Ruth’s journey takes place in the shadow of decades of hostility between the Israelites and the Moabites. She carries layers of shame—widowhood, childlessness, and alienation. Yet she is fiercely loyal not just to her mother-in-law, but to her new family identity. And as the story unfolds, we see God’s hand at work, weaving a narrative of inclusion, redemption, and fruitfulness that is much bigger than anything Ruth could imagine. May we encounter God in new ways as we explore this compelling story of his covenant faithfulness.
Teaching
Loss and Loyalty
Provision in the Fields
Hope and Risk
Redemption Secured
Blessings and Legacy
A Jewish widow who has also lost both of her adult children while living in a foreign land. While her name means “pleasant,” Naomi blames God for the tragic nature of her circumstances and embraces an identity of bitterness. She returns to Israel with her daughter-in-law, overwhelmed by loss and with little hope for the future.
"I went away full, but the Lord has brought me home empty. Why call me Naomi when the Lord has caused me to suffer and the Almighty has sent such tragedy upon me?" –Ruth 1:21
The heroine of our story is a Moabite, and due to the history of enmity between Israel and Moab, the Jewish community would have viewed her with suspicion at best. Ruth’s name means “companion” or “friend," and she is characterized as loyal and courageous. She follows her mother-in-law Naomi’s instructions without question and takes initiative to care for her family. While Ruth is fighting for survival, her choices reflect a heart for others.
"Let me go out into the harvest fields to pick up the stalks of grain left behind by anyone who is kind enough to let me do it." –Ruth 2:2b
An archetype of Christ, Boaz’s name means “strength.” His role in the family is one of the kinsman-redeemers, which means he can redeem the property of a dead relative, marry the widow, and produce offspring in his name. While he is not Ruth's closest kinsman-redeemer, Boaz enters the story with a willingness to care for and champion the marginalized.
"I also know about everything you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband. I have heard how you left your father and mother and your own land to live here among complete strangers." –Ruth 2:11
Sermon Prep Plan
This plan of study focuses on preparing you for the upcoming teaching by providing relevant background passages, biblical context, and additional resources. You will receive an email with the weekly readings on Tuesdays. We hope this tool will help you grow in your understanding of Scripture.
Study Questions
Loss and Loyalty
In the opening chapter of Ruth, a scene of great tragedy unfolds—loss of homeland, a spouse, children. Yet even in the midst of her grief, Naomi speaks God’s blessing over her daughters-in-law, and Ruth commits to a lifetime of loyalty. As the chapter closes, we get a glimpse of God’s ability to infuse hope into darkness.
Provision in the Fields
In this passage, we meet Boaz—a man of character, wealth, and status. Although he is vastly different from Ruth, God is weaving their stories together in a way that magnifies their mutual reflection of his lovingkindness.
Hope and Risk
Chapter 3 brings us to a pivotal moment in the story. Ruth risks her reputation and her future in a courageous act of loyal love for her family. As the events unfold, we see God make a pathway for her to be part of his greater story of covenant love.
Redemption Secured
In chapter 4, Boaz continues to show his noble character. Rather than scheming in private to secure his place as Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer, he addresses the matter in public and trusts God with the outcome. Through Boaz’s willing heart and shrewd actions, God redeems Ruth and gives her a new identity as one of his people.
Blessings and Legacy
In these final verses of Ruth, God shows himself the author of an incredible story of reversal and blessing—blessing that is both intimate and universal. Ruth, the outsider, finds a home; Naomi, who was empty, has been filled; and the line of Boaz is continued with a son, Obed. The hesed love of this family foreshadows Jesus’ love for his people.
Ruth 1:16
But Ruth replied, “Don’t ask me to leave you and turn back. Wherever you go, I will go; wherever you live, I will live. Your people will be my people, and your God will be my God."
