The Bible Course预览

Ruth, Boaz and Bethlehem – there is a redeemer

Reflect:

There are many great stories and tales in the world. There are not many more moving than the book of Ruth. Set in the dark and painful time of the judges, the book of Ruth sparkles like a diamond.

There’s romance. If you’re getting started in a relationship, Ruth is packed with practical wisdom that you can glean from.

There’s also redemption. Boaz in the town of Bethlehem (ring any bells?) is referred to as a kinsman-redeemer, because he rescued his widowed relative, Naomi, from debt. Boaz points us to Jesus; he’s our redeemer, bringing us hope and a future.

What does the story’s opening scene teach us (chapter 1)?

Ruth, a hurting widow, journeys with her widowed mother-in-law Naomi, who was originally from Bethlehem in Judah. As a Moabitess, Ruth would be an outsider in Naomi’s homeland. Naomi instructs her to return to Moab, where there might be more for her. Ruth chooses to go with Naomi (verses 17–18). Committing to Naomi meant choosing the unknown, but Ruth was all in.

In what ways does Boaz point us to Jesus?

In a time when there was no welfare state, God cared and provided for Ruth and Naomi. His hidden hand led them to the fields of Boaz. Boaz observed the law of God by allowing Ruth to glean from the edges of his fields, and he made Ruth his wife. Marriage made Boaz a protector and provider for Ruth and her family. The marriage meant Ruth and Naomi were no longer poor and desperate but welcomed into a new home and life. Jesus invites those struggling today into a similarly life-changing relationship with God.

The story of Ruth finishes with a family tree. Ruth and Boaz have a son, Obed. He was the great-grandfather of King David. David was, in turn, the great, great, great (times a few) grandfather of none other than Jesus Christ – born in Bethlehem! That means Ruth is in Jesus’ family tree.

Just consider this – Matthew opens his account of Jesus’ life with this genealogy! Surely this is no way to start a story?

Mathew wanted us to know that Jesus came from a family of outsiders so that those who feel like outsiders can be brought in. Jesus came from a messy family line for those who live messy lives! The story of Ruth is a gateway into the heart of God. Whoever you are, whatever you’ve done, however you’re feeling – God flat out loves you.

Respond

Inspired by Jesus’ heart for widows and refugees, how could you serve those who are suffering?