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Introduction to the Book of Ruth

The Book of Ruth is a theological work that explores how God is involved in the joys and difficulties of everyday life. It follows three main characters: Ruth, a Moabite widow; Boaz, an Israelite farmer; and Naomi, Ruth's mother-in-law. The book is divided into four chapters.

The Story Begins in Difficult Times

• In the days when the judges ruled, an Israelite family in Bethlehem struggles to survive a famine.

• They move to Moab, where the father dies and his sons marry Moabite women.

• After the sons also die, only Naomi and her two daughters-in-law remain.

• Naomi decides to return to Israel and encourages her daughters-in-law to stay behind.

Ruth's Remarkable Loyalty

• Ruth shows remarkable loyalty to Naomi and insists on accompanying her back to Israel.

• They arrive in Bethlehem, where they are greeted by the townspeople.

• Naomi changes her name to Mara (meaning "bitter") as she laments her tragic fate.

Ruth Meets Boaz

• Ruth goes out to find food during the barley harvest and ends up in Boaz's field.

• Boaz shows generosity towards Ruth by allowing her to glean from his field.

• Impressed by Ruth's loyalty, Boaz prays for God's blessings upon her.

Boaz Becomes Naomi's Redeemer

• Naomi discovers that Boaz is a relative who can redeem their family.

• She instructs Ruth on how to approach Boaz at night on his threshing floor.

• Ruth proposes marriage to Boaz as part of their redemption plan.

Redemption and Restoration

• Boaz learns that there is another relative closer than him who can redeem Naomi's family.

• However, this relative declines due to marrying a Moabite.

• Boaz becomes the redeemer and marries Ruth, bringing joy and restoration to Naomi's family.

God's Providence in the Story

• The Book of Ruth does not explicitly mention God's actions but highlights His providence behind every scene.

• Despite tragedy and hardship, God works through the circumstances and choices of the characters to bring redemption.

• The story concludes with a genealogy showing that Ruth and Boaz are ancestors of King David.

Reflection on the Book of Ruth

The Book of Ruth beautifully explores the interaction between God's purposes and human decisions. It emphasizes faithful obedience to accomplish God's redemptive plans in the world.

Key Themes

• Loyalty and faithfulness: Ruth's loyalty to Naomi and her commitment to follow God's ways.

• Generosity: Boaz exemplifies generosity towards Ruth as an immigrant and the poor.

• Providence: Although not explicitly mentioned, God's providence is evident throughout the story.

Structure of the Book

• Each chapter follows a pattern of planning for the future, a providential encounter, and rejoicing over what has happened.

• The symmetry between tragedy at the beginning and restoration at the end highlights key themes.

Significance of Redemption

• The concept of redemption plays a crucial role in restoring Naomi's family through marriage.

• This foreshadows Jesus Christ as our ultimate Redeemer who brings salvation to all humanity.

Lessons from Ruth

• The book teaches us about loyalty, faithfulness, generosity, and trusting in God's providence.

• It reminds us that even in difficult times, God is working behind the scenes for our redemption.

Conclusion