RUTH
Context
Ruth is a beautiful love story set during the time of the judges, providing a contrast to the chaos and disobedience described in the book of Judges. It tells the story of a Moabite woman who becomes part of God's people and ultimately the lineage of Christ.
Written around 1000-900 BC, Ruth demonstrates God's grace extending to all nations and shows how He works through ordinary people and difficult circumstances to accomplish His redemptive purposes.
Summary
Tragedy and Loyalty (Ch. 1)
During a famine, Naomi and her family move to Moab, where her sons marry Moabite women, including Ruth. After the deaths of Naomi's husband and sons, she decides to return to Bethlehem. Ruth's famous declaration of loyalty—'Your people will be my people and your God my God'—shows her commitment to Naomi and faith in God.
Gleaning in Boaz's Field (Ch. 2)
Ruth goes to glean in the fields to provide for Naomi and herself. She happens to work in the field of Boaz, a wealthy relative of Naomi's late husband. Boaz shows kindness to Ruth, providing protection and extra food, demonstrating God's providence in their lives.
The Kinsman-Redeemer (Ch. 3-4)
Naomi instructs Ruth to approach Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer. Boaz agrees to marry Ruth but must first offer the opportunity to a closer relative. When that relative declines, Boaz redeems the land and marries Ruth, fulfilling the role of kinsman-redeemer.
The Lineage of David (Ch. 4)
Ruth and Boaz have a son named Obed, who becomes the grandfather of King David. This genealogy shows how God's providence works through ordinary people to accomplish His purposes. Ruth, a Moabite, becomes part of the lineage that leads to Christ, demonstrating God's grace to all nations.
Practice Questions & Answers
What is the main theme of the book of Ruth?
Ruth is a beautiful story of loyalty, love, and God's providence. It shows how God works through ordinary people and difficult circumstances to accomplish His purposes and bring about redemption.
Why is Ruth's loyalty to Naomi significant?
Ruth's famous declaration 'Your people will be my people and your God my God' demonstrates extraordinary loyalty and faith. As a Moabite, she chooses to follow the God of Israel, showing that God's grace extends to all nations.
What is the significance of the kinsman-redeemer concept?
The kinsman-redeemer (Boaz) foreshadows Christ as our redeemer. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth and Naomi's land and family line, Christ redeems us from sin and restores our relationship with God.
How does Ruth point to Christ?
Ruth is included in the genealogy of Christ (Matthew 1:5), showing that God's plan of salvation includes people from all nations. Her story demonstrates God's grace and His ability to work through unlikely people.
What lessons can we learn from Ruth's character?
Ruth teaches us about loyalty, faithfulness, hard work, and trust in God's providence. Her story shows that God honors those who remain faithful during difficult times and that He can turn our greatest losses into our greatest blessings.