Manipulative Use of Scripture

If you are wondering can a narcissist be a christian, the short is yes and they are masters of manipulation.

A Christian narcissist often uses the Bible to control and manipulate others.

They might selectively quote scripture to justify their actions or to place themselves in a position of superiority.

For instance, they may emphasize verses that support obedience to authority while ignoring those that promote humility and service.

This manipulation can create a distorted perception of faith, causing others to feel spiritually inferior or guilty if they do not comply with the narcissist’s demands.

 

Examples:

Consider an example where a Christian narcissist might insist on Ephesians 5:22, which states, “Wives, submit to your own husbands, as to the Lord,” to exert control over their spouse, while conveniently ignoring Ephesians 5:25, “Husbands, love your wives, just as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for her.”

This selective use of scripture is a powerful tool for maintaining control and asserting dominance.

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Consider another example where a Christian narcissist might use Ephesians 6:1, which states, “Children, obey your parents because you belong to the Lord, for this is the right thing to do". This scripture applies to a small child still in the home under the parents care. However, they will Invoke this scripture on a grown child that is no longer in the home under their care and is perhaps married with a family of their own. Ignoring Ephesians 5:31 which states "As the scripture say, A man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife and the two are united as one". So a child may not be able to do what the parent asks as the decision is also involving a spouse that could reject the request. A narcissist will also ignore Ephesians 6:4, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger by the way you treat them. Rather, bring them up with the discipline and instruction that comes from the Lord.”

 

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