
Calvinism, with its doctrine of election, has shaped much of Protestant thought for centuries. Its claim that God predestines certain individuals to salvation while consigning the rest of humanity to eternal damnation is often seen as a theologically rigorous interpretation of divine sovereignty. However, when closely examined, this doctrine risks fostering a mindset disturbingly close to narcissism—an inflated sense of self-importance, entitlement, and a lack of empathy for others.
The Core of Calvinist Election
Calvinism teaches that God elects certain individuals to salvation entirely by His sovereign choice, not based on any merit, action, or decision on their part. While this may sound like an expression of divine grace, it also creates a stark division: the “elect,” who are assured of God’s love and eternal bliss, and the “reprobate,” who are irrevocably destined for eternal torment. This binary view inherently elevates the elect to a position of spiritual superiority.
The danger lies in how this doctrine interacts with human psychology. Those who believe they are part of the elect may begin to see themselves as inherently special or chosen, while viewing others as unworthy of God’s grace. Such a belief can easily breed a sense of pride and exclusivity—the hallmarks of narcissistic thought.
“I’m Chosen, You’re Not”
One of the more troubling aspects of Calvinism is its potential to foster an “us versus them” mentality. If I am among the elect, it means I am part of God’s inner circle, destined for glory. Everyone else, however, is destined to burn in hell for eternity. This division creates an implicit hierarchy: I am loved by God in a way others are not. This mindset, consciously or unconsciously, can lead to spiritual arrogance.
Even worse, Calvinism’s emphasis on the absolute sovereignty of God over human salvation often leaves little room for empathy or compassion toward those who are “not chosen.” If God Himself has predestined the reprobate to suffer eternally, why should I care for their plight? Such theology not only dehumanizes those outside the elect but also discourages the kind of selfless love and humility Jesus exemplified—Why bother loving those God allegedly hates?
Calvinism and Lack of Assurance
Ironically, the narcissistic potential of Calvinism is accompanied by an undercurrent of existential anxiety. While Calvinists believe in the “perseverance of the saints” (the idea that the truly elect cannot lose their salvation), the question remains: How can I be sure I am truly among the elect? This uncertainty creates a paradoxical dynamic: a simultaneous sense of spiritual superiority and deep insecurity. The resulting inward focus—constantly, legalistically, and anxiously examining one’s own faith for evidence of election—is far removed from the outward focus of love and service emphasized in the New Testament.
A Theology of Exclusion
Calvinism’s inherent exclusivity stands in stark contrast to the inclusive love of God who loves the world (John 3:16) as revealed in Jesus. The Gospels portray a Savior who consistently reached out to the marginalized, the sinners, and the outcasts. Jesus’ ministry was marked by radical empathy and an invitation to all, not just a select few.
In contrast, Calvinism’s focus on a preordained elect undermines the universality of this message. It turns salvation into a zero-sum game, where God’s love is rationed rather than overflowing. Such a vision of God’s character not only contradicts the message of Scripture but also fosters a narcissistic worldview among its adherents.
The Psychological Impact
From a psychological perspective, the Calvinist doctrine of election can distort one’s view of self and others. On one hand, the elect may develop a sense of entitlement, seeing themselves as uniquely favored by God. On the other hand, this doctrine can lead to isolation and a lack of genuine connection with others, especially those deemed outside God’s favor. Both tendencies are symptomatic of narcissism and sociopathism: an inflated self-view coupled with a diminished capacity for empathy.
Moreover, the doctrine of election can breed despair among those who doubt their inclusion in the elect. This despair, ironically, often reinforces the self-centered focus Calvinism fosters. Instead of looking outward to love and serve others, individuals become consumed with their own spiritual standing, perpetuating a cycle of self-obsession.
“There Is Some No Fear in Love”
The Bible offers a corrective to the narcissistic tendencies inherent in Calvinism. In 1 John 4:18, we read, “There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.” The God revealed in Jesus is not a cosmic dictator who arbitrarily chooses some for salvation and others to be cast into His cosmic furnace, where He tortures them forever. He is a loving Father who desires that none should perish but that all should come to repentance (2 Peter 3:9).
True Christianity calls for humility, compassion, and an unwavering focus on loving God and others. It invites believers to see all people as valuable in God’s sight, rather than dividing humanity into the “elect” and the “reprobate.”
Conclusion
While Calvinism seeks to honor God’s sovereignty, its doctrine of election often veers into the realm of narcissism. By elevating the elect and marginalizing the rest of humanity, it fosters pride, exclusivity, and a diminished capacity for empathy. Such a theology is fundamentally at odds with the message of Jesus, who came to bring good news to all people. If our theology leads us to self-centeredness rather than selflessness, it is worth questioning whether it truly reflects the heart of God. In the end, the gospel is not about being part of an exclusive club—it is about sharing the radical, all-encompassing love of God with the world.
If you want to explore why the Calvinistic doctrine of election and predestination is flawed from both a biblical and logical perspective, check out my book on Free Will:
