Same-sex attraction, sexual identity and transgender are some of the most discussed matters in society today. Transgender thinking seems to have crept up on us so stealthily and rapidly that the Church has been caught on the back foot in its response. When these responses are made, they can be ill-informed, defensive, and overly negative. This book is therefore a welcome breath of fresh air in the debate.
What makes it so useful?
Firstly, it emerges from of the author’s own story of wrestling with his identity as a child, when he felt that he was a “girl trapped in a boy’s body”, then as a teenager, when he began to experience same-sex attraction. The is great value in these issues being addressed by someone who has been an “insider”, who is able to identify with the sense of conflict, confusion, and distress that flows from a sexual identity crisis.
Secondly, it emphasises the better story of the gospel narrative, that enables people to see themselves differently, defined not by themselves, or society but by God.
This better story is described by Bunt as a welcome by God and his people that brings genuine freedom contentment and security. There are several books that speak about what is wrong with embracing a same-sex or transgender lifestyle, this is a welcome corrective that highlights the beauty of the gospel offer.
Thirdly, the book reminds us that sexuality, and particularly marriage, is a signpost that points to a greater reality, union with Christ. Bunt writes about how as a same sex-attracted Christian, he can follow the teaching of Christ on sexual purity, sustained by the reality of being in Christ.
This would be a useful book to read for any parent, teacher, pastor, or young person uncertain about their identity.
John Woods is a writer and Bible teacher based in West Sussex. He is Director of Training at the School of Preachers in Riga, Latvia.
- IVP
- ISBN 978-1789744200
- £8.99
- 122 pages
