Wretched Radio with Todd Friel

Heaven Tourism Is Back + The Pastor Who Says He Needs a Jet

18 snips
Mar 23, 2026
A critique of viral near-death “heaven tourism” stories and why they clash with biblical authority. A look at how poetic testimonies often repack scripture rather than add revelation. The expose of a fabricated bestselling “trip to heaven” and why such books keep selling. A warning about appetite for extra-biblical experiences and prosperity-style justifications for luxury.
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INSIGHT

Heaven Tourism Undermines Scripture

  • Claiming personal trips to heaven undermines biblical authority because John 3:13 and Revelation forbid adding new revelation.
  • Todd Friel argues Gabe Poirot's 18-day coma story either repackages scripture or introduces extra-biblical claims that can't be authenticated.
ANECDOTE

Gabe Poirot's Coma Narrative

  • Gabe Poirot describes hovering above his body, being 'suctioned up' to Jesus, and seeing wounds that 'had a name, Gabriel.'
  • Todd Friel points out Poirot's language is rehearsed and offers nothing new beyond Scripture's descriptions.
INSIGHT

Fabricated Near‑Death Memoirs Sell Well

  • The Alex Malarkey case reveals many 'trip to heaven' books were fabricated and financially exploited.
  • Malarkey later recanted, saying his father coached the story and profited while Alex remained disabled.
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