Heaven Is for Real by Todd Burpo
Week 8: Chapters 23–25 — Doubt, Evidence, and Todd's Wrestling
Read Chapters 23–25 of Heaven Is for Real. Key Scripture: John 20:24-29; Hebrews 11:6; Romans 8:16
Previewing Week 8 of Heaven Is for Real
Read 3 of 6 discussion questions below. Unlock the complete 11-week guide when you’re ready.
Even as Todd shares his son's story publicly, he continues to wrestle with doubt — this week sit with his honesty and consider your own relationship with evidence and faith.
Discussion Questions
6 questions1.Todd admits that even as Colton's father — even having heard detail after detail he cannot explain — he still has moments of wondering, 'Did this really happen?' What does his continued honesty about doubt tell you about the nature of faith? Is doubt a sign of weak faith, or can it coexist with genuine belief?
2.John 20:24-29 tells the story of Thomas, who refused to believe the resurrection without physical evidence and then received it. Jesus says, 'Blessed are those who have not seen and yet have believed.' Where does Colton's story sit on the spectrum between Thomas's demand for evidence and Jesus' call to faith without it?
3.Todd describes sharing Colton's story with skeptics — some move from cynicism to tears in a single conversation, while others remain unmoved. Why do you think the same story lands so differently for different people? What is the difference between an open mind and a credulous one?