Spiritual Narcissism by Jeremy Caris

Although narcissism is a broad subject, it is marked by an exaggerated self-importance and perceived superiority, abnormal levels of selfishness and entitlement, and extreme self-centeredness. Generally speaking, a narcissist is a person who thinks too highly of themselves and continuously feeds on the egotistic admiration from others, typically rooted in unresolved and exaggerated feelings of inferiority and shame. As a result, they often manipulate and exploit others to fuel their delusions and fend off the ever-looming threat of severe depression. People who pathologically display these characteristics may be diagnosed with Narcissistic Personality Disorder.

Narcissism Is Everywhere

Today, in the business and political world, narcissistic behavior is often celebrated, encouraged, and even taught to some degree. In fact, it can be argued that narcissistic behavior even contributes to their success (as they define it). But it is not only limited to the business and political world. Narcissism affects every area of culture because it affects people. Therefore, it affects churches, ministries, and families as well. Narcissism is not a church issue—it is a human issue.

Disclaimers

Diagnosing Narcissistic Personality Disorder is definitely beyond my expertise and the scope of this blog, but I wish I would have been able to at least identify the signs of it many years ago as a leader in the Church. It is my personal conviction that most narcissists probably need inner healing, psychological counseling, and someone to walk with them and provide personal accountability to help them overcome it. Unfortunately, the very nature of narcissism opposes the likelihood that they will seek the help they need.

I also want to be clear that my intent is not to inspire a “witch hunt.” Rather, I have found that the more I understood the roots, behavior, and effects of narcissism, the more compassion I have for those whose lives are deeply affected by it on all sides. So in sharing this, I hope to help equip you to face narcissism with some understanding and with compassion for those involved—especially within the Church.

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