The book of Ruth, set between the Judges and 1 Samuel, highlights a remarkable story of faith and redemption against a backdrop of tragedy and famine. Ruth, a Moabite widow, chooses to follow Naomi and embrace the God of Israel, demonstrating profound faith and obedience amidst cultural and personal adversity. Her story, culminating in her marriage to Boaz and the birth of a son, foreshadows Christ’s ultimate redemptive work, illustrating how individual stories contribute to God's grand narrative of salvation for all.
REVIEW: Finding Strength in God During Hardship
- READ: Psalm 46:1 - “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
- DISCUSS: How does the concept of God as our refuge and strength (Psalm 46:1) provide comfort and assurance during times of personal hardship or tragedy?
REVIEW: Boaz as a Foreshadowing of Christ
- READ: Titus 2:14 - “He gave his life to free us from every kind of sin, to cleanse us, and to make us his very own people, totally committed to doing good deeds.”
- DISCUSS: In what ways does the role of Boaz as the kinsman-redeemer in the book of Ruth parallel the redemptive work of Jesus Christ?
REVIEW: Our Stories in God’s Larger Narrative
- READ: Ephesians 3:6 - “And this is God’s plan: Both Gentiles and Jews who believe the Good News share equally in the riches inherited by God’s children. Both are part of the same body, and both enjoy the promise of blessings because they belong to Christ Jesus.”
- DISCUSS: How does Ruth’s story illustrate the idea that our personal stories are part of a larger narrative of God’s redemptive work? How can this perspective change how we view our own lives and struggles?
ASK:
What else did you get from this week's sermon? What actions or next steps can you take to apply it to your life?
PRAY:
Lord, help us believe there is redemptive work happening in my life as we commit to following you. Give us faith for today to trust your plan and find strength in you. You are our Lord and our God. We follow you. Amen