BCL Online Picks — December 25, 2025
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This week’s online picks explore the meaning, history, and traditions surrounding Christ’s birth. Merry Christmas to our BCL readers around the world!
1. Things Not to Say About Jesus At Christmas (Or Any Other Time)—Part 1
Not everything we hear at Christmastime lines up with Scripture. In this Heidelblog post, historical theologian R. Scott Clark examines several common phrases people use about Jesus during the Christmas season and explains why they miss the mark theologically. It’s a helpful reminder to let careful, biblical language shape how we speak about the Incarnation. Keep reading here →
2. Christmas Lights 5: Gold, Frankincense, and Myrrh
The gifts of the Magi carried far more meaning than we often realize. In this Substack article (part 5 of a series on Christmas), pastor Campbell Markham reflects on the gold, frankincense, and myrrh the wise men offered to the Christ Child, showing how they point us to Jesus as King, High Priest, and the Savior who came to die that we might live. Keep reading here →
3. Should We Celebrate Christmas?
While some Christians have wondered whether Christmas should be celebrated at all, in this Ligonier Ministries article theologian Sinclair Ferguson helps readers think biblically about the place of the Incarnation in the life of the church, explaining why celebrating Christmas can be both appropriate and spiritually enriching. Keep reading here →
4. 9 Things You Should Know About Christmas Traditions
Christmas trees, lights, stockings, carols, candy canes, and more—these traditions have become synonymous with the holiday season, but where did they actually originate? In this Gospel Coalition article, Joe Carter walks readers through nine things to know about popular Christmas customs, offering helpful historical context along the way. Keep reading here →
5. The St Nicholas Of History (Sort Of)
Who was the real Saint Nicholas, and how much of what we think we know is legend? In this Heidelblog post, theologian R. Scott Clark takes a careful look at the historical Nicholas of Myra, helping readers distinguish early Christian history from later embellishments that shaped modern Christmas lore. It’s a thoughtful reminder that truth matters, even in our holiday traditions. Keep reading here →
6. 5 Popular Misconceptions About the Christmas Story
The Christmas story is so familiar that it’s easy to miss what Scripture actually teaches about Jesus’ birth. In this Gospel Coalition article, New Testament scholar Michael J. Kruger walks readers through five popular misconceptions about the birth of Christ, helping us return to the beauty and clarity of the biblical account. (Many thanks to The Aquila Report for bringing this article to our attention.) Keep reading here →
7. The History Behind “Silent Night”
One of the most beloved Christmas hymns has an heartwarming story behind it. In this Gospel Coalition article, Jayme Sigalas explores the history behind “Silent Night,” from its humble origins in an Austrian village to the way it has resonated with believers across generations. Keep reading here →
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