Narcigesis- a hybrid word from “narcissism” and “exegesis” This term was coined to contrast sound Biblical teaching method, called exegesis (taking meaning from the text within its proper context), with a popular unsound method in which teachers will explain Bible passages as if they are really about YOU. For example, a narcigesis would be to teach that the reason that the story of David and Goliath is in the Bible is so you can know that you can slay any “giant”( problem, difficulty, temptation) in your life, because God sees you as he saw David. In it’s context we can see that God is sovereign, without him, we can do nothing that matters in eternity. There is no guarantee that we will slay any so-called giants in our lives through our will and human effort.
Now you know what to look for- Don’t fall for it!
Exhibit 1
The first video contains clips from Matt Chandler, contrasted to narcigesis type preaching by Marcus Rogers.
Exhibit 2
This video is longer but highly worthwhile to understand how narcigesis is problematic. It’s the full-length sermon by Matt Chandler from the above video. This video is several years old now. Matt is spot on here, but has had some problematic issues with his ministry and teaching since. Praying he will sort it all out and get back on track.