Expert: Rev. Stuart Woodward - 5/3/2009

Question
Will we reconize and know our loved ones from earth in Heaven?

Answer
Hello Curt,
Thank you for your question. I have no doubt the answer is yes. I have a number of reasons for saying this. Although the bible never declares it, it seems to take it for granted. First of all there is the great cloud of witnesses in Hewbrews 11. They are named specifically and described as those who are cheering us on. Secondly we have the disicples' experience of the transfigeration of Jesus when Moses and Elijah joined Jesus. Although the brightness was amazing these characters were identifiable. Then comes Paul's teaching on the resurrection of the body in 1 Cor 15. Here he is clear that our new bodies will be glorfied and somewhat different but they will be recognisable in the same way that we can tell what plant has come from what seed. When Jesus died and rose He had (and still has) a glorified body which although different was clearly recognisable by the disiciples. The final issue that settles the matter for me is the nature of the church. The true church of Jesus will go on through eternity. We are described as the family of God. It is incomprehensible that Heaven, that place of perfection, would mean that we know each other less. Rather we will know each other more.
Having said all that although our earthly loved ones will be special to us when we go to be with the Lord our focus and joy will be mainly on being with Jesus. Most of all I look forward to seeing His face.
I hope these comments are of some help.
May God bless you.
Stuart Woodward.