BCL Online Picks — October 9, 2025

October 9, 2025/BCL/BCL Online Picks

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The Christian life isn’t meant to stay in the study but instead to step into the world. This week’s online picks call us out of comfort zones and into Christlike courage: forgiving, proclaiming, trusting, and standing firm in gospel truth.

1. Yes, We Forgive Our Enemies

When pain and injustice cut deep, forgiving feels impossible. Yet, the gospel calls us to imitate our Savior in all of life, including when we have been wronged. In this Heidelblog post, pastor and theologian R. Scott Clark argues that true Christian forgiveness is unconditional and grounded in Christ’s mercy on the cross. To withhold forgiveness is to hold back the grace we ourselves have received in Christ. Keep reading here →

2. It’s Time to Get Out

Living out the Christian life shouldn’t keep us only in the safe places of personal Bible study and small group discussions where we learn without putting that learning into practice. Growing in our faith should be a trajectory that moves us outward with purpose. In this inspiring Substack post, author Kara Dedert reflects on the conviction she felt watching Charlie Kirk courageously share his Christian faith with the world. Keep reading here →

3. What Is Socialism?

Socialism promises equality and compassion but delivers something far different. In this insightful Substack post, pastor and Just Thinking Podcast co-host Virgil Walker traces what socialism claims to offer and why only the gospel can fulfill the human longing for true justice and care. Keep reading here →

4. Evidences of Assurance

When doubts arise about our salvation, we often start evaluating our obedience and tallying our progress. But as theologian Derek Thomas reminds us, assurance is never found by looking at ourselves but instead by looking to Christ. In this Ligonier Ministries article, Thomas shows that true confidence before God flows from faith in Christ, not from works that try to earn his favor. Faith produces obedience; obedience never produces faith. And that difference makes all the difference between gospel freedom and legalistic striving. Keep reading here →

5. Fear of Men

Fallen humanity naturally seeks the approval of others and fears any kind of rejection, but Scripture reminds us that this fear traps the soul. In this Ligonier Ministries post, pastor and author Nick Batzig helps us see why the fear of God is not a burden but a blessing for Christians, freeing us from the tyranny of human approval and anchoring us in the wisdom, courage, and peace that come from revering God alone. Keep reading here →

6. What Not to Say to a Grieving Person

When words come up short, how do we keep from making grief worse? In this helpful Crossway post author and speaker Nancy Guthrie compassionately identifies three well-meant phrases that can end up wounding those who mourn. Guthrie offers a better way to bring comfort that is rooted in truth and grace. Keep reading here →

7. David, Goliath, and Jesus

The story of David and Goliath isn’t about defeating the giants in our lives—it’s about the victory of God’s true Champion. In this Tabletalk Magazine article, pastor, author, and Abounding Grace Radio podcast host Christopher Gordon shares why we can’t slay our idols or overcome sin’s power on our own. Like David before Goliath, we face enemies we can’t defeat, but Jesus Christ has already won the battle on our behalf. Keep reading here →