What is a general misconception about the "communion of saints"?

The idea that "communion of saints" demands communal living reflects a misconception about its broader theological implications. The term "communion of saints" in Christian doctrine refers to the spiritual union of all members of the Christian church, both living and deceased, who share a common faith. This concept emphasizes the fellowship believers have with one another and with Christ, but it does not prescribe a specific way of living, such as communal living.

In this context, while communal living can be a manifestation of faith for some groups, it is not a requirement of the doctrine itself. Rather, the "communion of saints" can exist in various forms of community and individual expressions of faith. The focus is on the shared belief and mutual support among believers, rather than a mandated lifestyle choice. Thus, recognizing this distinction helps clarify the flexible nature of how this communion can be experienced among Christians without enforcing a single, uniform way of living.