If you haven’t been living under a rock, then you’ve probably heard of the enneagram. It’s one of the more fashionable personality theories in Christianity and pop culture today. If you go to a mainline or evangelical church in the U.S. there are probably people in your congregation who have used the enneagram. But to understand the Enneagram it’s important to know that it’s not just a personality theory. And it’s not religiously neutral either. Some folks have tried to christianize it, but with limited success since it began in cults and the occult, and never quite outgrew its deep anti-Christian roots. Plus, it’s not a scientifically credible system. If you, your friend, or your church are using the enneagram, I encourage you to reconsider that decision. I’m not saying the enneagram is the worst thing in the world. But I don’t think it’s wise or safe either. And, for some people, it’s even idolatry. If you’re still in the market for a reliable insightful personality test, there are better options to choose from like the Minnesota Multiple Personality Inventory (MMPI), Big 5 Inventory (BFI), or Gallup’s StrengthFinder.

Sincerely,
Dr. John D. Ferrer