Transvestite: Dressing as Another Gender
Why does Scripture speak so directly about clothing and gender? This article explores what cross-dressing involves, the biblical pattern for male and female distinction, and how believers can respond with both conviction and compassion.
Understanding the Term
A transvestite, also called a cross-dresser, is typically a man who derives pleasure from dressing in clothes primarily associated with the opposite gender. Motivations vary from person to person: for some it is a private habit, for others an expression of how they feel inside, and for others still it is bound up with deeper struggles over identity.
The Biblical Perspective
God states that such behaviour is wrong (Deut 22:5). It obscures the unique distinction between male and female, and it gives the deceptive impression of appearing to be someone they are not, and it has the potential to promote homosexuality (Gen 1:27). We are created as male or female and should act and dress according to the prevailing customs for the gender God has ordained for us, rather than rebelling by doing what is unnatural. However, this does not forbid women from wearing slacks designed for women (Rom 1:24-27).
God created two distinct genders, male and female
Both genders should dress appropriately with modesty. Modesty is not merely a rule about hemlines or necklines; it is a heart attitude that refuses to draw attention to oneself, seeking instead to honour God and edify others. Paul instructs women to adorn themselves "in modest apparel, with shamefacedness and sobriety", not with elaborate hairstyles, gold, pearls or costly clothing, but rather with the incorruptible beauty of a meek and quiet spirit and a life marked by good works (1 Tim 2:9-10; 1 Pet 3:3-4).
The same principle applies to men: clothing that is revealing, ostentatious or designed to provoke desire is just as out of place on a man as on a woman. To dress appropriately also means dressing in a way that accords with one's God-given gender and with the prevailing customs of one's own culture and occasion, avoiding both extravagance and carelessness, so that "all things be done decently and in order" (1 Cor 14:40). In short, our clothing should quietly testify that our identity and worth rest in Christ, not in the impression our appearance makes.
Modesty is an attitude of the heart, expressed in dress and conduct
Responding with Grace and Truth
It is not our place to judge those who dress this way; that judgment belongs to God alone. Jesus never turns people away: although He may not approve of their lifestyle, He has the power to transform those who repent and cooperate with Him.
Believers are called to speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15), avoiding mockery or dismissal, and to point every struggler to the grace that restores. This includes befriending them warmly while not condoning sin: we can show genuine friendship, care and acceptance of the person, yet continue to hold to God's standard, just as Jesus befriended sinners without approving of their sin.
Speak the truth in love – Ephesians 4:15
Reflection and Application
- Thank God for creating you male or female by design.
- Dress modestly and appropriately for the gender God made you.
- Avoid mocking or dismissing those who struggle in this area; speak the truth in love instead.
- Remember it is not our place to judge; that judgment belongs to God alone, while our calling is to love as we have been loved.
See also: clothing, gender, sexual sins.