ignore. Our hearts should break over suffering and we should seek to help others. But, as Branch points out, the most loving thing we can do is affirm God’s design as found in the Bible (pages 143-144).
5 stars; highly recommended.
July 4, 2024
Those looking for more detailed treatments will have to look elsewhere. But for a 150-page primer, it would be difficult to do better.
September 28, 2019
I found this book very disappointing.
First, on the scientific research end of transgenderism the author gets caught up on the terms correlation/contributing factor versus causation. Because a single specific gene has not been conclusively identified as the sole definitive cause of transgenderism, the author dismisses in total the worldwide research that has, in fact, made significant links between transgenderism and biological factors such as genetics, brain differences, hormones,and even prenatal development. Research continues across the globe at significant hospitals and universities and cannot simply be dismissed out of hand.
Second, on the biblical response to transgenderism the author lacks any and all exegesis. How can this be? Offering a random scriptural quote or two does not an authoritative exegesis make. Branch lists himself as a professor of Christian ethics but that seems a bit implausible to me.
I would not recommend this book to others.
First, on the scientific research end of transgenderism the author gets caught up on the terms correlation/contributing factor versus causation. Because a single specific gene has not been conclusively identified as the sole definitive cause of transgenderism, the author dismisses in total the worldwide research that has, in fact, made significant links between transgenderism and biological factors such as genetics, brain differences, hormones,and even prenatal development. Research continues across the globe at significant hospitals and universities and cannot simply be dismissed out of hand.
Second, on the biblical response to transgenderism the author lacks any and all exegesis. How can this be? Offering a random scriptural quote or two does not an authoritative exegesis make. Branch lists himself as a professor of Christian ethics but that seems a bit implausible to me.
I would not recommend this book to others.
August 19, 2021
J Alan Branch is a professor at Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. Previously, he wrote the book Born This Way challenging the idea of homosexuality as an identity. In this book, he takes on transgenderism. Though the book has some helpful information it suffers from some significant weaknesses.
He begins with a history and vocabulary of transgenderism, then has a short discussion of transgenderism in light of scripture. From those three chapters, the book turns to reviewing scientific literature on transgenderism from the points of view of genetics, the brain, hormone treatment, gender reassignment surgery, before ending with chapters on transgenderism and the family and some thoughts on the subject within the ministry of the local church.
Here in my view are the weaknesses of the book:
First, and most crucial, is the treatment of transgenderism and Scripture. It is sound, but very short and one, seemingly equal chapter to all the others in the book. The book does not make a solid case, in my view, of a Scriptural foundation on the subject, then relate that overall foundation to considering it from the different scientific points of view. In other words, the scriptural view seems disconnected from all the other ones, other than a very brief “here’s what Christians would think about, say, the brain and transgenderism” at the end of each chapter. It’s more of a cursory statement about what “Christians would believe” than an application of a sound biblical principle against what scientists are saying.
Second, I’m a little skeptical of a Theology PhD giving short (usually 4-5 page) summaries of scientific literature on subjects as diverse as genetics, brain research, hormone treatment, and surgery. The studies he refers to are all serious, mostly peer-reviewed scientific papers. Reading a few of them, or worse, a summary of them, then trying to debate the scientific issues is not, in my view the best way to prepare an average reader on the issue. It seems it would be quite easy for someone skilled in any one of those areas (and committed to the cause of transgenderism) to refute and shoot holes into very short literature reviews from someone outside of the fields.
Third, as a result, the book fails to prepare a reader to think soundly about the whole subject from a Scriptural foundation and it does not prepare a reader to think soundly from a scientific foundation since the reviews are so short and very broad ranging.
Finally, the book is not compelling reading. It reads something like a research paper in college and the style makes the read, while not very long, still a bit slogging.
All that said, Branch has collected a very large set of research on the science that is trying so hard to normalize transgenderism. It’s a good place for someone who wants to know more and he has copious footnotes and references that will point a student to key scientific studies. That is very useful. His detailed description of what happens in gender reassignment surgery is quite useful (and hard to read). Within that effort, he has also identified areas where the science can be criticized though I think it more valuable his criticisms be taken up by those within those scientific fields, rather than the average Christian apologist.
I’d far rather see someone test the whole subject against a clear, well thought-out and argued Scriptural / theological foundation. It’s a far better approach, in my view.
He begins with a history and vocabulary of transgenderism, then has a short discussion of transgenderism in light of scripture. From those three chapters, the book turns to reviewing scientific literature on transgenderism from the points of view of genetics, the brain, hormone treatment, gender reassignment surgery, before ending with chapters on transgenderism and the family and some thoughts on the subject within the ministry of the local church.
Here in my view are the weaknesses of the book:
First, and most crucial, is the treatment of transgenderism and Scripture. It is sound, but very short and one, seemingly equal chapter to all the others in the book. The book does not make a solid case, in my view, of a Scriptural foundation on the subject, then relate that overall foundation to considering it from the different scientific points of view. In other words, the scriptural view seems disconnected from all the other ones, other than a very brief “here’s what Christians would think about, say, the brain and transgenderism” at the end of each chapter. It’s more of a cursory statement about what “Christians would believe” than an application of a sound biblical principle against what scientists are saying.
Second, I’m a little skeptical of a Theology PhD giving short (usually 4-5 page) summaries of scientific literature on subjects as diverse as genetics, brain research, hormone treatment, and surgery. The studies he refers to are all serious, mostly peer-reviewed scientific papers. Reading a few of them, or worse, a summary of them, then trying to debate the scientific issues is not, in my view the best way to prepare an average reader on the issue. It seems it would be quite easy for someone skilled in any one of those areas (and committed to the cause of transgenderism) to refute and shoot holes into very short literature reviews from someone outside of the fields.
Third, as a result, the book fails to prepare a reader to think soundly about the whole subject from a Scriptural foundation and it does not prepare a reader to think soundly from a scientific foundation since the reviews are so short and very broad ranging.
Finally, the book is not compelling reading. It reads something like a research paper in college and the style makes the read, while not very long, still a bit slogging.
All that said, Branch has collected a very large set of research on the science that is trying so hard to normalize transgenderism. It’s a good place for someone who wants to know more and he has copious footnotes and references that will point a student to key scientific studies. That is very useful. His detailed description of what happens in gender reassignment surgery is quite useful (and hard to read). Within that effort, he has also identified areas where the science can be criticized though I think it more valuable his criticisms be taken up by those within those scientific fields, rather than the average Christian apologist.
I’d far rather see someone test the whole subject against a clear, well thought-out and argued Scriptural / theological foundation. It’s a far better approach, in my view.
June 29, 2023
This is an overview of many of the issues that arise when thinking about or discussing the issue of transgenderism from an evangelical Christian perspective. Branch is a seminary professor at one of the major Baptist seminaries in the U.S. He writes primarily from an ethics perspective, one that attempts to address how Christians should approach those who are either transgender themselves or whose lives are being touched by someone who is.
While it is obvious from the main text and the voluminous footnotes and bibliography that are included here that Branch has done his homework on the issue, I couldn't help but think that the book tries to cover too many bases for its somewhat brief space. Rather than giving brief overviews of the medical and psychological issues that are integral for mature understanding of the issue, I believe a better approach would have been for Branch to stick to the theological and ethical issues and to have found a physician or psychiatrist to collaborate with on the issues that are outside of his field of expertise.
Instead, the coverage of complex matters like causes of transgenderism, hormone therapy, gender reassignment surgery (his term), and approaches to handling the relational issues that the issue causes are given what seemed to be basic, inexhaustive coverage.
For me this was especially noticeable regarding the biblical and theological bases for not affirming transition. Branch gives a straightforward argument for why he believes Christians should oppose transitioning. He only casually mentions arguments in favor of it and really leaves one guessing at times about how he would respond to the arguments of those that take an affirming position.
The sections on the medical aspects of transgenderism and the consensus of opinion that has developed in favor of some form of transition is also not explored fully in my opinion. While he doesn't shy away from giving opinions about the medical communities supposedly quick recommendation to transition, there isn't any attempt to explain why the medical and psychiatric community has concluded that other therapeutic approaches don't work beyond stating that both groups have reached that conclusion. A robust argument against transitioning would take the time to fairly explain the reasoning of the opposing side.
The book is good at giving one an overview of the different medical treatments and procedures that are currently available, which I found helpful. I was hoping for a satisfying argument that would help me process what I believe about the issue and this book really didn't do that for me. It came across more like a source of information for those that have their mind made up and are looking for points with which to bolster what they already believe.
While it is obvious from the main text and the voluminous footnotes and bibliography that are included here that Branch has done his homework on the issue, I couldn't help but think that the book tries to cover too many bases for its somewhat brief space. Rather than giving brief overviews of the medical and psychological issues that are integral for mature understanding of the issue, I believe a better approach would have been for Branch to stick to the theological and ethical issues and to have found a physician or psychiatrist to collaborate with on the issues that are outside of his field of expertise.
Instead, the coverage of complex matters like causes of transgenderism, hormone therapy, gender reassignment surgery (his term), and approaches to handling the relational issues that the issue causes are given what seemed to be basic, inexhaustive coverage.
For me this was especially noticeable regarding the biblical and theological bases for not affirming transition. Branch gives a straightforward argument for why he believes Christians should oppose transitioning. He only casually mentions arguments in favor of it and really leaves one guessing at times about how he would respond to the arguments of those that take an affirming position.
The sections on the medical aspects of transgenderism and the consensus of opinion that has developed in favor of some form of transition is also not explored fully in my opinion. While he doesn't shy away from giving opinions about the medical communities supposedly quick recommendation to transition, there isn't any attempt to explain why the medical and psychiatric community has concluded that other therapeutic approaches don't work beyond stating that both groups have reached that conclusion. A robust argument against transitioning would take the time to fairly explain the reasoning of the opposing side.
The book is good at giving one an overview of the different medical treatments and procedures that are currently available, which I found helpful. I was hoping for a satisfying argument that would help me process what I believe about the issue and this book really didn't do that for me. It came across more like a source of information for those that have their mind made up and are looking for points with which to bolster what they already believe.
June 7, 2025
TLDR; A suitable text for the established Christian seeking to understand a broad and confusing topic. Perhaps lacking in some points of data. Philosophically and theologically sufficient. Lacking in some discussion points.
Perhaps the strongest point of Branch’s book is his abundance of citations and notes. He does very well at establishing paths for further reading on most claims laid out in this text, and puts forth a good faith effort to clarify his stance of most things discussed.
I do find the text lacking in a few areas, with little to no discussion surrounding particular topics or very broad conclusions accepted with little backdrop. I find this may be due to the assumed knowledge and stance of his target audience: Christians.
He is not writing from an unbiased perspective, and he acknowledges this. He makes very clear that he is writing as a Christian, to Christians, and not to a general audience seeking to understand an introductory level knowledge to scriptural teachings on transgenderism.
While he does not clearly state his personal beliefs on pronoun usage, his choice to focus on the interaction between Christians regarding the topic instead of offering an argument for or against their usage is wise. He does not claim to be an expert in the area of linguistics, but instead shifts the question from “should we use or not use pronouns?” to “how do I love and walk with my brother in Christ through a challenging topic?”. This is the heart of Christ.
Branch also focuses on the mercy that should be shown to those in the LGBTQ+ community, while maintaining biblical accuracy. I believe this is well done, but could be emphasized more; there’s always the chance that his stance will be used in a hateful manner, which is clearly not his intent. The Christian’s role is to simultaneously say “I love you” and “you’re wrong”.
Branch’s weakest position is likely the broadly undiscussed post-op psychology effects of GRS, wherein he claims a major discrepancy lies with the alleged satisfaction of the individuals, and their statistical outcomes. This undiscussed data may also be dependent on a comparison of worldviews, in which one is again based on subjectivity and the other on objective reality, which Branch does fairly well at covering.
Perhaps the strongest point of Branch’s book is his abundance of citations and notes. He does very well at establishing paths for further reading on most claims laid out in this text, and puts forth a good faith effort to clarify his stance of most things discussed.
I do find the text lacking in a few areas, with little to no discussion surrounding particular topics or very broad conclusions accepted with little backdrop. I find this may be due to the assumed knowledge and stance of his target audience: Christians.
He is not writing from an unbiased perspective, and he acknowledges this. He makes very clear that he is writing as a Christian, to Christians, and not to a general audience seeking to understand an introductory level knowledge to scriptural teachings on transgenderism.
While he does not clearly state his personal beliefs on pronoun usage, his choice to focus on the interaction between Christians regarding the topic instead of offering an argument for or against their usage is wise. He does not claim to be an expert in the area of linguistics, but instead shifts the question from “should we use or not use pronouns?” to “how do I love and walk with my brother in Christ through a challenging topic?”. This is the heart of Christ.
Branch also focuses on the mercy that should be shown to those in the LGBTQ+ community, while maintaining biblical accuracy. I believe this is well done, but could be emphasized more; there’s always the chance that his stance will be used in a hateful manner, which is clearly not his intent. The Christian’s role is to simultaneously say “I love you” and “you’re wrong”.
Branch’s weakest position is likely the broadly undiscussed post-op psychology effects of GRS, wherein he claims a major discrepancy lies with the alleged satisfaction of the individuals, and their statistical outcomes. This undiscussed data may also be dependent on a comparison of worldviews, in which one is again based on subjectivity and the other on objective reality, which Branch does fairly well at covering.
May 10, 2025
J. Alan Branch discusses transgenderism and gender dysphoria thoughtfully and compassionately in "Affirming God's Image." As an evangelical Christian, Branch aims to engage readers in a healthy and informed dialogue about these topics. He strives to present ideas fairly from the scientific, LGBTQ, and Christian communities.
Branch begins with a history of transgenderism before transitioning into typical language used in the transgender movement. He then engages in a discussion regarding Scripture's stance on gender and transgenderism. Following that, he dedicates several chapters to various scientific aspects and their connection to transgenderism, incorporating insights from current research. In this section, Branch fairly assesses the research, openly acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of various studies related to the body and transgenderism. He explores topics such as genetics, hormones, brain structure and chemistry, and gender reassignment surgery, examining the latest research findings and discussing whether they provide any indications of precursors to transgenderism or feelings of gender dysphoria.
In his final two chapters, he discusses how families and churches should thoughtfully consider how to lovingly care for children and adults identifying as transgender and experiencing gender dysphoria.
Overall, Branch approaches the topic with pastoral care, love, and fairness. This book is very helpful for anyone who wants to engage in serious and constructive conversations regarding transgenderism and gender dysphoria, particularly in the public square. It is not a tool to 'destroy the opposition' but rather an aid to thoughtfully enter the discussion compassionately, with a heart aimed at helping individuals discover their identity as image bearers created for the joy and glory of Jesus. This resource is undoubtedly valuable for counselors and pastors, as Branch effectively addresses issues throughout the entire process, including pre-puberty, adulthood, transitioning, de-transitioning, repentance, and faith.
Branch begins with a history of transgenderism before transitioning into typical language used in the transgender movement. He then engages in a discussion regarding Scripture's stance on gender and transgenderism. Following that, he dedicates several chapters to various scientific aspects and their connection to transgenderism, incorporating insights from current research. In this section, Branch fairly assesses the research, openly acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses of various studies related to the body and transgenderism. He explores topics such as genetics, hormones, brain structure and chemistry, and gender reassignment surgery, examining the latest research findings and discussing whether they provide any indications of precursors to transgenderism or feelings of gender dysphoria.
In his final two chapters, he discusses how families and churches should thoughtfully consider how to lovingly care for children and adults identifying as transgender and experiencing gender dysphoria.
Overall, Branch approaches the topic with pastoral care, love, and fairness. This book is very helpful for anyone who wants to engage in serious and constructive conversations regarding transgenderism and gender dysphoria, particularly in the public square. It is not a tool to 'destroy the opposition' but rather an aid to thoughtfully enter the discussion compassionately, with a heart aimed at helping individuals discover their identity as image bearers created for the joy and glory of Jesus. This resource is undoubtedly valuable for counselors and pastors, as Branch effectively addresses issues throughout the entire process, including pre-puberty, adulthood, transitioning, de-transitioning, repentance, and faith.
March 27, 2023
It can be hard to not compromise or to become hardened, but I greatly appreciated the consistent view of love for sinners to bring them to repentance in this book. How encouraging!
If you want a Scriptural breakdown and exegesis on gender binary and God’s design, this book will feel lacking. It is correct in its Scripture references, but it won’t walk you through the passage because this is not the book’s goal. This book is meant to be brief and clipped for a first ground understanding of science, ethics, and Scripture on the topic
It truly reads like a guide and/or thesis paper. It is straightforward, rightly descriptive, educated, and thoughtful. Not to mention, it demands a thoughtful response just from its content.
This book contains scientific studies and modestly breaks them down- as well as understanding their limitations and our needed response.
This book contains moral arguments and Scriptural evidence. While philosophy is there, it is in common man language.
This book contains real life situations and experiences. From antidotes of transgender people to the breakdown of GRS/hormone therapies/etc, it keeps the headiness of this discussion close to the grow.
I am truly thankful for this book as I love and call up lost friends as well as struggling brothers and sisters in Christ.
P.S. the index of studies in the back of the book is a great resource
If you want a Scriptural breakdown and exegesis on gender binary and God’s design, this book will feel lacking. It is correct in its Scripture references, but it won’t walk you through the passage because this is not the book’s goal. This book is meant to be brief and clipped for a first ground understanding of science, ethics, and Scripture on the topic
It truly reads like a guide and/or thesis paper. It is straightforward, rightly descriptive, educated, and thoughtful. Not to mention, it demands a thoughtful response just from its content.
This book contains scientific studies and modestly breaks them down- as well as understanding their limitations and our needed response.
This book contains moral arguments and Scriptural evidence. While philosophy is there, it is in common man language.
This book contains real life situations and experiences. From antidotes of transgender people to the breakdown of GRS/hormone therapies/etc, it keeps the headiness of this discussion close to the grow.
I am truly thankful for this book as I love and call up lost friends as well as struggling brothers and sisters in Christ.
P.S. the index of studies in the back of the book is a great resource
January 22, 2020
In today's culture it's imperative as Christians to stay abreast of what is happening in society. As society keeps changing the wording of male and female and our identities and becoming gender fluid we must remain strong in our faith and who we are in the image of Christ and still loving our neighbors and sharing God's truth. This book comes highly recommended for all Christians to read whether you know someone who is dealing with transgender issues or not.
May 22, 2020
An excellent little overview volume on thinking through transgender issues as a Christian. Branch's approach leans more heavily on the science than Scripture part of his subtitle, though that's not a criticism. He has done his homework and surveys a number of scientific topics (genetics and transgenderism, the brain and transgenderism, etc.) and provides concise summaries of the literature in each, with Christian evaluations throughout.
January 17, 2021
While this covers Christian ethics concerning this topic, there is also a great deal of scientific research that went into it. This is a very good comprehensive overview of the transgender movement. It's a good foundation for families or individuals wondering what to make of this movement and how to approach it in a Christian manner, lovingly but not compromising on scripture.
April 24, 2021
God and Bible driven approach. The book leads with compasion and empathy while remaining true to Scripture. Dr. Branch provides data and Scripture while holisitically covering transgender questions. Recommend for pastors and all people.
May 3, 2023
A very helpful volume given the age we are in. I feel that any person who wants to have a rational discussion on this issue should read this book. It compels the reader to wrestle with the ethics and Scriptural principles that go with this issue. Highly recommend!
December 6, 2023
This is a fair and balance approach to the transgender debate. I would highly recommend it.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews