Is Self-Esteem Contrary to Christianity
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Is Self-Esteem Contrary to Christianity?
Summary
The philosophy of self-esteem is arguably one of the most influential doctrines impacting modern Christianity, possibly even more so than the charismatic movement of the late 1960s. This article explores whether self-esteem psychology has overshadowed traditional teachings about human sinfulness within the Church.
Article
In recent years, the philosophy of self-esteem has infiltrated both society and Christianity, perhaps even more significantly than the tongues movement of the 1960s. This trend has reshaped Biblical doctrine and practice, raising questions about the Church's focus on the cross of Christ. If self-esteem can solve human problems and discussing human depravity is offensive, the Church's message may need reconsideration.
A glance at sermons from the Puritan era compared to today reveals this shift. Consider Jonathan Edwards' impactful sermon, "Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God," delivered on July 8, 1741, in Enfield, Connecticut. Edwards vividly described humanity's destitution and did not shy away from addressing self-esteem as part of the issue.
How did we stray so far? Can theology and psychology coexist? Psychology often posits that humans are innately good, contrasting with the Bible's depiction of our inherent sinfulness. The rise of self-love theology among Christians may stem from a poor grasp of Biblical truths. Many Christian psychologists attempt to merge psychology with Scripture, potentially compromising foundational teachings, much like C.I. Schofield's "Gap Theory" attempted to align scientific theories with Biblical texts.
The most profound realization I've had about self-esteem theology relates to soteriology. Understanding God's relationship with humanity is crucial when approaching repentance. In Luke 18:13, the humility of the tax collector serves as a powerful example. Misunderstanding our own sinfulness in the presence of a Holy God is a significant barrier to repentance. The focus on self-love can reinforce our resistance to confess our imperfections and seek Christ's righteousness.
Do people truly hate themselves? More often, they dislike their actions and the consequences. Scripture, such as Ezekiel 20:43 and Ephesians 5:29, emphasizes that people naturally care for themselves. Those claiming low self-esteem often adopt a victim mentality, seeking validation based on presumed lovability. Many, however, grapple with guilt stemming from sin, seeking relief without addressing the underlying issue. Instead of alleviating this pain, counselors should highlight sin and encourage confession. As Galatians 3:24 states, the law guides us to Christ, and pain can lead to repentance, as Paul illustrates in 2 Corinthians 7:8-9.
Many Christians attempt to uplift a sinner's self-esteem by emphasizing humanity's worth, claiming Christ died because we are worthy. This concept contradicts the doctrine of total depravity, as outlined by Steele and Thomas in "Romans, An Interpretive Outline." Regeneration, prompted by the Spirit, is necessary for truly coming to Christ.
The notion that man is made in God’s image does not imply inherent worthiness in rebellion. John Piper articulates that while skills derived from being made in God's image can serve Him, in rebellion, they contribute to sin.
Discussions on self-esteem often blame negative feelings on a lack of self-forgiveness. For instance, after the infamous 1994 Olympic skating incident, Tanya Harding claimed her struggle was self-forgiveness. Yet, Scripture doesn't mandate forgiving oneself, as seen in Luke 17:3-4. "Theistic psychologists" have seemingly intertwined this doctrine into Christianity.
Paul Vitz's "Psychology As Religion: The Cult of Self-Worship" argues that psychology has become a secular religion, encouraging selfishness and issue-shifting. Jay Adams' "The Biblical View of Self-Esteem, Self-Love, Self-Image" and David Tyler’s "Jesus Christ: Self-Denial or Self-Esteem?" offer Biblical critiques of the self-esteem movement, with Tyler highlighting the contrast to Jesus’ teachings on self-denial.
Proverbs 16:17-19 warns against pride, associating it with destruction. History may eventually deem the self-love movement more damaging to souls than past heresies. Only time will tell.
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