REDEMPTION
Ruth 3:8–13; 4:13–17
As we continue in the Book of Ruth, it is clear to see that Ruth’s quest to find favor has been answered. Boaz, a relative of Naomi’s deceased husband, has taken notice of Ruth and has lavished his favor upon her. He instructed his reapers to treat her well and to leave plenty of barley grain for her to glean. He was an honorable man.
Future Unclear (3:8–10)
The story continues as Naomi sees what is happening between Ruth and Boaz. She is aware of the principle of levirate marriage. It required a man to marry the childless widow of his deceased brother in order to provide an heir to continue the family line.
Ruth had found favor with the Lord and with Boaz. Naomi instructed her on the next steps with the hope of securing her future. She was to lie down at the feet of Boaz as he slept. She uncovered his feet and covered herself with his cloak.
Ruth and Boaz remained pure and chaste before the Lord. When he woke up, he asked who it was that was lying at his feet. She identified herself and asked if Boaz would fulfill his role as her kinsman redeemer.
Have there been times when you’ve been anxious about the future?
Future Secured (11–13)
Boaz expressed his willingness to marry Ruth but also warned her that there was another man, a closer relative in line before him.
He reassured her that he would inquire concerning the willingness of the other relative to take on the responsibility for Ruth and Naomi and for Elimelech’s land. The other man was not interested in that level of commitment, so Boaz stepped up in his place.
What do you do to keep yourself from worry and anxiety?
Future Redeemed (4:13–17)
This love story has a happy ending. Boaz married Ruth, and she ultimately gave birth to a baby boy named Obed. Obed was the father of Jesse and the grandfather of King David. The birth of Obed brought renewed joy to Naomi. Her bitterness was now overwhelmed by love for her grandson.
This story is not just about Ruth and Boaz. You see, God has a much bigger story in mind. Jesus, the Son of God, would be born into the lineage of Jesse.
There are more than 300 prophecies about Jesus’ birth, life, ministry, death and resurrection that He fulfilled. And Jesus, like Boaz, comes in the role of kinsman redeemer.
He said of His mission, “For the Son of Man has come to seek and to save the lost” (Luke 19:10).
EDITOR’S NOTE — The Sunday School lesson outlines are provided by Lifeway.
By Don Fugate
Senior pastor of Foxworthy Baptist Church in San Jose, California
