LESSON 9
The Book of Ruth
1. The Book:
A. Ruth is a story of Love, Devotion and Redemption during the time of Judges (1:1).
B. Ruth is a Mobite woman who forsakes her pagan heritage in order to cling to the people of Israel and, most
importantly, to the God of Israel.
C. Because of her faithfulness in a time of national faithlessness, she is blessed or rewarded.
D. It is one of only two Books in the Scriptures which bears the names of women (Ruth & Esther).
E. Ruth was the grandmother of David, placing her in the line of Christ. She is one of four women names in the
Messianic line.
F. Again the author is anonymous, however, this should not take from its spiritual value.
G. The Key Word: KINSMAN - REDEEMER. The Hebrew word for Kinsman (goel) appears thirteen times in Ruth and
basically means "One who redeems". Boaz acts as a redeemer by buying back the land of Naomi, as well as
marrying Ruth and fathering a son to keep the family line alive.
H. This concept of the Kinsman - Redeemer (or 3:9 near kinsman) is a portrayal of the work of Christ. The
kinsman must:
- Be related by blood to those he redeems.
(Deut. 25:5, 7-10: John 1:14)
- Be able to pay the price of redemption.
(1 Peter 1:18-19, Ruth 2:1)
- Be willing to redeem.
(Ruth 3:11, John 10:15)
- Be free himself. (Christ was free from the
Curse of sin.)
2. Survey of Ruth
In a time of apostasy, warfare, decline, violence and moral decay, there remains a godly remnant who are true
to the laws of God. The Book itself is observed in two parts:
Ruth's love demonstrated 1 - 2
Ruth's love rewarded 3 - 4
The story of Ruth speaks for itself, thus we will only need to make a few points under these topics.
Ruth's Love Demonstrated
Ruth's decision to stay with Naomi demonstrates her
devotion and care. 1:16__________________________________

__________________________________________________________

They then return to Bethlehem where she meets Boaz who protects and provides for Ruth.
Ruth's Love Rewarded
Naomi seeks redemption for Ruth. Boaz desires to redeem
Ruth. 3:11________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________

Boaz marries Ruth and she bears a son Obed. 4:22___________

___________________________________________________________

QUESTIONS:
1. What is the theme of Ruth?

________________________________________________________

2. To what period of time does Ruth belong?

________________________________________________________

3. Explain a Kinsman - Redeemer.

________________________________________________________

4. What are the two main divisions?

________________________________________________________

NEXT WEEK
Read 1 Samuel.