Is narcissism a sin?

For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of you. – Romans 12:3

Do you happen to know someone who always finds a way to make things about them? The most random thing would happen and they will still find a way to make it about them. What does scripture say about such people? For context, let’s first look at the meaning of the word narcissism. According to oxford’s dictionary, it is the excessive interest in or admiration of oneself and physical appearance. In plain words, it is an obsession with oneself above everyone and everything else. In Isaiah 14:13, God shows prophet Isaiah how the devil sought to project himself above everything.

“I will ascend to the heavens; I will raise my throne above the stars of God; I will sit enthroned on the mount of assembly, on the utmost heights of Mount Zaphon”

The word “I” occurs more than twice in that verse alone. It first signifies an obsession the devil had with himself, it also shows how he sought to raise himself above all things. Oftentimes than not, narcissistic behaviors can be excessive self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy for others. This main behavioral trait led the devil to deceive a third of angels to stage a rebellion in heaven, and it cost them their offices and abode.

Many verses in the Bible talks against narcissism, it teaches us to love others as we love ourselves. In Mark 12:31, Jesus says, “Love your neighbor as yourself.” This is a reminder that although self-love is important, it should also extend to treating others with kindness and compassion. It’s about finding a balance between caring for ourselves and caring for those around us. In our verse for today, Apostle Paul gives us the ultimate call against narcissism. He tells us not to think of ourselves highly than we ought to think, rather, we should think of ourselves with sober judgement, in accordance with the faith God has distributed to each of us.

It’s important for us to approach ourselves and others with humility and a realistic perspective. By doing so, we can do away with narcissism and truly walk in the purpose of God. Remember, we’re all unique individuals with our own strengths and weaknesses, and it’s through embracing this diversity that we can truly grow and thrive. God will help us, in Jesus’s name. Amen.