Most people think that automatic obedience to God will result given enough evidence. Some people say: “If God just came and touched me on the shoulder, then I would believe!” But according to the testimony of Scripture, this is not true. The problem with unbelieving humans is not whether or not supernaturalism is real, as though a sign indicative of the supernatural will somehow change minds.

The problem is at the very heart of man, who, according to Paul, hates (the true) God (Romans 3:11). One cannot come to know God through a supernatural experience. God must be trusted, and in order to trust God, one must come to know what He is like and how He interacts historically with humans—hence a Bible with historical narratives.

In Hebrews 11:6 (ESV), the writer puts it this way: “And without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him” (emphasis mine). It is not just about believing in God’s existence. Humans must also believe that He is good (a rewarder of those who seek Him).