Recognition of Each Other by the Blessed.
We might presume that such would be the case, from the light of nature. It is fairly presumable that we shall know as much in the next world as we know in this, and consequently that we shall not meet as perfect strangers there, those with whom we have here walked in fellowship and friendship. What, however, reason makes probable, revelation makes certain.—That shows us Peter, James, and John on the Mount of Transfiguration, and apprizes us of the fact that they recognized Moses and Elias who also were there; for Peter made particular mention of them when he said to Christ—“Let us make here three tabernacles, one for thee, one for Moses, and one for Elias.” If these disciples thus knew Moses and Elias, called them by name, it is strange indeed if Moses and Elias did not know each other, and were first introduced to each other by these words of Peter. But if they did know each other, then do the redeemed know each other, and those who have been their intimate friends here, on earth. The Apostle Paul writing to those persons converted under his ministry (1 Thess. ii, 19, 20,) says: “What is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Are not even ye at the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at his coming? for ye are our glory and joy.” What is the meaning of this, except that those whom the apostle had been made the instrument of leading unto Christ, would be a source of happiness to him when they unitedly came to the heavenly mansions?—when the Lord Jesus should again appear to take them to himself! But how could this be, if he could not distinguish them from others in that world of light? How could he “glorify God on their behalf,” if he knew not who they were? “Many,” we are told, “shall come from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south, and shall sit down with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of God.” Is it supposable that Isaac and Jacob will not know Abraham, or that those who are privileged with a seat at that marriage-supper of the Lamb, will not know that the venerable patriarch is there, or who he is? At the death of his child, David consoled himself at the thought—“I shall go to him, but he shall not return to me.” The consolation however arising from this source would be small indeed, if when David regained his lost child in the future state, he could not recognize him.—Sel.