Free Online Christian Videos

NEW! Culture and news content from ChristianHeadlines.com is moving to a new home at Crosswalk - check it out!

What Does the Bible Say about Narcissists?

  • Jen Grice Crosswalk Contributing Writer
  • Updated Feb 23, 2023

Narcissism is defined as having an excessive interest in or admiration for oneself and in one’s physical appearance. The word, although seemingly modern, has been around for a very long time. In Greek Mythology, Narcissus was known for his beauty and a fixation on himself and his outer appearance. The story told about him is, after seeing his reflection in a pool of water, he fell in love as if it were another human being. 

The Apostle Paul identified and described narcissism in 2 Timothy sometime between 90 and 140 A.D. This divine wisdom has brought us to where we are today, where psychologists and mental health professionals have identified nine narcissistic traits, outlined in the DSM-5. Licensed professionals, with the ability to diagnose mental health disorders, must see at least five of the nine criteria to label someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (or NPD).

Photo Credit: ©SWN Design

Jen GriceJen Grice is a divorce coach and author of the books, You Can Survive Divorce and Your Restoration Journey about recovery and redemption after divorce. After her own unwanted divorce in 2013, Jen started a ministry to encourage and empower Christian women to not only survive but thrive after divorce caused by adultery, abuse, or abandonment. You can learn more about her ministry at JenGrice.com. Jen can also be found on YouTube talking about preparing for and divorcing a narcissist. And her books can be found at B&N or on Amazon.

Follow Crosswalk.com