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Reviews
Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say by Preston M. Sprinkle
ndctwo's review against another edition
4.5
Dr. Preston’s Sprinkle’s latest book about Trans* people and the church is a helpful dive into definitions, culture, science, and theology. Theology is not something that can be formed in vacuum or a bubble because theology is both practical and applicable. Preston, although cisgendered, writes primarily using the voices of his Trans* friends, giving the book more credibility. The topic is certainly controversial and readers will not come away with a simple answer; I believe that this is the author’s goal in some ways. It’s not a simple theological question of yes or no and the living out the “how” is just as important. Preston shares his opinion on the topic and does give a definitive answer in terms of if he believes Christians should be gender affirming or not, but the way the book is written allows for and welcomes dissent because the primary question is “how does the Church disciple well?” How are we to disciple cisgendered people, LGBTQ+ people, Trans* people, straight people, etc? That is the question at the heart of this book.
I’ve come away after reading this book better informed of the topic, better able to understand and resonate with arguments both for and against gender affirmation, with practical steps on how to create inclusive and caring ministry environments, and deeply empathetic for people who have been rejected by so many. I may not agree with everything Preston wrote in the book, but this is an important topic and the Church must be informed and full of love as we engaged with a changing and hurting world.
*I was provided an advanced copy of the book in exchange for this review.*
I’ve come away after reading this book better informed of the topic, better able to understand and resonate with arguments both for and against gender affirmation, with practical steps on how to create inclusive and caring ministry environments, and deeply empathetic for people who have been rejected by so many. I may not agree with everything Preston wrote in the book, but this is an important topic and the Church must be informed and full of love as we engaged with a changing and hurting world.
*I was provided an advanced copy of the book in exchange for this review.*
lydalbano's review against another edition
4.0
I love Preston Sprinkle’s thoughtfulness and commitment to love as Jesus loves.
kristelace's review
4.0
This is an excellent and helpful book for Christians navigating the conversation around transgender issues. I’m thankful for Preston’s heart. He writes with compassion and empathy. This book is an easy read and one I would recommend to others.
martysaurus27's review
5.0
The author has certainly invited a lot of ire from both sides, but I'm impressed that he's managed to make a case that honors Scripture AND trans image-bearers. I'm not sure I fully agree with every one of his points, but it's a breath of fresh air to hear such a balanced, gracious, winsome take laid out with such clarity. This should be must-read material for pastors.
oliviagold's review
4.0
This was a very interesting and educational read. Very relevant in today's culture and really challenged my thoughts and understanding on this topic. I definitely think it is worthwhile for Christians to read this and on this topic.
nurseduke's review
5.0
Very thoughtful and thorough book. The author is very gentle in his approach to this very nuanced topic. I suspect very conservative and very liberal will dislike this book.
benrogerswpg's review against another edition
4.0
This was a great book on transgender identities and what the Bible has to say, and how it is handled in the church.
I picked up this book as a way to learn about a topic my Bible study group is doing in May. I am thankful to have a great group of followers to rely on and speak about things of the world with.
It was a very good, encouraging, and welcoming book.
I would recommend.
3.9/5
I picked up this book as a way to learn about a topic my Bible study group is doing in May. I am thankful to have a great group of followers to rely on and speak about things of the world with.
It was a very good, encouraging, and welcoming book.
I would recommend.
3.9/5