At our April 2024 CIFT Ministry Training, Dr. Mark Yarhouse invited pastors and ministry leaders into a thoughtful and gracious conversation about gender identity. Rather than reacting to cultural pressures, he encouraged us to respond with biblical clarity, informed understanding, and pastoral care.
Across three sessions, Dr. Yarhouse helped us think theologically, understand current research, and reflect on what faithful engagement looks like in everyday ministry. Below is a brief overview of each session and an invitation to continue learning.
Session 1 - A Bigger Biblical Story
Dr. Yarhouse began by placing sexuality within the full story of Scripture: Creation, Fall, Redemption, and Glorification. Within that framework, he described sexuality as designed to bring life, to unite husband and wife in covenant love, and to point us toward our ultimate union with Christ.
He also explained why Christians often approach these issues differently. Some emphasize creational design. Others focus on compassion in light of the Fall. Still others reflect broader cultural views. Understanding these starting points helps pastors lead conversations with greater patience and insight.
Rather than allowing policies or cultural debates to dominate the discussion, Dr. Yarhouse urged churches to cast a positive vision for flourishing. Many congregations struggle to articulate how someone navigating same sex attraction or gender dysphoria can thrive within a Christian community. That challenge calls for prayerful leadership and renewed discipleship.
Listen to the full audio of Session One to explore the biblical framework and practical guidance in greater depth.
Session 2 - Understanding the Complexity Beneath the Conversation
In the second session, Dr. Yarhouse addressed the scientific and developmental questions that often shape these conversations. He emphasized that there is no single, proven cause of sexual orientation or gender identity. Research into biological and environmental factors offers insights, but no simple explanation.
He described a multiple pathways model, reminding us that each person’s story is unique. For many young people, there is also a significant gap between first experiencing same sex attraction and telling someone. Those years can be marked by isolation and shame. Churches that cultivate safety and honesty can help close that gap.
Dr. Yarhouse also discussed changing trends in gender identity and the meaningful role of peer groups and digital culture in shaping how identity is understood and expressed. Throughout the session, he called leaders to hold conviction and compassion together.
To hear the full discussion of research, trends, and pastoral implications, listen to the audio from Session Two.
Session Three: Becoming a Cultural Ambassador
In the final session, the focus shifted from information to posture. Dr. Yarhouse encouraged leaders to move beyond combative or compromising responses and instead become cultural ambassadors who represent the Kingdom of God with clarity and kindness.
He described different levels of engagement, from public activists to private ministry seekers to everyday neighbors. Each requires wisdom, humility, and a commitment to relationship. He also outlined practical ministry models that prioritize personal congruence, spiritual formation, and thoughtful care for those experiencing gender dysphoria.
A key theme was simple but profound: discipleship comes first. We do not wait for every question to be resolved before inviting someone deeper into life with Christ. As people grow in relationship with Him, the Holy Spirit continues His faithful work.
Listen to the full audio of Session Three to hear more about the Cultural Ambassador posture and practical ministry frameworks.
A Continuing Invitation
Conversations around gender identity are already present in our congregations, youth ministries, and families. This training was not about winning arguments. It was about shepherding people well.
We pray these sessions encourage you to lead with biblical conviction, patient listening, and the steady love of Christ. If you were not able to attend, or if you would like to revisit the content with your team, we invite you to listen to the full recordings and continue the conversation together.