In today’s rapidly changing cultural landscape, it is becoming even more important for the church to defend our younger generation by teaching and standing firm on the foundational truths of Scripture. One of the most contentious topics of our day is the issue of “transgenderism,” particularly among children and teens. As I listened to one of Frank Turek’s recent podcasts on this topic with guests Alisa Childers and Natasha Crain, it seems more and more churches are grappling with this issue even in their youth groups.

While I found myself in agreement with much of what I heard in the podcast, there was one particular part that stood out that demonstrates an unsettling trend in the contemporary church—a complete lack of understanding of the purpose of the Church. While there was plenty of good advice for parents and church leaders who may find themselves dealing with a youth grappling with the sin of “transgenderism,” the implication from this podcast was that despite this open rebellion against God, it’s still “good” that these youth are part of the youth group so that they can at least hear the truth. So, the question is: should children or teens who openly embrace “transgenderism” should be allowed to participate in church youth groups?

First, we must understand what the church is. The Greek term for church, ekklesia, implies a “called-out assembly” or “congregation.” The church, as described in the New Testament, is a distinct body of believers set apart for God’s service and glory. In 1 Peter 2:9, Peter describes the church as a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession.” While the church is to be a sanctuary for the truth, it is most definitely not simply a social gathering or a place for people to explore their spiritual journey. It’s a community of regenerated believers, distinct from the world, unified by their faith in Jesus Christ.

Youth groups, as part of the church, should be sanctuaries where young believers and children of believers are being discipled and grounded in biblical truth. These groups exist to help mold the next generation of church leaders and church members, equipping them with the necessary spiritual tools to stand firm in their faith amidst worldly temptations. Those who are not yet believers are the mission field, not active participants in ministry.

Scripture is clear that open rebellion and unrepentant sin have no place within the church body. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 5:11, “But now I am writing to you not to associate with anyone who bears the name of brother if he is guilty of sexual immorality or greed, or is an idolater, reviler, drunkard, or swindler—not even to eat with such a one.” From this perspective, allowing people, especially youth, who openly defy God’s design for sexuality (or engage in any unrepentant sin) to participate in church ministries compromises the church’s sanctity. Paul then commands the church in verse 13 to “purge” these people from among the ranks of the Church.

Children and teenagers are impressionable. Allowing youth who openly embrace a lifestyle contradictory to biblical teachings into these youth groups might inadvertently promote acceptance of such a lifestyle among other members. Peer pressure is potent at this age, and the danger lies in the normalization of unbiblical practices.

Correction and discipleship are critical components of Christian growth. If children and teens who are practicing this open rebellion to God are permitted in youth groups without appropriate church discipline, it can inadvertently signal the church’s approval of their choices. This is not about being unwelcoming but ensuring that church teachings remain uncompromised.

While it’s often understood that general worship services can remain open to everyone, including those caught in unrepentant sin, it’s important to distinguish between attending service and being part of a church ministry. Hearing the gospel preached is an opportunity for repentance and if the church is doing its job of preaching the truth, either repentance or purging will happen naturally. However, while we understand that not all youth in churches have yet to be born again and profess their faith, active participation in youth groups should at the very least require a commitment to living by biblical standards.

The bigger issue here is the motivation by some of these churches and youth leaders for allowing this kind of sin to take place in youth ministries. Youth pastors are sadly mistaken if they believe that by simply allowing “transgenders” to be a part of the youth group and feel “welcomed” is going to eventually change them. Even if that’s the intention, it is ill-conceived. The only thing that will change their hearts is a conviction by the Holy Spirit through the preaching of the unadulterated Word of God. If these kids who are rebelling against God by practicing the sin of “transgenderism” aren’t uncomfortable in youth group, or they feel “welcome” and “accepted,” then the church isn’t doing its job of proclaiming the truth. It’s that simple.

The church’s primary responsibility is to uphold the teachings of Scripture, even when it’s counter-cultural. While it’s necessary to approach everyone, including those in unrepentant sin, with love and compassion and a desire to see them come to faith, it’s equally essential to ensure that the core principles and teachings of the church are not compromised. The church must walk this delicate balance of maintaining doctrinal and moral purity while extending the love of Christ to all.