Ruth

Ruth


What do you see in this book that tells you about the original reader? It is a story about faithfulness in a time in history when Israel was anything but faithful. The genealogy in Ruth 4:18-22 places the readers living in the time of David’s early reign.

What do you see in this book that tells you about the author? Jewish tradition points to Samuel as the author of Ruth, but it is argued that because Samuel died before David’s coronation as King it could have been someone else that is unknown. , I still think Samuel could easily be the author as there were years between the anointing of David to be king, and his actual coronation. Yet, whoever wrote it, it is a beautifully written story and was crafted with care by the author.

Main themes, repeated ideas and main idea: The main idea is redemption. Even more is the impact of kinsman redeemer which has the further meaning of buying back what was lost which in this story meant land as well marriage in order to father a child that would have another man’s name. Another theme is kindness which is another way of stating the meaning of "covenant loyalty," Ruth 1:8; 2:20; 3:10. The providence of God is another repeated idea. God’s purposes are obvious as He chooses faithful people in an unfaithful generation to continue the linage of the promised Redeemer.

What is the primary reason this book was written? It is a glorious pause in a time that was fraught with rebellion and disobedience. A simple story in a time of chaos. And while the book of Ruth is a piece of important history that includes the genealogy of the future Messiah, it is also about a woman who forsook the false gods of her country to align herself with the one true God.

What does this book show about the nature and character of God? God’s faithfulness to those who seek Him is very prominent in this story. Ruth shows her commitment to the God of Israel, and the God of Israel shows His commitment to her. And very swiftly orchestrates a wonderful plan for her life!

What does this book show you about God’s redemptive plan for mankind? Boaz is a perfect example of what a kinsman redeemer is. He takes care of his own people, has compassion on the stranger, acts quickly to a need, and seeks to do right at all times. Boaz truly foreshadows Jesus in a wonderful way; "I have learned how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers. May the Lord the God of Israel, under whose wings you have come to take refuge, reward you fully for what you have done." God honors those who honor Him. Ruth 2:11-12.

Personal Application: Of all the books of the Bible, it is the Book of Ruth and Song of Solomon that have affected most, my relationship with Jesus Christ. In Ruth, a gentile, comes the revelation of the One True God. She trusts her mother-in-law, and shows great courage to, in an indirect way, propose marriage to Boaz. Reading this lovely story again has renewed my romance with Another Boaz, my Kinsman Redeemer. May my heart and life reflect that of Ruth. "You have comforted me by speaking so kindly to me . . ." "Spread the corner of your covering over me, for you are my family redeemer." Ruth 2:13 and Ruth 3:9

Point of Passion: The book of Ruth is a love story. No point of passion will carry one through without love for God because it is God’s passion that must work through us to others. In prayer, this love must be evident or our prayers are in vain.