Worm Theology

The Disastrous Long-Term Impact of Shame and Self-Hatred

A couple of decades ago (early 90s), there was a concept making the church rounds. It was called “Worm Theology”. It meant that unless you thought of yourself as a despicable worm, you were not worthy of salvation. We were supposed to think of ourselves as “the worst of sinners” (text-proofing verses pulled out of Paul’s letters), the most abject refuse of humanity, and the most disgusting creature on earth. Then only could we be redeemed.

Needless to say, that was a terrible way to think, and definitely not in line with what Jesus taught. At best it was ridiculous and could be ignored (which I did). At worst, it could be taken to heart by a more impressionable soul and be very destructive. The whole idea of being unworthy and shameful is a hallmark of many churches. It perpetuates the abuse and keeps people humiliated (not humble).

My friend Roy posted an excellent (and short) podcast episode on the topic of shame. As someone who grew up in the church, he explains so well the impact of unhealthy guilt on young people (and older ones too). He asks the question, “What kind of grace starts with self-hatred?” He talks about how he used to write “I” in lower case so as to try his best to be humble and to think of himself as “small”. He says, “I still try to shrink into the lower case version of myself.” Heartbreaking.

Instead of writing a long post, let me encourage you to listen to his podcast episode. It only takes 30 mn, and is well worth the time.