It seems God has made it so that we will have the ability to know and recognize other people in heaven. Moses and Elijah lived hundreds of years before Peter, James, and John. Even so, the two gentlemen from the Old Testament were recognized by the disciples at the Mount Of Transfiguration when they appeared with Jesus. Was it because Moses and Elijah were wearing name badges? Not likely.
(Luke 9:30-33) Two men, Moses and Elijah, appeared in glorious splendor, talking with Jesus. As the men were leaving Jesus, Peter said to him, “Master, it is good for us to be here. Let us put up three shelters–one for you, one for Moses and one for Elijah.” (He did not know what he was saying.)
Feasting With Abraham, Isaac, And Jacob
It also seems that Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob will be recognizable when we get to heaven. From this scripture we know they have kept their identity in heaven.
(Mathew 8:11) I say to you that many will come from the east and the west, and will take their places at the feast with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven.
Jesus Was Recognized
A number of scriptures indicate Jesus himself was known by others after he had died and rose again, including the following verse.
(John 21:12) Jesus said to them, “Come and have breakfast.” None of the disciples dared ask him, “Who are you?” They knew it was the Lord.
We don’t have all the details of how God will give us the ability to know others in heaven. This is especially true in the cases of being able to identify people such as Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, whom we have never met. We will be changed and have new bodies in heaven, and yet it seems by scripture we will still be able to identify others as who they were on earth.
Reunited With Family And Friends
It can be assumed we will know family and friends as well. This is a comforting thought for us all to have. Knowing that we can be reunited with loved ones who have died before us makes life easier. We must remember the most important part of being able to see each other in heaven is we must be saved to make it there.
