Interview with Todd Burpo, "Heaven is for Real"

Wayne Shepherd interviews Todd Burpo, father of Colton and author of "Heaven is for Real". This interview was recorded for the audiobook edition from Oasis Audio.
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[@fruitofspirit]

This book has strengthened my faith and I have been recommending it to everyone. God bless this family!

[@erikbruner]

Go outside. look around and you find that God doesn't give a shit about this planet

[@Racegun]

I read the book, I have always been a believer and the book just validates all that I already felt. May God bless us all as we continue to WALK in FAITH.

[@poet8871]

I just finished reading this book and I loved it!! It made me think about what I've been doing in my life.........

[@beezdog13]

This book is amazing!!!! I had a hard time putting it down. It is worth reading. I finished it in a day and a half. Thank you Burpo family for releasing a book that is so inspirational!

[@BettyClarkeWood]

Once I started to read I could not put the book down. Thank you for telling this story which puts a lot of pieces together and answers many questions. What an amazing opportunity to learn about God and heaven.

[@PinkyMeyer]

This book has confirmed a lot to me and I thank Todd for writing this big testimony.

[@tapstar84]

I love this story. I've only just started the book, and i can't wait to finish it!!

[@WaitingOnTheOne]

I had a near death experience 32 yrs. ago at the age of 18. I Lost a child and was severely distraught over our loss. At that time, I had to have surgery after the miscarriage and had a NDE. I also went to Heaven and was held on the lap of Jesus. He rocked me as if I was an infant. I felt so loved, & overwhelmingly at peace. It was not like a dream. I knew it was real and it has remained with me to this day. I no longer fear death after this overwhelming experience.

[@kamppaa]

This is such a wonderful story. I've read the book and I'm so touched of it. Praise the Lord!

[@tfjea]

The way Mr. Burpo speaks, "we are not special", "this is God's doing," etc leads me to believe this is a true story. People of God give Him the glory. God bless this wonderful child and his family. A lot of people will be helped with this.

[@Sandra1Rowan]

Dear Todd and Family, I really appreciate you sharing this incredible story and allowing God to touch us through Colton's experience. I too, have left my body without flat lining during serious illness. I studied the bible & found that Elisha left his body to follow his servant as he was deceiving Elisha. The prophet even said that he was watching him in spirit. What validation! God bless you all. Sandra

[@GodstrongWomen]

Colton's story will completely change you. I've yet to read a book that invoked so many tears of astonishment & joy. I found myself breaking down repeatedly & purposely having to stop to gather myself. As I sit here in retrospect, I realize my entire concept of the Kingdom has been forever changed for the better. Vicariously living these supernatural events through the eyes of a child, coupled with the adherence to Scripture, has left me overwhelmed with reverence & security in our Maker's arms.

[@edsan401]

Everyone has to read this book, it will knock your socks off. this book will be a real blessing to those who read this amazing story.

[@kitrude]

Loved the book!! It really had some of those "eye-openers" - "Ahhh-Hahh" moments for both myself and my husband. I know that some people will not believe that it is true, and I feel sorry for them, and have said a prayer for them. Thank you, Mr. Shepherd, for this interview. Thank you, Pastor Burpo, for taking the time to LISTEN to your son, and then to take the time to write the book and to share it with everyone. Thank you, Colton for sharing what you have seen and heard from GOD.

[@fourgates4591]

This is one young person's story about his experience. To the nay sayers, each person's journey is their own, and should be respected for just that. No one can comment with authority on another person's experience unless you have the identical one. I simply enjoy this as his story of what happened. We cannot measure experience in scientific or with empirical facts. This is the nature of life. The conscience is God's Presence within, and its voice is God's authority. Loved this story, thank you.

[@susan2uqt]

I read this in 2 days (and it only took that long because i was reading thru tears) I have 6 children- the two youngest being 6(girl) and 4(boy) that Colton reminds me of greatly. My husband and I are both Christians but it has touched me deeply. VERY inspiring!!!

[@satyricon55]

Burpo experience is real.Leaving his body, no space/time,and come back with a rich memoir.Burpo had something most important the truth about heaven.So beautiful book with the power to give us hope.

[@getreal007]

This is such a inspiring and at the same time gut wrenching book. I totally empathise with the struggle of infirmity. May the Lord continue to use this to glorify His name and bring many to salvation. God bless. John and family

[@keatonw12]

Thank you for sharing your story you have impacted alot of people

[@HakGTR]

God is working through your book Todd and Colton! God bless your family :)

[@mrchadg1]

Just finished this book. AMAZING!

[@renew2848]

So many nay sayers, just like the unbelievers in the Bible. There is no reason to doubt this story. God let him experience this to help others, it will lead to people's Salvation! Thank you for sharing this Beautiful Testimony🙏🙌🙏

[@Fightre_Flighte]

thank you for your wishful tidings!

[@sjschristian4life]

Amazing!

[@paulinewalker6501]

I have just read your book wonderful

[@Ldc744]

Wonderful story! Have read the book and have it in audio form as well. Some will believe and some won't.

[@caramoonlynn]

I really enjoyed this book. I agree with and believe in most everything in this book.

[@71Lenny]

I picked up this book and planned on reading just the first chapter. Two hours later, I finished the book. Couldn't put it down.

[@hanstonk]

stories like this need too be believed in at times, considering all the negative news around the world.

[@1020167]

I WANT TO READ THIS BOOK!!

[@davidcrerand2367]

I believe this 100% on my mum’s life.

[@missleeseloo]

Amazing...

[@superstar2123]

Child like faith...that is all that we are asked of. Simple truth defines simple hope. Love is a four letter word that redefines all others. I have hope in heaven and know beyond words it's existence.

[@leeannvdb]

Aahhhh, God Bless, u settled it! One Love, South Africa

[@INDIANA0PACERS]

I've read the book. It makes complete sense

[@SALI6751]

Blown away by this book, There are many things in this world that we don't believe ,but his book has changed me ,my way of thinking of God, Jesus. I believe his story because I had an experience similar.Colton, is the real deal.

[@76janee]

I read the book and it was really GREAT!!! I know without a doubt it is all TRUE!!! It was an amazing book and I am glad I was able to get a chance to read it.

[@ShadesofGray10]

What a beautiful testimony from a family that seems to have a heart that longs to glorify God in all they do. Mark 16:14 "Later Jesus appeared to the Eleven as they were eating; he rebuked them for their lack of faith and their stubborn refusal to believe those who had seen him after he had risen." John 20:29 Then Jesus told him, “Because you have seen me, you have believed; blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.”

[@renew2848]

Amen!

[@caragana5]

Wow. Thank You God

[@501CFUNDRAISE]

Dear Burpo family, I truly believe that God wanted to let you know that even through all the hardships you have been through your heavely Father has never left you nor forsaken u. Sometimes God has to snatch us to attention to make us see that He loves us & knows what we are going through. Sometimes we get in the way of our blessing through doubt because of hardships. But God knows the plans He has for us. Speak the word warrior of God. Bless your family & praying 4u, Jesus is Lord .~~~

[@cagedskylark]

I don't understand the comments below about Catholics. I'm a Catholic and I know the Holy Spirit comes to all who open their hearts to receive him. God loves all of us. If he has any favourites, it's little children. God bless everyone.

[@holyghosthospital27]

Praise the Lord

[@VoiceNLove]

Wow... That is amazing :)

[@masonkim7]

LET'S DO THIS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@brianthomas4770]

What is with all the negativity? I know this really happened! Have faith people! This book really spoke to me. I couldn't put it down!

[@Leslieperryscott]

I believe. Period.

[@AMO1921]

God has sent a sign for us 4 a reason!!!...

[@Fightre_Flighte]

"Belief is a wise wager. Granted that faith cannot be proved, what harm will come to you if you gamble on its truth and it proves false? If you gain, you gain all; if you lose, you lose nothing. Wager, then, without hesitation, that He exists." - Blaise Pascal.

[@RTKFilms]

Anybody that can actually think for themselves won't believe this for a second

[@kirkaspie]

amen

[@trends_magic_photo831]

In your dream, kid, just not real in your life. But real life is your world

[@CutieRingoJoy]

HE IS COMING TO MY CHURCH, AMEM TO SINGAPORE

[@smootht67]

All of these negative comments are expected and that's why this boy was chosen to see and spread the word of God and Heaven in this book to all.. Open your mind and open your hearts and trust in God and you will see miracles happen... Satan loves negativity

[@SuperLaura1970]

For those who believe, no explanation is necessary. For those who don't believe, no explanation is possible...

[@JimRussell100]

I was involved in an automobile accident in 1994 that placed me in a coma and a Near Death Experience. What he says is real. Father Russell, TX

[@RyanDepauloDegenerateGambler]

Why do people hate on peoples faith. This guy sounds like a perfectly nice man. Unless the kid is a sociopath with some master plan at the age of 4, he really believes he experienced what he experienced. We don't know. Thats the bottom line. But that goes both ways. It seems as though people conclude because we don't know, then its not true. That doesn't follow. We don't know, so we don't know thats the bottom line. If people get hope and joy on earth by believing what harm does it do you?

[@ginababyak]

Faith can be inspired, too. So if you have doubts, ask in prayer that the truth be revealed. I have faith now and didn't before. Pray to God, even if you don't believe, and tell him you have a willing heart to be shown the truth of himself and his son. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain :)

[@Maryloohoo2]

Why would this family go through all this publicty if it was not real. Todd is a pastor and knows not to make up anything. Heaven is real, belivers knew this before this book came out. Colton was picked by God for this purpose, to share the good news. Everybody reading this with questions contact a local church, many have web links. God loves us, this earch is a fleeting temporary place, the way to Heaven is through Jesus. Another good one like this, 30 Minutes in Heaven.

[@MsNisey1123]

This book is AMAZING!!!!! No question about it.....Having to "prove" that God is real is the exact opposite of everything God stands for, that defeats the purpose of "faith". If that's the case I can PROVE GOD IS REAL BECAUSE I FEEL HIM WITH ME, IN MY SPIRIT, ALL THE TIME. There's your "proof". GOD IS REAL, JESUS IS COMING .... Whose side are you fighting for?! You're either FOR GOD or you ARE AGAINST HIM!!!

[@MariaSisonRia]

Faith is simply believing. Questions are valid and I myself have asked how is this all possible, but the only teaching there has to be taken is, "Do unto others as you would have done unto you". Live by that and everything else will come to place. No need to ask questions.

[@Fightre_Flighte]

to some it might, however it is the ultimate test of faith!

[@CowJedi]

I just finished the book, and anyone who's actually read the Bible could simply pick out the loopholes (like that Jesus had wounds in the palms of his hands, even though the spikes were driven through his wrists - he had sea blue eyes, - even though he should have brown, and that Jesus rides a Rainbow colored horse!) just to name a few off the top of my head. What i find truly stupendous is that he was 3 years and 10 months old, and we are supposed to just take his word for a child made heaven.

[@leslielynnfreeofsin]

To those who claim that he is embellishing the story, listen to what the father shares. He wants to make SURE that the descriptions are real. It makes absolute sense that a four year old could not explain the experience in as much detail as an eleven year old. Besides, who can argue with a 4 year old knowing that he had a sister that was miscarried, or knowing exactly where his parents were during surgery? Really Listen...Embrace this, it is GOOD NEWS!!!!! Peace and Love to you!!!

[@ljackso]

@Maryloohoo2: Yes He is and VERY soon! Maranatha!

[@kesabi2002]

I don't understand why everyone has to become so angry whenever anyone, especially a child, talks of God....This family's message is not of hate, or intolerance, or anger. It's about hope and love and beauty. I'm not a born again Christian, I do believe in God, but I'm not the best Catholic, however how can spirituality of any kind be bad? Spirituality and religion creates kindness in most people, it makes people treat each other with kindness and respect. How can that be bad?

[@cindyhinkle1369]

I would llike to meet this boy I'm fixing to go in for surgery next month and I am really scared I might not wake up

[@leslielynnfreeofsin]

To those who claim that he is embellishing the story, listen to what the father shares. It makes absolute sense that a four year old could not explain the experience in as much detail as an eleven year old. Who can argue with a 4 year old knowing that he had a sister that was miscarried? Embrace this, it is GOOD NEWS!!!!! Peace and Love to you!!!

[@lhernana2j]

We are groomed to doubt everything we hear. Unless it happens to us ,we as a society just don't take things at face value.Mark 10:14 “Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.”

[@goodboy16almond]

God loves you :)

[@Fightre_Flighte]

Let me ask just a couple more questions, though! And I am glad you are like this and have the ability to accept it when you are wrong. But, you can agree that there was a good person named Jesus of Nazareth, right?

[@cantabilewoman]

@BelieveandtrustJesus I just saw a video where he says that Jesus had 'Rough but kind face, sea blue eyes and had a smile that lit up the heavens'

[@henningstraume9005]

This is real! :)

[@CowJedi]

The universe exists in the form of just Sound and Vibration when looked at on an atomic scale. Some of the most beautiful things in the universe are born from the most destructive moments.

[@ddavis5365]

When imaginations counter doctrine, you have another gospel. The gospel according to Todd Burpo..............

[@sandrapennell5920]

I just ordered this book "Heaven Is For Real". When I told some people at my church about it I was told that this account was made up and the family had admitted their son had made it up. I hope that's not so.

[@CowJedi]

jesus also said: "But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay them before me. - Luke 19:27 "

[@CowJedi]

@MsKevenConner that's because I looked at the word probabiliy* instead of "probable" like i should have: 1. likely to occur or prove true: He foresaw a probable business loss. He is the probable writer of the article. 2. having more evidence for than against, or evidence that inclines the mind to belief but leaves some room for doubt. 3. affording ground for belief.

[@CowJedi]

@goemon9378 well said! I applaud your response!

[@lastoldlady]

As hard as it is to believe for some, everything in heaven in not revealed in the bible but God has revealed somethings that are in heaven to people through all sorts of experiences. There will always me more to learn about an infinite God, man sees things as finite, always want to finalize a thing.

[@RTKFilms]

Yaaaa!!! Santa is coming!!

[@maidenshazza]

I totally get what your saying about faith in God. The Bible clearly teaches that it is impossible to please God without faith. My questions are, Are we to have faith that this kid's speaking the truth as well? If so, can this truth be confirmed? And how do we know this is from God? What are the signs that this is from God? Most importantly, is Gods word not enough for us, that we need confirmation from someone? The Bible also tells us to test all things.

[@CowJedi]

@UncleStumpy That is redundant because Faith is the belief without reasoning. To say "It's called faith for a reason" is true, but ironically misleading. The purpose of that comment you responded to was that people were arguing faith as facts, I know what "faith" means, but others seem to think that unquestioned faith is as strong as facts that they have to contend with.Faith is the denial of observation and fact to preserve itself. But tell me, what's your point anyway?

[@CowJedi]

@JubJub0202 honestly I haven't said one hateful word. The hate that gets spread on here is usually from the religious people. Anything that I post that might seem spiteful is simply a rebuttal to another hateful comment in defense.

[@maidenshazza]

Yes, I do understand the bit about God pouring out His Spirit on all flesh in the last days. Are we in the last days though? Do you know that for sure? Paul and the other apostles wrote about the 'day of the Lord' being imminent. Nearly 2000 years have past, we still dont know! Like I said, I dont need to ask God for any more revelation. He's given me all I need to know about Him in His Word. I am content with the sufficiency of His Word for all things, including information on heaven and hell.

[@CowJedi]

@omega1dreamer My Point: Little is known for certain about the authorship of most books of the Bible.

[@CowJedi]

@tamemsam I posted my reply on your page, I keep getting an error message on here when I copy/paste your reply.

[@msldcs]

@5starsoldier Hi, I'm curious about your comment. Where in the Bible does it say, "anyone who was seen Heaven will be silent;"? Thanks.

[@sillylittlewhitekid]

@BelieveandtrustJesus in another video i watched, he described Jesus as a man that wore white robes, with a purple sash. and he had "markers" in his hand and feet.

[@CowJedi]

@cashernandes1 you've mistook "SAME" for "SIMILAR". certain things, when you try hard enough, can be warped to make sense in the way you expect it too - like i said in my previous reply, understanding a little bit about human psychology will unlock reasoning for many of the supernatural things people encounter.

[@TheGman4691]

Bottom Line: One CHOOSES to believe or CHOOSES not to believe. Then one must live with the ramifications of that CHOICE. It's that simple and it's that complex.

[@CowJedi]

@omega1dreamer Several stories are repeated, with different characters or different emphasis (called "doublets"). For instance, there are two creation stories (Gen 1 and Gen 2). There are three stories of a patriarch traveling among pagans and pretending his wife is his sister. There are two stories of Moses striking a rock to produce water. There are two versions of the Ten Commandments (one in Exodus, one that Moses recaps in Deuteronomy) with slightly different wording. .

[@CowJedi]

@omega1dreamer Documentary theorists see a much more complicated story, with four different texts by four different authors (although some think "schools" of authors might be responsible for each text rather than a single author). These were later combined by an editor, called the Redactor. The Redactor sometimes put the different authors' stories one after the other (as with the creation stories) and sometimes interwove them (as with the two stories of Noah's Flood).

[@CowJedi]

@gabbychildress The dad is a pastor. I shouldn't have to explain any more than that.

[@CowJedi]

@kamh214 I've read 6 actually. I also studied religion for 6 years and counting. Not to mention geography and world history. Oh, and I'm still learning new things everyday thanks to the constant updates that science and history are always working hard at being accurate through tangible, hard, testable, undeniable facts the prove beyond a reasonable doubt that it's true. Like my statement about Jesus, assuming he existed and Isn't some sort of Robin Hood like Fairy Tale.

[@CowJedi]

@MsKevenConner The latest study, which focused on a class of meteorites that fell on to the Antarctic ice sheet, also suggests that life's origins may have been extraterrestrial. An analysis of the meteorites has revealed that these rocks can be induced, under high pressures and temperatures, to emit nitrogen-containing ammonia, a vital ingredient for the first self-replicating molecules that eventually led to DNA, the molecule at the heart of all life.

[@goemon9378]

what indices would show that the fewer atheists and more religious a country is, the more prosperous it is?

[@ddavis5365]

Colton seems to be taking his Sunday School lessons and weaving them into his trip to heaven. It doesn’t appear to bother his pastor father that this whole heavenly battle with Satan (Rev. 12:7) isn’t supposed to happen (according to dispensationalists) who read and study biblical hermeneutics.

[@dmpersell]

@5starsoldier What book of the Bible and what verse?

[@CowJedi]

@smarie1990 I didn't Ignore anything, I was quite thorough. When I talk about Jesus with Christians, etc. I do so for the sake of the Argument as If he lived. There probably was a man known as Jesus Christ, or Jesus as Nazareth, but it is most likely a misfiring, or misrepresentation of events based on something that actually happened. For example Robin Hood, he may or may not have existed, and is a folklore most likely based on real events, but got lost in translation.

[@OhTerrful1]

You can't get something from nothing, but God can and did.