Will We Know Each Other in Heaven

Will We Know Each Other In Heaven?          by Pastor Kris Widmer

1.     Isaiah 65:17 - This text sais that the former things will not come to mind.  I believe this refers to the pains of earth.  They won't come to mind in glory.  But certainly we will remember the good things of earth...and the redemption of Jesus.  How can we sing the song of redemption in glory (Revelation 14:3) if we have no recollection that we once were lost...but then were "found" by God.

2.     2 Samuel 12:15-23 - David expressed the hope of going to his dead infant son, after he died.  This implies recognition.

3.     Luke 9:30 - Moses and Elijah went to heaven: one after death and one without dying.  Both were recognized by the disciples.

4.     Matthew 8:11 - When we get to heaven we will sit down (at God's wonderful dinner table.) with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.  This implies we will know them.

5.     Jesus was recognized by those who saw him after the resurrection.  John 20:19-29 and Mary recognized Jesus voice!  John 20:11-18

6.     1 Thessalonians 2:19,20 - In the context of "the Lord Jesus at His coming", Paul says that these believers are his hope, joy and crown of exultation (I'm proud of you all." and look forward to being with you a that time.  You are our glory and joy.....(not just for now...but for the end/eternity.)

7.     2 Corinthians 1:14 - "You are our reason to be proud.....in the day of our Lord Jesus."   What a day of healthy pride it will be for all those who have worked for souls to see them redeemed in heaven!

8.     1 Corinthians 15:42-49 - Paul is teaching that there is a difference and a correlation between the natural body and the spiritual body.  We will still be "us" when we are raised.

9.     1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 - Paul's comforting point is that those who have fallen asleep will be restored to us in the resurrection.  There is no point in being comforted if we wake up to a group of strangers on the resurrection morning.

10. 1 Corinthians 13:12 - This text is often quoted out of context...but it does imply a "knowing" completely then in ways we only know in part now.

11. Revelation 20:4, 6 - Those resurrected in the first resurrection are priests of God...and are considered to be blessed and holy.  They reign with Christ.  It is assumed they will know Christ and know each other.

12. If there is no recognition than there can be no heavenly reunion...and if there is no reunion...what is the point of being comforted by the words of 1 Thess 4:13-16.