Originally Published June 18, 2025
Christian hypocrisy, particularly when directed at marginalized groups like sex workers, is a multifaceted issue that reveals deep contradictions within certain segments of the faith. While Christianity is founded on principles of love, forgiveness, and non-judgment, as exemplified by Jesus’ teachings in the Bible (e.g., “Judge not, lest ye be judged,” Matthew 7:1), some self-identified Christians exhibit behaviors that starkly contradict these ideals. I’m diving into the roots, manifestations, and implications of this hypocrisy, when it comes to the vilification of sex workers.
The New Testament emphasizes compassion and acceptance, with Jesus often defending the outcast, such as the woman caught in adultery (John 8:7), whom he saved from stoning with the words, “Let he who is without sin cast the first stone.” Yet, some Christian communities, particularly those aligned with right-wing ideologies, have turned this narrative on its head. They target sex workers with hate speech and actions, labeling them as sinners and equating sex work with sex trafficking, which are not the same. This selective interpretation prioritizes condemnation over redemption, suggesting a hypocrisy that favors control over the grace Christianity preaches.
When Christian leaders or congregations proclaim hate the loudest, through sermons or public campaigns, hate actions inevitably follow. This pattern is evident in organized efforts to harass sex workers, including distributing defamatory flyers or outing them to their communities. Such actions not only violate the Christian call to “love thy neighbor” (Mark 12:31) but also expose a disconnect between professed faith and lived behavior. This hypocrisy may stem from a need to assert moral superiority, masking personal insecurities or unaddressed desires, which are then projected onto a scapegoated group.
Individuals who struggle with their own sexual impulses or societal pressures may overcompensate by condemning others, as seen in the fervor of some anti-sex work (which they call anti-sex trafficking) campaigns led by Christian groups. Culturally, the influence of patriarchal norms within certain Christian circles amplifies this, viewing sex work as a threat to traditional gender roles and family structures. This selective outrage, ignoring systemic issues like poverty that drive sex work, further highlights the inconsistency between Christian teachings and their application.
Historically, Christian hypocrisy isn’t new. The Crusades, the Inquisition, and the persecution of various groups (e.g., witches, LGBTQ+ individuals) show a pattern of using faith to justify violence or exclusion. Today’s targeting of sex workers fits this legacy, where moral rhetoric serves as a veneer for power dynamics rather than spiritual integrity. I recently have been in the crosshairs of one of these Christian groups, and I have never felt hate like this before. The irony is palpable: those who claim to follow Christ’s example of humility and service often lead the charge in dehumanizing others.
This behavior reflects more on the hypocrites than their targets. By focusing on sex workers’ perceived sins, these Christians may avoid confronting their own, pride, judgment, or uncharitable actions, which Jesus warned against (Matthew 7:3-5, the “log in your own eye” parable). The louder the hate, the clearer the self-delusion, as their actions distance them from the Christianity they profess, rendering their faith a hollow performance.
Addressing this hypocrisy requires introspection within Christian communities. It calls for a return to core teachings, compassion, self-examination, and support for the marginalized, rather than using faith as a weapon. I have personally been targeted by one of these so called Christian groups, it’s a reminder to question the motives behind moral crusades, recognizing that true Christianity, as intended, would uplift rather than destroy.
❤️ Charlotte
(Who took four years of seminary and behaves more Christ-like than the so-called Christians who have stalked and harassed me and other sex workers.)