Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) is a mental health condition characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. The term "narcissist" originates from Greek mythology, where Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection.
Here's the story which is derived from Greek mythology. Narcissus was a hunter who was infatuated with his own beauty, to the point where he rejected the advances of Echo, a lovely nymph. Instead, Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection in a pool. He pined after himself to the extent that he eventually died and turned into a flower, the narcissus.
The term narcissist surfaced first in 1898, based on this myth, to describe someone who exhibited excessive self-absorption. Sigmund Freud later said that narcissism is a normal stage in child development but becomes a mental disorder when it does not dissipate after puberty.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of NPD include a grandiose sense of self-importance, a fixation with fantasies of unlimited success, and a need for constant praise and admiration. Individuals with NPD often struggle with relationships, as they are unable to empathize with others and may exhibit manipulative or abusive behavior.
The Biblical Counseling Coalition views narcissism as a form of idolatry, where individuals prioritize their own needs and desires above those of others. This can have devastating consequences for those in relationships with narcissists.
When interacting with individuals who exhibit narcissistic tendencies, it is essential to set clear boundaries and prioritize self-care. This may involve avoiding certain topics of conversation, limiting contact, or seeking support from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals.
In severe cases, avoidance may be necessary to protect oneself from emotional or psychological harm. This is particularly important for individuals in positions of power or authority, such as pastors or leaders.
While narcissistic tendencies can be challenging to overcome, it is possible for individuals to change and grow through therapy, counseling, and spiritual guidance. It is essential to approach individuals with narcissistic tendencies with compassion and empathy, while also prioritizing one's own emotional well-being.
It is possible for individuals with narcissistic tendencies to change and grow through therapy, counseling, and spiritual guidance. However, this requires a willingness to acknowledge and confront one's own flaws and weaknesses, which can be a challenging and humbling experience.
The Bible offers guidance on how to interact with individuals who exhibit narcissistic tendencies. The apostle Paul warns against associating with people who are "lovers of self" and exhibiting other narcissistic traits.
2 Timothy 3:1-7 NIV [1] But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. [2] People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, [3] without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, [4] treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— [5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. [6] They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, [7] always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.
Did Jesus Ever Encounter Any Narcissists?
Yes, He did. Here are some:
Satan is the epitome of narcissism. Satan, the fallen angel and father of lies wants nothing more than to usurp God’s place and power.
Isaiah 14:12 NIV How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations!
John 8:44 NIV You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
He even tried to tempt Jesus to worship him, he failed
Luke 4:5-8 NIV [5] The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. [6] And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. [7] If you worship me, it will all be yours.” [8] Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”
King Herod was a jealous and depraved king who felt threatened by the Magi’s announcement that a baby had been “born king of the Jews.” To protect his throne, Herod had every baby boy under the age of two slaughtered.
Matthew 2:2-3, 16 NIV [2] and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” [3] When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.
[16] When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.
The Chief Priests. Like King Herod, they felt threatened by Jesus and feared losing their authority over the people. They sought to silence Jesus several times through entrapment.
Matthew 21:23-27 NIV [23] Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority?” [24] Jesus replied, “I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. [25] John’s baptism—where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or of human origin?” They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ [26] But if we say, ‘Of human origin’—we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet.” [27] So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Then he said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.
Luke 20:19-26 NIV [19] The teachers of the law and the chief priests looked for a way to arrest him immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them. But they were afraid of the people. [20] Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be sincere. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said, so that they might hand him over to the power and authority of the governor. [21] So the spies questioned him: “Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. [22] Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” [23] He saw through their duplicity and said to them, [24] “Show me a denarius. Whose image and inscription are on it?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. [25] He said to them, “Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” [26] They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public. And astonished by his answer, they became silent.
The Pharisees were self-righteous, self-aggrandizing, religious elitists. Jesus didn’t hesitate to call them out for what they were.
Matthew 12:33-37 NIV [33] “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. [34] You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. [35] A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. [36] But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. [37] For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 disciples. Judas betrayed Jesus for the selfish, personal gain of 30 pieces of silver.
Matthew 26:14-16 NIV [14] Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests [15] and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. [16] From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
Approaching individuals with narcissistic tendencies requires a balance of compassion, empathy, and boundaries. While it is essential to prioritize one's own emotional well-being, it is also important to recognize that individuals with narcissistic tendencies are not beyond redemption.
With patience, understanding, and guidance, individuals with narcissistic tendencies can learn to develop healthier relationships, prioritize the needs of others, and cultivate a more humble and compassionate spirit. By setting clear boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and seeking guidance from trusted professionals, individuals can navigate relationships with narcissists in a healthy and constructive way.
Are Narcissists Beyond Salvation?
Absolutely not! Nothing is impossible with God. He can redeem any person and sanctify any personality trait.
Matthew 19:26 NIV Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Luke 1:37 NKJV] For with God nothing will be impossible.”
A narcissist can be saved, yes. But because of their extreme delusions of self-importance and their toxic behavior toward others, it may take a drastic humbling, much like Nebuchadnezzar of ancient Babylon for them to be convinced of their sin and their need to be saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Daniel 4:28-33 NIV [28] All this happened to King Nebuchadnezzar. [29] Twelve months later, as the king was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, [30] he said, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” [31] Even as the words were on his lips, a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you. [32] You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox. Seven times will pass by for you until you acknowledge that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes.” [33] Immediately what had been said about Nebuchadnezzar was fulfilled. He was driven away from people and ate grass like the ox. His body was drenched with the dew of heaven until his hair grew like the feathers of an eagle and his nails like the claws of a bird.
What Would Jesus Say to a Narcissist?
He would say repent, believe in Me, and be saved; the same message Jesus preached to every sinner in Israel—the adulterer, the tax collector, the self-righteous, the murderer, the thief. And the same message we all need to hear today. Including narcissists.
Once saved, the Holy Spirit then has the task of sanctifying the narcissist’s behavior. Over time, the narcissist will learn what it means to “deny himself and take up his cross and follow [Jesus]”
Matthew 16:24-26 NIV [24] Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. [25] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. [26] What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
If they have truly repented their sins, the genuineness of their conversion will be evident in their spiritual transformation. They will become less self-centered and egotistical, humble, and grateful, more compassionate, and caring, and a servant to others.
Conclusion
Never give up hope on anyone, including a narcissist. No one, as we always say, is beyond the blessed reach of our great God. As long as they have breath, there exists the opportunity for repentance, forgiveness, and salvation.
Here's the story which is derived from Greek mythology. Narcissus was a hunter who was infatuated with his own beauty, to the point where he rejected the advances of Echo, a lovely nymph. Instead, Narcissus fell in love with his own reflection in a pool. He pined after himself to the extent that he eventually died and turned into a flower, the narcissus.
The term narcissist surfaced first in 1898, based on this myth, to describe someone who exhibited excessive self-absorption. Sigmund Freud later said that narcissism is a normal stage in child development but becomes a mental disorder when it does not dissipate after puberty.
According to the Mayo Clinic, symptoms of NPD include a grandiose sense of self-importance, a fixation with fantasies of unlimited success, and a need for constant praise and admiration. Individuals with NPD often struggle with relationships, as they are unable to empathize with others and may exhibit manipulative or abusive behavior.
The Biblical Counseling Coalition views narcissism as a form of idolatry, where individuals prioritize their own needs and desires above those of others. This can have devastating consequences for those in relationships with narcissists.
When interacting with individuals who exhibit narcissistic tendencies, it is essential to set clear boundaries and prioritize self-care. This may involve avoiding certain topics of conversation, limiting contact, or seeking support from trusted friends, family, or mental health professionals.
In severe cases, avoidance may be necessary to protect oneself from emotional or psychological harm. This is particularly important for individuals in positions of power or authority, such as pastors or leaders.
While narcissistic tendencies can be challenging to overcome, it is possible for individuals to change and grow through therapy, counseling, and spiritual guidance. It is essential to approach individuals with narcissistic tendencies with compassion and empathy, while also prioritizing one's own emotional well-being.
It is possible for individuals with narcissistic tendencies to change and grow through therapy, counseling, and spiritual guidance. However, this requires a willingness to acknowledge and confront one's own flaws and weaknesses, which can be a challenging and humbling experience.
The Bible offers guidance on how to interact with individuals who exhibit narcissistic tendencies. The apostle Paul warns against associating with people who are "lovers of self" and exhibiting other narcissistic traits.
2 Timothy 3:1-7 NIV [1] But mark this: There will be terrible times in the last days. [2] People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, disobedient to their parents, ungrateful, unholy, [3] without love, unforgiving, slanderous, without self-control, brutal, not lovers of the good, [4] treacherous, rash, conceited, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God— [5] having a form of godliness but denying its power. Have nothing to do with such people. [6] They are the kind who worm their way into homes and gain control over gullible women, who are loaded down with sins and are swayed by all kinds of evil desires, [7] always learning but never able to come to a knowledge of the truth.
Did Jesus Ever Encounter Any Narcissists?
Yes, He did. Here are some:
Satan is the epitome of narcissism. Satan, the fallen angel and father of lies wants nothing more than to usurp God’s place and power.
Isaiah 14:12 NIV How you have fallen from heaven, morning star, son of the dawn! You have been cast down to the earth, you who once laid low the nations!
John 8:44 NIV You belong to your father, the devil, and you want to carry out your father’s desires. He was a murderer from the beginning, not holding to the truth, for there is no truth in him. When he lies, he speaks his native language, for he is a liar and the father of lies.
He even tried to tempt Jesus to worship him, he failed
Luke 4:5-8 NIV [5] The devil led him up to a high place and showed him in an instant all the kingdoms of the world. [6] And he said to him, “I will give you all their authority and splendor; it has been given to me, and I can give it to anyone I want to. [7] If you worship me, it will all be yours.” [8] Jesus answered, “It is written: ‘Worship the Lord your God and serve him only.’”
King Herod was a jealous and depraved king who felt threatened by the Magi’s announcement that a baby had been “born king of the Jews.” To protect his throne, Herod had every baby boy under the age of two slaughtered.
Matthew 2:2-3, 16 NIV [2] and asked, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” [3] When King Herod heard this he was disturbed, and all Jerusalem with him.
[16] When Herod realized that he had been outwitted by the Magi, he was furious, and he gave orders to kill all the boys in Bethlehem and its vicinity who were two years old and under, in accordance with the time he had learned from the Magi.
The Chief Priests. Like King Herod, they felt threatened by Jesus and feared losing their authority over the people. They sought to silence Jesus several times through entrapment.
Matthew 21:23-27 NIV [23] Jesus entered the temple courts, and, while he was teaching, the chief priests and the elders of the people came to him. “By what authority are you doing these things?” they asked. “And who gave you this authority?” [24] Jesus replied, “I will also ask you one question. If you answer me, I will tell you by what authority I am doing these things. [25] John’s baptism—where did it come from? Was it from heaven, or of human origin?” They discussed it among themselves and said, “If we say, ‘From heaven,’ he will ask, ‘Then why didn’t you believe him?’ [26] But if we say, ‘Of human origin’—we are afraid of the people, for they all hold that John was a prophet.” [27] So they answered Jesus, “We don’t know.” Then he said, “Neither will I tell you by what authority I am doing these things.
Luke 20:19-26 NIV [19] The teachers of the law and the chief priests looked for a way to arrest him immediately, because they knew he had spoken this parable against them. But they were afraid of the people. [20] Keeping a close watch on him, they sent spies, who pretended to be sincere. They hoped to catch Jesus in something he said, so that they might hand him over to the power and authority of the governor. [21] So the spies questioned him: “Teacher, we know that you speak and teach what is right, and that you do not show partiality but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. [22] Is it right for us to pay taxes to Caesar or not?” [23] He saw through their duplicity and said to them, [24] “Show me a denarius. Whose image and inscription are on it?” “Caesar’s,” they replied. [25] He said to them, “Then give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” [26] They were unable to trap him in what he had said there in public. And astonished by his answer, they became silent.
The Pharisees were self-righteous, self-aggrandizing, religious elitists. Jesus didn’t hesitate to call them out for what they were.
Matthew 12:33-37 NIV [33] “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. [34] You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. [35] A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him. [36] But I tell you that everyone will have to give account on the day of judgment for every empty word they have spoken. [37] For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”
Judas Iscariot, one of the 12 disciples. Judas betrayed Jesus for the selfish, personal gain of 30 pieces of silver.
Matthew 26:14-16 NIV [14] Then one of the Twelve—the one called Judas Iscariot—went to the chief priests [15] and asked, “What are you willing to give me if I deliver him over to you?” So they counted out for him thirty pieces of silver. [16] From then on Judas watched for an opportunity to hand him over.
Approaching individuals with narcissistic tendencies requires a balance of compassion, empathy, and boundaries. While it is essential to prioritize one's own emotional well-being, it is also important to recognize that individuals with narcissistic tendencies are not beyond redemption.
With patience, understanding, and guidance, individuals with narcissistic tendencies can learn to develop healthier relationships, prioritize the needs of others, and cultivate a more humble and compassionate spirit. By setting clear boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and seeking guidance from trusted professionals, individuals can navigate relationships with narcissists in a healthy and constructive way.
Are Narcissists Beyond Salvation?
Absolutely not! Nothing is impossible with God. He can redeem any person and sanctify any personality trait.
Matthew 19:26 NIV Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
Luke 1:37 NKJV] For with God nothing will be impossible.”
A narcissist can be saved, yes. But because of their extreme delusions of self-importance and their toxic behavior toward others, it may take a drastic humbling, much like Nebuchadnezzar of ancient Babylon for them to be convinced of their sin and their need to be saved by grace through faith in Jesus Christ.
Daniel 4:28-33 NIV [28] All this happened to King Nebuchadnezzar. [29] Twelve months later, as the king was walking on the roof of the royal palace of Babylon, [30] he said, “Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?” [31] Even as the words were on his lips, a voice came from heaven, “This is what is decreed for you, King Nebuchadnezzar: Your royal authority has been taken from you. [32] You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox. Seven times will pass by for you until you acknowledge that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes.” [33] Immediately what had been said about Nebuchadnezzar was fulfilled. He was driven away from people and ate grass like the ox. His body was drenched with the dew of heaven until his hair grew like the feathers of an eagle and his nails like the claws of a bird.
What Would Jesus Say to a Narcissist?
He would say repent, believe in Me, and be saved; the same message Jesus preached to every sinner in Israel—the adulterer, the tax collector, the self-righteous, the murderer, the thief. And the same message we all need to hear today. Including narcissists.
Once saved, the Holy Spirit then has the task of sanctifying the narcissist’s behavior. Over time, the narcissist will learn what it means to “deny himself and take up his cross and follow [Jesus]”
Matthew 16:24-26 NIV [24] Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. [25] For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it. [26] What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?
If they have truly repented their sins, the genuineness of their conversion will be evident in their spiritual transformation. They will become less self-centered and egotistical, humble, and grateful, more compassionate, and caring, and a servant to others.
Conclusion
Never give up hope on anyone, including a narcissist. No one, as we always say, is beyond the blessed reach of our great God. As long as they have breath, there exists the opportunity for repentance, forgiveness, and salvation.
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