![]() We often use the term hypocrisy for this behavior. Acting “religious” but denying the power of Jesus to effect any real change in our lives is also described in this passage as characteristic of sinful people. Paul then described narcissistic behaviors that God calls sin, which include loving only ourselves, loving money, boasting, harboring pride, abusing others, disobeying our parents, ingratitude, being unholy, unloving, or unforgiving, slander, lack of self-control, brutality, hating what is good, acting treacherously or impulsively engaging in evil, conceit, and choosing our own pleasures over God. We cannot look at the number of narcissistic people around and predict when Jesus is returning, but we should not be surprised that as time goes on, as we get closer to Jesus return, behavior will get worse and worse. We live in the “last days”-in the sense that we live in the time after Jesus’ ascension and wait faithfully for his return. None of us knows if we’re the generation that will witness His return, but we grow ever closer. Verse one says, “But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days.” Jesus promised us He will come again. In 2 Timothy 3:1-5, Paul not only describes sinful, narcissistic behavior but also explains why it’s becoming more and more common. Let’s look at some specific Bible passages. What Does the Bible Say about Narcissistic Behavior? Even strongholds can be defeated through repentance, but it’s always best not to allow a pattern to set in the first place. It is the same with self-centered or narcissistic behavior. We can easily become known, then, as a habitual liar. ![]() What if we enjoy that ease so much that we begin to lie regularly? That’s when a stronghold develops, and a pattern or habit of sin sets in. However, if we repent, seek forgiveness, make amends, and work not to repeat our sins, they don’t have to control us.īut suppose we lie once and then decide to lie again. Individuals may engage in sinful behavior such as laziness, gossip, or lying without it becoming characteristic of their lives. We should, in Christ, put off these behaviors and be ready to correct them in other Christians. These include sinful attitudes and activities such as self-centeredness, vanity, putting oneself above others, pride, obsession with appearance, or greed. But behind this mask of extreme confidence, they are not sure of their self-worth and are easily upset by the slightest criticism.”Īny of us can be guilty of exhibiting narcissistic behaviors. People with this disorder may lack the ability to understand or care about the feelings of others. They need and seek too much attention and want people to admire them. According to the Mayo Clinic, “Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition in which people have an unreasonably high sense of their own importance. Some people may qualify for a clinical diagnosis of narcissistic personality disorder. The truth may call out narcissistic behavior, but love and wisdom preclude us from easily dismissing anyone based on armchair assessments or withholding charity based on other people’s determinations. We are called to speak the truth but to do so with love, gentleness, and patience. While others may freely and casually label people, Christians are called to be wise and discerning with our words. Can you describe for me what you mean when you say it?” This demonstrates wisdom and can provide a better context for your conversation. “Lots of people use that word these days. If you’re chatting and someone refers to another person as a narcissist, such as “My ex was clearly a narcissist” or “That leader is a classic narcissist,” ask a clarifying question before responding. ![]() When discussing narcissism in any conversation, it’s always wise to define how we use it. Does the Bible mention narcissists? If so, what does the Bible say about them? What Do We Mean When We Talk about Narcissists? Nowadays, however, they are much more common and just as likely to occur at the dinner table and in the fellowship hall at church as they are in class discussions. What does the Bible say about narcissists? Conversations about narcissism used to be relegated to the classroom during studies of Greek mythology. ![]()
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