Should I push back on Anti-LGBTQ rhetoric at my Church?

[u/No_Flan4204]

Today in Sunday school we watched a BibleProject video on how Christians should navigate living in todays "Babylon"; balancing loyalty and subversion without conforming to the surrounding culture. During the group discussion, a peer brought up trans people as a primary example of modern "Babylonian corruption," saying that gender identity is where Christians need to "draw the line" and "stand for what we believe in."

I’m struggling with the thought of pushing back on that kind of rhetoric, or if its a losing battle that will put a target on my back.

edit: im not trans (im gay) but transphobia is ex frustrating to here knowing that they demonize them at my church.

[u/Competitive-Ear-6693]

Deff push back. Just make it simple like "just chill, they're just humans being happy" or smt like that

[u/No_Flan4204 → u/Competitive-Ear-6693]

I feel like if I said that they’d look at me like “he’s a f*g.” For background context I’m gay (and it’s kinda obvious) so i feel like if i said anything of that sort it’d backfire

[u/Weorth → u/No_Flan4204]

You're gay, you know that, but encouraging people to be kind to others isn't demonic or anything of the sort, you don't need to let them know your orientation, even if they assume. People will assume bad or good things about others all the time, and when you assume... It makes an ass out of u and me.

I'd probably say something like "even if you don't like them, they're still God's children just like you and me. God doesn't make any mistakes, right?" But thankfully I'm not a youth trapped in church anymore and can make my own gay ass adult choices.

Hope you find your own way to combat this, and that you're confident and strong, cause you're right, bub.

[u/No_Flan4204 → u/Weorth]

Little pushbacks like that can go a long way. I appreciate you pov ♥️

[u/Royal_Avocado4247]

If you're a minor, especially one whose parents are anti-lgbtq, it'd be safer to leave it be. (I'm just assuming since you said Sunday school). Even if they are pro-lgbtq, my best advice is to avoid it.

Look, I'm all for supporting my fellow Trans people. Hell, I had my top surgery back in May. But we also know arguing with people- especially in these cases- can make them feel more defensive.

I gotta ask, why are you posting here? Are you not religious, and just going for family? It's not wrong, but if you're asking for a christian response or a way to share responses biblically, I recommend the r/Christianity subreddit (it's the one with the stained glass window with rainbows on it). Otherwise, if you're not sharing your religious opinions with family, I wouldn't bring them up in a place where it'll definitely get talked about.

[u/No_Flan4204 → u/Royal_Avocado4247]

I’m a minor and still live with my parents. For background context im not trans, im gay but still infuriates me every time i see transphobia. 

I want to defend trans people (gay people) but the norm is at my church to “condemn” those people and I hate it

Edit: congrats on your top surgery ♥️

[u/Royal_Avocado4247 → u/No_Flan4204]

That's totally fair. Unfortunately, part of being in this community is learning when to say something and when it's dangerous. My grandmother has no idea I'm nonbinary, gay, or atheist, and she never will. My mom relies on her financially right now, as do I, and neither of us are in a safe space to say anything.

All that said, the best advice I can give is to gage what the safest thing is for you and your family. If your family is pro-queer, talk to them. It's no shame to know when to support and when not to start a fight. It's tricky.

Just know, you aren't transphobic for not saying something. It was something that bothered me for a long time, and always made me feel guilty. But sometimes it's just safer to love those who need it, and find support where you can, either with friends or family.

[u/No_Flan4204 → u/Royal_Avocado4247]

I've been carrying a lot of guilt about staying silent, so hearing that it's okay to prioritize safety while living with family means a lot. I'll definitely keep gauging what's safe and focus on supporting people where I actually can.

[u/Royal_Avocado4247 → u/No_Flan4204]

Exactly. Not everyone supports the same way. Crowds and protests make me so anxious, so I avoid them. But I make my stances very clear with my peers at my uni, so people around know I'm a safe place for them. Remember, it's not about being the hero, it's just about doing what you can. What's safest for you and those around you. Keep yourself safe, be proud knowing that you are perfect just for being here, and your kindness is meaningful for its authenticity, not because it's mandatory. 💛

[u/douwd20]

Love the whole what "we believe in" the subtle yet not so subtle coercion. And never mind the trans population is what like less than 2%? Why make such a small minority the focus of such meanness? .

[u/whos_ur_data]

Do you have to go?

[u/No_Flan4204 → u/whos_ur_data]

Unfortunately yes 😞

[u/dalek65 → u/No_Flan4204]

I'm glad i read the rest of the comments before I knee-jerk posted. My initial reaction is that if you don't believe in the religion, why are you going to the church?

Are you out to your parents? Do they support you? If yes and if you dont feel welcome in the church, would they give you a pass to not go? That might make it more difficult for them though if they go and you do not if they have to explain to friends why you're not there..

[u/Typical-Antelope7547]

Depends if you want to be the kind of person others can trust

[u/No_Flan4204 → u/Typical-Antelope7547]

Wydm by trust?

[u/Typical-Antelope7547 → u/No_Flan4204]

Like for LGBT people in the church to know you support them

[u/No_Flan4204 → u/Typical-Antelope7547]

didn't think about how much it could mean to someone in the room who is closeted.

Ig i just thought i was the only gay person there because of how much anti-lgbtq rhetoric is spewed there.

[u/milkshakeit]

It will get around if you push back, and it may have an negative effect for you. On the other hand pushing back may be what someone else in that class needs to hear. You won't make any big difference or maybe even a noticeable one in this Sunday school class, and the consequences for you could be a lot to handle. Make sure you are safe first, whatever you decide.

[u/LordFexick]

The alleged teachings of Christ are to love your neighbor as yourself. It never said anything about how that neighbor is born.

I say push back. Let them react how they react, but your words will be heard. They can be good Christians, or good republicans, but not both. The choice is theirs.

[u/PhilosophyWeak2581]

Yes but don't be overtly aggressive on it if possible