In today’s rapidly changing world, speaking out for biblical truth can carry serious consequences. Two recent stories—one from a fencing tournament in Maryland and another from a nursery school in the UK—highlight the rising cost of holding to traditional views on gender and identity. These stories don’t just make headlines—they strike at the heart of fairness, faith, and freedom.
In this post, we’ll examine each story, explain what’s happening, and examine how the Bible calls believers to respond in times like these.
Story #1: The Fencer Disqualified for Her Beliefs
Stephanie Turner, a 31-year-old competitive fencer, was disqualified from the Cherry Blossom Open in Maryland for refusing to compete against a transgender opponent—Redmond Sullivan, a biological male identifying as female.
Instead of engaging in the match, Stephanie calmly approached the competition strip, knelt, removed her mask, and walked away—a peaceful, non-confrontational protest. Her actions, however, led to a black card ruling, disqualifying her from the event.
Stephanie’s protest was grounded in her belief in biological distinctions and fairness in women’s sports—convictions that align with Genesis 1:27:
“So God created mankind in His own image, in the image of God He created them; male and female He created them.”
Despite public support from notable voices like J.K. Rowling and Martina Navratilova, USA Fencing upheld its decision by allowing athletes to compete based on gender identity.
Story #2: A Toddler Labeled “Transphobic”
Across the pond in the UK, an even more shocking situation unfolded: a toddler was suspended from a nursery school for what was described as “abuse against sexual orientation and gender identity.”
Yes—you read that correctly—a toddler.
No specific details were shared about what the child did or said. Still, for similar reasons, this incident is one of nearly 100 suspensions or expulsions in UK primary schools during the 2022-2023 academic year.
When children who are barely old enough to form sentences are punished for failing to meet ideological standards, we must ask whether we are protecting inclusion or enforcing conformity.
When Fairness Isn’t Fair
These stories raise an essential question: Are today’s rules of fairness genuinely fair for everyone?
- Is it fair for female athletes to compete against biological males in women’s sports?
- Is it fair for toddlers to be labeled transphobic before they understand what the word means?
- Is there room for respectful disagreement, or is biblical belief now grounds for discipline?
Romans 12:2 gives us a clear warning:
“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.”
As believers, we must resist conforming just to fit in. We are called to stand on truth—even when it costs us.
A Biblical Response: Truth + Compassion
In the face of cultural pressure, how should Christians respond?
1. Stand for Truth with Courage
Stephanie Turner stood for her convictions peacefully and respectfully. Matthew 5:10 reminds us:
“Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”
2. Speak the Truth in Love
Ephesians 4:15 tells us to “speak the truth in love.” Our message must be clear, but our tone must be Christ-like.
3. Teach Your Children the Truth
As the culture grows bolder in its messaging, so must we. Proverbs 22:6 urges us to:
“Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
4. Practice Compassion Without Compromise
Colossians 3:12 reminds us to be clothed in “compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience.” Love people—all people—without abandoning God’s Word.
Final Thoughts
These stories aren’t just about sports and schools—they’re about a battle between truth and culture. The pressure to conform is rising. But so is the opportunity to shine as lights in a dark world.
We are not called to hate, fear, judge, or stay silent. As followers of Christ, our calling is to be faithful—no matter the cost.
“In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” — John 16:33
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Stay grounded. Stay gracious. Stay faithful.
