Heaven Is For Real: A Glimpse into the Afterlife Through a Child's Eyes

What is Heaven Is for Real?

"Heaven Is for Real" is a non-fiction book written by Todd Burpo, a pastor whose young son, Colton, claimed to have visited heaven during a near-death experience. The book recounts Colton's detailed descriptions of heaven, including meeting God, Jesus, and angels, as well as deceased loved ones.

Colton Burpo's Experience

At the age of three, Colton underwent an emergency appendectomy. During the surgery, he briefly died but was resuscitated. When he awoke, he began sharing extraordinary stories of his time in heaven. Colton described witnessing God and Jesus on their thrones, riding a rainbow-colored horse, and sitting in Jesus' lap while angels sang. He also mentioned meeting his older sister, who had been miscarried by his mother, and a great-grandfather who had passed away before he was born.

Critical Reception

"Heaven Is for Real" became a New York Times bestseller, selling millions of copies. However, it also received criticism from some Christians who questioned its extra-biblical claims and the lack of medical evidence supporting Colton's clinical death. Author Alex Malarkey later recanted his own similar story, raising concerns about the accuracy of such accounts.

Legacy and Impact

Despite the criticism, Colton Burpo has maintained the veracity of his account. The book has provided comfort and reassurance to countless readers, particularly those who have lost loved ones. It has also sparked discussions about spirituality, the nature of heaven, and the importance of preparing for the afterlife.

Key Points of the Book

• Colton Burpo claimed to have visited heaven during a near-death experience.
• He described witnessing God, Jesus, angels, and deceased loved ones.
• The book has sold millions of copies and received both praise and criticism.
• It offers a glimpse into the afterlife from a child's perspective.
• The book has sparked discussions about faith, spirituality, and the possibility of an afterlife.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Book "Heaven is for Real"

Is "Heaven is for Real" a true story?

Yes, "Heaven is for Real" is based on the true account of Colton Burpo, a four-year-old boy who claimed to have visited heaven during a near-death experience during emergency surgery.

What did Colton Burpo claim to see in heaven?

Colton described meeting Jesus, riding a rainbow-colored horse, and sitting in his lap while angels sang. He also claimed to have witnessed God, the Holy Spirit, and his older sister, who had died before he was born.

What is the main message of "Heaven is for Real"?

The book's main message is that there is life after death and that heaven is a real place filled with love and joy. It also explores themes of faith, the existence of heaven, and the love of Jesus for children.

Has "Heaven is for Real" been criticized?

Yes, some Christians have criticized the book for making extra-biblical claims and lacking medical evidence of Colton's clinical death. Other critics have raised concerns about the accuracy of such accounts.

What impact has "Heaven is for Real" had?

The book has sold millions of copies, becoming a New York Times bestseller. It has also inspired a feature film and has led to discussions about spirituality and the possibility of an afterlife.