An Introduction to Ruth
Read Ruth 4:14-15
Today’s Truth
The Book of Ruth is a beautiful narrative set during the time of the Judges (approximately 1300-1050 BC) in Israel. It is a story of loyalty, love, faithfulness, and redemption, highlighting God’s providence and His care for those who trust in Him, even in the midst of difficult circumstances.
Ruth is a short, four-chapter book, but it contains deep lessons on how God works through ordinary people and ordinary situations to bring about His purposes. Although the book is primarily about the relationship between Ruth (a Moabite woman) and Boaz (a wealthy landowner from Bethlehem), it also showcases God’s faithfulness to His covenant people, Israel.
Discussion Questions
- Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi is one of the central themes. What does her decision to stay with Naomi teach us about the importance of loyalty and selfless love in relationships?
- Naomi initially struggles with bitterness, but God ultimately brings her restoration. Are there areas of your life where you have struggled with bitterness or despair but can trust in God to redeem and restore?
- How does God’s redeeming love in the story of Ruth challenge you to think about your own relationship with Him and His redemptive work in your life?
Application
Ruth’s story is a foreshadowing of Christ’s work of redemption. Just as Ruth is redeemed by Boaz, we too are redeemed by Jesus, who is our ultimate Kinsman-Redeemer. Boaz’s kindness and willingness to redeem Ruth point to Jesus’ willingness to redeem us and bring us into God’s family. Ruth’s inclusion in the genealogy of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) emphasizes that God’s grace is for all people, including Gentiles, who trust in Him.
