False Self, True Self, and Self-Denial: The Contribution of Object-Relations Theory to Christian Self-Denial

Abstract

The act of self-denial in the Christianity seems to be in conflict with the idea of self-fulfillment. True self-denial however leads to self-fulfillment in God. Within the framework of true and false self based on Donald W. Winnicott’s theory and Christian theology, this paper addresses the reality that while selfdenial by the false self results in distorted practices of denial, the practice of self-denial motivated by the true self rather achieves self-fulfillment. In selfdenial by the false self, people feel empty, though it may help them to adapt to a religious environment. The defensive reaction of the false self has a tendency to reveal itself with compliant, aggressive, and evasive self-denial. However, the true self in the practice of self-denial can fulfill the roles that God empowers to the self, find spiritual satisfaction, and feel real in the restored relationships with God and others. Given that pastoral environments provide “ good-enough mothering” and “ responsible fatherly care” for a psychologically and spiritually safe place to reveal the true self, an individual can face his/her reality of false self-denial and engage in true self-denial. The true self then can practice mortification of sin and self-giving love through surrendering to God within community, and eventually accomplish selffulfillment, which completes the purpose of God and glorifies God.