Paul concludes his benediction to the Corinthian believers with “the communion [or fellowship] of the Holy Spirit.” This is the only time we get this expression in the Bible.

Christ told His disciples that the Holy Spirit would come after He returned to heaven. Indeed it was necessary that He return to heaven in order that the Holy Spirit could come. Christ would not abandon them, or leave them orphans—the Helper’s presence would be like having the Lord Jesus with them (Jn. 14:16–18; 16:7). Without the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit, we could not have any appreciation or fellowship with the wonderful things of Christianity. The Holy Spirit also links us together in a vital fellowship, which was formed at Pentecost, which we also must endeavor to keep (Eph. 4:3).

Our fellowship is with the Father and the Son through the Holy Spirit (1 Jn. 1:3; 4:13). Make no mistake, the Father and Son are the direct objects of our heart and not the Holy Spirit. We do not pray to the Holy Spirit, as some have interpreted this benediction to mean; rather, He assists us in our praying! “The Spirit also helps in our weaknesses. For we do not know what we should pray for as we ought, but the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered” (Rom. 8:26). Why? Because He dwells with us on earth as our Advocate (Jn. 14:16).

The Spirit would also “not speak from Himself” (Jn. 16:13 jnd); this means that He would not speak from His own authority but His mission would be to direct our eyes heavenward, that we may view the glory of Christ, and that we may worship God “by the Spirit” (2 Cor. 3:17–18; Phil. 3:3 jnd).

May we appreciate more and more the grace of Christ, the love of God, and the fellowship of the Spirit! Amen!