Every generation is faced with a challenge unique to them that is distinct from other generations. In other words, since the evolution of man, there has always been a particular problem that the people of that generation must overcome to excel in life and become who God wants them to be. The article examines gender roles and issues in a Survey.
For instance, a generation fought for the worth of their lives. They wanted to be seen as human beings and not enslaved people. Again, there was that generation when people struggled to be trained academically or even to learn a skill, as their parents did not have the luxury of paying school fees. People in this generation had to go through shifts of work to pay their school fees.
Gender Identity in Generations
Then came another generation, whereby a people faced family (extended) issues, and a generational pattern to deal with. After this came another generation, whereby a person’s location was instrumental to excelling in life. People had to travel to the city to become someone in life. People had to travel to the city to become someone in life. So, I say every generation is confronted with a particular challenge.
However, the contemporary generations, in my observation, especially the young ones (generation Alpha, Gen. Z and Millennials) face numerous challenges unlike the other generations as the contemporary generation. In contemporary times, many distractions and challenges chase after the young.
Issues Everywhere
There is pressure to belong to the world everywhere they turn to, from the media to politics and governance, to the education sector, to the public space, and even inside the church. So, more than in any other generation, it is more difficult to live godly lives and excel in God’s way.
It takes higher levels of discipline for anyone in my generation to excel. To this end, this article examines the subject of gender identity as one of the major distractions confronting contemporary society. This study proffers practical implications for contemporary Christian living.
Understanding Gender Identity
The concept of gender identity describes a person’s feelings about their gender. It is an individual self-conception as a man, woman, boy or girl. For some people, the gender identity corresponded with the sex they were registered or assigned at birth.
While for others, it is different. Based on the findings of the Bible, one’s gender identity and biological sex (male or female) are the same. That is, if a child is born male, then they see themselves as males, and the same as females.
The word “sex” was used to specify whether someone was male or female, with questions like “What is your sex?” However, things changed in the 1950s and 1960s, when the word gender was borrowed from the psychology profession.
This began gender activism, noting that there was no difference between male and female; people can choose and change their gender, people’s mental conceptions can come before their biological sex, which they were born with, hence, people are free to choose their gender.
Survey Findings and Implications
Sometimes, in May/June 2025, a survey was carried out among some Nigerian children and teenagers in selected Southwestern states to learn their perspectives on LGBTQ+ and Gender Issues. Below are some of the findings:
- Respondents’ Gender:
- 18% female
- 82% male
- Prefer not to say: 0%
Implication
All our responders see themselves as either male or female and nothing in between.
Gender role
- General understanding of gender roles
- Most participants define gender roles as the responsibilities society assigns based on being male or female.
- Some associate these roles with biological differences.
- A few think of it as personal choices or how a person feels inside
Implication
These responses reflect a traditional worldview reinforced by family, school, culture, and sometimes the church (especially the first response). The strong influence of fixed gender roles might affect how they view themselves and others, potentially limiting personal expression.
Primary Source of Gender Roles Learner
Family/home, religious teachings, and schools were the most common sources.
Implication
These responses underline the responsibility of parents, caregivers, teachers, and faith leaders in shaping healthy and godly understandings of gender identity, roles, and worth. These are powerful platforms to instil Christ-centred values.
Gender and School/Leadership
Most believe boys are more likely to be chosen for leadership roles, though many support equality.
Implication
There is a tension between belief in equality and perceived gender biases. The consciousness of this tension calls for schools to teach biblical truth and stewardship, nd nurture leadership in all students.
Every child and young person must be taught to be self-confident and ready to become a leader. They must be trained to know that no gender is inferior, and everyone must live with humility and respect for the opposite sex.
Personal Experience about Their Treatment and Roles Based on Their Gender
Many shared examples of:
- Chores or responsibilities split by gender
- Biases in school tasks or rules
- Stereotypical career expectations
Implication
These responses show how gender can shape how young people see themselves and others, including their future and career. The church can help children and young people understand their God-given dignity and calling, regardless of gender, and counteract harmful assumptions with biblical truth.
The church, school, and society must be careful to avoid being biased in dealing with children and young people around them, especially in role assignment and career counselling.
Concerns and Career Fears
Recurring concerns about careers include:
- Unequal pay
- Pressure to conform
- Discrimination
Others, however, claimed to have “No concerns” or had not thought about it.
Implication
Many are already aware of career prejudice, while others are either unaware or not yet affected. Christian career guidance can offer hope and purpose by teaching people that all vocations are valuable and that identity in Christ transcends societal pressure.
Gender Identity Issues
Understanding of LGBTQ+ + and Gender Identity
- A majority have heard of LGBTQ+, but understanding is limited or unclear for many.
- A few express discomfort or disagreement with the ideology, mainly based on the respondents’ religious beliefs, cultural views, or fear of what society may think of them.
- Some show indifference or support for the people who identify as LGBTQ+, regardless of their view on gender identity being unchangeable.
Implication
These responses reflect a generational crossroads – a mix of traditional Christian teaching and exposure to modern, more fluid views of gender identity.
It is a delicate area where the church must respond with biblical clarity on gender identity and pastoral compassion towards the confusion and those who are already swayed by this unbiblical lifestyle. The Christian educators must teach with grace. (John 1:14)
How Comfortable Are They Discussing Gender Issues with Adults
Responses ranged from very comfortable to never tried and not comfortable at all.
Implication
Their responses highlight the need to build trusting relationships where open, value-based conversations can happen. Church leaders and parents can foster safe dialogue rooted in love, expression, and truth.
Born vs. Fluid Gender Beliefs
- The majority believe they are born with gender already determined
- Very few have discussed these topics with trusted adults.
Implication
There is a deep-seated biological understanding of gender, largely aligned with traditional Christian doctrine. However, the silence surrounding the topic suggests a risk of misinformation. There is a vital need for intentional discipleship and guidance to help shape people’s worldviews in contemporary times.
Call to Action for Contemporary Christian Faith
There are actions that all people, especially contemporary Christians, should imbibe to stop the bad occurrences.
1. Biblical Literature Is Important
The findings show that contemporary children and young people form views without a strong theological grounding. There is a great need for discipleship on gender, identity as the identity of Christ, righteousness, love, compassion, and stewardship.
2. Family as Foundation
Since most learning happens at home, equipping parents to engage in these conversations is critical.
3. Youth as Agents of Change
Empowered with faith, contemporary youths can become voices of love, clarity, and integrity if nurtured biblically and intentionally.
4. Compassion without Compromise
As views on gender and identity shift, many children and young people are confused about how to relate to or treat those who identify as LGBTQ+. Therefore, Christian educators must teach them to love others while holding firm to scriptural truth and their stance as Christians.
Conclusion
Every parent should work and pray that their children and young people follow the Word of God and have the fear of God in their sexual ethics. This is something that has not been thought about, but is something that should be studied, taught and prayed about (Proverbs 22:6) . Read the similar post on this page.
Editors
