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.

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Practice Questions & Answers

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