BCL Online Picks — October 29, 2026

October 29, 2026/BCL/BCL Online Picks

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Explore the context and conduct of spiritual warfare, common myths about the Protestant Reformation, why God chose Jacob instead of Esau, whether Jesus was joyful, and more in this week’s online picks!

1. What Is Spiritual Warfare?

What does spiritual warfare actually look like in the everyday life of a Christian? In this article from Ligonier Ministries, discover the tactics Satan uses against believers and why Christians can stand firm against his schemes through the victory Christ has already won. Read it here →

2. Reformation Day Myths

How much of what you’ve heard about Martin Luther and the Protestant Reformation is actually true? Just in time for Reformation Day, theologian R. Scott Clark examines common misconceptions surrounding this pivotal event in church history and helps readers distinguish historical fact from popular legend. Read it here →

3. What Does Romans 9 Mean?

Why did God choose Jacob rather than Esau when neither deserved his favor? Writing for Ligonier Ministries, theologian Dan Doriani explains how Romans 9 teaches God’s sovereign election, why his choice of some for salvation is not unjust, and how this difficult passage should lead us to marvel at his mercy. Read it here →

4. Was Jesus Joyful? And Why It Matters for Us

Do you think of Jesus as a happy person? We know that our Savior was a man of sorrows, but Scripture also reveals him as a man of profound joy. In this article for Modern Reformation, pastor and author Jonathan Landry Cruse explores why Christ’s joy matters for our understanding of his character and how believers can experience lasting joy even amid life’s trials. Read it here →

5. What Is the Difference Between Legalism and Holiness?

How can Christians pursue holiness without falling into legalism? In this short video from Tabletalk, pastor Ken Jones explains the crucial difference between trying to earn God’s favor through obedience and pursuing a holy life out of gratitude for the grace we’ve already received in Christ. Watch/Read it here →

6. Sympathy Is Not the Point

Is expressing sympathy for someone the same thing as showing Christian love? Writing for The Gospel Coalition, pastor and author Kevin DeYoung reminds us that while compassion matters, genuine Christian love involves more than expressing concern or sharing someone’s feelings. Read it here →

7. A Concise Case for Infant Baptism

Are you a Christian who wonders why certain Protestant denominations baptize infants when the New Testament contains no explicit command to do so? In this article from Abounding Grace Radio, pastor Wes Bredenhof explains the biblical reasoning behind infant baptism, showing how God’s promises to believers and their children inform this historic Reformed practice. Read it here →