The Deception of "Wokeness" in Popular Media: A Christian Perspective

In recent years, we have witnessed a significant shift in the portrayal of gender and identity in mainstream media. Shows like the revival of Quantum Leap are prime examples of how contemporary narratives seek to revise history and integrate modern ideological constructs into past contexts. This practice, known as "history revision," attempts to retroactively insert the notion of gender fluidity into periods where such concepts were neither recognized nor defined as they are today.

As Christians, we must view this not merely as a cultural evolution but as a propagation of confusion about the fundamental truths of human identity as created by God. The show's approach—labeling a historical figure as nonbinary in an era oblivious to such classifications—exemplifies this. It's not just a creative liberty but a deliberate effort to affirm a worldview that many of us find contrary to the Biblical understanding of humanity.

The central issue here is not just the distortion of historical facts but the underlying message that such distortions propagate. When media insists on rewriting history to align with modern ideologies, it does so at the expense of truth. This trend goes beyond the realm of creative expression into the domain of influencing public perception and morals.

Consider this analogy: Imagine if someone was under the strong delusion that they were a pancake, and in an attempt to affirm them, we poured syrup on them. Not only would this be a cruel and hateful act, but it would also reinforce their delusion rather than helping them face reality. Similarly, when media outlets rewrite history to affirm a distorted view of gender and identity, they are not showing true compassion but are instead perpetuating a false narrative that ultimately harms those struggling with these issues.

Furthermore, the insistence on normalizing the idea that gender is a personal choice or feeling rather than a biological reality undermines the Biblical view that God created humans male and female with distinct and purposeful designs. Genesis 1:27 emphasizes the intentional creation of two distinct genders, each reflecting God's image uniquely. To blur these distinctions is to challenge the Creator's authority and design.

The implications of these narratives are profound. They contribute to a societal shift where absolute truths are supplanted by subjective realities. As Christians, we understand that truth is not malleable but anchored in the character and revelation of God. The Gospel of John (8:32) tells us that the truth will set us free—not the affirmation of falsehoods or revisionist history.

Moreover, the persistence of high suicide rates among those who identify as transgender, despite growing societal acceptance, suggests that the solution isn't in affirming one's chosen identity but in addressing the underlying issues of confusion and pain through compassionate, truth-based care. This is not to say that we respond with judgment or disdain—far from it. As believers, we are called to respond with the love and truth of Christ, recognizing the inherent dignity of all individuals while also speaking truthfully about the consequences of sin and the hope offered through repentance.

In the days of the prophet Jeremiah, the people of Israel faced a similar challenge. False prophets assured them that they could embrace the idolatrous practices of the surrounding nations without consequence, affirming their desires rather than calling them to repentance. Jeremiah, however, spoke the hard truth, warning them of the judgment that would come if they did not turn back to God (Jeremiah 23:16-17). Like Jeremiah, we must be willing to speak the truth, even when it is unpopular, because we know that it is ultimately for the good of those we love.

As the culture around us continues to embrace and promote ideas that are increasingly detached from Biblical truths, our role is not to capitulate to cultural pressures but to firmly and lovingly uphold the teachings of Scripture. We must engage with culture critically, aware of the influence media can have on societal beliefs and individual behaviors.

Paul's words in Romans 12:2 are particularly relevant here: "Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." We are called to be a transformative presence in our culture, not by adopting its ever-shifting values but by allowing God's truth to shape our thinking and guide our responses.

In conclusion, let us be guided by Ephesians 4:15, speaking the truth in love, growing in every way more like Christ, who is the head of the body, the church. May we have the courage to stand firm in our convictions, the compassion to love those who struggle, and the wisdom to discern the deceptions of our age. In a world that is increasingly confused about the very basics of human identity, may we be a beacon of hope, pointing the way to the One who created us, loves us, and calls us to find our true selves in Him.

For Further Study
Christianity & Wokeness a series of messages by Dr. Owen Strachan