Azusa Pacific University (APU), a private Christian school, asked H. Adam Ackley to resign after he reveled he is a transgender male, the Gay Star News reported.

Ackley had taught theology at APU for 15 years when the school asked him to resign midway through a five-year contract. Ackley said he did not feel like the school had a problem with his identity, but that they knew others would.

"I did not get a sense directly from the individuals with whom I was speaking that they had a theological problem with transgender identity," he said. "I did get the message that it has to do with their concern that other people, such as donors, parents and churches connected to the university will have problems not understanding transgender identity."

The university reportedly refused to cover Ackley's medical expenses that related to the transition, which included chest and hormone surgery.

"University leadership is engaged in thoughtful conversations with our faculty member in order to honor the contribution and treat all parties with dignity and respect while upholding the values of the university," Rachel White, APU assistant director of public relations wrote to Campus Reform. "It is an ongoing conversation, and therefore, a confidential matter."

Ackley told the Star News he has received multiple offers from other schools to teach or consult, but he is meeting with legal representation to consider his best course of action.

Ackley, a devout Christian who said he struggled with his gender identity his whole life, will be missed by his students.

"He instilled a new-found faith in my life and I was devastated to learn about his dismissal," said Joseph Reyes.

An initiative led by APU students on Change.org has gained 700 supporters, Religion News Service reported. The online petition hopes to make the school "create a safer environment for students and faculty."

Ackley said he noticed many people on social networks making false assumptions about why he was asked to leave the school. He feels as though transgender people are often misunderstood, especially among religious groups.

"People assumed that I've done something, some sex act," he said. "I'm not violating any sexual conduct and it's embarrassing that it's implied. I live a very chaste life."