The Worthy Communicant
The work explores the nature of worthiness in approaching Communion, contrasting two biblical figures: a Pharisee and a publican. The Pharisee, despite his outward righteousness and scrupulous observance of religious duties, embodies a self-righteousness that blinds him to his need for grace. He believes his moral standing qualifies him for Communion, yet his pride distances him from true humility. In contrast, the publican acknowledges his sinfulness and pleads for mercy, demonstrating a genuine understanding of his spiritual state. The text critiques contemporary attitudes that mirror the Pharisee's pride, warning against trusting in one's own perceived righteousness or repentance. It emphasizes that true worthiness comes from recognizing one's sinfulness and relying on God's grace rather than self-congratulation. The author argues that a humble heart, aware of its flaws, is essential for approaching Communion. This humility fosters love and charity towards others, countering the tendency to judge or elevate oneself above others. Ultimately, the work calls for a sincere acknowledgment of sin and a longing for transformation through divine mercy, positioning this as the true preparation for partaking in the sacred rite. The message underscores that only through humility and reliance on God's grace can one be deemed fit for Communion.
By Charles Kingsley · First published 1851 · Genre: Religious, Non-fiction, Spiritual · 1,862 words
First lines
I tell you, this man went down to his house justified rather than the other. - LUKE xviii. 14
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The Worthy Communicant is listed on Textopian as a speech by Charles Kingsley, dated 1851 CE.
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- Work type: Speech
- Author: Charles Kingsley
- Date: 1851 CE
- Language: English
- Genres: Religious, Non-fiction, Spiritual, Theology
- Length: 1,862 words
- Structure: 1 section, 16 paragraphs
- Reading fit: Fairly Easy (7th Grade)
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Genres
- Religious — The book is primarily about the Christian sacrament of Communion, offering guidance on its worth and importance. This points it firmly towards the genre of Religious Literature.
- Non-fiction — The book does not contain a fictional narrative but is an exploration of a religious rite. As such, it fits into the Non-fiction genre.
- Spiritual — The book's theme revolves around the examination of one's own spirituality in relation to the Holy Communion, which pertains to the Spiritual genre.
- Theology — Given Kingsley's in depth examination and discussion of an aspect of Christian sacrament, it also falls within the realm of Theology.
Tags
Christianity · Communion · Faith · Sacraments · Spirituality · Theology · Religious Education · Moral Instruction · Devotion · Worship · Church · Rituals