Boaz replied, "I have been made fully aware of all you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, how you left your father and mother and the land of your birth, and how you came to a people you did not know before. Boaz replied,Boaz was a respected and prosperous landowner in Bethlehem, known for dealing honorably with those under his care. He had taken notice of Ruth and spoke to her with kindness and protection. Rut 3:10 Then Boaz said, “May the LORD bless you, my daughter.… “I have been made fully aware of all you have done for your mother-in-law since the death of your husband, News of Ruth’s devotion to Naomi had spread through the community. Rather than returning to Moab after Mahlon’s death, Ruth remained with Naomi in her poverty and grief, providing the support Naomi could no longer secure for herself. Rut 1:8 Then Naomi said to her two daughters-in-law,… how you left your father and mother and the land of your birth, Ruth had given up the security of her family, homeland, and former way of life. Her choice was costly, especially for a young widow without children or property. Gen 12:1 Then the LORD said to Abram, “Leave your country… and how you came to a people you did not know before. As a Moabite, Ruth entered a land and community where she had no natural standing. Yet she came with Naomi and placed herself among Israel, trusting the God of Israel and identifying herself with His people. Rut 1:16 But Ruth replied: “Do not urge me to leave you”… Persons / Places / Events 1. RuthA Moabite woman, widow of Mahlon, who shows loyalty and devotion to her mother-in-law, Naomi, by leaving her homeland to live in Bethlehem. 2. Boaz A wealthy landowner in Bethlehem, a relative of Naomi's late husband, who shows kindness and protection to Ruth. 3. Naomi Ruth's mother-in-law, who returns to Bethlehem from Moab after the death of her husband and sons. 4. Bethlehem The town in Judah where Naomi and Ruth return, and where Boaz's fields are located. 5. Moab Ruth's original homeland, a region east of the Dead Sea, often at odds with Israel. Teaching Points Loyalty and SacrificeRuth's decision to leave her homeland exemplifies true loyalty and sacrifice. Her actions challenge us to consider what we are willing to sacrifice for the sake of others and for God's purposes. God's Providence Boaz's recognition of Ruth's deeds shows how God orchestrates events and relationships for His purposes. We are reminded to trust in God's providence, even when we cannot see the full picture. Faith in Action Ruth's account is a powerful example of faith in action. Her willingness to step into the unknown encourages us to act on our faith, trusting that God will guide and provide. Kindness and Generosity Boaz's response to Ruth's situation teaches us the importance of kindness and generosity. As believers, we are called to extend grace and support to those in need. Cultural and Spiritual Integration Ruth's integration into the Israelite community illustrates the breaking down of cultural barriers through faith. It challenges us to embrace and welcome those who are different from us, fostering unity in the body of Christ. Bible Study Questions 1. How does Ruth's decision to leave her homeland reflect the call to discipleship found in the New Testament?2. In what ways can we demonstrate loyalty and sacrifice in our relationships today, similar to Ruth's commitment to Naomi? 3. How does Boaz's response to Ruth's situation encourage us to act with kindness and generosity in our own communities? 4. What can we learn from Ruth's faith and courage when facing uncertain or challenging circumstances in our lives? 5. How does Ruth's account challenge us to break down cultural barriers and embrace diversity within the church? Connections to Other Scriptures Genesis 12Ruth's journey mirrors Abraham's call to leave his homeland and family, demonstrating faith and obedience. Matthew 1 Ruth is listed in the genealogy of Jesus, highlighting her significance in God's redemptive plan. Hebrews 11 Ruth's faith and actions align with the examples of faith celebrated in this chapter. Philippians 2 Ruth's selflessness and humility reflect the attitude of Christ, as described by Paul. People Boaz, Elimelech, Ephah, Naomi, RuthPlaces Bethlehem, MoabTopics Answereth, Answering, Birth, Boaz, Bo'az, Death, Declared, Didn't, Fully, Hast, Heretofore, Homeland, Husband, I've, Knewest, Law, Leave, Mother-in-law, Native, Nativity, News, Previously, Replied, Reported, Shewn, Showed, Shown, Strange, ThoroughlyDictionary of Bible Themes Ruth 2:11 5117 Ruth 8252 faithfulness, relationships Library A Full Reward. "It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done ... and how thou hast left they father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD GOD of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust" (Ruth ii. 11, 12). In this interesting narrative we have another instance of the way in which the HOLY GHOST teaches by typical lives. We have dwelt on some precious lessons … J. Hudson Taylor—A Ribband of Blue Formation and History of the Hebrew Canon. Scriptural Poems; Being Several Portions of Scripture Digested into English Verse The Exile --Continued. Appendix viii. Rabbinic Traditions About Elijah, the Forerunner of the Messiah The Pilgrim's Progress Ruth Links Ruth 2:11 NIVRuth 2:11 NLT Ruth 2:11 ESV Ruth 2:11 NASB Ruth 2:11 KJV Ruth 2:11 Commentaries Bible Hub |
    |