Sex. Gender. Sexuality.
These words used to be cut and dry. They had set definitions that reflected scientific facts about the human body, but over the past few years these terms have slowly been changing in everyday conversation. People are now making bold choices and identifying with the opposite sex, changing their gender and declaring their sexuality.
The most recent development in the news is the idea of gender-neutral bathrooms, dressing rooms and locker rooms. Businesses and universities are taking stances on this issue and changing signs to make their bathrooms non-exclusive. The idea of the gender-neutral bathroom is getting lots of attention from all people. Some people are praising this as being modern and accepting while others are outraged at the idea. Is this confusing time, how does a conservative Christ-loving college student respond?
It's so difficult to respond to issues like these as a Christian. You don't want to start an all-out argument, but you also want to share your biblical views. It's hard to respond to these topics in a way that shows Christ, but doesn't let people walk all over the faith. As a Christian in today's world, I think it is important that we do respond to these issues. But we have to be tactful. Ranting on Facebook or firing off a tweet about your anger towards this is not a good idea. Hot issues like these don't need to be discussed where words can be taken out of context easily. These conversations need to happen in person, where you can say what you mean and walk people through your views. Now, I'm not saying you can never share an article that talks about it, but just be careful and don't type something that could instigate an argument.
As Christians, we are called to be a light to the world. God did not tell us to run our mouths and judge people and companies because of their decisions. I know boycotts are starting to circle the internet for companies like Target, that have declared gender-neutral bathrooms. If you feel like this is the best way to share your Christian faith, then don't shop there. But take time to consider a more purposeful way to share your faith. In a fallen world, ugly things are going to happen. It gets messy and the world doesn't get any better. It just keeps on falling. It's the idea of entropy. The world is slowly going to decay and more chaos will happen. This is a physical phenomenon, and as Christians, we know this is how it's going to happen according to the Bible.
So if it comes up in daily conversation, work your faith into it. Explain why you feel and believe what you do. Don't judge others, because that is not our place. And learn that maybe the best way to combat a fallen world is just to shine brighter for Christ. Light only goes further the darker it is.
Oh, and start using the family bathrooms.
