The Common Preciousness
Communion is a precious act of common union, demonstrating Jesus' intention to give Himself to us through organic union.
G.W. North emphasizes the profound meaning of communion as a 'common union' that transcends mere sharing, highlighting its preciousness as a deliberate act of will that makes the spiritual nourishment of Christ's body and blood accessible to all believers. He explains that while communion elements may seem simple, they symbolize the deep and necessary connection between Christ and His followers, inviting them to partake in His life. This act of communion is not just a ritual but a purposeful sharing that requires active participation from believers to fully experience the grace and presence of Jesus.
Text
The Greek verb from which the English word communion is translated can best be understood by the phrase, 'the act of making common'. In this connection 'common' does not mean base, or of a low order, or lesser nature, as when we compare that which is precious or rare or of high degree with that which is base or of low degree. It describes that which is in plentiful supply and belongs to everybody, yet is of a quality so rare, having a function so basic and necessary, that it is extremely precious -- as breath is to lungs, or nature to being, or light to day.
For our purposes, beyond the bare meaning of the word, communion may best be thought of as common union involving the action of the will, a result which is achieved by an act. In this case the act is something done deliberately with specific intention, and being done, makes or causes whatever is involved and intended in the act to become the common property of all; it is purposeful sharing. This is one of the most precious things about the feast, and is probably the reason why its elements are reduced to merest tokens.
The real food and drink of the spiritual meal are the body and blood of the Lord, who instituted the feast because He knew it was the best way of telling us that He wanted to give Himself to us. Jesus' symbolic act of breaking and giving His body and shedding and sharing His blood was a demonstration of His future intention to make Himself and His personal communion through organic union common to all His own. In order to become effective in us, that original act must be reciprocated and repeated by us -- we must take and eat and drink also.
Sermon Outline
- Understanding Communion
- The Greek meaning of communion
- Communion as common union
- The act of communion
Key Quotes
“Communion may best be thought of as common union involving the action of the will, a result which is achieved by an act.” — G.W. North
“The real food and drink of the spiritual meal are the body and blood of the Lord, who instituted the feast because He knew it was the best way of telling us that He wanted to give Himself to us.” — G.W. North
Application Points
- We must deliberately participate in communion, making it a common property of all through our actions.
- Communion is a demonstration of Jesus' love and intention to give Himself to us.
- We must reciprocate and repeat Jesus' act of communion to make it effective in our lives.