Overview:
Ruth 3 tells the story of Ruth’s bold approach to Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer. Following Naomi’s guidance, Ruth goes to the threshing floor at night and lays at Boaz’s feet, symbolically requesting his protection and his role as her redeemer. Boaz is moved by Ruth’s loyalty and integrity, expressing his willingness to redeem her but mentioning another relative who has the first right to act as redeemer. Ruth returns to Naomi with grain from Boaz, and Naomi expresses her confidence that Boaz will resolve the matter promptly. This chapter illustrates themes of faithfulness, integrity, and God’s provision through the role of the kinsman-redeemer, highlighting Boaz’s willingness and Ruth’s humility.
Key themes include the role of the kinsman-redeemer, integrity in relationships, and God’s provision for those who trust Him. Ruth 3 highlights the delicate balance of faith and action, showing how God works through human choices and relationships to bring about His purposes.
Historical and Literary Context:
The role of the kinsman-redeemer was a unique responsibility in ancient Israelite culture, providing a way for family members to care for widows and preserve the family lineage. By approaching Boaz, Ruth seeks his protection and help, an act that would ensure both her and Naomi’s future. Ruth’s approach to Boaz at the threshing floor, while unconventional, is done with propriety, reflecting the honor and respect expected in Israelite society. The threshing floor, where grain was separated from chaff, symbolically becomes a place of separation and redemption, setting the stage for the final chapter of Ruth.
Key Themes and Doctrinal Points:
The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer:
The concept of the kinsman-redeemer, or “goel,” is central to Ruth’s approach to Boaz. As a close relative, Boaz has the opportunity to redeem the land belonging to Naomi’s family and to take Ruth as his wife, continuing the family line and restoring their inheritance.
“Spread the corner of your garment over me, since you are a guardian-redeemer of our family” (Ruth 3:9).
Ruth’s request represents her faith in Boaz’s integrity and willingness to fulfill his role as redeemer. In the New Testament, Jesus fulfills the ultimate role of Redeemer, rescuing believers from sin and restoring them to a relationship with God (Galatians 4:4-5, Ephesians 1:7).
Integrity and Kindness in Relationships:
Both Ruth and Boaz demonstrate integrity and kindness, acting with honor and respect throughout this delicate situation. Ruth’s actions reflect her loyalty to Naomi and her willingness to embrace Israelite customs, while Boaz’s response shows his respect and care for Ruth’s wellbeing.
“The Lord bless you, my daughter… All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character” (Ruth 3:10-11).
Boaz’s acknowledgment of Ruth’s character highlights the value of integrity, reminding believers of the importance of respect and purity in relationships. The New Testament calls believers to pursue love and purity, exemplifying Christ’s character in all relationships (1 Timothy 5:2, Philippians 4:8).
Trusting God’s Provision and Timing:
Naomi’s guidance to Ruth, as well as Ruth’s boldness and Boaz’s response, all reflect a trust in God’s provision and timing. Ruth and Boaz take steps toward a potential future together, but ultimately, they rely on God’s will to determine the outcome.
“Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today” (Ruth 3:18).
Naomi’s words to Ruth reflect her faith that God is working through Boaz to bring about their redemption. The New Testament similarly encourages believers to wait on the Lord, trusting His timing and provision (Psalm 27:14, Romans 8:28).
Verse-by-Verse Analysis:
Ruth 3:1-2:
“One day Ruth’s mother-in-law Naomi said to her, ‘My daughter, I must find a home for you, where you will be well provided for’” (Ruth 3:1).
Naomi’s desire to find security for Ruth shows her motherly care and love. Her mention of Boaz highlights her awareness of God’s provision through Boaz as a potential redeemer.
Ruth 3:3-5:
“‘Wash, put on perfume, and get dressed in your best clothes. Then go down to the threshing floor, but don’t let him know you are there until he has finished eating and drinking’” (Ruth 3:3).
Naomi’s instructions for Ruth to prepare herself reflect cultural norms for signaling readiness for marriage. Ruth’s obedience shows her respect for Naomi’s guidance and her trust in Naomi’s wisdom.
Ruth 3:6-9:
“When Boaz had finished eating and drinking and was in good spirits, he went over to lie down at the far end of the grain pile. Ruth approached quietly, uncovered his feet and lay down” (Ruth 3:7).
Ruth’s approach to Boaz is both humble and bold, demonstrating her faith in his character. Her request for Boaz to “spread the corner of his garment” over her symbolizes her trust in his role as a kinsman-redeemer.
Ruth 3:10-11:
“‘The Lord bless you, my daughter… This kindness is greater than that which you showed earlier… All the people of my town know that you are a woman of noble character’” (Ruth 3:10-11).
Boaz’s response to Ruth’s request is filled with respect and admiration, affirming her loyalty to Naomi and recognizing her as a woman of integrity. His words highlight the value of character and kindness in relationships.
Ruth 3:12-13:
“Although it is true that I am a guardian-redeemer of our family, there is another who is more closely related than I. Stay here for the night, and in the morning, if he wants to do his duty as your guardian-redeemer, good; let him redeem you” (Ruth 3:12-13).
Boaz’s integrity shines as he acknowledges another relative’s right to redeem Ruth. His commitment to doing things properly reflects his respect for God’s law and his care for Ruth’s future.
Ruth 3:14-15:
“So she lay at his feet until morning, but got up before anyone could be recognized… He also said, ‘Bring me the shawl you are wearing and hold it out’” (Ruth 3:14-15).
Boaz’s discreet care for Ruth’s reputation and his gift of grain reflect his concern for her honor and his generosity, providing for her and Naomi’s needs while the matter is settled.
Ruth 3:16-18:
“Then Naomi said, ‘Wait, my daughter, until you find out what happens. For the man will not rest until the matter is settled today’” (Ruth 3:18).
Naomi’s confidence in Boaz’s character provides Ruth with reassurance, as she trusts in God’s providence and the integrity of Boaz to resolve their future.
Theological Implications and Connection to Jesus Christ:
Ruth 3 points to God’s redeeming work through the kinsman-redeemer, a role that Boaz fulfills for Ruth and Naomi, and one that foreshadows Jesus Christ’s ultimate act of redemption. Boaz’s willingness to redeem Ruth reflects Christ’s sacrificial love for humanity. Like Boaz, who takes responsibility for Ruth’s well-being, Jesus redeems those who trust in Him, covering them with His righteousness and securing their future.
In the New Testament, Jesus acts as the ultimate Redeemer, taking on humanity’s burden of sin and restoring believers to God. Boaz’s willingness to redeem Ruth parallels Jesus’ willingness to give His life for humanity, demonstrating God’s love and commitment to His people (Titus 2:13-14, John 10:11).
Sermon Outline and Flow:
- Introduction: Faith and Action in God’s Plan
- Set the context of Ruth 3, highlighting Ruth’s approach to Boaz as an act of faith and hope in God’s provision.
- Introduce themes of the kinsman-redeemer, integrity in relationships, and trusting God’s timing.
- Point 1: The Role of the Kinsman-Redeemer
- Discuss the cultural and spiritual significance of the kinsman-redeemer, highlighting Boaz’s role and Ruth’s faith in his character.
- Application: How does understanding Jesus as our Redeemer encourage us to trust in His work on our behalf?
- Point 2: Integrity and Kindness in Relationships
- Explore Boaz’s response to Ruth, emphasizing his respect for her and his commitment to doing things honorably.
- Application: How can believers reflect God’s love through integrity and kindness in their relationships?
- Point 3: Trusting in God’s Provision and Timing
- Reflect on Naomi’s and Ruth’s trust in God’s plan, and how they leave the matter in Boaz’s hands, trusting God’s will.
- Application: How can believers learn to wait on God’s timing, allowing Him to work through circumstances for His purposes?
- Conclusion: Jesus as the Ultimate Redeemer and Protector
- Emphasize that Jesus offers redemption, protection, and a future, inviting believers to rest in His provision and love.
- Call to Action: How can believers live out their faith in action and trust in God’s timing, reflecting Christ’s love in their lives?
Illustrations and Examples:
- Example of Patient Trust: Share a story of someone who trusted in God’s timing, allowing Him to work in a difficult situation.
- Metaphor of “Covering”: Use the imagery of a protective cover in a storm, illustrating Boaz’s care for Ruth and Christ’s redemptive covering over believers.
Application for Today’s Christian:
Ruth 3 invites believers to reflect on faith, integrity, and trust in God’s provision. Ruth’s willingness to seek Boaz’s protection, Boaz’s honorable response, and Naomi’s confidence in God’s timing all reflect a reliance on God’s care. Believers are called to approach relationships with integrity, act in faith, and trust in God’s timing, knowing that He is working out His purposes.
Through Jesus, believers experience ultimate redemption, finding shelter and belonging in God’s family. Like Boaz, who acts as a kinsman-redeemer, Jesus willingly redeems and restores, inviting all who seek Him to find rest and security in His love (Psalm 91:1-2, John 6:37).
Connection to the Father in Ruth 3:
God the Father’s care is evident through the role of the kinsman-redeemer, ensuring provision and protection for those who seek Him. Ruth’s trust in Boaz’s integrity mirrors the trust that believers are invited to place in God’s character and His commitment to their welfare.
Connection to Jesus Christ in Ruth 3:
Jesus embodies the ultimate role of the Redeemer, offering forgiveness and restoration to all who seek Him. Just as Boaz acts with kindness and integrity toward Ruth, Jesus provides a way for believers to find eternal security and hope in God’s family (Hebrews 9:15, Matthew 11:28-30).
Connection to the Holy Spirit in Ruth 3:
The Holy Spirit guides believers to live with integrity and kindness, empowering them to act in faith and trust in God’s timing. Through the Spirit’s presence, believers are strengthened to seek God’s will and to reflect Christ’s character in their lives (Galatians 5:22-23, John 14:26).
Connection to God’s Love in Ruth 3:
God’s love is evident in the kindness of Boaz and the hope of redemption for Ruth and Naomi. Boaz’s response to Ruth’s request reflects God’s heart for His people, providing security and a future. Through Jesus, believers experience this love, resting in the assurance of His redeeming grace (1 John 3:1, Romans 5:8).
Reflection Questions:
- How does understanding Jesus as your Redeemer shape your relationship with God?
- In what ways can you reflect integrity and kindness in your relationships, as Boaz did with Ruth?
- How can you practice patient trust, allowing God to work through circumstances in His timing?
- How does Ruth’s story inspire you to take steps of faith, trusting in God’s provision and care?
- What does the concept of “covering” mean to you, and how does Jesus’ redemptive work provide security?
Ruth 3 illustrates the power of faith, the beauty of integrity, and the assurance of redemption. Through Jesus, believers are called to live in faithful trust, knowing that God is the ultimate Redeemer who provides, protects, and restores His people.