Ruth is a beautiful story of loyalty, redemption, and God’s providence during the time of the judges. The book follows Ruth, a Moabite widow, who commits herself to the God of Israel and becomes part of the lineage of King David and ultimately Jesus Christ. Through ordinary events and faithful choices, Ruth demonstrates God’s ability to bring hope out of hardship.
Background
Author: Traditionally attributed to Samuel, though uncertain
Audience: Israel, to show God’s providence and the origins of David’s family
Date: Likely written between 1010–930 BC
Location Written: Israel
Context: Set during a time of moral chaos and instability, Ruth stands out as a story of faithfulness and kindness. The narrative highlights God’s quiet but powerful work in the lives of ordinary people. Ruth’s decision to stay with Naomi leads her to Boaz, a relative who fulfills the role of kinsman-redeemer. The book ends by linking Ruth to King David, showing God’s sovereign plan unfolding through unexpected individuals.
Characters
- Ruth — Moabite widow whose loyalty and faith lead her into God’s family
- Naomi — Ruth’s mother in law who returns to Bethlehem seeking restoration
- Boaz — honorable relative who becomes Ruth’s kinsman redeemer
- God — guiding events behind the scenes to bring redemption
- Bethlehem Community — witnesses offering blessing, support, and celebration
Major Events
- Naomi’s family leaves Bethlehem due to famine and suffers loss (Chapter 1)
- Ruth’s vow of loyalty and return to Bethlehem with Naomi (Chapter 1)
- Ruth gleans in Boaz’s field and finds favor (Chapter 2)
- Naomi instructs Ruth to seek Boaz as a redeemer (Chapter 3)
- Boaz promises to redeem Ruth according to the law (Chapter 3)
- Legal redemption and marriage of Boaz and Ruth (Chapter 4)
- Birth of Obed, grandfather of David (Chapter 4)
Application & Life Lessons
- God often works through ordinary people and ordinary circumstances
- Loyalty and kindness can change the course of lives
- God welcomes outsiders who turn to Him in faith
- Redemption is at the heart of God’s character and plans
- Hardship can lead to unexpected blessing when we trust God
- Integrity and righteousness matter deeply in relationships
- God’s purposes often unfold slowly but perfectly
Bible Study Videos
Video by the Bible Project providing an overview of Ruth
Sermons & Teachings
Sermon by Skip Heitzig offering a brief overview of Ruth
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Articles
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Books
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Disclosures & Notices
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