This morning I read an article entitled “Pastoral Narcissism” to a group of local pastors. They all thought it was excellent, I think it is excellent and we want to share it with you. If you’re a church leader, or any sort of leader in any situation you will get a lot from this article, written with candour and insight by JR Kerr.
In a climate that wants to recognise success in ministry rather than faithfulness how should church leaders react?
After personal reading, this article is best used in the context of group discussion with other leaders.
It was a silly thing to do, but I couldn’t stop myself. During a “get to know you” conversation with a few acquaintances and a man from the church I serve, we were talking about interests, passions, and areas of ministry. I tried to keep the focus on others at the table. But then it happened.
The man from my church made a statement that I interpreted as making light of me. The fuse was lit, and within a few moments I managed to work into the conversation the areas where I was leading and the wide impact of those projects. I subtly reminded everyone what our church had accomplished in the city. I even managed to throw in some attendance figures for good measure. I pushed everyone else out of the conversation’s spotlight.
When it was over, I felt like I had binged on junk food. Self-loathing set in: I hate when I do this, and I hate it even more when I do it as a servant of Christ. Why do I keep falling into this temptation?
Read the rest of the article at Christianity Today.
Here’s the link for the whole article in print ready format.
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