Will we know each other in heaven?
Introduction. The question of future recognition is often asked. However, it is a question which the scriptures do not explicitly address. Therefore, we must take special caution in our answer.
There appears to be recognition in Hades. Hades is the intermediate abode of our spirits after death and before the Judgment Day. It was to this sphere that Lazarus and the rich man's spirit went after they died (Luke 16: 19-31). Hades and heaven appear to be the same in the matter of both being spiritual realms. However, some believe the "body" of Hades will not be the same "body" in heaven. They base this on 1 Corinthians 15: 51-54. Regardless, the rich man recognized both Abraham and Lazarus (Lk. 16: 23) and Abraham recognized the rich man (vs. 25).
There will not be some of the same relationships in heaven. While there may be recognition in heaven, we know certain relationships will not continue. Jesus taught "For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven." (Matt. 22: 30, see also vss. 23-32). Hence, two who were husband and wife in this life will not function as husband and wife in heaven. Such, though, does not necessarily preclude the recognition of our former spouses.
Other considerations. Some contend future recognition will not be experienced because the failure to recognize certain loved ones in heaven would cause one to conclude they are in punishment (see Rev. 21: 4). Your writer is of the opinion there will be recognition in heaven, in some way, and to some degree. But I must admit I cannot conclusively prove the scriptures teach future recognition. "The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children for ever..." (Deut. 29:29).
There appears to be recognition in Hades. Hades is the intermediate abode of our spirits after death and before the Judgment Day. It was to this sphere that Lazarus and the rich man's spirit went after they died (Luke 16: 19-31). Hades and heaven appear to be the same in the matter of both being spiritual realms. However, some believe the "body" of Hades will not be the same "body" in heaven. They base this on 1 Corinthians 15: 51-54. Regardless, the rich man recognized both Abraham and Lazarus (Lk. 16: 23) and Abraham recognized the rich man (vs. 25).
There will not be some of the same relationships in heaven. While there may be recognition in heaven, we know certain relationships will not continue. Jesus taught "For in the resurrection they neither marry, nor are given in marriage, but are as the angels of God in heaven." (Matt. 22: 30, see also vss. 23-32). Hence, two who were husband and wife in this life will not function as husband and wife in heaven. Such, though, does not necessarily preclude the recognition of our former spouses.
Other considerations. Some contend future recognition will not be experienced because the failure to recognize certain loved ones in heaven would cause one to conclude they are in punishment (see Rev. 21: 4). Your writer is of the opinion there will be recognition in heaven, in some way, and to some degree. But I must admit I cannot conclusively prove the scriptures teach future recognition. "The secret things belong unto the Lord our God: but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children for ever..." (Deut. 29:29).