Day 11
Scripture: Ruth 1-4
Symbol: Sheaves of wheat
The Moabites were descendents of Lot (Genesis 19:36,37), worshippers of Baal Peor, had led the Israelites astray, and centuries after Ruth lived, Isaiah prophesied that Moab would be completely annihilated because of their wickedness and pride. Yet God brought out of this pagan tribe one woman who would leave all that was familiar - her family, her language, her culture, her country, her religion - and choose loyalty to an Israelite woman, her mother-in-law, nonetheless, and to the God of the Israelites.
". . . Ruth's story occurred during the time of the judges - a period of disobedience, idolatry, and violence. Even in times of crisis and deepest despair, there are those who follow God and through whom God works. No matter how discouraging or antagonistic the world may seem, there are always people who follow God. He will use anyone who is open to him to achieve his purposes. Ruth was a Moabitess and Boaz was a descendent of Rahab, a former prostitute from Jericho. Nevertheless, their offspring continued the family line through which the Messiah came into our world . . ." (Introduction to Ruth, NIV Study Bible)
Before we leave the story of Ruth, let's take a minute to look at Boaz. In Boaz, we see a foreshadowing of the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. Ruth could do nothing to change her circumstances, just as we are helpless to change our circumstances (Romans 5:6) apart from Christ. When Boaz paid the complete price (Ruth 4:9) for Ruth, her circumstances changed, just as Christ's full payment for our salvation sets us free. (1 Corinthians 6:20, Galatians 3:13)
Discussion Questions
- When Ruth remained loyal to her mother-in-law, who else did she remain loyal to? (1:16)
- Describe what kind of woman Naomi may have been, keeping in mind that it was her who Ruth loyally followed, loved and served.
- How did Ruth help provide for her mother in law? See how God provided for widows and other disadvantaged people in Leviticus 23:22 and Deuteronomy 24:19
- Why was Boaz kind to Ruth? Read 2:10-12
- Describe the characters of Boaz and Ruth. What do you admire most about them?
- Compare Ruth 4:10,17,22 to Matthew 1:5,16
