I read the myth of Narcissus in college, and it got me thinking, “Would God really judge narcissists?” At the time, I felt it was unfair to judge someone over a personality trait they have no control over. I shared this concern with a friend, and we explored what the Bible taught about narcissists and whether they would face judgment. To better understand narcissism, we spoke to a psychology professor at school. He offered invaluable insights into this condition, which resembled the Biblical description. This information helped us better understand narcissists and how they fit into God’s redemptive plan. This information came in handy during a class decades later. A student wanted to know if narcissists will go to Heaven. She assumed narcissism, being a personality disorder, was out of the person’s control, making it unfair for God to cast narcissists in hell. Some students agreed with this position and wanted to know what I thought. Here’s my take on the question, “Will narcissists go to Heaven?”
Unrepentant narcissists won’t go to Heaven. Narcissism is a personality characterized by an inflated sense of self-worth, arrogance, pride, and contempt for others. The Bible recognizes it as a sin (2 Timothy 3:1-6) and exhorts narcissists to repent (Acts 2:38). Therefore, we can infer that narcissists who don’t repent won’t enjoy eternity in Heaven.
This article explores what God says about narcissism. Join me in answering common questions about how God will judge narcissists and whether narcissists can become Christians.
What does God say about narcissism?
The word “narcissism” doesn’t appear in the Bible. However, God describes traits related to narcissism. These traits include: people being lovers of themselves, boastful, arrogant, proud, hypocritical, and treacherous (2 Timothy 3:1-6).
Paul tells us that such people worm their way into our lives and take advantage of our insecurities to achieve their selfish ends. These actions closely resemble our modern understanding of narcissism.
Narcissism displeases God. He doesn’t want people living this way, constantly manipulating and abusing each other for their selfish ends. Instead, He calls us to humility, self-sacrifice, and love for each other. A narcissist exalts himself above everyone else, similar to what the devil did in rebellion against God (Isaiah 14:13). However, God, being slow to anger, gives the narcissist endless opportunities to repent. Despite the havoc narcissists cause, God doesn’t want them to perish in their sins (Ezekiel 33:11).
Will God forgive narcissists?
Yes. God is willing to forgive anyone who repents, narcissists included. Narcissists need God’s forgiveness, like everyone else. Unfortunately, most people (including Christians) write them off as irredeemable because of their callous and selfish nature. However, this isn’t what the Bible teaches. We have the example of Nebuchadnezzar, a proud and arrogant king with narcissistic tendencies. However, God intervened and brought him to repentance (Daniel 4). Likewise, God can intervene in the lives of narcissists and lead them to repentance. If they repent, God will forgive their sin (1 John 1:9-10).
How will God judge narcissists?
God will judge unrepentant narcissists like every other sinner. Revelation 20:12 teaches that God will judge each person based on their deeds. Therefore, we can infer that God will judge narcissists based on their narcissism. Jesus taught us that whoever doesn’t believe in Him will be condemned (John 3:18). As such, narcissists who ignore God’s prompting to repent will stand judgment for their actions.
Can a Narcissist Be a Christian?
Yes. At first glance, this sounds contradictory because a narcissist is everything a Christian shouldn’t be. However, I make this statement on the basis that nobody is beyond salvation.
As mentioned, narcissists display selfish, arrogant, manipulative, and emotionally abusive behavior. They’ll belittle others to inflate their feelings of self-worth. Often, narcissists have low empathy, which makes us doubt their conversion. Consequently, we view narcissists suspiciously when they profess Christ.
However, the Bible teaches that Jesus came to seek and save the lost (Luke 19:10) and extends salvation to anyone who believes (John 3:16). Most narcissists have difficulty submitting to the Lord Jesus. However, God continually works in their lives, exposing the darkness within and prompting them toward repentance. Those who repent receive salvation and become Christians. After conversion, God renews their lives, uproots their narcissistic traits, and teaches them to love others.
Can narcissists genuinely repent their sins?
Yes. I believe narcissists can repent. It may be difficult for them because of their inflated egos and grandiose opinions of themselves. As mentioned, people often regard narcissists as irredeemable. However, this isn’t what the Bible teaches. We have the example of Paul, who hated and persecuted Christians, yet, God reached out to him and inspired repentance in his life. Likewise, God is in the business of redeeming narcissists, even if it takes a supernatural intervention.
As a devout Christian, I have always been passionate about the Christian faith. This inspired me to pursue a degree in Religious studies and a Masters in Theology in college. I have also been privileged to teach 4 Christian courses in a college and university. Since I am dedicated to spreading the word of God, I am actively involved in the Church. Additionally, I share his word online and cover diverse topics on the Christian faith through my platform. You can read more about me on the about us page.
