Not all people are outgoing or in the middle of crowds all the time, but that doesn’t mean they are inferior Christians.
There are three main personality types: extroverts, introverts, and ambiverts. Extroverts thrive off being around others, love talking with others, and are outgoing. Introverts are individuals who tend to spend more time alone or with those who don’t drain their social battery. They are often working on creative projects and are more self-reflective. Ambiverts are somewhere between introverts and extroverts as they don’t fully relate to extroverts or introverts. In other words, like a mix of the two.
Within many Christian ministries, churches, and communities, being introverted has been demonized or taught as a personal flaw. As someone with firsthand experience here, others need to know there is nothing wrong with being an introvert.
Extroverts, introverts, and ambiverts can all be Christians because while we have different personality traits, we have the same faith in Jesus. There is nothing inferior about being an introvert, even though this is commonly taught within Christian circles. Extroverts are not the only ones who can help in a ministry, church, or community. Introverts and ambiverts can be equally as helpful.
Extroverts Are Not the Only Followers of Jesus
Most people involved in Christian organizations and churches seem to be extremely outgoing and extroverted. They are often on stage leading worship or directing big mission projects in the community. But before we press forward, we should acknowledge that some of these people are actually introverts who simply fulfill their calling, whatever that may be. The idea of extroverts is typically tied to big smiles around big crowds, but introverts can still experience joy and share that with others no matter where they are called. Therefore, don’t be surprised when many people you once thought were extroverts actually find rest and joy in their alone time.
This is something that churches, ministries, and other Christian organizations need to learn—introverts are just as equipped to do Christian work as extroverts are, and they should not be forced to change. Introverts should not be shrugged off because they are deemed as “too quiet” or “shy.” Most introverts are not shy if you truly get to know them. There needs to be more opportunities and chances for introverts because we normally get cast aside due to not being viewed as bright, bubbly, and outgoing as extroverts.
Extroverts can follow Jesus, but so can introverts and ambiverts. Nowhere in the Bible do we see God commanding all people to be outgoing. Rather, what we do see is that God created all people uniquely (Psalm 139:13-16). Within God’s creation of humankind, He created different personalities, yet never does He say one is superior to the others. Instead of deeming extrovertedness as the supreme personality, individuals need to start recognizing that all personalities can follow Jesus because our personalities are not what makes us followers of Jesus.
What makes us a follower of Jesus is that we placed faith in Jesus. Salvation is the free gift of God. It is not by any works that we have done (Ephesians 2:9). The matter of salvation was only obtainable through Jesus and placing faith in Him. It doesn’t matter if you are an extrovert, introvert, ambivert, or you don’t identify with any of them. Ultimately, what matters is if you have accepted Jesus as your Savior and Lord.
You Don’t Have to Be An Extrovert to Thrive in Ministry Work
With this in mind, we can understand that one doesn’t have to be an extrovert to thrive in life or ministry work. We are often taught that only outgoing extroverts will succeed in life and ministry work because they are good at talking with people. While extroverts are more confident and often more happy talking with others, it doesn’t mean introverts should be counted out or seen as unable to witness to and serve others. Most of us as introverts have great social skills, but we tend to keep to ourselves rather than talking in large groups.
Something I have noticed is that I tend to feel more comfortable talking with people one-on-one rather than in large groups. Large groups can be overwhelming to me, and I tend to panic. However, this doesn't mean I can’t help others come to know Jesus and disciple them. Rather, I can do these very things through one-on-one communication and meet-ups as well as through technology.
Technological advancements have helped introverts in massive ways. One is that we can write about our walk with Christ, how to help others with their walk, and various topics of the Bible all without having to talk to someone in person. It is beneficial to meet with people in person, but for someone who really struggles to do so, technology is a great way to still share the gospel and impact the world for Christ.
All Personalities Can Serve Jesus
Jesus does not say only certain types of people are called to follow Him and serve Him. He has called all people to come to know Him, to follow Him, and to help more people place faith in Him. God desires for all people to be saved (1 Timothy 2:4).
This includes introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts. No matter what you find your personality is most similar to, know that you can serve the Lord regardless. If anything, more introverts and ambiverts need to get involved with ministries, churches, and Christian organizations and be their true selves rather than someone they aren't. Trying to make an introvert be an extrovert won't advance the gospel.
In the same way, forcing an extrovert to be an introvert will not make the extrovert find joy in serving. Whether you are an extrovert, an introvert, or an ambivert, know that you have been called to serve Jesus. Christian ministries need to start being more open to introverts and to people who might not match what they are looking for. Not all people are outgoing or in the middle of crowds all the time, but that doesn’t mean they are inferior Christians.
I have had many organizations turn me down because I’m not bright, bubbly, and outgoing. It is hurtful because what they are ultimately saying is that they don’t like me as a person. If you are someone who is the head of a church, a Christian organization, or a ministry, start being more accepting of introverts. Maybe they aren’t as outgoing as extroverts, but that is not always a bad thing. Focus on their unique talents and gifts before you toss them aside.
The same goes for friendships and relationships. Just because someone isn’t giving off “golden retriever energy” doesn't mean you shouldn’t try to be friends with them. People come in all shapes and forms, and we shouldn’t demonize them for it. Introverts can be great friends if you truly get to know them, just as extroverts and ambiverts can be great friends. There needs to be an end to seeing introverts as inferior to extroverts.
All People Are Equal
All people are equal, no matter what type of personality they have (Galatians 3:28). Just as we cannot change our genetic make-up, we cannot change our personality. Sure, we can challenge ourselves to open up to new ideas and experiences, and we should certainly always try to change our character for the better. But who we are and the constructs of our personalities are hard-wired by God.
Some people have tried to change, yet it only makes them feel like a fraud. Trust me, I’ve been there and it is not fun. Never try to be someone you are not. If you are an introvert, don’t try to be an extrovert, and if you are an extrovert, don’t try to be an introvert. Introverts, extroverts, and ambiverts are all beautiful personalities and nobody needs to see one as being superior to the others.
Photo Credit: ©Getty Images/Polina Panna
