Prefatory Note
PREFATORY NOTE
The reader can refer to the Life of Dr. Owen (vol. i. p. lxxii.) for a general critique of the merits of the following treatise. It was published in 1657, shortly after he had finished serving as ViceChancellor at the University of Oxford. According to the brief preface attached to it, it appears that he had been committed to publishing the substance of the work for over six years. Consequently, it can be inferred that it comprises some sermons he had preached in Oxford.
However, since he became Vice-Chancellor only in September 1652, it is more probable that these are the sermons that brought comfort and joy to his devoted congregation in Coggeshall. There are two noteworthy aspects that deserve attention in this treatise.
Misunderstanding one of them has led to some misconceptions about the author's intention, causing some to believe that he deviates from it in various passages that are actually in line with his primary and original purpose in the work. The term "Communion" as used by Owen carries a broader meaning than what is commonly understood in religious language today. It not only signifies the exchange of emotions between God in His merciful nature and a soul in a state of grace, but also the gracious relationship on which this sacred exchange is built. For instance, it encompasses all of Christ's work and its outcomes, from the atonement to its actual effect in justifying the sinner. The most distinctive characteristic of this treatise is the extensive use of illustrations to elaborate on the communion that believers enjoy with each person of the Godhead. To fully grasp his perspectives on this matter, it is necessary to bear in mind Owen's interpretation of the term "Communion."
ANALYSIS PART I.—The fact of communion with God is asserted, CHAP. I.
Scripture passages are cited to demonstrate that communion with each of the persons of the Trinity is specifically mentioned, II.
Communion with the FATHER is described, III.; and practical conclusions are drawn from it, IV.
PART II.—The reality of communion with CHRIST is proven, CHAP.
I.; and its nature is subsequently examined, II. It is shown to consist of grace; then the grace of Christ is presented in three categories:— his personal grace, III–VI.; within this category, there are two extensive digressions aimed at revealing the glory and beauty of Christ;—grace obtained through His redemptive work, VII–X.; where the mediatorial work of Christ is thoroughly discussed in relation to our acceptance by God, VII., VIII.; sanctification, IX.; and the privileges of the covenant, X.;—and grace communicated by the Spirit, apparent in the fruits of personal holiness. This last category is exemplified through sanctification, which is encompassed by the section on obtained grace.
PART III.—Communion with the HOLY SPIRIT is explained in the following eight chapters;—its foundation, CHAP. I.; His gracious and effective influence on believers, II.; the components of this communion, III.; the effects it produces in the hearts of believers,
IV.; and general conclusions and specific guidelines for communion with the Spirit, V–VIII. The arrangement of the treatise may seem intricate and complex, and the numerous divisions and subdivisions may sometimes distract rather than assist the reader's focus.
However, the passionate fervor of sanctified emotions and occasional thoughts of remarkable strength and originality found throughout the treatise maintain interest and more than compensate for the