Imagine Heaven Podcast with John Burke
Episode: The Dark Side of NDEs: Terror, Rescue, and Redemption
Release Date: March 26, 2025
Introduction: Exploring the Abyss of Near-Death Experiences
In this compelling episode of the Imagine Heaven Podcast, host John Burke delves into the unsettling realm of hellish near-death experiences (NDEs). Building on his expertise as the author of the New York Times bestseller Imagine Heaven, Burke seeks to understand the prevalence of terrifying NDEs and their implications on faith, science, and the mystery of the afterlife.
Personal Accounts: Descent into Darkness
Howard Storm's Descent into Hell (00:47 - 05:21) Howard Storm, a former atheist and tenured college professor, recounts his harrowing NDE triggered by a severe medical emergency in France. Initially confident that death was "unplugging a computer," Howard finds himself plunging "lower and lower into nothingness" [00:47]. His descent is marked by intense anxiety and pain, aligning with the biblical concept of hell. At [01:40], he expresses a profound sense of abandonment: "It's almost like there's an absence of hope, there's an absence of love, it's the absence of God."
Paul Ojeda's Struggle in the Abyss (05:21 - 31:09) Paul Ojeda shares his vivid encounter with malevolent beings in a gray, featureless void. Despite heightened senses and initial feelings of vitality, Paul quickly confronts the brutal reality of a hellish realm. At [10:39], he describes his torment: "They were taking pieces of me... the most horrific prison scene imaginable, only worse." Paul's resistance through prayer marks a pivotal moment in his experience, highlighting the power of faith even in extreme despair.
Penny Whitbrodt's Torturous Journey (25:51 - 30:24) Penny Whitbrodt’s NDE begins with peaceful moments next to her sister’s car but soon devolves into a nightmarish descent through a black tunnel. By [30:24], Penny realizes her presence in hell: "I know I've died and I'm going to hell." Her struggle symbolizes the inner turmoil and self-justification that can lead individuals into spiritual darkness.
Additional Testimonies: Randy and Erica's Horrors (43:36 - 64:46) Randy, a CEO, and Erica, a nurse, provide further accounts of their encounters with demonic entities and unimaginable suffering. Randy describes a race against eternal damnation, culminating in a dramatic rescue by what he believes to be Jesus riding a white horse [57:37]. Erica’s experience involves gruesome assaults by demonic figures until a divine intervention calls her back, reinforcing the theme of redemption.
Analysis: Prevalence and Implications of Hellish NDEs (31:09 - 78:23)
Prevalence of Hellish NDEs John Burke explores the statistics surrounding hellish NDEs, citing varied studies. While Dr. Long suggests less than 2% of NDEs are terrifying, other sources like the Handbook of Near Death Experiences report up to 23% of experiences being distressing. Burke emphasizes the likelihood of underreporting due to shame and trauma [10:39].
Theological Insights: Choice and Free Will Burke discusses the theological implications, asserting that hell was not created for humans but for fallen angels who chose to reject God’s love. He references C.S. Lewis, stating, “There are only two kinds of people in the end. Those who say to God, thy will be done and those to whom God says, in the end thy will be done” [62:53]. This underscores the belief that hell is a result of personal choice rather than divine punishment.
God’s Mercy and the Power of Prayer A recurring theme is the transformative power of prayer and turning back to God. Experienced NDErs like Howard Storm and Penny Whitbrodt recount moments of desperation leading to divine intervention. At [65:21], Burke highlights how calling out to God results in rescue: “When people call out to God for forgiveness, Jesus rescues them.”
Redemption Stories: From Darkness to Light (78:23 - 82:24)
Transformative Journeys The episode underscores the profound changes individuals undergo after experiencing hellish NDEs. Figures like Paul Ojeda, Howard Storm, and Santosh transition from fear and despair to dedicated faith and service. Their testimonies illustrate the redemptive path available to all, regardless of past beliefs or actions.
Scriptural Parallels John Burke draws parallels between NDE testimonies and Biblical scriptures, such as the Parable of the Prodigal Son and passages from Revelation. These connections reinforce the notion that divine love and redemption are accessible to all who seek them, echoing the universal message of forgiveness and eternal life.
Conclusion: Embracing Choice and Divine Love
John Burke concludes by emphasizing that hellish NDEs serve as a stark reminder of the choices individuals make regarding their relationship with God. He reassures listeners that God’s mercy offers a pathway out of fear and condemnation through sincere repentance and faith. The episode encourages embracing God’s love and making conscious choices toward goodness to ensure a place in eternal heaven rather than fearing hell.
Notable Quotes
- John Burke [00:00]: "Do people have hellish near death experiences? And if so, how prevalent are they?"
- Howard Storm [00:47]: "I'm now down, descending lower and lower into nothingness. And I just keep falling and falling and falling."
- Penny Whitbrodt [00:54]: "It feels like somebody grabs me and drops me in this outer darkness and I start racing down this black tunnel."
- Kyle Hubbard [01:16]: "One study done of people who reported near death experiences and 23% actually had hellish experiences."
- John Burke [10:39]: "But if near death experiencers are telling us the truth, that is the most deceptive lie you could ever swallow."
- Randy [57:37]: "He was so loving and kind and merciful that he rescues them."
- John Burke [69:15]: "Jesus is running to you like that and he embraces you when you turn back to him."
- John Burke [82:24]: "We have nothing to fear when we know what God has done for us and we've accepted it."
Final Thoughts
This episode masterfully intertwines personal NDE testimonies with deep theological analysis, presenting a thought-provoking exploration of hellish experiences and the redemptive power of divine love. John Burke effectively bridges faith and personal revelation, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of the darker aspects of the afterlife while providing hope and pathways to spiritual salvation.
For those intrigued by the complexities of life after death and the interplay between choice and divine intervention, this episode serves as a profound resource, encouraging reflection and spiritual growth.
For more insights and stories, consider subscribing to the Imagine Heaven Podcast and exploring previous episodes.