Christ-Actualized IS Self-Actualized

Maslow states that, “The need for self-actualization is satisfied when we identify our true self and reach our full potential…what a man can be, he must be. He must be true to his own nature” (Burger, 2011, p. 287). Consequently defining what humanity’s ‘full potential’ looks like is crucial. Even though the defining of ‘full potential’ is wide-open for various worldviews and speculations, this paper’s definition will be grounded in a presupposed theistic and protestant worldview. This paper will show that true self-actualization is maintained and perpetuated by Christ-actualization and that both terms are ultimately complimentary if not the same.

The Puritan Catechism which underlines the core fundamentals of protestant faith states that the chief end of man is, “To glorify God and enjoy Him forever” (2011). Consequently the defining of what ‘glorifying God’ is becomes crucial. The prophet Micah answers this inquiry by stating that, “[God] has told you, O Man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (Micah 6:8, ESV). These elements of glorifying God through practicing justice and kindness are echoed in the New Testament by Jesus’ summarizing of the entire law through the two actions of loving God with all your might and loving your neighbor as yourself (Matt. 22:36-40, ESV).

Modern psychology is beginning to echo this same sentiment – in essence discovering that altruistic behavior is one of the surest means to a life of purpose, joy, and fulfillment – i.e. self-actualization. This has especially been underlined by the research and work of Dr. Martin Seligman (2011) of the University of Pennsylvania. He states that, “… other people are the best antidote to the downs of life and the single most reliable up” (p. 20). He goes further to propose that looking through a psychological lens of altruism can bolster the heaviest hearts and bring an undeniable sense of fulfillment and peace with oneself.

Interestingly enough the four supporting ‘needs’ (i.e. physiological, safety, affiliation, and esteem) leading up to Maslow’s self-actualization pinnacle can be paralleled with what Christianity offers individuals. The biblical parallel is uncanny:

1. Matthew 6:31-33 “Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’…your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Maslow’s ‘Physiological Needs.’

2. Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” – Maslow’s ‘Safety Needs.’

3. John 6:37 “…and whoever comes to me I will never cast out.” Maslow’s ‘Social Needs.’

4. Proverbs 22:4 “The reward for humility and fear of the Lord is riches and honor and life.” Maslow’s ‘Esteem Needs.’

5. Romans 12:2 “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.” Maslow’s ‘Self-actualization Needs.’

Here we see Judeo-Christian principles dealing with the five necessities that Maslow underlines as being the basic needs for human beings. Maslow goes further to state that, “self-actualized people tend to accept themselves for what they are. They admit their weaknesses, and they work to improve themselves… they aren’t perfect, but they respect and feel good about themselves for what they are” (Burger, 2011, p. 289). Self-actualization depends solely on the four preceding needs being met securely. Christianity and/or Christ-actualization by its inherent nature provides for these needs securely - subsequently providing individuals with the opportunity to reach their ‘full-potential’ while also being Christ-like (Christ-actualized), since their ultimate end is the glorification of God.

Reference

Burger, J.M. (2011). Personality. 8th Ed. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.

Seligman, M. (2011). Flourish. New York, NY: Free Press.

Spurgeon, C. H. (2011). The Puritan Catechism. Retrieved February 1, 2012 from: http://www.spurgeon.org/catechis.htm