The Bible doesn’t directly address the concept of being intersex, but it speaks to the value and dignity of all people, regardless of their physical differences. God’s love and acceptance extend to everyone, and Scripture teaches us to embrace each person as uniquely created. Let’s see how biblical principles of love and identity apply to the intersex community.
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What Does The Bible Say About Intersex
Genesis 1:27
“So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them.”
This verse reflects the divine intention for humanity to be created in the image of God as both male and female. It emphasizes that every human being, including those who are intersex, is valued and loved by God.
By stating that God created them male and female, it acknowledges that there is a spectrum of human diversity, including intersex variations. This verse reminds us that our identity and worth are not determined solely by our biological characteristics, but by our status as children of God.
Matthew 19:12
“For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others—and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.”
This verse speaks to the existence of individuals who are born with physical differences or who undergo changes to their bodies. It validates the experiences of intersex individuals and acknowledges that their journey is known and accepted by God.
Furthermore, it suggests that some individuals may choose to live in celibacy or choose a different path for the sake of their spiritual commitment. This verse encourages empathy, understanding, and acceptance of the diversity that exists within humanity.
Mark 10:6-8
“But at the beginning of creation God ‘made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh.”
This passage refers to the creation narrative and affirms the binary understanding of male and female. However, it is essential to note that while the verse specifically mentions male and female, it does not exclude or invalidate the existence of intersex individuals.
Intersex individuals are still part of God’s creation and are deserving of love, respect, and understanding. This verse primarily emphasizes the unity and commitment within a marital relationship, but it does not diminish the value or worth of individuals who do not fit within this specific framework.
Matthew 19:4-5
“Haven’t you read,” he replied, “that at the beginning the Creator ‘made them male and female,’ and said, ‘For this reason, a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and the two will become one flesh’?”
In this passage, Jesus references the creation account to emphasize the institution of marriage between a man and a woman. While it may seem exclusive, it is essential to remember that the focus here is on marriage rather than the broader concept of gender or sexual identity.
Intersex individuals, like all others, may also enter into loving and committed relationships within the framework of God’s grace and guidance. It is crucial to approach this verse with an open heart and mind, seeking to understand the broader teachings of Jesus regarding love, compassion, and acceptance.
Psalm 139:13-15
“For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. My frame was not hidden from you when I was made in the secret place when I was woven together in the depths of the earth.”
This beautiful psalm celebrates the intricate and intentional creation of every individual by God. It highlights the unique and awe-inspiring nature of each person, including intersex individuals.
God’s work in the womb is not limited to conforming to societal norms or expectations but encompasses a diverse range of possibilities. This verse affirms that all people, regardless of their biological variations, are fearfully and wonderfully made in the eyes of God.
1 Corinthians 12:12-14
“Just as a body, though one, has many parts, but all its many parts form one body, so it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body—whether Jews or Gentiles, slave or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Even so, the body is not made up of one part but of many.”
This passage speaks to the unity and diversity that exists within the Body of Christ. It illustrates how different members, regardless of their backgrounds or identities, contribute to the overall functioning and beauty of the body.
Intersex individuals, with their unique experiences and identities, are an integral part of the diverse fabric of God’s people. They are embraced and valued as equal members in the Body of Christ, called to serve and contribute to the growth and well-being of the community of believers.
Galatians 3:28
“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”
This powerful verse transcends societal divisions and emphasizes the equality and unity that believers share in Christ. It challenges traditional notions of gender and affirms that our identity as followers of Jesus supersedes any worldly categories or expectations.
Intersex individuals, like all others, are called to embrace their identity in Christ and find acceptance within the community of believers. This verse serves as a reminder that our worth and significance are not determined by gender or any other societal constructs, but by our connection to Jesus Christ.
Psalm 46:1
“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
This verse reassures us of God’s constant presence and support in times of difficulty. It reminds us that we can find comfort and solace in God, regardless of the challenges we face.
For intersex individuals who may encounter unique struggles or experiences, this verse offers them a sense of hope and security in knowing that God is there to protect, guide, and strengthen them. They can rely on God’s unfailing love and find refuge in their Creator.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
In this verse, Moses encourages the Israelites to find strength and courage in their faith, knowing that God is with them. It serves as a reminder that God’s presence and support are unwavering, even in the face of fear or adversity.
For intersex individuals who may face challenges in understanding their identity or finding acceptance, this verse offers them reassurance that they are not alone. God is by their side, providing them with the strength and courage to navigate any difficulties they may encounter.
Isaiah 41:10
“So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
These comforting words from the prophet Isaiah remind us that God’s presence brings comfort and assurance, dispelling our fears and worries. It assures intersex individuals that God is their strength and helper, fully capable of sustaining them through any struggles they may face.
They are reminded that their worth and identity are rooted in God’s love and that they can find strength in knowing that God is holding them securely with His righteous right hand.
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing, and perfect will.”
Paul’s exhortation in this verse urges believers to resist the pressures and expectations of the world and instead seek transformation through the renewing of their minds in alignment with God’s will.
Intersex individuals, who often face societal misunderstandings and expectations, can find solace in this verse. It encourages them to focus on understanding and aligning themselves with God’s purpose for their lives, rather than conforming to societal norms or expectations.
John 3:16
“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
This famous verse captures the essence of God’s love and sacrifice for humanity. It emphasizes that God’s love is all-encompassing, extending to everyone, including intersex individuals.
As God’s beloved creation, intersex individuals are assured that they too can partake in the eternal life promised through faith in Jesus Christ. It is a reminder that God’s love transcends all human understanding or limitations and is available to all who believe.
1 Samuel 16:7
“But the Lord said to Samuel, ‘Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.’”
In this verse, God reminds Samuel that appearances are not the basis for true value and worth. God’s perspective is far different from that of humans, who tend to judge based on superficial attributes.
Intersex individuals are reminded that their worth and identity are not contingent on external appearances or societal expectations. Instead, their true value lies in the essence of their hearts and their relationship with God, who sees and cherishes them for who they are at their core.
Romans 14:1-4
“Accept the one whose faith is weak, without quarreling over disputable matters. One person’s faith allows them to eat anything, but another, whose faith is weak, eats only vegetables. The one who eats everything must not treat with contempt the one who does not, and the one who does not eat everything must not judge the one who does, for God has accepted them. Who are you to judge someone else’s servant? To their own master, servants stand or fall. And they will stand, for the Lord is able to make them stand.”
Paul’s admonition in this passage calls believers to accept and embrace one another, even when differences of opinion or practice arise. It emphasizes the need for unity and love within the body of Christ.
Intersex individuals, like any other believers, should be welcomed and valued within the church community, without judgment or condemnation. This verse encourages Christ’s followers to prioritize love and understanding over disputes on matters that are not central to one’s faith.
2 Corinthians 5:17
“Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!”
This verse declares the transformative power of being in Christ. It emphasizes that becoming a follower of Jesus leads to a complete renewal and transformation of one’s identity.
For intersex individuals who may struggle with understanding their identity or feeling accepted by society, this verse offers hope. It assures them that through their faith in Christ, they can fully embrace their new identity as beloved children of God, free from the constraints of their past experiences or societal definitions.
Jeremiah 1:5
“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations.”
This verse speaks to God’s intimate knowledge and purpose for each individual even before they are born. It affirms that God has a unique plan and purpose for intersex individuals, just as He does for anyone else.
Intersex individuals can find comfort in knowing that they were intentionally created by God and are set apart for a specific purpose. Their identity and worth are not defined by societal norms or expectations but by God’s divine calling and affirmation.
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
“Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
This verse reminds believers that their bodies are sacred dwelling places for the Holy Spirit. It calls for the recognition that our bodies belong to God and should be used to honor and serve Him.
Intersex individuals are encouraged to view their bodies as divine creations, formed by God, and therefore worthy of honor and respect. It’s a reminder to value and care for themselves, embracing their unique identity and purpose as they seek to honor God in all aspects of their lives.
Psalm 118:6
“The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”
In tough times, this verse reminds us that we have God by our side, instilling courage and quelling our fears. It reaffirms our confidence in God’s protection and sovereignty.
For intersex individuals who may face discrimination or misunderstanding, this verse serves as an encouragement to remain steadfast in their faith. It assures them that with God as their ally, they need not fear the opinions or actions of mere mortals.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
This verse implores believers to place their complete trust in God and rely on His wisdom rather than their limited understanding. It emphasizes the importance of surrender and submission to God’s guidance in all aspects of life.
Intersex individuals, like anyone else, are encouraged to trust in the Lord and seek His direction in their journey. By entrusting their lives to God, they can find assurance that He will guide their paths and provide clarity amidst uncertainty.
Romans 8:38-39
“For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”
This powerful passage affirms the unbreakable nature of God’s love for us. It assures us that nothing in creation, including our own struggles or circumstances, can separate us from His love.
Intersex individuals, like everyone else, can find solace in the assurance that God’s love is unwavering and limitless. Through faith in Jesus Christ, they can confidently embrace their identity and find comfort in the knowledge that they are unconditionally loved by their Creator.
Isaiah 43:1
“But now, this is what the Lord says—he who created you, Jacob, he who formed you, Israel: ‘Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.’”
This verse assures believers that they are known and cherished by God. It reminds them that they belong to Him and are redeemed from fear or insecurity.
For intersex individuals, this verse holds particular significance. It serves as a reminder that they are not forgotten or overlooked but are intimately known and called by name by God. They are part of a wider community of believers and cherished by their heavenly Father.
Psalm 27:1
“The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear? The Lord is the stronghold of my life—of whom shall I be afraid?”
In this verse, the psalmist acknowledges God as their source of strength and deliverance. It speaks to the confidence that believers can have in God’s protection and guidance, dispelling all fears and doubts.
For intersex individuals who may face adversity or challenges, this verse provides them with a steadfast foundation. It reminds them that they can lean on God, embracing their true identity without fear or shame, knowing that the Lord is their refuge and fortress.
2 Corinthians 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.”
Paul’s words in this passage acknowledge God as the ultimate source of comfort and compassion. It highlights that God’s comfort not only sustains us in our own trials but equips us to comfort and support others.
Intersex individuals can find solace in knowing that God is there to provide them with comfort, understanding, and strength in their unique journey. Moreover, through their own experiences, they are called to extend compassion and support to fellow believers who may be facing their own struggles.
John 16:33
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
Jesus speaks these words to His disciples, assuring them of His victory over the troubles of the world and the peace that they can find in Him. He acknowledges that trials and challenges are an inevitable part of life.
This verse offers comfort and encouragement to intersex individuals who may face struggles and adversity. It reminds them that they are not alone in their tribulations. Through faith in Jesus, they can find peace and take heart, knowing that their Savior has overcome the world.