In the New Testament, we see in Matt. 17:1-3; Mark 9:4; Luke 9:30-31, the deceased Moses and Elijah appear at the Transfiguration to converse with Jesus in the presence of Peter, James and John (these may be the two “witnesses” John refers to in Rev. 11:3). Nothing in Scripture ever suggests that God abhors or cuts off communication between the living in heaven and the living on earth. To the contrary, God encourages communication within the communion of saints. Moses and Elijah’s appearance on earth also teach us that the saints in heaven have capabilities that far surpass our limitations on earth.
In the Old Testament, we read in 2 Macc. 15:12-16, that the high priest Onias and the prophet Jeremiah were deceased for centuries, and yet interact with the living Judas Maccabeas and pray for the holy people on earth. Perhaps that is why Luther removed this book from his Bible.
Elijah and Moses appeared and conversed with Christ. He didn’t pray to them. And, that passage does not indicate in any way that Moses or Elijah hear prayer. And, nothing in scripture says that anyone but God hears prayer.
I would agree with Luther if he removed it. ;)
I would think God encourages the communion of the saints — the coming together of Christians for worship and fellowship. But, that may be a different description of saints than to which you refer. But, we all pray to God alone — no one else.
Hoss