Colton Burpo’s Near-Death Experience at Age 3 Continues to Inspire Millions
At just three years old, Colton Burpo captivated the world with his remarkable account of a near-death experience after nearly dying from a ruptured appendix more than two decades ago.
His story became the foundation for the bestselling book and hit movie Heaven Is for Real. Now 25, Burpo continues to share his powerful testimony of encountering heaven firsthand.
“When I was almost four, I had a ruptured appendix,” Burpo told CBN News. “Doctors misdiagnosed me for about five days before realizing the severity of my appendicitis. Once they did, I went straight into emergency surgery.”
During that critical time, Burpo says he experienced a supernatural encounter, where he left his body and met Jesus in heaven.
“I remember floating above my body, watching the doctors work,” he said. “I saw my mom in one room, on the phone, praying. My dad was in another room, praying out loud. I was terrified, not understanding what was happening.”
Then, Burpo recalled a moment of peace and comfort unlike any other: “I was sitting on Jesus’s lap, and He had angels singing to calm me down.”
His vivid description of meeting Christ and reconnecting with deceased family members sparked curiosity and faith in countless readers and viewers, encouraging them to reflect on heaven and the Gospel.
Today, Burpo is a husband and new father, with a strong sense of purpose.
“God has called me to be a godly man, husband, and dad,” he said. “When it comes to the supernatural—what awaits us—I’m not afraid to meet Jesus again. I’m actually looking forward to that day.”
While Burpo remains hopeful about heaven, his current focus is firmly rooted in living out his faith on earth.
“My mindset now is less about longing to be in heaven and more about living a life that honors Christ right here and now,” he explained. “I want to bring as many people with me to heaven as possible. So, I see this as a mission, not just a wish to return to heaven.”
Burpo balances his calling as a worship pastor and electrician with ongoing ministry work, traveling across the U.S. through Heaven Is for Real Ministries to share his testimony.
Though near-death experiences remain a subject of debate, stories like Burpo’s provide powerful hope and encouragement about the promise of eternal life.
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