07/17/2025
On the evening of Friday, June 7, 2025, my precious 10-year-old daughter, Evangeline, found her admiration for Simone Biles�a remarkable athlete celebrated as the most decorated African American gymnast in history�altered in an instant. Biles, who boasts an impressive collection of 11 Olympic medals alongside a staggering 30 medals from World Championships, took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to express her thoughts. In a striking post, she labeled fellow athlete Riley Gaines as �truly sick,� accusing her of relentless campaigning simply because she lost a race. With that sharp statement, Evangeline's view of her role-model shifted dramatically, leaving her grappling with the complexities of sportsmanship and the high-stakes world of competitive athletics.
Biles' exact tweet on X (formerly Twitter) said, "You're [Riley Gaines] truly sick, all of this campaigning because you lost a race. Straight up sore loser,"
Biles was addressing Riley Gaines, a former NCAA swimmer known for her tenure with the Kentucky Wildcats, who has become a prominent voice in the debate surrounding the inclusion of transgender women in women's sports. This controversy gained significant attention when Gaines competed against Lia Thomas, a transgender athlete, at the 2022 NCAA Swimming and Diving Championships. During the heated 200-yard freestyle event, Gaines found herself in a challenging position as she ultimately lost a trophy to Thomas, igniting a fierce discussion about fairness and equality in athletic competition.
It is so sad that Biles calls Gaines, "truly sick" because Gaines supports 'No men in women's sports.
It is both disappointing and ironic that Biles has chosen to speak out against Gaines, especially considering that Gaines is a strong advocate for the rights of women to feel safe and secure in spaces such as changing rooms, locker rooms, and sports fields. Her efforts are focused on protecting women's rights in light of the ongoing debate surrounding the participation of transgender women in these areas.
Biles tweeted in 2017, "ahhhh good thing guys don't compete against girls or he'd take all the gold medals !!"
The tweet from 2017 seems to reflect on the outcomes of the 2017 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. During this event, male gymnasts demonstrated remarkable performances, significantly surpassing their female counterparts in the men's division, leading to a notable discussion in the gymnastics community regarding the varying levels of achievement between the two categories.
And yet she had the audacity to tweet, "You're [Riley Gaines] truly sick, all of this campaigning because you lost a race. Straight up sore loser,"
Sadly, the truly sick people are men who identify as women and want to beat women in sports.
Why are they truly sick?
According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Delusional Disorder is characterized by the existence of persistent and strongly held false beliefs, known as delusions, that are not based in reality. Individuals diagnosed with this disorder remain convinced of these beliefs despite evidence to the contrary, leading to significant challenges in their perception of reality and their interactions with others.
What does reality say?
In biological science, it is well-established that there are two primary s*xes: male and female. This binary classification is primarily determined by the presence of specific s*x chromosomes�typically, males possess an XY chromosome pair, while females have an XX chromosome pair. Understanding this foundational concept not only clarifies the biological differences between the s*xes but also deepens our appreciation for the intricate complexities embedded in human biology. This knowledge sheds light on various aspects of development, reproduction, and even behavioral differences, highlighting the remarkable interplay between genetics and physiology in shaping human life.
I hold the belief articulated in the following biblical passage: "So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them" (Genesis 1:27, NIV).
When you have persistent false beliefs (delusions) not based in reality, you have a delusional disorder.
The way individuals understand and experience their gender identity does not change the biological s*x that was assigned to them at birth. For instance, a person who identifies as female, even if they were designated male at birth, does not inherently possess the anatomical or physiological characteristics typically associated with being female. Similarly, a person assigned female at birth who identifies as male does not biologically transform into a male; their anatomy remains distinct. The differences between male and female bodies are based on biological factors, and no matter how one grapples with their identity, these biological distinctions continue to exist.
When individuals receive a diagnosis of a disorder, it's crucial that we do not support in favor of the specific disorder, such as transgenderism. Instead, we should actively seek the guidance of the Lord and provide compassionate support to help them through their challenges. This includes understanding their identity struggles and offering assistance as they navigate the complexities of their feelings and experiences. Our focus should be on holistic support that encompasses emotional, spiritual, and social dimensions, fostering a nurturing environment for their growth and healing.
What if you don't believe it is a disorder?
Even if an individual holds a personal conviction that a particular condition does not merit the label of a disorder, this subjective viewpoint does not alter the official classification of that condition within medical and psychological frameworks.
'On hearing this, Jesus said, "It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. But go and learn what this means: 'I desire mercy, not sacrifice. 'For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners." (Matthew 9:12, NIV)
In this context, the affliction being addressed is a deep, spiritual malaise�what we might call a "soul sickness." The core of Jesus' mission revolves around reaching out to those who are lost in their sins and offering them a path toward healing. He emphasizes the importance of mercy, placing it above rigid adherence to sacrifice. Therefore, when we encounter individuals who are struggling spiritually or grappling with mental health issues, our role is not to condone or enable their struggles but rather to guide them toward the transformative power of Jesus. This approach seeks to provide hope and grace, directing them to the source of true healing and restoration.
Does it mean the disorder will go away?
There are moments in life when afflictions and disorders may disappear entirely through the miraculous intervention and healing power of the Lord. These instances can be profound and define one's journey of faith. However, there are also times when these challenges remain, yet during these trials, the Lord provides us with the strength and resilience needed to persevere. It's crucial that we open our hearts and allow Him to work within us and through us, guiding us to rise above our struggles. By doing so, we learn to resist surrendering to the disorders that lead us away from righteousness, ultimately reinforcing our commitment to a life aligned with His will.
We cannot justify our behavior by attributing it to a disorder when we are aware of what constitutes Truth. Both biblical teachings and biological facts affirm that there exist only two distinct genders: male and female. This understanding implies that we hold personal responsibility for our actions, regardless of circumstances that may cloud our judgment. Embracing these fundamental truths compels us to act in alignment with our knowledge and principles.
Satan has the remarkable ability to manipulate thoughts, leading individuals to embrace beliefs that deviate from biblical truths. However, this deception does not alter the fundamental reality that, at the very dawn of creation, God intentionally designed humanity as male and female, establishing a clear and purposeful distinction between the two.
It is fundamentally wrong for anyone to take advantage of a medical condition or identity to cause harm to others. This scenario arises when transgender women, who identify as female, seek to participate in women's competitive categories. Such actions can have negative repercussions for cisgender women athletes, many of whom have devoted their lives to training and competing against fellow female competitors. This situation raises significant concerns about fairness in sports, as it disrupts the level playing field that is essential for fair competition.
It is quite surprising to see Biles, a highly regarded figure in the realm of female athletics, publicly criticize Gaines for her outspoken stance against the participation of transgender women in women's sports. One would think that Biles, given her stature and influence, would acknowledge the significance of standing by those who are passionate about tackling this contentious issue and advocating for the rights and opportunities of female athletes.
Men and women exhibit fundamental differences that, while distinct, are both crucial for the harmonious operation of society. Traditionally, men have taken on the role of protectors, providing safety and security for women and the community at large. On the other hand, women carry the profound responsibility of nurturing life, playing an indispensable role in the continuation of humanity by bearing and safeguarding both male and female lives within their wombs. This interdependence highlights the unique contributions each gender makes to our shared existence.
"Likewise, you husbands, live with your wives in an understanding way, showing honor to the woman as the weaker vessel, since they are heirs with you of the grace of life, so that your prayers may not be hindered." (1 Peter 3:7, ESV)
In this context, the phrase "weaker vessel" emphasizes the observable truth that, on average, men tend to have greater physical strength compared to women. This distinction highlights the inherent differences in physical capabilities, which can often influence various aspects of life, from social dynamics to physical labor.
What is particularly fascinating is the perspective that men are not expected to exert dominance over their wives or women as a whole. Instead, men, being individuals endowed with greater physical strength, are encouraged to honor and respect women. This acknowledgment reflects a deeper understanding that women, too, are entitled to share in the inheritance of life's blessings and grace.
Beyond this, there is a significant commandment directing men to treat their wives with dignity and reverence, emphasizing that such respectful conduct is essential�not only for the enrichment of their relationships but also to ensure that their own prayers and spiritual connections are not obstructed. This nuanced understanding highlights the importance of mutual respect and honor in the dynamics between men and women.
The implications of this matter are profound and far-reaching in our lives. If we truly embrace the Bible as the authentic Word of God, we should take a proactive stance in advocating against the participation of men in women's sports. It is essential to acknowledge our duty to protect and honor every woman and girl, who can often be seen as the more vulnerable members of our society. By leading this charge, we not only uphold the values we profess to believe in but also ensure that fairness and respect for female athletes are prioritized and preserved.
This statement acts as an important call to action for politicians, judges, sports directors, and other influential figures within the realm of athletics. It emphasizes the necessity for these individuals to implement and uphold measures that prevent men from participating in women's sports. Such actions are crucial not only for preserving the integrity and dignity of women's competitions but also for ensuring a level playing field in all athletic events. By doing so, we affirm the values of fairness and equality that are fundamental to the spirit of sport.
Even for those who may not hold the Bible in reverence as the divine Word of God and instead place their trust exclusively in scientific explanations, the field of biological science offers comprehensive insights into the distinctions between male and female. It provides a wealth of information derived from the study of genetics, physiology, and biology. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that skepticism towards the Bible does not diminish its significance or the profound truths it conveys; it stands as an enduring and universal representation of Absolute Truth.
Let us look at the other aspect of Bile's tweet that said, "You bully them�One things for sure is no one in sports is safe with you around!!!!! Bully someone your own size, which would ironically be a male."
In examining Biles' situation, it becomes evident that the involvement of Thomas�who is male but participates in women's sports�does not fit the definition of bullying even though it should.
On the other hand, the actions of Gaines, who is actively advocating for the protection of female athletes from competition with male participants in women's sports, are labeled as bullying. This interpretation raises unsettling questions about fairness and the dynamics of gender in athletics.
It's quite ironic that Biles, a prominent advocate against bullying, has faced allegations of having exhibited bullying behavior herself. This contrast raises questions about her stance and the complexity of personal experiences in the context of such a serious issue.
MyKala Skinner, a retired Olympic gymnast said, "Well, throughout my career, there's been many times where I have been belittled and bullied by Simone [Biles] and have wanted to keep quiet for the other athletes. As an athlete who has dedicated years to a sport, I've always believed that true competition should elevate us � not diminish others. That's why it's deeply troubling to see [Simone Biles] publicly label a fellow athlete a 'sore loser' � simply for expressing valid concerns about fairness in women's sports." (New York Post)
The whole controversy started at the University of Pennsylvania (Penn). They provided Thomas with the chance to compete against other female athletes during the 2021-2022 season. This decision sparked significant debate and raised pressing concerns regarding the safety and fairness of competitive sports, as many questioned the implications of allowing transgender women to participate in categories that align with their gender identity.
On July 1, 2025, Penn announced a significant agreement with the Department of Education aimed at guaranteeing its compliance with Title IX. This agreement came in the wake of a thorough investigation regarding the participation of Thomas, a transgender swimmer, in women's athletics. The resolution marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing conversation about inclusivity and equality in sports, addressing concerns over fair competition and the rights of all athletes.
In accordance with the terms of the agreement, Penn will implement a ban on transgender athletes competing in women's sports. This decision aims to ensure a fair, competitive environment and will lead to the reinstatement of swimming records and titles that were previously held by female athletes and affected by Thomas' participation. Moreover, Penn is set to release a public statement that reaffirms its dedication to Title IX and clarifies its revised policies concerning transgender athletes, highlighting its commitment to fostering equitable athletic opportunities for all students.
Biles tweeted, "One things for sure is no one in sports is safe with you [Riley Gaines] around!!!!"
One undeniable truth remains: women continue to face significant risks in environments where activists like Biles challenge the very foundations of women's rights. This impact is particularly pronounced when their actions undermine the efforts of individuals like Gaines, who tirelessly advocate for the safeguarding of women's spaces and rights in the face of male participation. In such contexts, the plight of women's advocacy becomes even more urgent as the balance of protection and opportunity is called into question.
Penn has made a noteworthy advancement in addressing the concerns raised by female athletes by acknowledging the inadequacies of its previous policies concerning Thomas. This proactive shift underscores the institution's dedication to promoting fairness and equity within its athletic programs. By implementing these changes, the university is creating a more fair and equitable environment that empowers all athletes to excel and thrive in their respective sports. This commitment not only addresses immediate concerns but also fosters a culture of respect and equality among all female participants in the athletic community.
Unfortunately, Biles has damaged her reputation by publicly undermining Gaines while choosing to support Thomas and other biological men competing in women's sports. This stance has sparked considerable debate and controversy, drawing attention to the complexities surrounding gender identity in athletics.
Gaines has every reason to feel a deep sense of pride in the incredible work she has accomplished since that pivotal day when she faced off against Thomas. Her tireless efforts and dedication to activism have truly left a lasting impact, garnering recognition and respect from those around her. Each initiative she has championed and every challenge she has bravely tackled have illuminated her unwavering commitment to her cause, ensuring her contributions have not gone unnoticed even by the 47th President of the United States, Donald Trump.
The November 2024 election saw a dramatic showdown between former President Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, with the contentious issue of transgender rights playing a pivotal role in shaping the political landscape. As the campaign unfolded, the debate intensified, capturing the attention of voters across the nation.
At a pivotal moment in his campaign, Trump made a bold promise to women, vowing to sign an executive order that would bar biological males from competing in women's sports. This declaration struck a chord with specific groups within the electorate, generating a strong sense of support and enthusiasm among those who felt passionate about preserving the integrity of women's athletic competitions.
This decisive action contributed significantly to Trump's resurgence, ultimately aiding him in reclaiming the presidency and returning to the White House.
An excerpt of the order states, "Therefore it is the policy of the United States to rescind all funds from educational programs that deprive women and girls of fair athletic opportunities which results in the endangerment, humiliation, and silencing of women and girls and deprives them of privacy. It shall also be the policy of the United States to oppose male competitive participation in women's sports more broadly, as a matter of safety, fairness, dignity, and truth." (Keeping Men Out of Women's Sports, Feb 05, 2025, White House.gov)
It is essential for men to honor and uplift women, rather than undermining them in pursuit of their own success and recognition. Unfortunately, instances like those involving Thomas and other men demonstrate a tendency to belittle women, sacrificing their dignity for personal gain. Such behavior not only harms individual women but also damages the fabric of society, which thrives on mutual respect and support.
The aggressive tactics employed by Biles to pressure Gaines' girls into supporting transgender issues backfired spectacularly when the community began to recognize Bile as the true bully, shifting perceptions and placing the blame away from Gaines.
A recent survey conducted by the New York Times in collaboration with Ipsos revealed that a significant majority of Americans�specifically 79%�are of the opinion that biological males who identify as women should not be permitted to compete in women's sports. This statistic underscores a substantial concern among the population regarding the participation of transgender athletes in competitive sports aimed at women.
The definition of a woman, when examined through the lenses of both biblical teachings and biological science, provides a solid foundation for my understanding. However, it's important to recognize that this perspective may not resonate with everyone. Therefore, I am pleased to provide insights from a legal standpoint, which offers another layer of understanding on the matter.
�The United Kingdom Supreme Court ruled that the definition of �woman� under the Equality Act 2010 refers to biological s*x, meaning transgender women are not legally considered women under the Act. This ruling means that for the purposes of the Act, transgender women are not included in the definition of �woman�. (AI Overview)
It is truly remarkable that President Donald Trump�s Executive Order 14168, titled �Defending Women From Gender Ideology Extremism and Restoring Biological Truth to the Federal Government,� aligns with and reinforces the recent ruling by the United Kingdom Supreme Court. This order recognizes the significance of biological truths and addresses concerns surrounding gender ideology. Furthermore, it acknowledges the impactful activism of Gaines against Biles, highlighting the ongoing debate about women's rights and identities in today's society.
The policy definitions state, (a) �Sex� shall refer to an individual's immutable biological classification as either male or female. �Sex� is not a synonym for and does not include the concept of �gender identity.�
(b) �Women� or �woman� and �girls� or �girl� shall mean adult and juvenile human females, respectively.
(c) �Men� or �man� and �boys� or �boy� shall mean adult and juvenile human males, respectively.
(d) �Female� means a person belonging, at conception, to the s*x that produces the large reproductive cell.
(e) �Male� means a person belonging, at conception, to the s*x that produces the small reproductive cell.
Where does that leave us regarding Biles?
Biles tweeted more than, "It didn't help for me to get personal with Riley, which I apologize for."
If Biles had kept her tongue in check, an apology wouldn't have been needed.
"The tongue also is a fire, a world of evil among the parts of the body, sets the whole course of one's life on fire, and is itself set on fire by hell." (James 3:6, NIV)
"Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother's eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, 'Let me take the speck out of your eye,' when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother's eye." (Matthew 7:3-5, NIV)
Simone Biles and the transgender community are deserving of love and respect, especially as they advocate for the inclusion of transgender women in women's sports. While it's reasonable to critique the actions surrounding policy changes, it's important to differentiate between the actions themselves and the individuals behind them�Biles should not be the target of hate. The true enemy in these debates is not those with differing views, but rather a greater force - Satan who clouds understanding and compassion in our hearts. Even as some women perceive transgender women as challengers in the discourse surrounding women's sports, it's crucial that love and empathy take precedence over division, especially in the context of the rallying cry to keep "men out of women's sports."
"The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God." (2 Corinthians 4:4, NIV)
"Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer." (Romans 12:9-12, NIV)
"Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone. Do not take revenge, my dear friends, but leave room for God's wrath, for it is written: "It is mine to avenge; I will repay," says the Lord. On the contrary: "If your enemy is hungry, feed him; if he thirsty, give him something to drink. In doing this, you will heap burning coals on his head." Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good." (Romans 12:17-21, NIV)
"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his might power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil�s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. (Ephesians 6:10-18, NIV)
Reddy's Right Rhetoric immerses you in the critical conversation surrounding transgender issues, specifically the debate between Biles and Gaines on the topic of men competing in women's sports. With over 7 years of extensive experience in campus ministry, Reddy brings a wealth of knowledge, drawing from his biblical understanding of the Word of God and his background in investigative journalism with the Pitt News and Pittsburgh Standard. His seminary coursework boasts a perfect 4.0 GPA. He holds a degree in Psychology with a GPA of 3.12, a degree in Administration of Justice with an impressive GPA of 3.85, and a major in Legal Studies with a perfect 4.0 GPA. His Ultimate boast is in the Lord Jesus Christ! Connect with Reddy at [email protected].
The formatted column with the previous columns can be found online at
http://www.pittsburghstandard.com/JULY2025/EXPRESSIONS/BilesGaines071725.htm
On the evening of Friday, June 7, 2025, my precious 10-year-old daughter, Evangeline, found her admiration for Simone Bilesa remarkable athlete celebrated as the most decorated African American gymnast in historyaltered in an instant. Biles, who boasts an impressive collection of 11 Olympic medals a...
