On at least a couple of occasions, I have been asked whether I get energized (or re-energized) when I am alone, or when with others. It is a classic, yet simplistic indicator used to see if one is an introvert or an extrovert (or ambivert, for those closer to the middle): http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extraversion_and_introversion.
The topic of introverts and extroverts, in relation to the Christian walk, has been brought to mind a few times recently. A recent post on the Jesus Creed discussion on the issue of leadership brought to mind a seminary professor (and minister) who described the impact of his introversion on his job. He discussed how draining certain aspects of his job, such as board meetings, were due to this personality trait. I have therefore wondered: do we expect our leaders to be extroverts?
Coincidentally, this introvert/extravert topic came up again just days later when listening to a GodPod broadcast (http://sptc.htb.org.uk/godpod/godpod-44).
A listener, an introvert, submitted a question about that trait in relation to the prospect of eternal community. He expressed concern about eternally being in a state of community, which seemed somewhat of a draining concept to him. The responses of the panelists to this concern brought up various additional aspects of introversion and extroversion in regards to the Christian life. These aspects included the potential impact on the practice of spiritual disciplines, and how on we read Scripture.
With these questions and issues in mind, I would like to hear how those in the Jesus Creed community think introversion and extroversion impacts their own journey, and that of the church as a whole.
Thanks, Rick Evans
With these questions and issues in mind, I would like to hear how those in the Jesus Creed community think introversion and extroversion impacts their own journey, and that of the church as a whole.
- Does introversion, extroversion, or ambiversion impact how you practice spiritual disciplines? (For example, do introverts focus more on practices done in solitude, while extroverts focus more on practices done in community?)
- Do you put reasonable and healthy spiritual expectations on others, including in discipleship, with proper consideration of personality traits?
- Does it impact how you read Scripture, including what portions you prefer to focus on?
- Do you see some of these introvert and extrovert traits in some of the authors of Scripture?
- Does it impact your theology in some way?
- Does it impact how you live out the Jesus Creed (Love God...Love others)?
- Finally, is being either an introvert or an extrovert something that will eventually be erased as we are renewed through the power of God, or are they positive tools that can eternally benefit God's Kingdom?
Thanks, Rick Evans
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As an introvert in church leadership, I have learned to come out of my shell more. While I do draw energy from being in solitude, I also know that being physically in community with others is good also. Too much of either one though, is not good and so we have to have balance. That's the tricky part and something that I continue to work on.
I believe our personality can affect our practice of the disciplines. I tend to crave solitude and silence. I very seldom journal, although I have started blogging, which could be a form of journaling, I guess. I'm somewhat low on the service side if you count service outside of the church. My specific call is to the Church, so the bulk of my time is spent there which can be draining. I'm learning to take advantage of healthy outlets so that I'm not emotionally consumed by my duties. I think this is where extroverts have an advantage because they know how to just get up and go and do, while us introverts prefer to draw inward.
Introversion/extroversion are styles that reflect preferences, meaning there is no right or wrong way of being; however, 75% of the general population are on the extroversion side of the continuum. This often puts us introverts under suspicion and on the outs.
I think I'll go climb back in my hole now.
I'm a true extrovert and I'm the lone extrovert on my church session. Our pastor were also introverted. Introverts need not always be un-social--but I've learned to not expect "off the top the head" responses and traditional brainstorming can be a lonely exercise.
but with the proper prep time to think we do get there--just takes longer than when I do come upon a group a extroverts--but in my neck of the woods that's rare.
Hi everyone - Scot already knows about this, but I wanted to let you know that I've written a book about introverts in the church. You'll remember the title because it's called "Introverts in the Church." InterVarsity Press is releasing it in October. I look at the Christian life and Christian community through the lens of introversion. I explore topics like spirituality, community, leadership, worship, and evangelism with my introverted perspective. The link will take you to the IVP page.
Hi everyone - Scot already knows about this, but I wanted to let you know that I've written a book about introverts in the church. You'll remember the title because it's called "Introverts in the Church." InterVarsity Press is releasing it in October. I look at the Christian life and Christian community through the lens of introversion. I explore topics like spirituality, community, leadership, worship, and evangelism with my introverted perspective. The link will take you to the IVP page.
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