The question of what people will look like in heaven has long intrigued many. A look at Scripture offers some ideas on the topic, yet leaves other aspects unresolved. First Corinthians 15 speaks of the resurrection bodies of believers. They will be immortal and incorruptible. In other words, these bodies will be new, everlasting, and much improved over our earthly bodies.
However, there must be some ways in which our resurrected bodies will be similar to those on earth. First, it appears clear believers will be able to recognize one another in heaven, meaning we must look similar to some degree. Second, the resurrected body of Jesus was recognizable to His followers, though it included special abilities and was made whole (1 John 3:2-3).
Other Scriptures imply by actions in heaven how believers will look in heaven. For example, we will eat and drink (Luke 14:15; 22:18). We will be clothed in new clothing (2 Corinthians 5:4-5). We will be able to sing and express worship to the Lord. Like Moses or Elijah, we will be able to speak with Jesus and with others (Luke 9:28-32).
Another positive aspect is that all sin will be removed from our heavenly bodies. Our human propensities to sin in various ways will no longer exist. Temptation will no longer be an issue, but rather perfect joy and peace in the presence of the Lord.
Interestingly, Scripture indicates we will each have a body and soul that are unique: "But God gives it a body as he has chosen, and to each kind of seed its own body" (1 Corinthians 15:38).
What about those with physical or mental problems in this life? Believers will receive new bodies completely made whole by God. Isaiah 35:5-6 declares, "Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then shall the lame man leap like a deer, and the tongue of the mute sing for joy." Just as the resurrected body of Jesus was made whole, so will those with limitations in this life.
Again, not every detail is given regarding our heavenly body, but much information is given. We will have new, perfect, eternal bodies with soul and body made free from the limitations of this life. We will be able to recognize one another and have freedom from sin and its impact as we live among other believers and in the presence of the Lord forever.
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