Biblical Personality Disorder
Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall. (Proverbs 16:18)
When I was in High School, I remember one of the old guys (probably younger than I am now) saying loudly after church, so the minister and everyone could hear, “I wish the minister would stop proclaiming mental garbage and preach the Bible.” I doubt the loud complainer was an authority on Biblical Interpretation, Hermeneutical nuance, or the history of antiquity. Yet, that didn’t stop him from announcing he knew more than the pastor. First, many Biblical themes are addressing mental health issues. Second, one repeated Biblical issue is narcissism, which was exemplified by the guy hating on my childhood minister.
Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) was a destructive force in the Bible, with everyone from Abel’s brother Cain to Judas Iscariot suffered from the dreaded issue and made the world a more painful place. “Why Therapists Fear Narcissists” by Mitch Y. Artman, helps recognize NPD in Biblical characters and in those around us. Being able to name the issue helps provide ways to find spiritual resolution. Some of the characteristics include being an “Energy-Vampire.” NPD individuals focus primarily on themselves, using others for their needs. They suck the life out of others.
Second, according to Artman, “Narcissists have high emotional intelligence that can both uncover and exploit weaknesses.” The narcissist is clever and can shame others to manipulate for their own benefit. Third, when other tactics do not work to their benefit, the narcissist will manipulate through “rage.” They will use threats, yelling, or any other means to get what they want. Artman states, “They seek power to feel safe from love, meaning they cannot feel safe in love.” The only means for comfort left is self-focused manipulation.
Today, reflect on the qualities NPD Artman describes. Think of different Biblical characters and their behavior. Chaiaphas, the high priest, showed narcissistic personality disorder in the demented way he manipulated the situation to destroy his adversary, Jesus. Bible study isn’t adversely affected by mental health consideration but is another tool to understanding God’s intention for the story and our world. Then, prayerfully consider others in your history who fit NPD behavior. Was their impact on your life or others negative? Ask God how you can set emotionally and spiritually healthy boundaries so your life and the lives of others will be fruitful and whole.