Article — Heaven and Hell — Q & A

Moses and Elijah were recognizable at their appearance at the transfiguration of Christ even though they had died centuries earlier (Matt. 17:3-4).

 

Jesus tells a story about a poor man named Lazarus who died and was carried by angels to Abraham’s side. A rich man also died and was in torment in Hades (hell) when he looked across a great chasm and saw Abraham with Lazarus at his side being comforted.

 

The rich man called out,

“Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus to dip the end of his finger in water and cool my tongue, for I am in anguish in this flame.”

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However, the chasm could not be crossed, and the rich man was stuck in Hades. This story conveys the idea that people were recognizable after death (Luke 16:19-26).

 

These verses and others indicate we may reunite with family and friends in heaven.