Narcissistic Pastors and Psychopath Preachers; And how to identify them.
The DSM-5 identifies a narcissist as an individual that:
1. Has a grandiose sense of self-importance.
2. Is preoccupied with fantasies of unlimited success, power, brilliance, beauty, or ideal love.
3. Believes he or she is "special" and unique and can only be understood by, or should associate with, other special or high-status people.
4. Has a sense of entitlement.
Traits in an individual who exhibits psychopath tendencies:
1. Superficial charm.
2. Puffed-up ego.
3. Shallow emotions.
4. A history of improper conduct.
5. History of contradictions.
In 2 Timothy 3:1-7, Paul speaks about character traits that borderline someone we deem a narcissist or a psychopath. These men love themselves, love money, are proud, boast a lot, are unthankful, and unholy.
Unfortunately, television (in the past) and now, with the massive media of the internet and social media, we can see many who are in ministry who reflect these traits, but what's even worse is that they continue to gain a large following.
Here are just a few traits or markers that might help the reader identify one of these personality types:
They declare that they hear from God almost daily.
They have continued revelation that only they can receive.
They boast of miracles unseen and provide little to no evidence.
They encourage a financial seed to be sown and curse those who reject their demand for payment.
They have little time for the public and hide behind their associates.
They are secret. Their lives are secret. Their beliefs are equally secret.
They seek control over their congregation in all areas of their lives and use the teaching of a "covering" as their method of operation.
They never let their guard down, even in a social setting.
They are obsessed with being the center of attention.
They will never be challenged when it comes to doctrine or beliefs.
They are fleshly and will attract women to flirt with.
They are temperamental and easily argumentative.
They demand allegiance and will manipulate those whom they cannot intimidate.
They have no genuine love for the poor, the weak, or the hurting.
The church is sadly filled with these types of character traits within many pulpits throughout the nation. Examine everything and everyone who comes in the name of God.
[Christopher Gregory]
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Acts 20:29-30 ... For I know this, that after my departing shall grievous wolves enter in among you, not sparing the flock. Also of your own selves shall men arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away disciples after them.
2 Corinthians 13:5 ... Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?
1 John 4:1 ... Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world. ❤
