The Body God Gives: A Biblical Response to Transgender Theory

“In this judicious work, Dr. Smith tackles a question that tends to generate more heat than light, and leads us more fully into the light. His wide-ranging effort to root the transgender question in the deep structures of creation (and, to some extent, eschatology) reflects a commendable, necessary commitment to think today with the Scriptures rather than beyond them. This alone―alongside many other grounds for praise―suggests this work will prove useful and edifying beyond the demands of our particular moment.”

“In the rapidly expanding literature on this topic, no volume of which I am aware combines, as this one does, careful unpacking of the opening chapters of Genesis, thoughtful interaction with the views of other scholars (not least those with whom he disagrees), and good writing that makes this volume a joy to read. Don’t bother picking up this book if all you want is a crisp slogan or two. But if you want judicious arguments that reflect years of work grounded in exact and compassionate reading of the evidence, this is the book to read.”

“In this genuinely compassionate and deeply convictional work, Robert Smith offers a serious and thoughtful engagement with modern gender theory and transgender claims. Smith affirms the truth that both Scripture and Christian theology confirm that our Creator reveals our gender in our bodies. Christians will deeply appreciate his scholarship and his courage.”

“The breadth of this book is stunning! All conclusions are biblically grounded, theologically sound, person affirming, and God honoring. The Body God Gives has my highest recommendation!”

“This is an in-depth, fair-minded, and delightfully clear examination of contemporary trans and gender theories. There are no ‘straw men’ to be found here. That this book also includes a compelling account of biblical theological anthropology makes it a must-read for Christians who desire thoughtful and faithful engagement on these questions.”

“This volume is required reading for anyone who is serious about understanding how the Bible speaks to contemporary conversations of sex and gender.”

“This is a remarkably gracious, insightful, and clear book on a highly contested issue in the Western world today. Robert Smith combines the analysis of a scholar and the heart of a pastor, and done us all a terrific service in the process. Very highly recommended.”

“This book tackles complicated issues with analytic rigour. The conclusions are not reached lightly but follow careful biblical reasoning. An important addition to a difficult debate.”

“In this fine book, Robert Smith makes an important contribution to a vexed subject. His approach to transgenderism assumes a high view of biblical authority, engages the rel- evant social sciences adroitly and is judicious in its judgments and tone. An important contribution in this cultural moment.”

“Questions of sex, gender, and identity are the hot topics of our age, and often leave Christians confused. Rob Smith leads us through the wilds of transgender theories and evangelical responses and offers a careful theological discussion grounded in Scripture and shaped by the gospel of Christ—just what we need at present. While not a ‘how to’ guide for pastoral care or public engagement, The Body God Gives sets out a secure basis for both.”

“This book provides an excellent biblical and theological assessment of the transgender movement, and of the long-term sociocultural influences which have made transgender self-identification not just plausible but attractively fashionable today. It is therefore a valuable resource for those who want to―or find they need to―discuss and debate issues associated with transgender identity. Its clear articulation of the issues makes it a good reference tool for those who are confronted with these issues and need to make a quick but well-informed response to them.”