The story is told about a high-wire performer many years ago who stretched a cable across a deep canyon. To the amazement of a large crowd, he easily made the crossing on the cable. He asked those in the crowd how many of them believed he could cross the canyon on the wire pushing a wheelbarrow and received a loud expression of confidence in his ability. After crossing with the wheelbarrow to the delight of all, he asked how many believed he could cross with his assistant riding in the wheelbarrow. Again, the crowd was enthusiastic. Then he asked for a volunteer from the crowd to serve as his assistant. There was silence.
True, biblical belief in Jesus is much like volunteering to ride in the wheelbarrow.
One of the most familiar verses of the Bible (perhaps best known by its reference) is John 3:16. Its radical impact for every person only requires a real understanding of its key word: “For God loved the world in this way: He gave His One and Only Son, so that everyone who believes in Him will not perish but have eternal life” (HCSB).