Should Christians Use Preferred Pronouns?

In our culture today, there appears to be a new trend toward using ‘preferred pronouns.’ And, instead of the traditional male or female labels based on biological sex, some people use ‘preferred pronouns’ that match their ‘gender identity.’

According to a Pew Research Center survey, about 1.6% of American adults and 5% of younger adults identify as transgender or nonbinary. Moreover, 26% of American adults say they know someone who uses gender-neutral pronouns.

This shift has led to some serious legal implications, with institutions like the National Institutes of Health, saying that it’s a form of harassment and a civil rights violation if you intentionally refuse to use a person’s chosen pronouns. In New York City, you might even be fined if you repeatedly ignore someone’s pronouns. What in the world is going on? Should Christians be abiding by these new gender pronouns?

Read: Demonic Principality Behind the Gay Agenda

5 Things to Consider with Preferred Pronouns

1. It is a Coercion of Free Speech

Freedom of speech is a fundamental right in the Constitution of the United States. As a result, the use of preferred pronouns becomes contentious when it feels more like a demand rather than a request. Renowned psychologist, Jordan Peterson, explains why he refuses to use preferred pronouns in a video, where he expresses concern over the potential encroachment on free speech rights.

2. Happiness Shouldn’t Depend on External Approval

In addition, while it’s important to respect others, personal happiness shouldn’t hinge solely on external validation. A University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee article states that using incorrect pronouns can lead to feelings of disrespect and alienation. However, it also raises the question:

3. It Goes Against Biblical Teachings

The Bible is clear in Genesis 1:27 that God created man and woman–male and female.

When Christians use preferred pronouns that don’t align with one’s biological sex, they are actually endorsing ideas contrary to the Word of God.

4. Living By The Truth Is a Form of Witnessing

There’s a need to resist the cultural pressure to conform, especially if it is a departure from God’s teachings. Emphasizing truth is a central tenet of our faith, as referenced in scriptures like 1 Corinthians 13:6 and Ephesians 4:15.

5. Purposeful Conflict Should Be Avoided

Romans 12:18 encourages Christians to live peaceably with all. Therefore, while it’s important to stand by the truth, it doesn’t mean causing unnecessary offense or being rude.

We are to speak the truth in love (Ephesians 4:15).

Footnotes:

1. Sexual Diversity Education, 2023. https://www.sexualdiversity.org/edu/1111.php
2. Pew Research Center, 2022. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2022/06/07/about-5-of-young-adults-in-the-u-s-say-their-gender-is-different-from-their-sex-assigned-at-birth/
3. National Institutes of Health, n.d. https://dpcpsi.nih.gov/sgmro/gender-pronouns-resource#:~:text=Intentional%20refusal%20to%20use%20someone’s,%2C%20sex%2C%20and%20national%20origin
4. Snopes, n.d. https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/transgender-pronouns-fine-nyc/ ↩
5. Jordan Peterson on why he refuses to use special pronouns
6. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee