BCL Online Picks — March 26, 2026

March 26, 2026/BCL/BCL Online Picks

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Read about how the church and Israel are connected, biblical geography, Christ’s kindness, the settings of Paul’s letters, gospel-driven sanctification, and more in this week’s online picks!

1. The Church and Israel: The Issue

Have you been taught that there is one way of salvation for Jews and another for Gentiles? In this Ligonier Ministries article, theologian Cornelis Venema surveys the major views on this question before turning to Scripture’s unified message of redemption. With clarity and precision, he shows that God’s promises are fulfilled in Christ and extended to all who believe—one gospel and one covenant of grace for all God’s people. Read it here →

2. The Big and Small World of Bible Geography

Why does the Bible focus on such a small stretch of land? In this Gospel Coalition article, Justin Taylor explores the surprising significance of biblical geography, showing how the “smallness” of the Bible’s world actually highlights the scope of God’s redemptive plan. With engaging insight, he helps readers see how Scripture unfolds in real places—yet carries a message that reaches to the ends of the earth. Read it here →

3. The Biblical Importance of Church Membership

Is church membership really necessary—or just a helpful tradition? In this Orthodox Presbyterian Church article, pastor Jonathan Landry Cruse makes the case that belonging to a local church is not optional but essential to the Christian life. Drawing from Scripture, he shows how God has always marked out a visible people and why meaningful membership isn’t merely a name on a roll but a “mechanism for spiritual growth.” (Many thanks to the Heidelblog for bringing this article to our attention!) Read it here →

4. The Kindness of Jesus Christ

What does the kindness of Christ really look like, and how should it shape our lives? In this devotional at Reformed Dogmatika, Mary Beeke reflects on the gentle and compassionate character of Jesus, drawing readers to consider not only his saving work but also his tender heart toward sinners. With warmth and clarity, she encourages believers to rest in Christ’s kindness and to reflect that same grace to others. Read it here →

5. Where, When, and Why Were Each of Paul’s Letters Written?

Following our look at biblical geography, have you ever wondered where, when, and why Paul’s letters were written? In this Crossway article, adapted from the ESV Expository Commentary, readers are guided through the geographical and historical context and purpose of Paul’s epistles, deepening our understanding of God’s unfolding redemptive plan in Christ. Many thanks to Crossway for this outstanding resource! Read it here →

6. Gospel-Driven Sanctification

Are you trying to grow in holiness by trying harder or by resting more deeply in Christ? In this Modern Reformation article, Christian author and teacher Jerry Bridges exposes the subtle pull of performance-based discipleship, showing how easily we begin to measure God’s acceptance by our spiritual progress. With pastoral clarity, he reminds us that the gospel is not just for unbelievers but for believers every day, freeing us from both self-righteousness and discouragement. Read it here →

7. Basics of the Reformed Faith: The Covenant of Grace

What is the covenant of grace, and why does it matter for understanding the whole Bible? In this Westminster Seminary California article, readers are introduced to how God’s promise to save sinners unfolds across Scripture—not as multiple plans but as one gracious covenant fulfilled in Christ. With clarity and theological depth, it shows how this central doctrine holds together the story of redemption from beginning to end. Read it here →