Insecure at Best
Insecure at Best
There are critics who argue strenuously that the God of the Bible is extremely insecure at best, or a narcissist at worst—in fact, some insist that by current standards his actions and demands align with the criteria for Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD) as outlined in the DSM-5. In other words, it’s official.
His “symptoms” include: an extreme sense of entitlement and control; a lack of empathy and being quick to blame; a grandiose sense of self-importance; and most often cited, a constant need for adoration and worship—pointing to this as a key indicator, and using passages like Isaiah 42:8 where God states, “My glory I will not give to another,” as proof of his egotistical core.
Narcissists are bad news. They destroy teams and communities. They can’t metabolize shame. They’re obsessed with popularity, fame, and praise, and can’t stand the thought of someone else getting any of those things. Ultimately, of course, they’re conniving, insecure, and petty…bad news for everyone around them.
Yet, in this week’s Epistle, St. Paul tells us three times that God’s goal in all the good Paul describes in the chapter—our being chosen before time, adopted as daughters and sons, and sealed for eternity—is for one reason only: to receive praise for the glory of his name. Ergo, he’s basically obsessed with his own glorification.
So how can that be good news?
That’s what we’ll explore together Sunday.
Steve+
Giving Intentions
As with any household or business, as we approach 2026 it’s necessary to know as much as possible how our Shared Vision will be supported. So, please consider making a good faith commitment of your giving intentions, the Lord being your helper, by this Sunday, January 4, 2026.
Though not binding, it will enable our Vestry to better steward an accurate, realistic, and faithful budget that supports what we believe we’re called to as a congregation.
You can make your giving intentions known electronically here. Or pick up a card Sunday!
Thank you!
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Second Sunday Sandwiches—next Sunday following worship.
January Vestry Meeting—next Sunday, 12:15pm.
Morning Prayer—Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings 8:00am–8:30am on Zoom. Link: redeemerannapolis.org/midweek
Men’s Bible Study—Thursdays, 7:00am @ 1309.
Photo: Devon Metcalf on Unsplash
