Psych and Theo Podcast - Ep. 22 - Is Everyone Really a Narcissist?

Ep. 22 - Is Everyone Really a Narcissist?

07/09/24 • 63 min

Can you tell the difference between someone who's a bit self-centered and someone with Narcissistic Personality Disorder (NPD)? Join us as we unpack the true meaning of narcissism, navigating through the murky waters of misconceptions to get to the heart of this complex personality disorder. You'll learn about the diagnostic criteria for NPD, the traits that define it, and why only a small fraction of the population actually meets these criteria. While many people exhibit narcissistic tendencies to some degree, we stress the importance of understanding the difference between occasional narcissistic behavior and a full-blown personality disorder.
Explore with us the diverse manifestations of NPD, from the overtly grandiose to the more subtle, understated expressions of narcissism. We dive into the critical role relationships play in identifying these traits and the ongoing debate of nature versus nurture in the development of NPD. Is narcissism inherited, or is it a product of one's environment? We discuss these questions in depth, offering a balanced perspective on how both genetic and environmental factors contribute to this personality disorder.
We also shine a light on the dangers of narcissism in church leadership and society at large. Using biblical examples and historical figures like Napoleon and Louis XIV, we illustrate the wide-ranging impact of narcissistic leaders. From emotional and spiritual abuse in congregations to the grandiose self-perceptions of modern-day leaders, our conversation underscores the necessity for discernment and wisdom in appointing those in positions of power. Finally, we offer practical strategies for recognizing narcissistic behavior in relationships and setting boundaries to protect oneself from the emotional toll of dealing with a narcissist. Don't miss this enriching discussion packed with insights and real-life examples.

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Ep. 21 - Spiritual Warfare, Part 4: Answering the Most Intriguing Questions

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Can Christians truly be possessed by demons, or is there a more nuanced reality to spiritual warfare? In this thought-provoking episode of the Psych and Theo podcast, Tim and Sam finish their series by tackling some of the most pressing questions on demonic influence. With insights from Dr. Heiser and Dr. Appleby, we uncover why the term "demon possession" might not be biblically accurate and prefer the term "demonized" to reflect different levels of demonic activity. We explore how Christians, though sealed by the Holy Spirit, can still face demonic influence and what that means for their faith journey.
Furthermore, we navigate the fascinating world of angelic beings and their roles in spiritual warfare. Ever wondered about the scriptural basis for invoking angels or the hierarchy of heavenly hosts like the seraphim? We'll address these topics and delve into pathways that open doors to spiritual attacks, such as involvement in the occult, sexual sin, and trauma. By emphasizing the importance of testing spirits with scripture and the counsel of believers, we aim to provide a balanced and biblically grounded approach to understanding the supernatural. Tune in for a comprehensive and engaging discussion that will leave you with a deeper understanding of spiritual warfare and the protection offered by your faith.

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Ep. 23 - How Should You Read, Interpret, and Apply the Bible Accurately?: Insights on Hermeneutics and Exegesis

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Unlock the secrets of accurate scripture interpretation with Dr. Tim Yonts, our expert guest in hermeneutics and biblical study. This episode promises to enhance your understanding of the Bible by focusing on the critical process of proper exegesis and the dangers of proof texting. Dr. Yonts guides us through the essential phases of Bible study—observation, interpretation, and application—emphasizing the need for meticulous examination to grasp the true meaning of scripture.
Explore the vital role of context in interpreting biblical texts, from literary and historical-cultural to contemporary settings. With insights from J. Bolton Hayes' "Grasping God's Word," Dr. Yonts illustrates the "interpretive journey" as akin to navigating a river, highlighting the importance of understanding the original audience's context. We challenge the intuitive approach and stress the value of rigorous methodologies and collaborative study to mitigate personal biases and uncover the inherent meaning of the scriptures.
Dive deep into practical interpretation steps with vivid examples like Moses hitting the rock and Jeremiah 29:11, ensuring you can apply theological principles correctly today. Engage with the rich historical and archaeological context of Peter's confession at Caesarea Philippi, enriching your understanding of this key biblical passage. Finally, we emphasize the importance of integrating scripture study into daily life and its relevance across various professions. Join us for an enlightening conversation that underscores the value of thoughtful and thorough engagement with the Bible.

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