Christian Narcissism: What it is and How it Affects The Church

by Sister McCook
Christian Praying and Reading Bible

Narcissistic Christians are a thing. No, really.

You and I have probably spoken with a lot of them too and didn’t realize it.

But no fault to our own though, because our job as Christians is not to single out others as narcissistic but to love them anyway.

It is still important, however, to understand what narcissism is in Christians though because it might actually help us to better navigate our interactions, dealings, and relationship with them.

What is Christian narcissism?

Christian narcissism is the belief that one is better than others because they are a Christian.

It is the idea that being a Christian makes one more moral, more righteous, and more worthy than those who do not follow Christ.

This narcissistic attitude can lead Christians to look down on non-believers, judge them harshly, and view them as inferior.

It can also cause Christians to become self-righteous and judgmental, thinking that they are always right and that everyone else is wrong.

Ultimately, Christian narcissism is harmful to both Christians and non-Christians alike.

It breeds division and hatred instead of love and understanding.

If Christians want to truly follow Christ’s example, they need to let go of their narcissistic attitudes and learn to love their neighbor as themselves.

What does Christianity say about narcissism?

Christianity teaches that we are to love our neighbor as ourselves.

This Golden Rule is the perfect antidote to narcissism, which is all about loving ourselves first and foremost.

Christianity also teaches that we are to serve others, putting their needs above our own.

This selfless attitude is the complete opposite of narcissism, which is all about serving ourselves.

Finally, Christianity teaches that we are humble; that we are not to think of ourselves as better than others.

This humility is the polar opposite of narcissism, which is all about thinking we are better than everyone else.

So, if you’re wondering what Christianity has to say about narcissism, the answer is pretty clear: it’s not something that Christians should strive for!

Is it a sin to be a narcissist?

The term “narcissism” gets thrown around a lot these days, often as a way to describe someone who is excessively self-absorbed.

While it’s true that narcissists tend to have an inflated sense of self-importance, the disorder is actually much more complex than that.

Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental condition that is characterized by a deep need for admiration and a lack of empathy for others.

People with this disorder often seek out attention and adulation, and they may be quick to anger if they feel like they’re not getting the attention they deserve.

So, is it a sin to be a narcissist? That’s not an easy question to answer.

On the one hand, narcissism can be hurtful to both the narcissist and the people around them.

On the other hand, many people with narcissistic personality disorder are successful and charismatic, and they may use their power and influence for good.

Ultimately, whether or not narcissism is a sin is up for interpretation.

Can a religious person be a narcissist?

This is an interesting question and one that doesn’t have an easy answer.

Narcissism is, at its core, about having an inflated sense of self-importance and a need for constant attention and admiration.

Religiously-minded people, on the other hand, are supposed to be humble and focused on serving others.

So it would seem that the two would be incompatible.

But it’s possible for someone to have strong religious beliefs and also be narcissistic.

A religious narcissist might use their faith as a way to feel superior to others, or they might use their position in the church to draw attention to themselves.

They might also take advantage of their congregation, using them as a source of admiration and validation.

So while it might seem like a contradiction, it’s possible for a religious person to also be a narcissist.

What is the spiritual root of narcissism?

The spiritual root of narcissism is often said to be a deep insecurity or lack of self-love.

Narcissists tend to have a deep need for attention and admiration, and they often go to great lengths to get it.

They may be very charming and charismatic, but they also tend to be manipulative and controlling.

Narcissists often have a grandiose view of themselves, and they may feel that they are better than others.

They may also have a sense of entitlement, expecting others to cater to their every need.

Narcissists can be very difficult to be around, as they can be highly critical and judgmental.

If you find yourself in a relationship with a narcissist, it is important to set boundaries and take care of yourself.

The best way to deal with a narcissist may be to avoid them altogether.

How do you identify a narcissistic Christian?

A narcissistic Christian is someone who uses their faith as a way to feel superior to others.

They may talk about how they are “saved” or “born again,” and use Christian language and symbols to manipulate and control others.

Narcissistic Christians often judge and criticize others, and they may be quick to anger or become defensive.

They may also be extremely self-righteous, and see themselves as the only “true” Christians.

If you suspect that someone you know is a narcissistic Christian, pay attention to how they interact with other people.

Do they always seem to be trying to one-up others? Do they regularly put others down, either verbally or come off as passive aggressive?

If so, then it’s possible that they’re suffering from narcissism.

If you’re concerned about someone’s narcissism, the best thing you can do is talk to them about it directly.

Try to avoid judgmental or condemning language, and instead focus on helping them understand how their behavior is affecting those around them.

How to deal with a narcissistic Christian?

If you’re struggling to deal with a narcissistic Christian, here are a few tips that might help:

Try to avoid getting drawn into arguments or power struggles

Narcissists love to debate and argue, so it’s best to just agree to disagree and move on.

Don’t take things personally

Narcissists often use put-downs and criticisms as a way to feel better about themselves, so don’t take their words to heart.

Pray for them

It can be difficult to love a narcissist, but remember that Christ died for them just as he died for you. Praying for them is one way to show Christ’s love.

Try to have realistic expectations

Don’t expect them to change overnight or be perfect.

Set boundaries and stick to them

Narcissists often try to take advantage of others, so it’s important to be clear about what you will and won’t tolerate. 

Don’t enable their bad behavior

This includes things like making excuses for them or trying to cover up their mistakes. 

How does the Bible deal with narcissists?

The Bible actually has a lot to say about narcissism, though the word itself is not used.

Narcissism is characterized by self-centeredness, an inflated sense of self-importance, and a need for constant attention and validation.

The Bible warns against this kind of behavior, describing it as being “like the effects of a poisonous root” (Romans 11:18).

In addition, the Bible calls on Christians to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31), which is difficult to do if you are focused only on your own needs.

The Bible also condemns pride, which is closely related to narcissism. Proverbs 16:18 says that “pride goes before destruction,” and 1 Timothy 3:6 says that “pride is the root of all kinds of evil.”

So, while the Bible does not specifically address narcissism, it does provide guidance for how to deal with people who exhibit narcissistic tendencies as well as why we should steer clear of narcissism.

The dangers of narcissism in the church

Narcissism can be damaging in any setting, but it can be particularly harmful in the church.

When narcissism goes unchecked, it can lead to a pastor putting their own needs above the needs of their congregation.

This can result in a church that is focused more on image and marketing than on evangelism and discipleship.

Additionally, narcissism can lead to a toxic environment within the church, where people are constantly vying for position and power.

This can create an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, which can ultimately drive people away from the church.

The church should be a place of refuge and healing, but when narcissism is allowed to take root, it can instead become a breeding ground for division and conflict.

Summary

Narcissistic Christians are, unfortunately, a very real thing.

And while not all Christians are narcissists, there is definitely a strong link between the two.

Narcissistic Christians tend to be very self-righteous and judgmental, always quick to point out the flaws in others while remaining blind to their own.

They are also extremely hypocritical, often expecting others to live up to a higher standard than they themselves are willing to meet.

And they tend to be very manipulative, using their religion as a way to control and dominate others.

While it’s unfortunate that there are people like this out there, it’s important to remember that they are definitely not representative of all Christians.

There are plenty of kind, compassionate, and loving Christians out there who would never dream of behaving in such a way.

Please be mindful not to allow people like these to distract you from your relationship with God. Focus instead on living your life in a way that is pleasing to Him.

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