Seeing the Supernatural: Investigating Angels, Demons, Mystical Dreams, Near-Death Encounters, and Other Mysteries of the Unseen World

by Lee Strobel

Discover solid biblical answers to the provocative questions you have been asking about the supernatural world--healings, angels, demons, mystical dreams, near-death experiences, heaven, hell, and more--through the investigative work of a former spiritual skeptic.

We hear stories all the time about the supernatural--miraculous healings, unexplained sightings, near-death experiences--but how do we know what is real? Are rumors of spiritual beings, healings, and prophetic dreams dangerous deceptions, or is there something important for us to explore? Join investigative journalist and former atheist Lee Strobel as he examines the evidence and considers how we should think about the unseen world--and the God who made and rules over it.

As the bestselling author of the popular Case For series, which has sold millions of copies, Lee Strobel has interviewed some of the most brilliant scientists and philosophical thinkers in the world on topics of apologetics and faith. In Seeing the Supernatural, Lee weaves together his best material from several previous books with dynamic new and never-published interviews to investigate what the Bible really teaches about the unseen world.

As he asks scholars the very questions you have about otherworldly experiences, Lee will help

Better understand how God chooses to work in the fascinating supernatural realm--and why it is importantAvoid common mistakes people make, including both ignoring the supernatural and becoming obsessed with itHave answers ready for when you face objections or deceptions that are common in a world of supernatural counterfeitsDraw closer to God as you catch glimpses of his power and glory in ways you don't typically experience 

Written for skeptics and believers alike, Seeing the Supernatural is a transformative exploration of how the supernatural can shape our understanding of God's character and our own faith.

Genres: Nonfiction, Christian, How To, Lifestyle, Psychology, Personal Development, Philosophy

320 pages, Hardcover

Published March 18, 2025

About the author

Lee Patrick Strobel is an American Christian author and a former investigative journalist. He has written several books, including four that received ECPA Christian Book Awards (1994, 1999, 2001, 2005)[2] and a series which addresses challenges to the veracity of Christianity. He also hosted a television program called Faith Under Fire on PAX TV and runs a video apologetics web site.

Reviews

[Steve Croft · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm rating this book highly, even though I honestly really didn't like it. It almost feels heretical not to like a Strobel book, I doubt any recent author has done more for the kingdom with apologetic books. I've read and love most of his previous books, which I think is actually what I didn't like about this book. Most of the content has already been covered in his other books, so much so, that I didn't really think this one covered any new ground at all? For example he interviewed John Burke about NDEs, but this was covered in his book 'the case for heaven'. He also interviewed Paul Copan about hell, which was almost the same interview he did with him in the Heaven book. Perhaps the main issue though, was that I've (coincidentally) read books by most of the guys he met or quoted, Copan, Burke, Storm, Willard, McKnight, Gregg and Keener. So I was familiar with just about all the content presented.

The last thing that grinded me, was that I find it difficult hearing Strobel ask questions that I KNOW he knows the answers to, and act surprised with the answers given. I know that's his style of book, but I think its probably run its course in his series.

Anyway, I'm rating this a 4 star because I think the content is actually good, and would suit someone seeking answers that hasn't read his other books or isn't familiar with all his interviewees.

[Nathan Bozeman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm giving this a 4-star just because I thought there were some chapters that were absolutely 5-star worthy, and then others worth 3 in my opinion. The vast majority of the book is great - I only really disagreed with the chapter on hell (I'm an annihilationist, and I don't think they steelmanned that view), and a few comments here and there throughout.

Overall, great book for learning about the world beyond the physical one.

[Ginny Yurich · Rating 5 out of 5]

Super intriguing subjects in this book!!!

[Kayley Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay, so overall, I thought this was very thorough. I didn’t love the interview format but that’s just a personal preference. The interviews did add a lot of credibility. I didn’t check every Bible reference but nothing red-flagged me. I actually really appreciated the final chapter on ghosts and psychics so I can have an answer to questions my kids might ask me someday.

[Danielle Dammeyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

In the conclusion, Lee Strobel shares the story of Elisha facing the massive Assyrian army coming to attack Israel. His servant is terrified, but Elisha knows something he doesn’t. Elisha asks God to reveal the secret to his servant, and the servant then sees the angel army surrounding them. Strobel then says, “…when [the servant] caught sight of this otherwise veiled realm, suddenly his faith was restored, and his courage bolstered. The vision reassured him of the love and protection of the God who created it all. I hope something similar has happened to you as you’ve read…” (p. 250). It did for me.

This book has assuredly deepened, strengthened and bolstered my faith. My faith in many ways felt very abstract, intangible and untethered before reading this book. My faith now feels like reality, not just something I hope is true. I am more convinced than ever that our world poses many questions that only Christianity can answer.

The sections I found most encouraging and convincing were on the existence of the soul, mystical dreams, death bed visions and near death encounters. In my opinion, most of the other sections lacked good evidence, which is why I gave only 4 stars. There were a few times evidence was mentioned but not given, or the evidence given wasn’t as convincing for me.

Overall, this is worth the read.

Note: This is the first book by Lee Strobel I have read.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always been a believer in the spiritual world -- a realm apart from the physical. In fact, I am most comfortable living in a place of mystery and unanswered questions. This book offers interesting discussions and examples to reinforce the idea of the supernatural from a Biblical perspective.

[Barry · Rating 3 out of 5]

3 stars (= good)

Strobel here investigates claims of miraculous healings, near-death experiences, end-of-life visions, encounters with angels, and other experiences that cannot be satisfactorily explained in a naturalistic way. Of course most people will (and should) regard any stories of this sort with a skeptical eye, but it turns out that there are many many documented cases that cannot be easily brushed aside. Like people who have out-body experiences while clinically dead and later report conversations heard in other rooms, or things they saw while hovering over their bodies (like a red sticker on the top side of a ceiling fan, or a sneaker on the roof) that were later confirmed to be true. These events cannot be satisfactorily explained unless humans have immaterial souls.

He also discusses the significant number of Muslims who have converted to Christianity after having dreams/visions of Jesus.

Now I realize that some folks are critical of Strobel’s “Case for...” franchise, accusing him of failing to address the “best” objections, and I would agree that his books generally provide only a first pass coverage of the arguments. Strobel writes starter apologetics books and he answers many of the first tier objections to Christianity. They are written in a format to appeal to many people who may not otherwise read a more in-depth treatise. But for many it may whet the appetite for further study.

Having said that, I did find it irritating that he repeatedly reports that studies were published in such-and-such peer-reviewed journals, but doesn’t actually cite the journal articles.

Overall, I found this an interesting exploration. It’s probably more useful as a guide for believers wondering how these phenomena should be understood from a Christian theological perspective, rather than as a persuasive pro-Christian apologetic.

[Matin Pyron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am indeed astounded and awed by the insightful information and testimonies in the book.
It must be pointed out that Saint James urges Christians to “resist the devil, and he will flee from you"
That being said, my brothers and sisters in Christ, it is quite imperative to know that we cannot defeat lust; it is an intricate snare specifically and particularly designed by Satan. Besides, it is not our warfare. We should simply flee from it; otherwise, there is not even a slight chance of defeating lust and sexual immorality.
Nevertheless, take my word into your own consideration, the lust of the flesh and sin in general not only separates you from Lord Jesus but also it opens a doorway to the demonic and they can easily take advantage of you by pouring negative thoughts and an array of insecurities.
Focus on God and do everything for his glory
As The Apostle Paul mentioned in The Holy Bible:

"For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places". _ Ephesians 6:12 KJV

[Jeffrey Romine · Rating 4 out of 5]

Well, the book is great, but I don't like the title. Dropping the first three words would help. This spooking sense of "Seeing" and "Supernatural" advertise more of a paranormal implication. Strobel does touch on these, but in the right context and with the right perspective. God created the natural realm in which we dwell. So, where was He when He did so? Wherever that was is where He still is now. He exists in a realm beyond our natural realm. In fact, He dwells in the greater reality of existence as testified to by the stories and incidents that Strobel describes in this book.

[Erin Giannino · Rating 4 out of 5]

very interesting but some of it went right over my head lol

[Katy Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Many fascinating stories- some of his jumps are far for me, but overall, an encouraging book

[Will Allison · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you #goodreadsgiveaway for the opportunity to read and review this book. Stroebel's exploration of the seen and unseen gives us an insight into how Christianity can relate to the existence of angels, demons and beings beyond this realm. An overall unusual book, it is complicated in that the writing style feels more academic than a typically nonfiction work. While it's not something I would reread myself, it would be of interest to others who seek an evidential approach.

[Anna Lund · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first Strobel book. Heard of him, just never read his stuff. The supernatural realm fascinates me and I've seen what the power of prayer can do during an attack.

To start I'll say the miracle chapter was uplifting and encouraging to hear stories of people being healed with evidence to back it up. Also, really enjoyed the chapter on supporting Christ's resurrection. Again just encouraging to see things support what the Bible says.

However, I found the writing a little dumbed down. It felt like the author could have gone deeper and I wish he had. He glosses over so many topics. Spent a good chunk on psychic would have loved to see more on the paranormal. A couple of the people he interviewed felt off, not sure why though.

Interesting book, but can't say I loved it.

[Tammy Hancock · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. This topic of the supernatural is very interesting to me. I’m fascinated by true accounts of near death experiences and proof of heaven and the afterlife. Gives me great hope of what is to come! The reason i only gave it 3.5 stars is i didn’t like the set up of the book and how it was written. I felt like it didn’t flow smoothly. Lots of interviews in the writing. Which isn’t bad, i just think it would fair better in a podcast format. But overall very interesting read. I recommend it if you want more knowledge of the supernatural!

[Shelby Dawson · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really love Lee Strobel so I really hate to say this but…

If you’ve read all his “Case for” books (which are amazing and I highly recommend, you really don’t need to read this. 😆 I felt like it was all the same information and stories I’ve gotten from his other books in here. If you’re new to his work this may be more impactful, but it just felt like a review for me.

[Talor North · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fascinating.

[Barbara A. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I reserve 5 star ratings for books that affect me enough to create change in my heart and mind, and this one did. It answers questions we should all be asking. The interviews with so many experts are faith-bolstering, and I found a lot of comfort in the chapters about death, NDEs, and heaven.

[Amanda Max · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very insightful. I always love a good Strobel book. Full of investigative journalism

[Tommie · Rating 3 out of 5]

the parts where he wrote about medical conditions -- i think it was in chapter 2 -- could have been edited better by a medical professional. he said some things that aren't right, like shocking a "flatlining" patient -- it goes against american heart association guidelines to defibrillate asystole. little things like that bugged me as a nurse. but other things i found to be really profound. i highlighted and dog-eared pages 153, 196, & 225.

[John Eldreth · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nothing Particularly Insightful

This book is a compilation of standard Christian theological material regarding the supernatural along with some sample incidents as illustrations. The goal is to give evidence the supernatural exists beyond the physical world. The approach is to choose broad topics and show related incidents along with standard Christian commentary. Since so much of the material is widely available in other contexts, I did not find the book particularly insightful.

But specifically, I had the following thoughts after reading this book.

Chapter 1. The arguments for human consciousness separate from the physical body were compelling. But these arguments are found in numerous other philosophy books with the fundamental text being Rene Descartes’ “Meditations on First Philosophy”.

Chapter 2. The sheer number of reported miraculous healings indicate to me there is supernatural intervention in people’s lives. But I would have liked more detail on at least a few more of these occurrences that didn’t require me to track down the references myself.

Chapter 3. The “encounters with God” made me wonder if people are conflating human intuition with interaction with God. It seems that many people are unaware that God has given humans intuition which is a subconscious quick decision making capability based on minimal information (which is ultimately based on patterns discerned through human experience but people are unaware of). It often manifests as an overwhelming feeling of an action to be taken (i.e. gut feelings) almost as if “someone” were speaking to us. I would recommend the book “Gut Feelings” by Gerd Gigerenzer for more information. He takes an evolutionary perspective which I don’t agree with, but the information regarding human intuition is eye opening.

Chapter 4. I don’t know what to make of the Muslim dreams and visions of Jesus except that it does appear to confirm supernatural experiences are occurring which is the point of the book; there is ample evidence in the world that there is more going on than just the physical. These incidents, however, are reported quite often in the Christian press.

Chapter 5. This chapter in a nutshell restates the biblical view that angels exist and gives a couple of brief modern accounts of their intervention in people’s lives. The biblical material comprising most of the chapter is standard in many Christian theology books and referred to in many other contexts. Consequently, it did not add anything to my understanding.

Chapter 6. The material regarding Satan and demons is standard many Christian theology books and referred to in many other contexts. Consequently, it did not add anything to my understanding.

Chapter 7. The fact that so many people have deathbed experiences seems to me compelling evidence for a supernatural world… which is the point of the chapter. But as for the source and meaning of these experiences, the book is not clear.

Chapter 8. Similar to chapter 7 in that there are numerous near death experiences remarkably similar in detail and many containing information an unconscious person could not know like the details of a tennis shoe on a third floor window ledge. Also like chapter 7 there is no definitive source or meaning given to the experiences… just that they provide credible evidence for the supernatural.

Chapter 9. Basically this chapter is an overview of the Christian doctrine of the new heavens and earth. The author argues the human desire for a future immortal life in a better reality than this present reality is an indication that such a desire would not occur if there were no background supernatural reality supporting it.

Chapter 10. This chapter is a discussion of whether hell, a place of eternal punishment, exists or not. Along with that there is a discussion of whether everybody is ultimately destined to go to heaven or not. This material didn’t seem to fit with the overall theme of the book… which is evidence of the supernatural.

Chapter 11. This chapter reviews the evidence for the resurrection of Jesus after being crucified on a cross. This chapter has the most convincing material for the supernatural. What could be more supernatural than someone being raised from the dead?

Chapter 12. This chapter mainly focuses on psychics and general psychic phenomena pointing out the large amount of fraud and deceptions involved. This chapter didn’t seem to fit with the overall theme of the book; evidence for the supernatural.

Overall the book really didn’t leave me with any insights into the supernatural that I had not encountered in the general Christian literature. Consequently I can’t recommend spending the time to read it. I was expecting more detailed reports and evidence for the supernatural rather than high level generalizations of supernatural phenomena found in the New Testament (and occasional references to the Old Testament).

[Atlas · Rating 3 out of 5]

ANALYTICAL REVIEW: SEEING THE SUPERNATURAL

With appreciation to Zondervan Books for providing the review copy 📚

INTELLECTUAL FRAMEWORK & METHODOLOGY
Lee Strobel, former legal journalist and renowned for his conversion from atheism to Christianity, applies his investigative skills to examine phenomena beyond ordinary perception. Through structured interviews with theological scholars and experts, Strobel methodically analyzes supernatural occurrences—angelic manifestations, demonic encounters, prophetic dreams, afterlife experiences, and inexplicable healings—against biblical texts and contemporary accounts.

The work employs journalistic inquiry techniques while maintaining a distinctly Christian epistemological foundation. Strobel constructs his arguments using a combination of testimonial evidence, scholarly interpretation, and scriptural analysis to build a case for supernatural reality.

SUBSTANTIVE ANALYSIS: STRENGTHS (4/5)
Strobel's investigative background proves valuable in his systematic approach to supernatural inquiry. His methodology incorporates:

• Rigorous interrogation of primary sources and witness accounts
• Comparative analysis of theological interpretations
• Historical contextualization of supernatural phenomena
• Logical examination of competing explanations
• Integration of contemporary case studies with traditional biblical narratives
• The text succeeds in presenting complex theological concepts through accessible language and • narrative structure. For readers interested in Christian perspectives on metaphysical reality, Strobel • provides substantial intellectual material for consideration.

CRITICAL ASSESSMENT: LIMITATIONS (3/5)
Despite its scholarly merits, several aspects warrant critical examination:

• The epistemological framework presupposes biblical authority rather than establishing it
• Evidential standards occasionally shift between empirical and faith-based criteria
• Certain arguments reflect circular reasoning within theological paradigms
• Alternative explanations outside Christian frameworks receive insufficient examination
• The density of theological references may challenge readers without background knowledge
• These limitations do not necessarily diminish the work's value but rather define its appropriate • audience and interpretive context. ✝️

AUDIENCE CONSIDERATIONS (2/5)
This text requires critical engagement from readers, particularly:

• Those with minimal exposure to Christian theological concepts may find certain premises challenging
• The work demands active rather than passive reading engagement
• Apologetic purpose supersedes objective investigation at key junctures
• Prior familiarity with Christian doctrine enhances comprehension
• Analytical thinking helps separate rhetorical persuasion from evidential demonstration
• Non-religious readers will encounter a perspective that, while intellectually stimulating, operates from foundational assumptions they may not share. 🔍

SCHOLARLY ASSESSMENT
Strobel's work represents a sophisticated attempt to reconcile modern investigative methods with traditional Christian supernatural claims. While not adhering to purely secular academic standards, it exemplifies intellectual rigor within faith-based inquiry.

The text contributes meaningfully to contemporary Christian apologetics through its structured examination of supernatural phenomena, though its conclusions remain firmly anchored within doctrinal boundaries rather than expanding beyond them.

For readers seeking theological explanations of supernatural experiences within a Christian intellectual framework, this volume offers substantial material for reflection and consideration. 🧠

Evaluation: A competent theological examination best suited for readers with interest in Christian perspectives on metaphysical phenomena. ⭐⭐⭐

[Indra · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Zondervan Books for the copy! 📚✨

📖 Premise

In Seeing the Supernatural, investigative journalist and former skeptic Lee Strobel explores the mysteries of the unseen world through a Christian lens. With a mix of scholarly research and interviews, he examines topics such as angels, demons, mystical dreams, near-death experiences, and miraculous healings. Is the supernatural real? How do we separate truth from deception? Strobel seeks to provide biblical and evidential answers to these provocative questions. 👀✨

TROPES & THEMES

✔ Investigative journalism 📰
✔ Supernatural encounters 👻✨
✔ Biblical interpretation 📖
✔ Skeptic turned believer 🤔➡️🙏
✔ Near-death experiences & miracles 💫
✔ Apologetics & faith-based reasoning 🙏💡

⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Thought-Provoking Exploration

✔ Well-researched and backed by interviews with scholars 🎓
✔ Engaging investigative approach—reads like a journalistic inquiry 🔍
✔ Interesting case studies on supernatural events 🌌
✔ Great for those who enjoy faith-based perspectives 🙌
✔ Challenges common misconceptions about the unseen world 🤯

Strobel’s background in journalism makes this an interesting read, particularly for those curious about how Christian theology interacts with supernatural claims. He presents a structured, evidence-based argument for believers and skeptics alike.

⭐⭐⭐☆☆ A Few Hurdles for Non-Religious Readers

✔ A deep dive into supernatural claims from a Christian worldview ✝️
✔ Thought-provoking, even for skeptics 🧠
❌ Very apologetics-heavy—leans on faith-based conclusions rather than purely objective evidence
❌ Some parts feel repetitive or drawn from previous works 🔄
❌ The writing can be a bit dense and academic for casual readers 📚

While I appreciated the structured approach, the book is clearly written for an audience that already accepts Christian doctrine as a foundation. As a non-religious reader, I found some arguments leaned more on faith than on pure investigation.

⭐⭐☆☆☆ Not for Everyone

✔ A serious look at supernatural claims through biblical analysis 👁️
✔ Provides insights into Christian perspectives on the unseen world 🏛️
❌ Assumes a belief in God and biblical authority as a starting point ✝️
❌ Less accessible for those without a theological background 📜
❌ Not a book I would personally reread, but others may find it compelling 📖

If you’re looking for a strictly scientific or neutral take on supernatural phenomena, this may not be the book for you. However, for those interested in how Christianity explains these mysteries, it’s a thorough and engaging read.

Final Thoughts

As someone who is not Christian or religious, Seeing the Supernatural was an unusual but thought-provoking read. Strobel presents an investigative yet faith-driven approach to the supernatural, which will resonate with those who seek answers within a biblical framework. While I wouldn't revisit it personally, I can see its value for readers exploring these topics from a Christian perspective.

⭐⭐⭐ Recommended for those who enjoy faith-based supernatural exploration! ✨

[Deirdre Clancy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I tend to have an inbuilt admiration for people who write about the subject matter of the supernatural, because it is a brave act in the current world. This was hammered home recently when I saw first hand the hostility with which discussions of such matters can be treated by some people. It seems that, today, many feel justified in displaying rudeness and dismissiveness, and even rage, at even a bare mention of the ideas that Strobel explores. Having an inner life that is open to such areas is positively taboo for some (the same individuals will, shamelessly, still go to church for weddings and funerals). Despite this admiration, Strobel's writing style is not my cup of tea. He covers a wide range of already widely documented areas here, including dreams, deathbed visions, near-death experiences, and more. The issue for me is that something jars about using the methodology of an invistigative journalist to try to convince readers of the reality of these phenomena.

Strobel is a former investigative journalist who wrote a previous bestseller relating how he used his training to investigate the case for Christianity. As a result of this investigation, he became an evangelical Christian. He seems to have decided that he hit on a great formula and continued in that vein for further books. It may work for his target audience, whoever they are, but ultimately it seems unlikely that those already unconvinced by either Christianity or the general existence of a supernatural realm will be suddenly converted to belief in both due to this methodology. It may be great for rooting out human corruption or solving a crime, but religious belief ultimately requires a leap of faith that goes beyond the bare facts.

In relation to the near-death experiences and deathbed visions, there are any number of works by health professionals that are more informative and convincing. When highly trained doctors (Bruce Greyson, Raymond Moody) risk their careers to document phenomena that patients relate to them, it tends to be easier to see the patterns in what these individuals are telling doctors, separately, across continents and even centuries (the first recorded near-death experience featuring a soul travelling through tunnel with a light at the end was documented by Plato, as told by a Roman soldier who had almost died).

Like Strobel, it continually stumps me how anyone can look at the world around them and think it just sprang out of chaos without any deliberate creative force behind it. Similarly, it seems obvious to me that there is a supernatural realm. But concessions must be made to those who have decided this is not the case, and who have bought into the prevailing deep cynicism about such matters, which is by no means 'normal' for human beings as a whole. The era in which we reside is an anomaly in terms of human history. This book is fine for true believers (with a few theological caveats, if your view is more catholic) but it doesn't work as an apologetic in favour of the supernatural.

[Tim Baumgartner · Rating 5 out of 5]

Introduction – Exploring the World Beyond

The Intro set the stage for a balanced investigation into supernatural claims—from angels to near-death experiences—framed by Strobel’s transformation from skeptic to believer, emphasizing discernment, humility, and a biblical worldview.

Part 1: The Supernatural Among Us


Ch 1. The Invisible You: The Existence of Your Soul

Explores the non-material nature of human consciousness, arguing that brain activity alone cannot fully explain the immaterial soul.

2. Astounding Miracles Today

Examines contemporary miraculous healings, presenting stories and expert interviews that affirm such events as credible and life-altering.

3. Life-Changing Spiritual Encounters

Delivers testimonies where individuals dramatically encounter God—through supernatural comfort, direction, or transformation.

4. Mystical Dreams and Visions

Surveys powerful dreams and supernatural visions (some even among non-Christians), suggesting divine communication beyond conventional sensory experience.

5. The Encouraging Truth about Angels

Clarifies the biblical role of angelic beings as genuine servants of God, actively engaged in carrying out His purposes.

6. The Sobering Reality of Satan and Demons

Serves as a warning: demonic forces are acknowledged in Scripture, and their presence should not be dismissed.

Part 2: The Supernatural That Awaits Us


7. Deathbed Visions: Glimpses of the Afterlife?

Looks at near-death and end-of-life experiences, exploring their potential to reveal glimpses of heaven or spiritual truth.

8. Extraordinary Near-Death Experiences

Analyzes NDEs more generally, wrestling with their authenticity and whether they point beyond the natural to divine truth.

9. What Can We Know About Heaven?

Addresses biblical descriptions of heaven through theology and spiritual insight.

10. The Logic of Damnation

Discusses hell and eternal judgment—not as a scare tactic, but as a consistent and necessary extension of God's justice.

11. Life after Death: Evidence for the Resurrection

Builds a rational, evidence-based case for the physical resurrection of Jesus, a cornerstone for hope beyond death.

12. Ghost Stories, Psychics, and the Paranormal

Cautions readers about paranormal phenomena that are deceptive or ungrounded, while providing discernment tools for navigating them.

Conclusion – What the Unseen World Means to You Today

Encourages readers to approach the supernatural with a balance—neither denying its existence nor obsessing obsessively over it—but embracing it as a path to deeper knowledge of God’s power and presence.

[Aaron Hand · Rating 5 out of 5]

I first heard about this book during the summer when Lee Strobel was on the podcast interview circuit. I heard him both on the Michael Knowles show and the Blurry Creatures podcast.

Strobel’s 2025 book is called “Seeing the Supernatural: Investigating Angels, Demons, Mystical Dreams, Near-Death Encounters, and Other Mysteries of the Unseen World.” According to Bookseriesinorder.com, this is the 32nd of 33 books he has written, dating back to 1993. This is the 2nd book of his I’ve read, as I read The Case for Faith earlier this year. His most well-known books are The Case for Christ (1998), The Case for Faith (2000), The Case for a Creator (2004), The Case for the Real Jesus (2008), The Case for Easter (2004), The Case for Christmas (1998), The Case for Grace (2013), The Case for Heaven (2021), and The Case for Miracles (2018).

He grew up Lutheran, and became an atheist with major alcohol and anger issues. Lee’s wife Leslie came to Christ and—being an investigative reporter (14 years at the Chicago Tribune)—he began to seriously investigate the claims of Christianity. After 2 years of study, he came to saving faith in Christ at age 29. He is a Christian apologist, and has served as teaching pastor at Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington, IL and Saddleback Church in Lake Forest, CA.

“Seeing the Supernatural” goes beyond his 2018 book “The Case for Miracles,” and explores a lot of fascinating topics. In this book he writes about how we each have a soul, current-day miracles, spiritual encounters, mystical dreams (especially amongst the current-day Muslims), angelic appearances, Satan, demons, death-bed visions, near-death experiences (NDE’s), Heaven, hell and damnation, life after death, ghost stories, psychics, and the paranormal.

Overall, I enjoyed this book. It was a page-turner. The book has his usual format of seeking answers to important questions and finding an “expert” to interview about it. Each chapter has the dialogue from these sessions. He interviews J. Warner Wallace, Ron Rhodes, Douglas E. Potter, Craig S. Keener, and more.

This is a helpful book because it tackles things I’m intrigued with. I do wish he’d addressed aliens and UFOs/UAPs. That being said, I only found one point I disagree with and it was in Chapter Ten “The Logic of Damnation” … about hell. On pages 190-191, his “expert” explains how the flames of hell are metaphorical and symbolic imagery of God’s judgment. I don’t believe this but the college professor he interviewed (Dr. Paul Copan) certainly does.

This book makes you think through many important issues, and I give it a hearty 5 stars. He provides a good introduction to many areas that you can explore more deeply if you desire. You won’t regret reading this book.

[Samantha Glass · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is there an unseen realm beyond our five senses, and if so, is it consistent with what the Bible teaches? How do paranormal experiences, dark magic, mediums, and spiritism fit into that framework? Is there such a thing as a guardian angel? What sequence of events can we expect at death? Are deathbed visions credible? What historical evidence supports the supernatural resurrection of Jesus? How can a loving God send people to hell? Is there any biblical basis for Universalism?

This book thoughtfully explores the supernatural realm and the possibility of an afterlife through a scientific lens. I appreciated that many of the researchers and interviewees were once agnostic or atheist before examining the evidence, offering multiple perspectives. The author frequently engaged skeptical viewpoints and grounded his claims in peer-reviewed, scholarly, secular research. Because these topics are rarely discussed in depth in the Christian sphere, I found it both refreshing and challenging to learn and to form opinions on questions I hadn’t previously given much thought to.

The first half of the book centers on whether human consciousness extends beyond the physical body, essentially asking whether there is an immaterial part of us that continues to exist after death.

The second half focuses on near-death experiences (NDEs), with each chapter highlighting accredited researchers who have interviewed thousands of individuals who were medically pronounced dead, reported glimpses of the afterlife, and later revived. These accounts are examined alongside biblical teaching, with the claim that what many experienced aligns with scripture. The second half also spoke to paranormal activity, demons, ghosts, psychics, mystical dreams, and what we know about what could be experienced in both heaven and hell.

“If I find in myself a desire in which no experience in this world will satisfy, the most probable explanation is that I was made for another world”

[Steve Eubanks · Rating 5 out of 5]

If this book had been written 15 or 20 years ago, I would have dismissed it as hooey, even though I am a devout believer in Christ, the resurrection, heaven and hell. But angels and demons I had always dismissed like Ebenezer Scrooge - undercooked beef or bad wine. No more. In the last five years, upon seeing the systematic demonization of western culture and studying the ancient degradations, paganism, and death-cult practices that we have repackaged as "progressive," I understand that what we are witnessing is spiritual, supernatural warfare. We humans are the vehicles for those battles. That's why those pushing darkness seem so vicious, relentless, and emotionally unhinged: the evil one never rests and reacts like a rabid animal when confronted with the truth. When you see today's divisions through that lens, everything makes sense.

This is my third Lee Strobel book, and it's just as good if not better than the others. Unlike most modern authors, Lee has maintained his journalistic instincts, even when he is coming at a subject from a particular point of view. He doesn't start his interviews arguing a spurious premise, nor does he insult the reader's intelligence. If you are not a believer, Lee has offered your persecutive in much of his questioning. You might disagree with what his interview subjects say, but if you feel a boiling anger at them (or him) you are actually proving his point: those feelings originate somewhere. Maybe you should spend time in silent reflection to figure out the source.

I lead a men's group through my church and this is the first book outside the Bible that we will read and discuss. I recommend it for all.

[Diane Stultz · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this book because my pastor referred to it as one he was currently reading. He assured me that it was Bible based. In this book, the author explores the often misunderstood topic of the supernatural through the lens of Christian faith.

As an investigative reporter, Strobel addresses the reality of spiritual warfare, the presence of angels and demons, and the ways God interacts with the world in miraculous ways. He uses a thoughtful, evidence-based approach to explore these topics. He grounds his exploration in Scripture, theological scholarship, and firsthand accounts. The format of the book consists of many interviews that Strobel conducted with various theologians, scholars, and witnesses on the topic.

Strobel emphasizes the importance of discernment when it comes to supernatural experiences. He explains that while some spiritual encounters are genuine and can be signs of God’s presence, others may be deceptive or misunderstood. The book highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in helping believers distinguish between divine truth and counterfeit manifestations. He urges readers to test everything against Scripture and remain anchored in biblical truth.

This book encourages believers to live with greater spiritual awareness. The book challenges skeptics and affirms the faithful, offering both intellectual insight and spiritual encouragement for navigating the unseen realities of the supernatural realm. It was worth the time to read and ponder the content of this book.

[Malin Friess · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting look into some things that are hard to describe and certainly hard to prove:
How do we know the soul exists?
Are miracles real?
Does God use dreams to reveal himself?
Are angels real? Do they have wings? Why do they appear?
Are demons and Satan real?
What about near-death experiences?
Is heaven real? Is hell real?

Fascinating look as a journalist examines the supernatural. I'm skeptical as anyone should be about the supernatural, but can it at times be the most rational explanation?
The most remarkable stories for me were those patients that had near death experiences on the operating room table. The patients left their body and were hovering above and watching the doctors work. They were able to describe a few scenarios that should not have been possible under GA, beyond who was in the room, what the doctors were doing. One patient described a shoe left on the roof of the hospital (and it was verified), and another patient a sticker on the ceiling side of a fan) and it was verified.

4 stars.

[Jeff Brawner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lee Strobel wrote one book that would be a top 15 book I’ve ever read- The Case For Christ. He wrote another book that would be in the top 50- The Case For Faith. So seeing this book immediately drew my interest.

My review of this book is somewhat skewed by my experience so I’m going to try to review this from different perspectives.

If you are someone who dismisses the supernatural, you are either going to hate this book, or you are going to view it with some degree of interest just because of the many examples given in this work.

If you are a new believer or a younger believer, the theology in this book will help you understand concepts such as heaven, hell, death, resurrection and the soul.

If you are an older believer who has spent time in the study of theology and have a healthy view of the miraculous, this book will give you some nice reminders and a few pointed tips, but will contribute nothing earthshaking.

My gut is that Lee did not write this book for the third group of individuals, so I can readily affirm that this book is wonderful for the first two.