The interpretive framework of 18 Days in Heaven relies on a “Scripture-first” method, in which personal visionary experiences are consistently interpreted through biblical passages rather than presented as independent sources of revelation. Throughout the narrative, Scripture functions as the primary authority for explaining the meaning of each vision, with descriptions of heavenly encounters regularly followed by biblical quotations that connect the experiences to established Christian teaching. In this way, the book presents its visions as illustrations or confirmations of Scripture rather than as revelations that supersede it. Because this interpretive method depends heavily on biblical quotations, the particular Bible translations cited become significant in shaping how the experiences are understood. Throughout the book, Poirot follows descriptions of his experiences with quotations from the Bible, using Scripture to explain their theological significance. Among the translations used, The Passion Translation (TPT) occupies a particularly prominent place.

Developed primarily by pastor and missionary Brian Simmons, TPT was first published in stages, with individual New Testament books appearing from 2011 before the complete New Testament was released in 2017. The translation describes itself as a “heart-level” translation that seeks to communicate the emotional tone and spiritual meaning of Scripture. Its translation philosophy emphasizes conveying the perceived passion and devotional force of the biblical text alongside its meaning. Its translation philosophy has generated considerable debate, with supporters valuing its devotional style and accessibility, while critics argue that it incorporates interpretive language beyond the source manuscripts. Scholar Andrew Wilson stated, “There are just too many additions to the text that have no basis in the original” (Shellnutt, Kate. “Bible Gateway Removes The Passion Translation.” Christianity Today, 9 Feb. 2022).

The book uses multiple Bible translations but frequently cites TPT when presenting key theological themes about identity and acceptance. For instance, the author’s realization of being unconditionally loved by God is supported by TPT's rendering of John 17:23: “‘[Y]ou love each one of them with the same passionate love that you have for me” (16). This phrasing—especially “the same passionate love”—articulates God's love for believers in language that is more explicit than that found in many mainstream committee translations. Within the narrative, this wording supports the author’s conclusion that God loves believers exactly as he loves Jesus. The repeated use of TPT therefore contributes to the way the book presents its central themes of God’s love, identity, acceptance, and spiritual intimacy. Understanding TPT’s translation philosophy and the debates surrounding it provides important context for interpreting the book’s emphasis on God’s love, personal identity, and spiritual intimacy.