John 3:16: What Does the Word "Belief" Mean?

In today’s sermon Mother Beth reflects on John 3, a chapter that is on view in tattoos and at football games, and is essentially a “central encapsulation of God’s good news.” This scripture actually has a lot to teach us about the continuum and complexity of belief –for Jesus, the disciples, the Hebrews and us. “Belief, as I read it here in John, is much like hope. It's an innate willingness given us by God, to want what's good, and to admit that we often fall short. If you add in a little bit of prayer, some worship, the nurture of community, its capacity becomes beyond our comprehension.” The readings are Numbers 21:4–9; Psalm 107:1–3, 17–22; Ephesians 2:1–10; and John 3:14–21.