Will We Recognize Others in Heaven?

by Steve Hale

(1 Thessalonians 2:9-10)

Thesis: The Scriptures teach we will recognize one another in heaven!

Introduction:

1. Remember the words of Jesus to the penitent thief on the cross (Luke 23:39-43).
1. It inspired courage and comfort to this man, who hours earlier had reviled our Lord.
2. The greatest assurance and incentive of us today is anticipation of heaven (Matthew 6:19-21).
2. To calm a group of despondent disciples, Jesus spoke to them about heaven (John 14:1-3).
   1. This hope was so instrumental to those Christians undergoing the fire of horrible persecution (Revelation 2:10).
   2. These passages and countless others remind us of the need daily to intensify our desire for heaven (Colossians 3:1-3).
   3. Suffering can be negotiated as look to heaven (II Corinthians 4:17-18).
3. Given such hope, will we recognize one another in heaven?
1. Paradise and heaven: is there a difference?
2. Will heaven differ from Paradise in regard to recognition?
4. Will we recognize one another:
   1. rejoicing implies recognition (1 Thessalonians 2:9-10).
   2. remembrance implies recognition (Revelation 6:9-10).
   3. reunion implies recognition (2 Sam. 12:23).

Discussion:

1. Will we recognize one another: rejoicing implies recognition (1 Thessalonians 2:9-10)!
1. How could Paul rejoice over the salvation of the Thessalonians without recognition (1 Thessalonians 2:9-10)?
2. How could the Philippian brethren be "his joy and crown" without recognition (Philippians 3:17-4:1)?
2. Will we recognize one another: remembrance implies recognition (Revelation 6:9-10)?
1. These were reigning with Him in heaven (Revelation 20:4-6).
2. This is obviously taught with Lazarus and the rich man (Luke 16:19-31).
3. Will we recognize one another: reunion implies recognition (2 Sam. 12:23)?
1. David would go to him...in heaven!
2. Reunion with those who've died in Christ implies recognition (1 Thessalonians 4:13-18).

Conclusion:

1. Reconciliation brings about reunion which brings about recognition (II Corinthians 5:17-21).

2. Suffering loss implies recognition (I Corinthians 3:12-15).

3. Rejoicing, remembering, reunion all imply recognition in heaven!