This practice of Paul
corresponds to one of the earliest creedal statements of Christian faith:
The
Apostles Creed: "I believe in
the communion of saints."
Communion of saints refers to
the bond of unity among all believers, both living and dead, who are or have been committed followers of Jesus Christ.
In the eyes of God, in eternity,
the
distinction between His People who are "living" or
who are "dead" is not at all important.