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“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

I - From Famine to Funerals (Chapter 1)

A) Desertion in Moving to Moab (1 - 5 Sermon # 1)

B) Desperation in Facing their Funerals (6 - 18 Sermon # 2)

C) Depression in Naming a Name (19 - 22 Sermon # 3)

II - From Funerals to Feasting (Chapter 2)

A) Looking for the Right Field (1 - 9 Sermon # 4)

B) Landing in the Right Fold (10 - 23 Sermon # 5)

III - From Feasting to Faith (Chapter 3)

A) The Moabitesh Beauty That Sought Redemption (1 - 9 Sermon # 6)

B) The Mighty Boaz That Supplied Redemption (10 - 18 Sermon # 7)

IV - From Faith to Fame (Chapter 4)

A) The Big Finish of Boaz (1 - 13 Sermon # 8)

B) The Bright Future of Bethlehem (14 - 22 Sermon # 9)

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

I - From Famine to Funerals (Chapter 1)

A) Desertion in Moving to Moab (1 - 5)

1 - The Forcefulness of Famine - The Lack

2 - The Faithlessness of the Father - The Landing

3 - The Foolishness of the Family - The Longevity

4 - The Fiercefulness of the Funerals - The Loss

B) Desperation in Facing their Funerals (6 - 18)

1 - The Lifting of the Famine - Delightful News

2 - The Leaving of the Family - Dreamful News

3 - The Lingering of the Faithless - Dreadful News

4 - The Loving of the Faithful - Desireful News

C) Depression in Naming a Name (19 - 22)

1 - The Pleasurable Quest for Bethlehem - Enthusiasm

2 - The Piercing Questions of Bethlehem - Excitement

3 - The Perplexing Quandary of Bethlehem - Emptiness

4 - The Promising Qualities of Bethlehem - Expectancy

II - From Funerals to Feasting (Chapter 2)

A) Looking for the Right Field (1 - 9)

1 - Great Friend - One’s Hope

2 - Goodly Fortune - One’s Hap

3 - Glorious Find - One’s Hour

B) Landing in the Right Fold (10 - 23)

1 - The Favors That Ruth Enjoyed

2 - The Freedom That Ruth Experienced

3 - The Food That Ruth Exposed

4 - The Friend That Ruth Encountered

III - From Feasting to Faith (Chapter 3)

A) The Moabitesh Beauty That Sought Redemption (1 - 9)

1 - The Need of her Redeemer

2 - The Name of her Redeemer

3 - The Nearness of her Redeemer

4 - The Necessities of her Redeemer

5 - The Nudging of her Redeemer

B) The Mighty Boaz That Supplied Redemption (10 - 18)

1 - Boaz Verbally Adoring his Future Bride

2 - Boaz Virtuously Acknowledging his Future Bride

3 - Boaz Vibrantly Assuring his Future Bride

4 - Boaz Visually Adorning his Future Bride

IV - From Faith to Fame (Chapter 4)

A) The Big Finish of Boaz

1 - Boaz Requiring his Redemptive Seat

2 - Boaz Reporting his Reluctant Story

3 - Boaz Removing his Relatives Shoe

4 - Boaz Receiving his Rightful Signs

5 - Boaz Reproducing his Regal Son

B) The Bright Future of Bethlehem

1 - The Portrayed One & his Family Nurturing - Obed

2 - The Prominent One & his Forthcoming Nobility - David

3 - The Perfect One & his Famous Name - Jesus

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Introduction:

In this section we will look at the book of Ruth from a historical, practical and applicable point of view. The book of Ruth is of utmost importance in the canon of scriptures, if not for this book we could not link the house of David to the tribe of Judah.

Ruth 4:17-22 (KJV) 17 And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David. 18 Now these are the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron, 19 And Hezron begat Ram, and Ram begat Amminadab, 20 And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon, 21 And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz begat Obed, 22 And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David.

Some Facts about the book:

1. The Title of this book: The book of Ruth is named after one its primary characters, though I don not believe she is the main character.

a. Name: “Ruth” stands for beauty or personality, one that is friendly.

b. Nationality: Ruth was a Moabitesh woman, from the land of Moab. The people of Moab were descendants of Lot. In leaving Sodom Lot fathered two incestuous sons with his daughters, the sons were named Ammon & Moab. The bible forbade the descendants of these countries from entering into the congregation of the Lord.

Deuteronomy 23:3 (KJV) An Ammonite or Moabite shall not enter into the congregation of the LORD; even to their tenth generation shall they not enter into the congregation of the LORD for ever:

c. Need: The need of Ruth is that her family has faced much grief and sorrow. The men of their family have all died and there is none to carry on the family name. Because of this matter, the family must find a kinsman redeemer.

2. The Time of this book: It is easily believed that the book of Ruth was not compiled until after King David had risen to great prominence.

Ruth 4:17 (KJV) And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David. Ruth 4:22 (KJV) And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David.

The actual author of this book is not known, though much speculation attributes it to Samuel. The time of this writing may have been early on in the kingship of David. In reality we do not know the exact timing of this book being written.

3. The Theme of this book: It is often disputed as to the actual reason for the book of Ruth being written. The thoughts are normally broken into two different camps, as follows:

a. The Genealogical Viewpoint: Those that believe this to be the main theme of the book of Ruth, justify their belief because of chapter 4, verse 17. The genealogy that follows gives a clear link between David and the tribe of Judah. This link can go all the back to the book of Genesis and all the way forward to the book of Matthew. Ruth therefore is the missing link that connects the past with the future.

b. The Doctrinal Viewpoint: Those that stand upon this viewpoint believe that the doctrine of redemption is the reason for placing this book in the canon of scriptures. The book of Ruth is the only book that goes into great length concerning the work of a Kinsman Redeemer. The book of Deuteronomy chapter 25 goes into the actual details of the role of a Kinsman Redeemer:

Deuteronomy 25:5-10 (KJV) 5 If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her. 6 And it shall be, that the firstborn which she beareth shall succeed in the name of his brother which is dead, that his name be not put out of Israel. 7 And if the man like not to take his brother's wife, then let his brother's wife go up to the gate unto the elders, and say, My husband's brother refuseth to raise up unto his brother a name in Israel, he will not perform the duty of my husband's brother. 8 Then the elders of his city shall call him, and speak unto him: and if he stand to it, and say, I like not to take her; 9 Then shall his brother's wife come unto him in the presence of the elders, and loose his shoe from off his foot, and spit in his face, and shall answer and say, So shall it be done unto that man that will not build up his brother's house. 10 And his name shall be called in Israel, The house of him that hath his shoe loosed.

The fact is God must have a mediator to redeem and in this story Boaz would be that mediator that stood in for Ruth and paid the redemptive price for her. The significance of this is that it is the forerunner of the coming Kinsman Redeemer that would stand in as a mediator between God and mankind. The coming Boaz would be perfect and could beautifully pay the redemptive price for the salvation of the entire world.

1 Corinthians 6:20 (KJV) For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God's.

1 Corinthians 7:23 (KJV) Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.

1 Peter 1:18-19 (KJV) 18 Forasmuch as ye know that ye were not redeemed with corruptible things, as silver and gold, from your vain conversation received by tradition from your fathers; 19 But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

Colossians 1:14 (KJV) In whom we have redemption through his blood, even the forgiveness of sins:

I hope that we fully understand the significance of Jesus being our Kinsman Redeemer, were it not for him we would all go to hell for eternity.

Interaction:

I want us to look at several various areas of importance concerning the book of Ruth. The book is only 4 chapters long and it contains 85 verses, wedged in between the book of Judges and Samuel. We must not allow its size to diminish its significance in content. The book of Ruth is a ray of light in a dark dingy dungeon; it offers much insight and inspiration to those willing to read its truths.

1. Interaction of Places: In reading this book we are allowed to visit 2 primary places, Bethlehem Judah & Moab. Let us take a moment to look at the significance of these places to our story, as follows:

a. Consider Bethlehem Judah: The little city of Bethlehem is noted on several occasions in the book of Judges, chapters 17/18 & 19/21.

Micah 5:2 (KJV) But thou, Bethlehem Ephratah, though thou be little among the thousands of Judah, yet out of thee shall he come forth unto me that is to be ruler in Israel; whose goings forth have been from of old, from everlasting.

Bethlehem is about 6 miles south of Jerusalem and is located upon a sloping hill. It was a small insignificant place, but a place that would be chosen to birth the very Son of God.

Bethlehem - “House of Bread

Judah - “Praise”

Bethlehem Judah - “House of bread and praise”

b. Consider Moab: The country of Moab was about 50 miles east of Bethlehem on the other side of the Dead Sea. Moab was a pagan country that had been rejected by God in how they had previously mistreated the nation of Israel.

Psalms 108:9 (KJV) Moab is my washpot; over Edom will I cast out my shoe; over Philistia will I triumph.

The country of Moab had a dirty and demented beginning as Lot committed incest with his 2 daughters in a cave. The boy grew up to become the founder of an ungodly and unjust nation, Moab. God considered Moab to be a place for garbage or waste; it was vile and unclean in its start and stand.

2. Interaction of People: In the book of Ruth we read of several characters that partake in the weaving of this dramatic drama. The characters all play significant parts in going from scene to scene. The people are allowed to feel pain, pressure, perplexity and they experience famine, faithlessness, funerals, fascination and faith. It is wonderful to read of the little story of Ruth because we can all relate to the people that interact in this intense drama, see them as follows:

a. The Father Elimelech: This man was the husband of Ruth and the father of Mahlon and Chilion, their family lived in Bethlehem Judah. The man was living in Bethlehem during the days of the judges and in the midst of a famine.

Note: The book of Ruth opens in the midst of great Famine, but closes in the midst of great harvest.

In the bible we have many times of famine, God allowed famines to restore his people and to revive his plan.

Elimelech - “My God is King” It is apparent that Elimelech did not act as though his God was the king. The poor decision that Elimelech made ended up being very costly to his family.

• Elimelech & his Faithless Decision

• Elimelech & his Fatal Departure

• Elimelech & his Foolish Demise

• Elimelech & his Fallen Descendants

• Elimelech & his Futile Destiny

b. The Wife Naomi: In her we find a woman that faced much difficulty in life and living. I suppose that Naomi left Bethlehem unwillingly and stubbornly, I allow that she went because she had to go with her husband. Naomi proved to be a woman of great faith and much fame when all is said and done.

Naomi - “Pleasant or Delightful” This would be her name and her disposition in life. In being around Naomi one would find her appealing to be around. It is good to see people that are delightful and pleasant in their attitude and actions.

• Naomi & her Simple Family

• Naomi & her Sorrowful Funerals

• Naomi & her Strong Faith

• Naomi & her Sincere Follower

• Naomi & her Splendid Future

c. The Son’s Mahlon & Chilion: In looking at the life of these 2 young men we know very little. The boys were the sons of Elimelech and Naomi. The age of these men is unknown other than both got married in the country of Moab. The sons experienced a downward plunge in the land of Moab.

Mahlon - “Unhealthy or Sickly” The young man apparently had much difficulty with his health. Mahlon must have been a person of continual sickness.

Chilion - “Pining or Puny” This one was not to be outdone by his sibling, for he was also a son that experienced continual unhealthiness. It must have been overbearing and overwhelming as Naomi tried to raise these sick sons.

• The Sickness of their Bodies

• The Sinfulness of their Brides

• The Sorrowfulness of their Burial

• The Seriousness of their Banishment

• The Sureness of their Blemishes

d. The Daughter-in-law Orpah: Orpah married one of the sons of Naomi and she was a native of the land of Moab. The main thing that we remember concerning Orpah is that she turned back and did not go to Bethlehem with Ruth.

Orpah - “Gazelle, Deer, or Fawn” The intent here is that she was very fleet footed and probably very active. Is it not amazing that she married into such a sickly environment? I suppose the fleet footedness of Orpah swiftly carried her back to her original family and faith.

• The Goodness that Orpah Shared (Ruth 1:8)

• The Grief that Orpah Saw (Ruth 1:5)

• The Groaning that Orpah Submitted (Ruth 1: 9, 14)

• The Gloom that Orpah Supposed (Ruth 1: 11 - 13)

• The God that Orpah Spurned (Ruth 1: 14 - 15)

e. The Daughter-in-law Ruth: In this story Ruth would be the heroine, the one that needed to be saved from a fatal outcome. In first looking at this story one would assume that Ruth was the star of the story, I do not believe this to be the case. I think that Ruth plays second fiddle to another, which would be Boaz. Ruth would represent the church standing in the need of redemption. Boaz would represent Jesus as the available ready Redeemer. Ruth also was one of the daughter-in-laws of Naomi. Ruth refused to turn back to her old gods and her old way of life, she would stay close to Naomi and go to Bethlehem.

Ruth - “Pleasant, Beauty, or Friendly” The girl must have been awesome in life.

• The Background that Ruth Shunned (Ruth 1: 14)

• The Beliefs that Ruth Savored (Ruth 1: 14 - 18)

• The Blessings that Ruth Sought (Ruth 2:13)

• The Barely that Ruth Shared (Ruth 3: 17)

• The Bride that Ruth Savored (Ruth 4: 13)

In this section I wanted to review the entire book of Ruth from her personal point of view. I believe it would do us good to see events through the eyes of the beholder.

• I - Ruth Permanently Leaving & Going - Ruth’s Bold Flight

1. The Circumstance that Touched Ruth - Her Husband

2. The Crisis that Troubled Ruth - Her Hardships

3. The Call that Took Ruth - Her Heart

• II - Ruth Probingly Looking & Gleaning - Ruth’s Barley Field

1. The Field of Boaz was Chosen - Haphazardly

2. The Focus of Boaz was Clear - Heartily

3. The Fervor of Boaz was Charming - Humorously

• III - Ruth Patiently Laying & Gleaming - Ruth’s Believing Faith

1. Ruth Preparing for Boaz - Anointing Herself

2. Ruth Professing to Boaz - Acknowledging Herself

3. Ruth Proposing to Boaz - Announcing Herself

• IV - Ruth Passionately Loving & Glowing - Ruth’s Beloved Family

1. The Thrilling Story of Ruth - The History

2. The Redeeming Saviour of Ruth - The Hero

3. The Exciting Son of Ruth - The Heritage

f. Boaz the Kinsman Redeemer: I believe that here we find the main character of our story and drama. Boaz comes onto the scene as the cowboy on a white horse. It is because of his goodness and his kindness that Ruth finds redemption and access into the commonwealth of Israel.

Ephesians 2:12-13 (KJV) 12 That at that time ye were without Christ, being aliens from the commonwealth of Israel, and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no hope, and without God in the world: 13 But now in Christ Jesus ye who sometimes were far off are made nigh by the blood of Christ.

Boaz - “Fleetness, Strength” The man was very influential man in the land of Bethlehem. Boaz was a very wealthy man, possibly a man of the law. The idea here is that Boaz immediately became attracted to this stranger that was gleaning barely in his fields. This is a grand picture of how Jesus loves those of us that are foreigners and strangers, deserving to die and go to a sinner’s hell. The righteous Boaz actually died to pay my price and purchase my liberty.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “Desertion in Moving to Moab”

Theme: “Facing Danger in Moab”

Text: “Ruth 1: 1 - 5”

Ruth 1:1-5 (KJV) 1 Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons. 2 And the name of the man was Elimelech, and the name of his wife Naomi, and the name of his two sons Mahlon and Chilion, Ephrathites of Bethlehemjudah. And they came into the country of Moab, and continued there. 3 And Elimelech Naomi's husband died; and she was left, and her two sons. 4 And they took them wives of the women of Moab; the name of the one was Orpah, and the name of the other Ruth: and they dwelled there about ten years. 5 And Mahlon and Chilion died also both of them; and the woman was left of her two sons and her husband.

Introduction: In this section we are going to be introduced to a specific family that lives in the city of Bethlehem Judah. The father chooses to lead his family 50 down the road to the Pagan land of Moab. The decision will prove to be a very fatal mistake in the wellbeing of this family. Let it be noted, “ It is better to go through the famine with God, than to leave the famine without God.”

Consider the Downward Course of this Family:

a. The place that they left

b. The place that they landed

Consider the Deathly Consequences of this Family:

a. The harsh demise

b. The hastened death

I -The Forcefulness of the Famine - The Lack

The first thing that God allows us to see is that Israel was in the midst of a mighty famine. Elimelech and his family lived in Bethlehem Judah, the house of bread and praise; even they faced this horrible famine. It seems as if we fail to recognize the hand of God in human affairs.

In past days one had no difficulty in acknowledging the hand of God in natural calamity and disaster. We live in a day of “PCism” which stands for “Politically Correct”. It is difficult for the man of God to speak the truth without aggravating or alienating those that disagree. The truth of the matter is that God often intercedes in the daily affairs of mankind. In this frame of mind let us consider the upward workings that were happening concerning this famine and Israel. The famine that was causing so much grief in the lives of Israel may have been sent by the Lord himself, did he not do this with Elijah and Ahab?

A) The Reason of Famines - Biblically Speaking

In the bible we actually read of 13 famines, let us look at them:

1 - Genesis 12:10 (KJV) And there was a famine in the land: and Abram went down into Egypt to sojourn there; for the famine was grievous in the land.

2 - Genesis 26:1 (KJV) And there was a famine in the land, beside the first famine that was in the days of Abraham. And Isaac went unto Abimelech king of the Philistines unto Gerar.

3 - Genesis 41:54 (KJV) And the seven years of dearth began to come, according as Joseph had said: and the dearth was in all lands; but in all the land of Egypt there was bread.

4 - Ruth 1:1 (KJV) Now it came to pass in the days when the judges ruled, that there was a famine in the land. And a certain man of Bethlehemjudah went to sojourn in the country of Moab, he, and his wife, and his two sons.

5 - 2 Samuel 21:1 (KJV) Then there was a famine in the days of David three years, year after year; and David enquired of the LORD. And the LORD answered, It is for Saul, and for his bloody house, because he slew the Gibeonites.

6 - 1 Kings 18:2 (KJV) And Elijah went to shew himself unto Ahab. And there was a sore famine in

Samaria.

7 - 2 Kings 4:38 (KJV) And Elisha came again to Gilgal: and there was a dearth in the land; and the sons of the prophets were sitting before him: and he said unto his servant, Set on the great pot, and seethe pottage for the sons of the prophets.

8 - 2 Kings 7:4 (KJV) If we say, We will enter into the city, then the famine is in the city, and we shall die there: and if we sit still here, we die also. Now therefore come, and let us fall unto the host of the Syrians: if they save us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall but die.

9 - 2 Kings 25:3 (KJV) And on the ninth day of the fourth month the famine prevailed in the city, and there was no bread for the people of the land.

10 - Nehemiah 5:3 (KJV) Some also there were that said, We have mortgaged our lands, vineyards, and houses, that we might buy corn, because of the dearth.

11 - Jeremiah 14:1 (KJV) The word of the LORD that came to Jeremiah concerning the dearth.

12 - Luke 15:14 (KJV) And when he had spent all, there arose a mighty famine in that land; and he began to be in want.

13 - Acts 11:28 (KJV) And there stood up one of them named Agabus, and signified by the Spirit that there should be great dearth throughout all the world: which came to pass in the days of Claudius Caesar.

It can be said with full biblical backing that God often sent the famines into the land of his People. The famine came because of the sinfulness of his people and the forget fullness of his people. It seemed as if God needed a famine to bring about repentance and remembrance in the congregation of the Lord. This is not popular teaching or preaching in this day of easy beliefs. In our day and age we readily reject that God interferes in the human affairs of our daily living. This famine was sent in the days of the judges of Israel. Sin ran rampant throughout the land and man had abandoned justice and had forsaken Godliness. God declared that he would send grief and famine when his people chose to abandon him.

1 - The Reason for the Famines: Sinfulness & Forgetfulness

2 - The Reason for the Famines: Repentance & Remembrance

B) The Results of Famines - Spiritually Speaking

The famine was harsh and horrible in that it wrecked havoc upon the land and the people. It would have destroyed their crops and dried up any water system. It is likely that most people and many countries abandon God during good times. Often God is required to send difficulty to stir our souls toward him.

Let us consider church attendance before 09/11/2001, the day that America was shaken to

her very core. The greatest nation in the world proved to be unprepared for the onslaught of terrorism. The faith of this country was aroused as never before in this wayward generation.

• According to Foxnews.com: On the 1st anniversary of 911 church attendances was evaluated and compared to before 911 and after 911. In Dallas Texas on the Sunday after the trade center attacks Ed Young saw his attendance rise from the mid teens to over 20,000 plus. In the next few weeks his church pews had lots of room as the crowd had dwindled back to where it previously had been.

• According to Foxnews.com: It is estimated that nearly half of the adult population attending a religious service the Sunday after 911. In the coming weeks it begins to drop and by November the numbers were back to where they had been previously.

• According to Barna Research: Within one year the spiritual thermometer of America was back to the same numbers as before 911.

1. Attendance before 911: 42 %

2. Attendance after 911: 43% (1 year later)

3. Prayer before 911: 84%

4. Prayer after 911: 83% (1 year later)

• Foxnews.com: Young attributes the initial attendance spike to human nature. "I think when we are riddled with fear, when things fall apart around us especially when we are struck at the heart of who we are, people suddenly respond and they're turning to God and asking those deep questions in an even deeper way," he said."When things are going bad we want to turn to God and want to get right with him and we want to attend to church," Young said. "When things level out we tend to forget the most important things and drift away."

In the days following 911 the church attendance numbers crept close to 50% but by November the spiritual inquiry had fizzled back to 43%.

Let it be said that God allowed the famine to bring Israel into a state of repentance and remembrance. The fact of the matter is that we are feeble human beings and we tend to forget the good hand of God in our life. When things are going good we tend to drift toward sin and selfishness:

Negative Trend:

Ø Satisfaction - Fullness

Ø Selfishness - Forgetfulness

Ø Sin - Failure

Positive Trend:

Ø Famine - Difficulty

Ø Faith - Desperation

Ø Fervor - Devotion

II - The Faithlessness of the Father - The Landing

The scene now moves from Bethlehem to Moab, it was only fifty 50 to the east on the other side of the Dead Sea. Elimelech displayed a great lack of faith in moving his family from Bethlehem to Moab.

1 - The Distance was Close & Easy

2 - The Decision was Costly & Enormous

Is this not the way of departing from the will of God, easy access to the doors that Satan himself will open. It is so easy to drift and to depart into a state of waywardness, but the cost will be monstrous and momentous. I believe that before Elimelech took one step towards Moab he had already abandoned God in his heart. The lack that he faced in Bethlehem would be nothing to the landing he would encounter in the pagan land of Moab. Bethlehem’s famine would be nothing compared to Moab’s funerals.

A) Displayed Faithlessness: In whom he trusted

The bible declares that we are to walk by faith and not by sight. In walking by site we fail to recognize the unseen hand of God in our circumstances. The man Elimelech was a husband and a father that must have felt a tremendous amount of pressure to secure the means to take care of his family. This pressure pushed him to trust in himself rather than in God.

1 - The Terrible Problem that Elimelech Faced

2 - The Tremendous Pressure that Elimelech Felt

We must not be hasty in condemning this man, because many of us have departed for much less critical circumstances.

B) Demonstrated Faithlessness: In where he traveled

The famine seemingly was not going to break and the anxiousness got the best of this man and off he goes to Moab. The news from Moab must have been very exciting and enticing. The distance from Bethlehem to Moab was on 50 miles which he could travel in a few days time. It was only 50 miles from Bethlehem but it was millions of miles from God’s plan for his life. The man that moves from God’s protection to pulverization has no idea what has hit him.

1 - The Pleasurable Enticement of Moab

2 - The Pagan Environment of Moab

It seems as if we always go for the money, for the prestige of things. Elimelech desired the best for his family, is this not ringing loud in our times? America has proven this to be true time after time, follow the money and the materialistic. It is for lack of judgment that we allow ourselves to lead our family into the lions den of sin and shame.

1 - Moab offered Food, but no Faith

2 - Moab offered gods, but no God

The lack of real faith was going to be very costly to this dear family. In walking by our flesh we will get only what the flesh can give.

III - The Foolishness of the Family - The Longevity

If we could hear the family discussing their move to Moab, we would have realized that it was to be only for a short period of time. This is usually the case when one departs from the will of God. The lack of food in Bethlehem inspired them to move to Moab for a brief period, this briefness turned into 10 years. I recently watched a video of a song called, “Slow Fade”, by Casting Crowns:

Slow Fadeby Casting Crowns

Be careful little eyes what you seeIt’s the second glance that ties your hands as darkness pulls the stringsBe careful little feet where you goFor it’s the little feet behind you that are sure to follow

It’s a slow fade when you give yourself awayIt’s a slow fade when black and white have turned to grayThoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paidWhen you give yourself awayPeople never crumble in a day

It’s a slow fade, it’s a slow fade

Be careful little ears what you hearWhen flattery leads to compromise, the end is always nearBe careful little lips what you sayFor empty words and promises lead broken hearts astray

It’s a slow fade when you give yourself awayIt’s a slow fade when black and white have turned to grayThoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paidWhen you give yourself awayPeople never crumble in a day

The journey from your mind to your handsIs shorter than you’re thinkingBe careful if you think you standYou just might be sinking

It’s a slow fade when you give yourself awayIt’s a slow fade when black and white have turned to grayThoughts invade, choices are made, a price will be paidWhen you give yourself awayPeople never crumble in a dayDaddies never crumble in a dayFamilies never crumble in a day

Oh be careful little eyes what seeOh be careful little eyes what you seeFor the Father up above is looking down in loveOh be careful little eyes what you see

In looking at this song we see the reality of what happened in the life of this family moving down to Moab, the short intent turned into a “Slow Fade” of 10 years. It would be the most horrible 10 years one could experience. The backslider normally fades slowly into his backslidden condition. The foolish person expects his backsliding to be loud and noticeable.

A) Their Limited Stay - Foolishly Desired (sojourn)

The idea of this passage was that the family only intended to “sojourn” down to Moab. The idea is to dwell only temporarily in a place:

1) To sojourn, abide, dwell in, dwell with, remain, inhabit, be a stranger, be continuing, surely

1) To sojourn, dwell for a time

2) To abide, stay, temporarily dwell

1) To seek hospitality with

2) To assemble oneself

It is a fool that thinks one can dabble in Satan’s Sewer in not come out smelling and stinking. This man only wanted a limited stay in the pit of pagan country, but it would not be so. It has often been said that “Sin will take you farther than you want to go, keep you longer than you want to stay, and cost you more than you want to pay” and so it was with Elimelech.

The prodigal desired the sinful pleasures of life not the stinking pigpen of life. It is necessary for us to consider where we are and where we are heading in our spiritual journey. We must not allow ourselves to make foolish decisions that can harm our family and our faith, we cannot allow this!

B) Their Lengthy Stay - Foolishly Documented (continued)

It would be remarkable to see this family assimilate themselves to the people and the pleasures of Moab. The boys would have been enticed to the worldly ways of Moab; they then desired the worldly women of Moab. The foolishness of their ways ends up being written in the very word of God.

1 - The Grassy Land of Moab

2 - The Glowing Lights of Moab

3 - The Godless Lure of Moab

4 - The Godly Lull of Moab

5 - The Grievous Lesson of Moab

6 - The Growing Love of Moab

7 - The Guiltless Limits of Moab

8 - The Great Loss of Moab

In this section we are considering the length of their stay in the land of Moab. It was intended to be for a short time, not long at all. The family would shoot down to Moab and

wait for the end of the famine, and then before everyone knew it they would swiftly shoot back up to the land of Bethlehem. The only issue is that when we move out of the will of God we open our lives up to tragedy and the discipline of God.

IV - The Fiercefulness of the Funerals - The Loss

The family has ended up staying considerably longer than expected. In reading the story it seems as if Elimelech was the first to die, then the young men chose themselves some wives of Moab. The men remain alive for a period of time, then they die, the passing of time has extended to 10 treacherous tragic tearful years.

A) The Description of these Men - In Name

The names of these men tell us much about their lives, this was especially so in the Old Testament times. Let us consider the meaning of their biblical names:

1 - Elimelech “My God is King” It is apparent that Elimelech did not act as though his God was the king. The poor decision that Elimelech made ended up being very costly to his family.

2 - Mahlon - “Unhealthy or Sickly” The young man apparently had much difficulty with his health. Mahlon must have been a person of continual sickness.

3 - Chilion - “Pining or Puny” This one was not to be outdone by his sibling, for he was also a son that experienced continual unhealthiness. It must have been overbearing and overwhelming as Naomi tried to raise these sick sons.

B) The Death of these Men - In Nature

The men died and probably ended up being buried in the pagan God forsaken land of Moab. It would have been such a sad day as Naomi laid her husband in that cold rocky tomb, with much sorrow and grief. Then one by one the boys, her boys, caught deathly illness and they died. The lonely grieving mom wept bitterly and endlessly as she walked back to her dwelling place in Moab.

In verses 3 - 6 it is stated that when Elimelech died Naomi was left, only her and her boys. One funeral is down, and unknowingly two more to go, then the two young men die and now only Naomi is “left”. When all is said and done what does the backsliders have left? Naomi stood before her God empty handed and empty hearted, with nothing left that is near and dear to

her heart.

Conclusion: I dare say that it is a serious thing to end up backslidden in a pagan land. We must reach our families and tell this story to our children, please stay out of Moab. The Christian mom and dad must avoid Moab with every ounce of resistance that we can muster.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “Desperation in Facing their Funerals”

Theme: “Facing Discipline in Moab”

Text: “Ruth 1: 6 - 18”

Ruth 1:6-18 (KJV) 6 Then she arose with her daughters in law, that she might return from the country of Moab: for she had heard in the country of Moab how that the LORD had visited his people in giving them bread. 7 Wherefore she went forth out of the place where she was, and her two daughters in law with her; and they went on the way to return unto the land of Judah. 8 And Naomi said unto her two daughters in law, Go, return each to her mother's house: the LORD deal kindly with you, as ye have dealt with the dead, and with me. 9 The LORD grant you that ye may find rest, each of you in the house of her husband. Then she kissed them; and they lifted up their voice, and wept. 10 And they said unto her, Surely we will return with thee unto thy people. 11 And Naomi said, Turn again, my daughters: why will ye go with me? are there yet any more sons in my womb, that they may be your husbands? 12 Turn again, my daughters, go your way; for I am too old to have an husband. If I should say, I have hope, if I should have an husband also to night, and should also bear sons; 13 Would ye tarry for them till they were grown? would ye stay for them from having husbands? nay, my daughters; for it grieveth me much for your sakes that the hand of the LORD is gone out against me. 14 And they lifted up their voice, and wept again: and Orpah kissed her mother in law; but Ruth clave unto her. 15 And she said, Behold, thy sister in law is gone back unto her people, and unto her gods: return thou after thy sister in law. 16 And Ruth said, Intreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God: 17 Where thou diest, will I die, and there will I be buried: the LORD do so to me, and more also, if ought but death part thee and me. 18 When she saw that she was stedfastly minded to go with her, then she left speaking unto her.

Introduction: In this section we are going to see the repercussions of abandoning the good hand of God. The family has faced much greater problems than a mere famine, 3 funerals now behind them and the outlook may offer a ray of hope. The remaining women will make

some critical decisions in this section of scriptures.

The Three Graves of Moab:

a. The graves were unexpected

b. The graves were unnecessary

c. The graves were unavoidable

The Three Girls of Moab:

a. Naomi & her evident faith

b. Ruth & her exciting fervor

c. Orpah & her eternal failure

The Three Groups of Moab:

a. The forgetful that ignorantly departed Bethlehem

b. The faithful that intimately desired Bethlehem

c. The faithless that indifferently denied Bethlehem

I - The Lifting of the Famine - Delightful News (6)

Naomi must have diligently kept up with the happenings back in the land of Bethlehem. It must have been bitter sweet news when she heard that the famine had lifted in the land of her heritage and her childhood. The newness of Moab had worn off many days ago; she was surrounded by death, despair and deep awareness of the sin of drifting from the will of God. The news that Naomi had just heard was good news - bad news, good in that the famine had lifted, bad because it was a bit late considering her loses in the land of Moab. A farmer went into his banker and announced that he had bad news and good news. “First, the bad news...” “Well,” said the farmer, “I can’t make my mortgage payments. And that crop loan I’ve taken out for the past 10 years—I can’t pay that off, either. Not only that, I won’t be able to pay you the couple of hundred thousand I still have outstanding on my tractors and other equipment. So I’m going to have to give up the farm and turn it all over to you for whatever you can salvage out of it.”

Silence prevailed for a minute and then the banker said, “What’s the good news?” “The good news is that I’m going to keep on banking with you,” said the farmer.

Ø Good News had Inspired the Mind of Naomi

Ø Good News had Inspired the Movement of Naomi

A) News of the Stopped Famine - God’s Goodness

It may have not taken but a moment for Naomi to think of how good God had been to her and her family. If we were to write down all of the goodness of God that he has extended our way, we could quiet possibly exhaust pen and paper. The famine may have taken its toll upon the little city of Bethlehem, but God sure was a good God when all is said and done.

B) News of the Supplied Food - God’s Giftedness

The good news was expressly that God had sent them bread back in the city of Bethlehem, the house of bread and praise. It is the good hand of God that daily supplies us with the means to live, his hand is sufficient.

1 - God’s Giftedness See’s our Needs

2 - God’s Giftedness Supplies or Needs

II - The Leaving of the Family - Dreamful News (7)

We find that Naomi is inspired to leave this God forsaken land and go back home to her people and the true land of worship. The news of the famine lifting must have been so delightful and dreamful for this woman of sorrows and suffering. I do not think that she lingered in her consideration of heading back home. It may have hurt her to leave the bodies of her loved ones in Moab, but Bethlehem was loudly calling for her to come back home.

A) Naomi’s Heart was in Bethlehem

The burning in her heart compelled her to rise up and head back home. If we compare the life of this prodigal family to that of the prodigal son we would see many resemblances that connect their actions and intentions:

Ø Consider where they left - Fathers House

Ø Consider where they landed - Foreign Country

Ø Consider what they lost - Fortune/Funerals

Ø Consider where the looked - Back to the Fathers house

Consider what they learned - Dangerous to leave

B) Naomi’s Home was in Bethlehem

The broken and bitter woman was ready to leave and get back to her former dwelling place. I wonder if Naomi contemplated that there is no place like home, home is where the heart is and that is where she intended to go. The movement in her feet may have seemed swifter and lighter as she eagerly prepared to head back to her homeland.

I was in church one day and one of my members stood up to share his testimony. The young man was raised in a Godly family that taught him about God, but in his teenage years he had walked away and lived a very wayward lifestyle. The young man eventually had gotten married and he and his wife were the parents of a vibrant baby boy. The family was trying to get their priorities in order by seeking God in their lives, but not in every area. The young dad and husband still had an alcohol problem and hid this from his family. On the way home he would go by the local convenient store and purchase some alcohol. In doing this he wanted to make sure his wife did not find out, so he chose to “take the long way home”!

I dare say that this little family that desired to run down to Moab for a brief period had full intentions to swiftly go back home. The family ended up taking the long way back home. The long way home is often the lonely way home.

III - The Lingering of the Faithless - Dreadful News (8 - 15)

In this section we see the reality of those that literally taste the salvation of God, but spit it out and walk away from their opportunity for salvation. I have witnessed these on several occasions over the past 30 years. I have observed many come down to the altar and make much ado, displaying many tears, but ultimately they never experienced true soul saving salvation. This is the danger of basing salvation upon feelings, because feelings can and will fool us and allow many to end up in hell eternally separated from God.

A) The Tearful Cry of Orpah - The Loudness of her Sorrows

Orpah is encouraged to go back home due to Naomi having no other children that could take the place of her deceased husband. In first looking we see Orpah weeping loudly and publicly expressing her desire to follow Naomi on her journey to Bethlehem. The truth of the matter is that ones sobs and shrieks inches them no closer to salvation, it takes much more than weeping and wailing.

Ø The Shallowness of Orpah’s Tears

Ø The Seriousness of Orpah’s Turn

B) The Tragic Course of Orpah - The Lostness of her Soul

Orpah had been with Naomi for many years now, but she could not take these next steps with Naomi. This girl had inquired of the ways and beliefs of the God of Israel, but in her heart she could not choose this direction. On two occasions it sates that she was weeping, and then as she turns to leave she reaches over and kisses her mother-in-law and walks off of the scene. I believe this was as close as she would ever get to finding God; it was literally the kiss that sealed her fate eternally.

We never know when that last opportunity will be afforded to choose our place in eternity, but it will come. It is a serious thing to walk away from the very salvation of a loving God.

Ø Oprah Turned Away Tearfully & Emotionally

Ø Orpah Turned Away Tragically & Eternally

The lips of Orpah looked towards Bethlehem, but the heart of Orpah longed for the pagan ways of Moab. It may have been that Naomi had escorted the girls to the border of Israel and Moab, and in doing so a decision had to be made.

IV - The Loving of the Faithful - Desireful News (15 - 18)

One of the girls has turned back and walked away from her opportunity for salvation, but not so with the other; she lovingly clings to Naomi. Ruth has had an inward stirring concerning the place that Naomi was heading towards.

A) The Stubborn Conclusion of Ruth

The beautiful little Moabitesh girl displays much grit and gratitude in clinging deliberately to Naomi. It is noticeable when we someone that refuses to walk away or refuses to take the easy road. Ruth has an inner nudge that prompts her towards the little town of Bethlehem; this was the town of her deceased husband. The conclusion in her heart was that she would whole heartedly abandon Moab for all that the God of Israel had to afford her; this would be done by faith.

1 - Refused to Turn Loose

The actual word clave means “to cleave, to adhere, as if with glue, or to be glued”. This allows us to see the sincerity of her refusal to turn back to the people and the gods of Moab. The word clave also has the meaning of cooking, as in mixing two ingredients together and they become inseparable or as one. It was with hands of faith that she latched onto her mother-in-law, a faith that was strong and sure. The former life that she had experienced in

Moab was to be abandoned and her new life was bright and beckoning her for the journey.

2 - Refused to Turn Back

It is so sad to see those that turn back; it is utterly shameful and sinful. In the word of God we find many that turned back:

a. Lot’s wife turned back

b. Demas turned back

c. Multitudes turned back from following Jesus (John6: 68)

John 6:66-68 (KJV) 66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. 67 Then said Jesus unto the twelve, Will ye also go away? 68 Then Simon Peter answered him, Lord, to whom shall we go? thou hast the words of eternal life.

It sounds so honorable when Peter utters the noted words, “to whom shall we go”. It was not long down the path before Peter answered his very own question; they would go back to their fishing boats. Let us not deceive ourselves and lift ourselves up to high on the spiritual pedestal; one does not have to search very far to find a place to go.

Ruth refused to go back, and this was noble and noted throughout the ages of her bold faithfulness in clinging to Naomi.

Ø The Deliberate Grasp of Ruth

Ø The Designated Going of Ruth

Ø The Destined God of Ruth

B) The Sincere Confession of Ruth

In this mighty passage we identify some of the tenderest words of love to ever be uttered. Ruth utters words that women would use in their wedding vow 1000’s of years later. The confession of this lovely lady for the pagan land of Moab is one to be considered until the Lord himself returns. If this was not love I dare say that love has abandoned us and we should shun any attempt at love. It was on this lonely dusty path that 3 women stood grief behind them, separation among them, and the unknown before them. In this environment Ruth chooses to speak loudly and lovingly to her mother-in-law. This speech was made from her heart and is still ringing true in the hearts of millions of people today.

1 - The Loyalty of this woman

Let us look at the sincere loyalty of this woman:

Ø Intreat me not to leave you

Ø Or to turn from following after thee

Ø For whither thou goest, I will go

Ø And where thou lodgest, I will lodge

Ø Thy people shall be my people

Ø And thy God my God

Ø Where thou diest, will I die

Ø And there will I be buried

Ø The Lord do so to me, and more also

Ø If ought but death, part thee and me

I believe that this is one of the most beautiful speeches concerning love that has ever been uttered. It was uttered in a foreign land, by a foreign lady unto a woman that she loved and desired to stay with in spite of the previous death of their husbands. The lovely loyalty of Ruth can never be minimized; it was the noblest of any display of love that one can find.

2 - The Love of this woman

The awesome love of Ruth has been sung about, written about, thought about, but the best way to comprehend her love is to fall head over heels in love with Jesus. It would benefit all of us to reach for this unique love for our heavenly saviour.

Ø The Steadfast & Loyal Love of Ruth

Ø The Soothing & Liberating Love of Ruth

Ø The Separating & Lasting Love of Ruth

Conclusion: I hope that this section has helped us in seeing how special and beautiful this Moabitesh girl was that chose to cling to Naomi.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “Depression in Naming a Name”

Theme: “Facing Decisions in Moab”

Text: “Ruth 1: 19 - 22”

Ruth 1:19-22 (KJV) 19 So they two went until they came to Bethlehem. And it came to pass, when they were come to Bethlehem, that all the city was moved about them, and they said, Is this Naomi? 20 And she said unto them, Call me not Naomi, call me Mara: for the Almighty hath dealt very bitterly with me. 21 I went out full, and the LORD hath brought me home again empty: why then call ye me Naomi, seeing the LORD hath testified against me, and the Almighty hath afflicted me? 22 So Naomi returned, and Ruth the Moabitess, her daughter in law, with her, which returned out of the country of Moab: and they came to Bethlehem in the beginning of barley harvest.

Introduction: In this section we will find insight of some lessons that were learned in the heart of Naomi. Upon re-entering the city of Bethlehem we find much excitement and enthusiasm for Naomi, she must have been greatly missed. In leaving for the pagan plains of Moab, Naomi and Elimelech perceived that they were as empty as one could be. This proved to be absolutely untrue; the family was rich and overflowing with bountiful blessings from the Lord their God.

The blessings of God are not always identifiable on the families’ economical ledger sheet. One may misperceive God’s blessings in the midst of famine and frail circumstances. The blessings of God are often taken for granted. One must not compare the valuable to the

valued. The family needed food for their survival, this was valuable to them, but it was not considered valued.

There's a big difference between having something that is valuable and something that is valued. According to Webster's Dictionary:

Ø VALUABLE means "1. Of high monetary or material value 2. Of great importance, utility, or service".

Ø VALUED, on the other hand, means "1. Highly esteemed".

According to Dictionary.Com we find the following definitions:

Ø VALUABLE is defined as:

1. having considerable monetary worth; costing or bringing a high price Ø

2. having qualities worthy of respect, admiration, or esteem: a valuable friend. Ø Ø VALUED is defined as:

1. highly regarded or esteemed: a valued friend. Ø Ø

2. having value of a specified kind: a triple-valued offer.Naomi & her Notable Name:

a. The past sweetness of her name

b. The present sourness of her name

Naomi & her Numbing Notation:

a. The past plight that she harrowingly found

b. The present pain that she heavily felt

I - The Pleasurable Quest for Bethlehem - Enthusiasm (19)

The road must have looked wonderful as Naomi and Ruth begin their homeward journey. I bet that Naomi saw various landmarks that alerted her that Bethlehem was not far down the road. One of the best things about a vacation is the return trip home, at some point along the way you may see a sign that alerts you that your city is only so far away, and to me this is

a great sight. I love going on vacations, but there is no place like the old home place.

In the wonderful movie, “The Wizard of Oz” Dorothy looks at Toto her dog and says, “Toto - I’ve a feeling we are not in Kansas anymore” and she was so right in saying this. The as the story is ending, and Dorothy has come back home she says with great seriousness; “Home! And this is my room - and you are all here! And I'm not going to leave here ever again, because I love you all! And --- Oh, Auntie Em ----- there's no place like home!"

A) The Identity of Bethlehem - “House of Bread”

The very things that Naomi had hoped for in Moab were now to be found right here in the city of her childhood. Often times we go off looking for costume jewelry in the pagan lands when dazzling diamonds are buried beneath own backyards. The land of Moab offered this Jewish family much bread to eat, but it was to become bitter bread that would prove to be utterly costly. The price of the bread of Moab seemed low, but the penalties of eating their bread was large.

In coming home Naomi would be able to eat physically the bread of Bethlehem but she would also dine on the spiritual blessings from the good hand of God. Bethlehem is the house of bread, the land of fresh bread, the land of fulfilling bread that could nourish the very soul of a person.

B) The Intimacy of Bethlehem - “House of Praise”

In coming back home, Naomi would enter into the city of Praise. It was well known that she had descended into the pagan wash pot of Moab, but now she could participate in moments of majestic praise in the little city of Bethlehem. It was in the pigpen of that far away country that the prodigal son yearned for home. It was in the depths of slop and shame that he relished the intimacy of going back home to his dad and his family. Up from the muck and the mire he arose, he had experienced real repentance and was turning for the road that leads him to home. Is this not how it was with Naomi, a nudge from home, the news of home provoked a yearning inside her that pushed her to find the road towards Bethlehem?

II - The Piercing Questions of Bethlehem - Excitement (19 - 20)

Upon entering the city news spread quickly that Naomi was back home. The woman whose name stood for delightful and pleasant was walking the streets of Bethlehem and the people were glad and excited to see her. It is apparent that she was a woman of good godly character and a woman that was greatly appreciated. The people begin to come and great her with a very warm welcome.

A) The Name Reminded Naomi of her Previous Stature- Her Delight

In hearing all of their kind words and pleasantries Naomi was reminded of how it was before she had left Bethlehem. The life that she had previously lived in Bethlehem reminded her of much simpler times. In those former days she had no idea of how harsh and troublesome life could be.

B) The Name Reminded Naomi of her Present Standing - Her Demise

It was emotionally draining as they called her by her name, she no longer felt as if she was worthy of being called pleasant. The new name that she desired was, Mara, which stood for bitter. Naomi felt as if God had sent bitterness into her life, and so it was. The demise of Naomi had begun the moment they chose to head off down to Moab.

Ø The Vile Reminder of her Demise

Ø The Vicious Results of her Demise

Ø The Vacated Region of her Demise

Ø The Voiced Reasoning of her Demise

Ø The Victorious Rebounding of her Demise

III - The Perplexing Quandary of Bethlehem - Emptiness (20 - 21)

On the one hand Naomi was so excited to be back in her homeland, but on the other she was extremely sad and broken. The town was so glad to have her back home, but perplexity was brewing inwardly for this woman. In heading down the main pathway of Bethlehem Naomi realized that she had left Bethlehem with many abundant blessings, but not so in her return. The grief within her heart alerted her to the harsh conditions that she encountered back in Moab. The emptiness felt as though it was the heaviest load she had ever carried. In this we see her quandary, though she seemed to leave empty hand, she realized her fullness.

A) Naomi Considered the Reason of her Leaving - Unseen Fullness

The famine was pulverizing the city of Bethlehem, so Elimelech heads of to Moab. It looks as though he left with much emptiness, but in the end this was proven to be untrue. The emptiness of this family was misperceived, because one must look deeper than the human eye can see.

The family was great blessed with each other, a dad, a mom, 2 sons, husband and wife; it

really was blessed beyond measure. The unseen blessings of God are normally overlooked and taken for granted. The cupboard may have looked so empty, but it was running over with untold and uncounted blessings.

B) Naomi Considered the Results of her Leaving - Unsought Emptiness

The family of Naomi sought to find fullness in heading down to Moab; in this country they would nourish their hungry desires. It was not to be so; in Moab this family would face dire emptiness that made Bethlehem’s famine look nourishing and fulfilling. The family found utter emptiness in leaving the house of bread and praise. It was not long that they faced spiritual famine and physical loss of life, the emptiness of Moab was fatal and forceful.

IV - The Promising Qualities of Bethlehem - Expectancy (22)

It would not be long before the bitter outlook of Naomi would focus on better and brighter days. Is this not the reality of living life, today’s sorrows will ease into sad memories and ones future seems to offer bounty and blessings. The emptiness would soon be replaced with gladness and vibrant expectancy.

A) The Breaking of the Famine

The famine had broken and the water was flowing again. The baked fields had been bathed with droplets of crystal clear pellets of rain. The land had experienced a fresh touch from the hand of God.

B) The Barley in the Fields

In her journey back to Bethlehem Naomi and Ruth would have saw the flowing fields of barley. The barley would supply physical bread to nourish life back into this city. The revival fires were brightly blazing in this small seeming insignificant city on the outskirts of Jerusalem. The barley fields would soon be recognized as “flaming hearts in fields of hope”.

Conclusion: The journey home was bountiful and bitter all rolled into an emotional rollercoaster with mental peaks and valleys. The past experiences were harsh and hard, but hopefully the future would offer much bounty and blessing.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “Looking for the Right Field”

Theme: “The Hand of God Unknowingly Directing Ruth”

Text: “Ruth 2: 1 - 9”

Ruth 2:1-9 (KJV) 1 And Naomi had a kinsman of her husband's, a mighty man of wealth, of the family of Elimelech; and his name was Boaz. 2 And Ruth the Moabitess said unto Naomi, Let me now go to the field, and glean ears of corn after him in whose sight I shall find grace. And she said unto her, Go, my daughter. 3 And she went, and came, and gleaned in the field after the reapers: and her hap was to light on a part of the field belonging unto Boaz, who was of the kindred of Elimelech. 4 And, behold, Boaz came from Bethlehem, and said unto the reapers, The LORD be with you. And they answered him, The LORD bless thee. 5 Then said Boaz unto his servant that was set over the reapers, Whose damsel is this? 6 And the servant that was set over the reapers answered and said, It is the Moabitish damsel that came back with Naomi out of the country of Moab: 7 And she said, I pray you, let me glean and gather after the reapers among the sheaves: so she came, and hath continued even from the morning until now, that she tarried a little in the house. 8 Then said Boaz unto Ruth, Hearest thou not, my daughter? Go not to glean in another field, neither go from hence, but abide here fast by my maidens: 9 Let thine eyes be on the field that they do reap, and go thou after them: have I not charged the young men that they shall not touch thee? and when thou art athirst, go unto the vessels, and drink of that which the young men have drawn.

Introduction: In this passage we will find Ruth heading for the barley fields of Bethlehem. The gal has no idea of which field to go and glean barley for herself and her mother-in-law. It is impressive to see the hidden hand of God gently nudging her to pick the field of Boaz.

The Fields of Bethlehem:

a. The growing of Bethlehem’s barley

b. The gleaning of Bethlehem’s barley

The Fields of Boaz:

a. Boaz would have a look at Ruth

b. Boaz would have a liking for Ruth

I - Great Friend - One’s Hope (1)

In the scripture God had allowed a course of action that needed to be taken to insure that one’s bloodline and heritage would be perpetual in the nation of Israel. In case someone was to die, the next of kin had the right to stand in for him and to marry his wife to honor the

deceases name. The person that was closest of kin would be called “The Kinsman Redeemer”. The kinsman had a scriptural right to do this for his kinsman, if not it was very disgraceful and dishonorable. I want us to consider the scripture that depicts this wonderful setting:

Deuteronomy 25:5-10 (KJV) 5 If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her. 6 And it shall be, that the firstborn which she beareth shall succeed in the name of his brother which is dead, that his name be not put out of Israel. 7 And if the man like not to take his brother's wife, then let his brother's wife go up to the gate unto the elders, and say, My husband's brother refuseth to raise up unto his brother a name in Israel, he will not perform the duty of my husband's brother. 8 Then the elders of his city shall call him, and speak unto him: and if he stand to it, and say, I like not to take her; 9 Then shall his brother's wife come unto him in the presence of the elders, and loose his shoe from off his foot, and spit in his face, and shall answer and say, So shall it be done unto that man that will not build up his brother's house. 10 And his name shall be called in Israel, The house of him that hath his shoe loosed.

Ø Death Sorrowfully Depicted (5)

Ø Descendants Solemnly Desired (6)

Ø Duty Strongly Demonstrated (5/6)

Ø Denial Sadly Dramatized (7)

Ø Disgrace Shamefully Deplored (8/10)

In this passage we find that Boaz is a near kinsman for Naomi and Ruth. If he desired to help them he had the scriptural right to do so. In the remainder of this series this will be the center of all that we discuss and proclaim. The story of Ruth is not at all about Ruth, but it is about her wonderful Kinsman Redeemer, Boaz. The man Boaz is the very key to the entire book of Ruth.

A) Recognition of Boaz - Their Relative

In the opening passage of Ruth 2:1 the scene turns immediately to this man Boaz. In the coming verses and chapters we will find him to be noble and a man of deep devotion. The majesty of Boaz is inexhaustible for the kindness and courtesy that he offers to the little Moabitesh beauty. In this section we are alerted to Boaz being a close relative to Naomi.

1 - Recognized for his Family

The man is depicted as being related to Elimelech, quiet possibly he would have been a cousin. In chapter 3 and 4 we find out that there is a kinsman that is of closer relation than he is. It must be understood that Boaz was definitely older than Ruth, quiet possibly much older. In Ruth 3:10 he acknowledges that Ruth was virtuous for not chasing after the young

men or the money.

2 - Recognized for his Fortune

Boaz was a man of much wealth, because he is displayed as owning barley fields and has many people working for him. In the latter part of the book he is found sitting at the city gate doing business. The bible does not delve into the great wealth that Boaz must have had at his disposal, but it must have been vast. Is this not a picture of the coming Boaz whose wealth is beyond draining or identifying?

Ø The Acknowledgement of Boaz

Ø The Adequacy of Boaz

Ø The Abundance of Boaz

Ø The Allurement of Boaz

B) Relevance of Boaz - Their Redeemer

The man Boaz was not just a relative but he was in line as their redeemer. The idea of a kinsman redeemer was of no importance until one was faced with this enormous and eternal issue. The role of a near kinsman would not be discussed until one was pressed personally with the matter. I believe that this is the beautiful portrayal of the gospel of Jesus Christ. In living one has no need for Jesus Christ until he or she is face to face with our eternal destiny. The moment we realize our hopeless lost condition then and only then can we recognize the importance of seeking him for eternal salvation.

Ø Jesus my Wealthy Redeemer

Ø Jesus my Worthy Redeemer

Ø Jesus my Welcomed Redeemer

Ø Jesus my Wonderful Redeemer

1 - Close Relative

It was recognized immediately that this family stood in need of a redeemer. In leaving they may have forfeited the rights to their land, their house, and nobody was birthed to continue their heritage in Israel.

2 - Capable Redeemer

In this section I want us to consider some specifics concerning the role of a kinsman redeemer. I believe that we can identify several qualifying areas that justify a man to be

able to redeem:

Ø Closeness in Relation (Galatians 4: 4, Hebrews 2: 14)

Ø Capable in Resources (Hebrews 7: 25)

Ø Conciliatory in Redeeming (Romans 10: 13, John 3: 16)

The kinsman redeemer had to be completely capable to fulfill the requirements of his redemptive role. The role of a kinsman would be invoked in these areas:

Ø In the case of Harm & Murder - The Avenger of Lost Life

Ø In the case of Helplessness & Mishap - The Deliverer of Lost Land

Ø In the case of Heritage & Marriage - The Redeemer of Lost Love

It is a majestic story to read of the role and right of a kinsman redeemer. The beauty of this story will lovingly unfold before our eyes.

II - Goodly Fortune - One’s Hap (2/3)

In this section we find the unseen hand of God delving into the human affairs of mankind. We must not ignore the sovereign hand of God in our affairs. The word that I want to consider is “her hap”, in this we find that Ruth unknowingly ended up in the field of Boaz. In reality this is the far from the true, it was happenstance from the human perspective, but deliberately designed from the heaven perspective. The definition of “hap” is as follows:

1) Unforeseen meeting or event, accident, happening, chance, fortune

a) Accident, chance

b) Fortune, fate

2) A fortuitous chance

The reality of this story is that God would maneuver and manipulate Ruth into the very field of this redeemer, Boaz. It is not below the God of heaven to work in the background to see that his will is deliberately and definitely fulfilled.

Ø God’s Sovereignty Desiring Ruth’s Steps

Ø God’s Sovereignty Directing Ruth’s Steps

Ø God’s Sovereignty Declaring Ruth’s Steps

It may be considered that God will allow his sovereignty to work in 2 distinct ways:

1) The Active Sovereignty of God - Done through Heavenly Administration

2) The Passive Sovereignty of God - Done through Human Allowance

A) The Prompting Hand of God Guiding

It would have been awesome to see Ruth wander down the road unaware that each step was under divine guidance from a heavenly source. The “hap” of God was tenderly working behind her choice of selecting a field to glean barley. In life many of us have no idea of how God may have directed our affairs. The will of God in our life is beautifully necessary in the life of God’s precious children.

1 - Ruth’s Human Need - What She Saw

“The Plenteous Fields of Bethlehem”

The little gal from Moab was looking keenly upon the bountiful barley that flowed from field to field. The fields were plenteous and her choice seemed to be overwhelming. I wonder if she uttered a simple prayer to the God of Israel to guide her into the fields of a friendly person rather than a foe.

2 - Ruth’s Heavenly Nudge - Where She Stopped

“The Particular Field of Boaz”

It may have been a simple nudge that she was unaware of, God prompted her into the field of this man named Boaz. The prompting hand of God pushed her intently into the right field. We must understand that eternity very well was hanging upon her choice of the right field. God and heaven itself may have been looking over the banister of glory, as Ruth walked into the very field of blessing and majesty. In the field of Boaz she would meet her redeemer and from this meeting the world would later be introduced to the perfect Boaz. Jesus Christ.

B) The Providing Hand of God Giving

In sending Ruth to the fields of Boaz she was about to receive abundant blessings from the Lord. If we allow God to maneuver us into the right place, it could be the place of mighty blessing. Unbeknownst to Ruth God was lining her up the spout where his goodness would bath her in blessing.

1 - Gave Ruth a Wealthy Man

Ruth had heard a bit about Boaz and other kinfolk from Naomi, but she did not fully realize

the massive wealth of this man. The day we experienced the mighty salvation of God, none of us could have fathomed his wealth and goodness.

2 - Gave Ruth some Wonderful Means

If we would be honest none of us could survive without the goodness and kindness of God. In directing the steps of Ruth to the fields of Boaz, God was also going to provide the means that were necessary for her wellbeing.

III - Glorious Find - One’s Hour (4/9)

In this section I want us to look in depth at what Ruth was doing in gleaning barley. In the scriptures we are made aware of God’s welfare system for the poor and for the strangers that may be passing through Israel.

Ø Law of Gleaning Is Practiced in Ruth

Leviticus 19:9-10 (KJV) 9 And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not wholly reap the corners of thy field, neither shalt thou gather the gleanings of thy harvest. 10 And thou shalt not glean thy vineyard, neither shalt thou gather every grape of thy vineyard; thou shalt leave them for the poor and stranger: I am the LORD your God.

Leviticus 23:22 (KJV) And when ye reap the harvest of your land, thou shalt not make clean riddance of the corners of thy field when thou reapest, neither shalt thou gather any gleaning of thy harvest: thou shalt leave them unto the poor, and to the stranger: I am the LORD your God.

Deuteronomy 24:19-22 (KJV) 19 When thou cuttest down thine harvest in thy field, and hast forgot a sheaf in the field, thou shalt not go again to fetch it: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow: that the LORD thy God may bless thee in all the work of thine hands. 20 When thou beatest thine olive tree, thou shalt not go over the boughs again: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. 21 When thou gatherest the grapes of thy vineyard, thou shalt not glean it afterward: it shall be for the stranger, for the fatherless, and for the widow. 22 And thou shalt remember that thou wast a bondman in the land of Egypt: therefore I command thee to do this thing.

Ø Law of Redeeming Is Practiced in Ruth

Leviticus 25:25 (KJV) If thy brother be waxen poor, and hath sold away some of his possession, and if any of his kin come to redeem it, then shall he redeem that which his brother sold.

Ø Law of Levirate Marriage is Practiced in Ruth

Deuteronomy 25:5-6 (KJV) 5 If brethren dwell together, and one of them die, and have no child, the wife of the dead shall not marry without unto a stranger: her husband's brother shall go in unto her, and take her to him to wife, and perform the duty of an husband's brother unto her. 6 And it shall be, that the firstborn which she beareth shall succeed in the name of his brother which is dead, that his name be not put out of Israel.

Gleaning is the act of collecting leftover crops from farmers' fields after they have been commercially harvested or on fields where it is not economically profitable to harvest. Some ancient cultures promoted gleaning as an early form of a welfare system. For example, ancient Jewish communities required that farmers not reap all the way to the edges of a field so as to leave some for the poor and for strangers. (Wikipedia - Gleaning)

In Nineteenth century England gleaning was a legal right for cottagers. In a small village the sexton would often ring a church bell at eight o'clock in the morning and again at seven in the evening to tell the gleaners when to begin and end work. The fact of the matter was that gleaning was God’s welfare system for poor people:

Ø The Nobility of Gleaning

The fact of the matter is that the poor people had to work to get their portion of food. It was not set up like our welfare system, there would be no checks coming in the mail. The poor, the strangers or anyone that had need of food were able to participate in the noble system of gleaning or gathering their own food.

Ø The Nature of Gleaning

The owner of the land was to leave the corners of his fields untouched; this portion would be set up for the poor. The process was very simple, the harvesters were to gather as they went along but could not go back and re-gather the harvest that they missed the first time around. This process would be done in the farmer’s fields and in his vineyards.

Ø The Necessity of Gleaning

It has been stated that as much as 30% of the harvest was missed on the first time through. If the crops were not gleaned the food left behind would be wasted and left to rot in the fields. In our day and time we still have organizations that offer opportunities for gleaning. The Society of St. Andrews runs a gleaning operation that has gleaned 98 million lbs of food since the late 1970’s, or 294 million servings of food. The organizers try to have the food sitting on someone’s table within 48 hours, this is awesome and noble. Each year they

utilize the help of over 30,000 people and glean over 15 million lbs of fresh food for the needy. I consider the system that God set up to be one that is still adequate and productive even today, some 1000’s of years later. The welfare system that God set up is one that requires self involvement and personal action.

A) Boaz was Inquisitive in Seeing Ruth (5/7)

In this section we find that Boaz is arriving upon the scene and he apparently likes what he sees out in his fields. The owner of this parcel of land shows up and displays much courtesy to his workers. The nudging hand of God had not only pushed Ruth into the fields of Boaz, but in all probability the same unseen hand is nudging Boaz to show up as Ruth is now at work in his fields.

1 - It was a Distant Look

Boaz looks over his workers and immediately locates the daring damsel that is eagerly working to glean her barley. It was a distant look, but the closer he focused in on this beautiful girl he must have liked what he saw. I believe that Boaz was smitten by the love bug the moment he saw Ruth. I know that many do not believe in love at first sight but it is factual, as in this case.

2 - It was a Destined Look

The more he looked the greater did that inward flame grip his soul. The hand of God had moved on each end of the spectrum. In Boaz arriving and looking out over his fields, one does not see it; but destiny is at work. It was the sovereign destiny of God that would link “Bethlehem’s Brightest to Moab’s Meekest”. In this setting we can see “Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope” or love at first sight.

B) Boaz was Intentional in Seeking Ruth (8)

Upon looking into the field and seeing this Moabitesh girl, Boaz moves from being inquisitive about her to being intentional in talking to her. Boaz wastes no time in getting the attention of this beautiful girl. The young men are probably head over heels trying to acquire her attention. Boaz has a one on one meeting with the men and informs them to leave this young girl alone.

1 - Sought Ruth with a Burning Heart

On the outside Boaz may have seemed as cool as the other side of the pillow, but on the inside a raging war of emotions was getting the best of this man. The man fell head over heels in love with Ruth the moment he saw her. I do not have any difficulty believing that it was love at first sight. The first time I saw my wife, in the hallway of Murray County High School, back in 1979; I fell completely in love with her. It did take her a while to come around to my way of thinking, but that was 30 years ago this fall and we are still together. If

one falls in love at first sight he does not have to look the second time. In the heart of Boaz there was a flaming burning fire of heart felt emotions, he was in love.

2 - Sought Ruth with a Bright Hope

In falling for her he would now make full arrangements to adequately meet her needs. The future looked so bright the moment these two came into eye contact with each other. The love that you and have received from Jesus Christ was totally one-sided at first, because he loved me when I was afar off and lost. The brightness of that day took the city by storm. The “Bachelor of Bethlehem” is in love with the “Maiden of Moab”. I believe that Boaz fully intended on meeting all of the needs of this flaming flower that seemed to bloom before his very eyes.

C) Boaz was Instrumental in Supplying Ruth (9, 14)

In talking to this sweetheart of a girl, Boaz informs her that his fields are to be her fields. The food in his house would become food for her house. If she grew thirsty he would see that her thirst was quenched from his supply of water. If her belly had hunger pangs it would be food from his hands that would nourish her pangs away. The bottom line was that Ruth had no business in going into another’s fields, for all of her satisfaction was to be found in his fields. The man literally gives her his bank book and told her that it was hers for the taking; this is love at its best. If this is not love then we will never find love.

1 - The Fields of Boaz Became Ruth’s Fields - Gleaning

Boaz admonished Ruth to seek out his fields from day to day. It would be very dissatisfying to him if she sought out another mans field to gather her supply of barley. The gleaning that she needed to do should be in his fields.

2 - The Food of Boaz Became Ruth’s Food - Giving

It was declared that if Ruth got hungry or thirsty she was only to seek out her food or water from Boaz. The gifts of Boaz would adequately meet her daily needs. The man Boaz delighted in giving daily provision to this girl. The day seemed to be getting brighter by the minute as Boaz looked upon his beauty.

Conclusion: In this section we saw how God had directed on both ends of the spectrum in bringing these two together. In these fields the destiny of the world was at stake and not one person knew. “ The strings of destiny are daily weaved together unbeknownst to the participants or the particulars.”

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “Landing in the Right Fold”

Theme: “The Hand of God Undeservingly Delighting Ruth”

Text: “Ruth 2: 10 - 23”

Ruth 2:10-23 (KJV) 10 Then she fell on her face, and bowed herself to the ground, and said unto him, Why have I found grace in thine eyes, that thou shouldest take knowledge of me, seeing I am a stranger? 11 And Boaz answered and said unto her, It hath fully been shewed me, all that thou hast done unto thy mother in law since the death of thine husband: and how thou hast left thy father and thy mother, and the land of thy nativity, and art come unto a people which thou knewest not heretofore. 12 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. 13 Then she said, Let me find favour in thy sight, my lord; for that thou hast comforted me, and for that thou hast spoken friendly unto thine handmaid, though I be not like unto one of thine handmaidens. 14 And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left. 15 And when she was risen up to glean, Boaz commanded his young men, saying, Let her glean even among the sheaves, and reproach her not: 16 And let fall also some of the handfuls of purpose for her, and leave them, that she may glean them, and rebuke her not. 17 So she gleaned in the field until even, and beat out that she had gleaned: and it was about an ephah of barley. 18 And she took it up, and went into the city: and her mother in law saw what she had gleaned: and she brought forth, and gave to her that she had reserved after she was sufficed. 19 And her mother in law said unto her, Where hast thou gleaned to day? and where wroughtest thou? blessed be he that did take knowledge of thee. And she shewed her mother in law with whom she had wrought, and said, The man's name with whom I wrought to day is Boaz. 20 And Naomi said unto her daughter in law, Blessed be he of the LORD, who hath not left off his kindness to the living and to the dead. And Naomi said unto her, The man is near of kin unto us, one of our next kinsmen. 21 And Ruth the Moabitess said, He said unto me also, Thou shalt keep fast by my young men, until they have ended all my harvest. 22 And Naomi said unto Ruth her daughter in law, It is good, my daughter, that thou go out with his maidens, that they meet thee not in any other field. 23 So she kept fast by the maidens of Boaz to glean unto the end of barley harvest and of wheat harvest; and dwelt with her mother in law.

Introduction: In this passage we are going to see that Ruth has landed in the right field. The blessings will come from a man that she had never personally met until this encounter in the barley fields. In landing in this filed Ruth will end up in the right fold, for in this fold she will have her life changed for eternity. It was going to be a good day in the life of this girl from Moab.

The Love that she feels in this Fold:

a. It was an immediate feeling of love

b. It was an impressive feeling of love

The Liberty that she finds in this Fold:

a. Wonderful liberty in where she gleaned

b. Wonderful liberty in what she gleaned

I - The Favors That Ruth Enjoyed (10 - 14)

Ruth had never experienced this much fuss being made over her. It was apparent that this man had deep affection for this girl. The favoritism from Boaz to Ruth was done publicly for all to see.

A) The Humbling Question (10)

In this passage we find Ruth proposing some powerful questions to Boaz. The question of why did he extend grace towards her? The question of why he would even look towards her, understanding that she was a stranger.

Ø Could Grace be Extended to a Meaningless Sinner

Ø Could Grace be Expressed to a Moabitesh Stranger

1 - Notice the Contrition of Ruth - Stooping

The meek girl was overwhelmed by the graciousness that was extended towards her. The woman is found falling upon the ground, declaring her inadequacy to stand before this man Boaz. The humility of this girl should prick our consciousness to our standing before a just and holy God. One does not haphazardly skip into the presence of the God that personally died to save our vile souls. In this picture we see the humility of a person seeking redemption.

2 - Notice the Confession of Ruth - Stranger

Ruth has no comprehension within herself that she was perceived as being worthy of the goodness of this man Boaz. One should never expect that we are owed any of the mighty blessings that God has afforded to freely give us. Ruth understood that she was a condemned stranger, an alien to the commonwealth of Israel. The word of God was clear upon this matter; Ruth had no place in the congregation of the Lord. If one looks wholly upon the

law then Ruth stood alienated and condemned, but if one allows for the grace of God then Ruth may be deemed as worthy. The worthiness that she was given was not of her own goodness, but of the goodness of this man Boaz.

B) The Hearty Adoration (11 - 12)

Boaz had already heard of the goodness and graciousness of Ruth. In the land of Moab she displayed much love upon the family of Elimelech and Naomi. The man gave her full recognition for the role that she played in caring for Naomi. It was an awesome sight to see Boaz lavish Ruth with wonderful words of adoration. Ruth could not understand the treatment she was receiving from this mighty man, how could he take notice of her?

Ø Boaz Recognized her Testimony (fully been showed0

Ø Boaz Reassured her Treatment (a full reward)

Ø Boaz Revealed her Trust (thou art come to trust)

1 - The Work & Service that Ruth had Willfully Performed (11)

In her past dealings Ruth was a source of blessing to the family of Elimelech. In the strange pagan land of Moab, this family found a friend that would prove to be helpful for the harsh times that were to come.

2 - The Wings & Shelter that God had Wonderfully Provided (12)

In this section we find something peculiar concerning Ruth, we see that she has trusted in the God of Israel. Boaz recognizes the trust that Ruth has displayed in not only leaving Moab but in her spiritual journey of finding his God. I want us to consider the meaning of several of the words found in Ruth 2: 12 as follows:

Ruth 2:12 (KJV) 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.

a. Recompense is defined as:

To be in a covenant of peace, be at peace, to be complete, be sound, to be whole, sound or safe. To be completed as in finishing a building, or to reward, recompense.

b. Thy work is defined as:

A work, deed, doing, or a thing done. Wages of work.

c. Under whose wings: A wing, extremity, edge, winged, border, corner, shirt

d. To Trust: To seek refuge, to flee for protection, confide or put hope in.

If we look at the full meaning of this passage in verse number 12, we see that something wonderful has happened in the life of Ruth.

Ø The Peace & Soundness of her Standing - The Covenant Reassurance

Ø The Provision & Supply of her Service - The Covenant Resources

Ø The Protection & Security of her Shelter - The Covenant Refuge

The reality of the situation was that in forsaking the land of her nativity, Ruth had sold out fully to the Lord God of Israel. In her beautiful speech to Naomi she had tried to express her inward beliefs to the best of her ability. It must be fully understood that it is not the words that freely flow from our lips that makes us a follower of Christ, but it is the soundness and sureness of our works and our walk that allows others to deem us a followers of Christ. I did not say that we are saved by works; I am saying that we must line up our walk and our works with our words. The little pagan girl did not know all of the ins and outs of religious mumbo jumbo, but she did know that in her heart she had trusted in the God of Naomi.

C) The Helpful Provision (14)

14 And Boaz said unto her, At mealtime come thou hither, and eat of the bread, and dip thy morsel in the vinegar. And she sat beside the reapers: and he reached her parched corn, and she did eat, and was sufficed, and left.

It would have been humorous watching the giddiness that was displayed by Boaz, he was in love and did not care who knew it. The gleaning process was very tiresome, because those that followed the true harvesters had to stay back a bit and their pickings would be minute and tedious. Boaz fully understood the financial situation that faced Ruth and Naomi. It would be satisfying for Boaz to help meet her needs in a way that showed his affection towards Ruth.

1 - The Select Seating of Ruth - Placement

Boaz placed great emphasis upon Ruth that when it was time to eat or drink, all she had to do was to ease right up beside the reapers. The difference must be understood to fully understand the significance of this.

Ø The Reapers and their Distinguished Seating

1 - The Provision of the Reapers (received food to eat)

2 - The Payment of the Reapers (money for their labor)

3 - The Prominence of the Reapers (knew Boaz)

Boaz allows for Ruth to move away from the gleaners, she has the blessed privilege of sitting among the reapers. The reapers were people that actually worked for Boaz or would have been related to Boaz. The seating of Ruth was distinguished seating because of the one that extended the invitation towards her.

Ø The Gleaners and their Distant Seating

1 - Gleaning was for the Feeble Widow

2 - Gleaning was for the Fatherless Orphan

3 - Gleaning was for the Foreign Alien

If Ruth were to sit among the gleaners she would have to sit off in the distance. The seat that she would have filled would have been among the poor, the strangers, and the foreigners that knew not the god of Israel. It would not be so with this girl, Boaz had already made arrangements for her personal and privileged seat. The seat that she would sit in was to the liking of Boaz. The day we got saved did not our Boaz place us in a prominent seat?

I hope that we can see the spiritual symbolism of this section of our sermon. The day that I got saved, I was extended a divine invitation that moved me from among the poor vile distant seat of sin. I became a child of Jesus Christ and he seated me in a distinguished seat of prominence and privilege. It was nothing that I deserved, but because of the love that he had for me, Christ invited me in.

2 - The Sure Sufficing of Ruth - Contentment

In sitting by Boaz Ruth was able to eat of his bread and to dip into his vinegar. I can envision Boaz make much of the needs of Ruth, was she hungry, did she need any water, was the vinegar sufficient to her taste. The select seating of Ruth was nothing compared to the sure sufficing that she had encountered. The contentment of this woman was a bit puzzling for those that watched this story unfold before their eyes. I believe that many people failed to realize that Boaz was head over heels in love with this gal. The meaning of the word, “suffice” is one that denotes being fully satisfied, almost to the point of having excess to the point of being near misery. This was a lot for a girl that was just trying to get by!

II - The Freedom That Ruth Experienced (15 - 17)

The little lady that had forsaken the pagan pit of Moab was about to experience life as she has never known before. The girl is about to find full freedom that will provide nourishment for her physical and spiritual being. The freedom that Ruth is about to experience will prove to be life changing and awesome.

A) The Limitations That Were Revoked - Exception Demanded

Boaz swiftly informs his entire workforce of a new set of rules, the rules were only for one particular girl, and Ruth was her name. The rules would now be different in the fields of this business man. The spiritual symbolism of this should be easily identified. The day we got saved the rules changed in our relationship with God. The rules did not change per anything that we did or deemed deserving, no the rules changed because of Jesus Christ. In the eyes of God we received the liberty of Jesus Christ. I believe that when God looks at me, he looks at me through the victorious veil of Calvary. If it were not for Calvary none of us would be able to access salvation or experience this personal liberty.

1 - Unlimited Placement among the Reapers (15)

The idea of this text is that Ruth could leave the gleaners and move up to the reapers. The reapers were reaping the first fruits that came from the harvest. The reapers and the gleaners would have a certain amount of separation. I would say that it would be very unacceptable to break this barrier of separation.

2 - Unlimited Privileges from the Reapers (16)

Boaz had instructed his reapers to look behind them and if Ruth was close by to intentionally drop her some handfuls of barley on purpose. The placement of Ruth to be allowed among the reapers was great, but her being allowed gracious handfuls of barley on purpose was out of this world. The grace of God seems unfathomable to those that have only experienced tragedy and tears.

B) The Liberties That Were Reiterated - Extra Dropped

Ruth was going to put her liberty to the test as she inched her way closer and closer to the reapers. The norm for this approach would have been a sharp rebuke from those reaping for Boaz. In verse 16 the reapers are instructed to forego any form of rebuke in the location of Ruth. It was actually the contrary, Ruth was to have irrevocable privileges among the reapers, and there would be not verbal abuse, no mistreatment. The privileges of would offer her many extra handfuls of barley and they would be dropped on purpose just for her.

1 - The Biblical Laws of Gleaning - For Strangers (Deut. 24: 19/21)

The bible mentions gleaning in several Old Testament passages, we have mentioned them in our introductory words of this study. The laws for gleaning were very simple and sufficient. If we look at reaping it involves insiders that reap of the first fruits of the harvest. If we look at gleaning it involves outsiders that reap what was missed and left in the fields. The laws for gleaning were provided to involve people in their own welfare and wellbeing. The only stimulus that was offered would be for them to head down to the field and find their own food. Let us remember that gleaning was for certain people, the widow, the orphan, and the alien. God reminded Israel that the land was his and he would dictate to them how the land

would be used.

2 - The Bountiful Load of Gleaning - For Ruth (17)

In various verses in this study we find that Ruth gleaned much barley. The idea of gleaning is that nobody was to go hungry and no food would be left in the field to be wasted. In the case of Ruth she gleaned about 1 bushel of barley on her first day in the field of Boaz. One bushel of barley was about 1 days pay in those ancient biblical days.

III - The Food That Ruth Exposed (18 - 19)

The girl sat around until she had filled her body with nourishing food, almost to the point of over indulgence, then she heads home. The moment she arrives home Naomi begins to look upon the load of barley that is placed before her. The barley that she was carrying spoke to her of the wondrous goodness of her God.

A) The Abundance of her Provision - A Full Bushel

“Gracious Revealing of Ruth’s Gleanings” (18)

It was a good as Ruth worked in the field of Boaz. The day progressed in good fashion, when it was time for her to head home, her load would be heavy. The barley ended up being around 1 bushel. If she were to buy this barley she would have to spend a full days pay. It did not take long for Naomi to realize that grace had been shown to her daughter-in-law. The emptiness that she had previously professed was no longer true. The fullness of this harvest of barley would revive and reassure Naomi that her emptiness was in the past.

B) The Amazement of her Presentation - A Fruitful Blessing

“Glorious Rejoicing of Naomi’s Gladness” (19)

In this passage we see Naomi doing the right thing, she was thankful for the one that had blessed Ruth. It would be beneficial for us to allow the proper time to praise God and to thank him for his wondrous blessings upon us. In this section we can learn much from the reaction of Naomi, we should not take the blessings of God for granted. It had been along time since Naomi had allowed rejoicing words to flow from her lips. The draught within her soul had sprung forth in streams of glorious praise and shouts of thankfulness. The dryness of her heart was now a gushing river of love and gratitude. The blessings of Boaz not only benefited Ruth but they would also adequately provide for her mother-in-law.

IV - The Friend That Ruth Encountered (20 - 23)

It was good and wonderful news in the house of Naomi on this beautiful afternoon. The barley was a vast supply but the one that arranged for Ruth to glean the barley was much more beneficial news to this family.

A) The Kindness of Boaz - Greatly Received

Naomi knew that something more was going on, one did not normally glean this much barley in one day. The load of barley that lay before her spoke loudly of love and blessings. It would not be long before Ruth communicated the events of the day to her mother-in-law. I can see Naomi sitting and eagerly taking in every word that flowed from the lips of Ruth.

1 - Naomi’s Inspiration & Gladness

The mother-in-law was inspired by the goodness and the graciousness of this man Boaz. It would have been a sight to watch how eager Naomi was in hearing about the way Boaz had treated her daughter-in-law. It is wonderful to see people that get excited over someone else being blessed. Naomi was just as excited that Ruth was blessed as if it had been her blessing.

2 - Naomi’s Instruction & Guidance

The matchmaker in Naomi hastily went to work; this opportunity must not be wasted. The aroma of love was in the air, and it would soon be time for Ruth to apply “The Midnight of Moab” perfume. The girls were up on all of the fashions and the top ten ways to find an eligible man; it may be time for reeling in this eligible bachelor.

B) The Kinship of Boaz - Gladly Revealed

In listening to Ruth tell of the days events, finally Naomi tells her the good news of Boaz being a close kinsman, and possibly their kinsman redeemer. In the coming days it would all work itself out; of course these two would try and help also.

1 - Kinsman Redeemer Defined

In the opening introduction of this study we identified the role of a kinsman redeemer. In this case the redeemer would be redeeming because of the death of a close relative and there were no descendants to carry on the family name. The kinsman was needed to step in and marry Ruth so that she could birth a child to carry on the family name.

2 - Kinsman Redeemer Demonstrated

In all reality Jesus Christ is the true Kinsman Redeemer, he was the closest of kin because of his being born of a woman. The law would not redeem us, it sought perfection from us, and we would have marred the law. In loving us Jesus took on our shame and our sin to lovingly redeem our lost souls.

Ø The Established Requirements of Redemption

a. Acknowledged Need & Problem (seeking redemption)

b. Approved Nominee & Person (satisfying redeemer)

c. Acceptable Note & Payment (sufficing results)

Ø The Excited Recipients of Redemption

a. Redemption Extended Gracefully

b. Redemption Experienced Gleefully

Ø The Everlasting Results of Redemption

a. Eternal Security

b. Eternal Stability

Ø The Endless Record of Redemption

a. The Endless Offer

b. The Endless Opportunity

Conclusion: I hope that this study has shown the blessing of Ruth landing in the right fold. The bible introduces us to the mighty man named Boaz.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “The Moabitesh Beauty That Sought Redemption”

Theme: “Redemption Actually Being Sought”

Text: “Ruth 3: 1 - 9”

Ruth 3:1-9 (KJV) 1 Then Naomi her mother in law said unto her, My daughter, shall I not seek rest for thee, that it may be well with thee? 2 And now is not Boaz of our kindred, with whose maidens thou wast? Behold, he winnoweth barley to night in the threshingfloor. 3 Wash thyself therefore, and anoint thee, and put thy raiment upon thee, and get thee down to the floor: but make not thyself known unto the man, until he shall have done eating and drinking. 4 And it shall be, when he lieth down, that thou shalt mark the place where he shall lie, and thou shalt go in, and uncover his feet, and lay thee down; and he will tell thee what thou shalt do. 5 And she said unto her, All that thou sayest unto me I will do. 6 And she went down unto the floor, and did according to all that her mother in law bade her. 7 And when Boaz had eaten and drunk, and his heart was merry, he went to lie down at the end of the heap of corn: and she came softly, and uncovered his feet, and laid her down. 8 And it came to pass at midnight, that the man was afraid, and turned himself: and, behold, a woman lay at his feet. 9 And he said, Who art thou? And she answered, I am Ruth thine handmaid: spread therefore thy skirt over thine handmaid; for thou art a near kinsman.

Introduction: The beauty of this passage is that Ruth and Boaz will come face to face with the fact that she needs a redeemer and quiet possibly he is the man for the Job. The fact of the matter is that Jesus is willing and waiting to save us, but we must personally ask him. The reality of salvation is that it is absolutely free, but it will not be forced upon us. If a person gets saved it will be just as every other person, by a person belief in the redemptive power of our only saviour.

The Reality of Redemption:

a. The sinful state of mankind - The dark sin of man

b. The serious situation of mankind - The dreadful sentence of man

The Reassurance of Redemption:

a. The availability of our redeemer

b. The ability of our redeemer

I - The Need of her Redeemer (1)

Ruth and Naomi were discussing their situation and they both understood the seriousness of the hour. It is beneficial for the lost person to come to an understanding that they are lost. The fact is that one cannot be saved until one becomes lost. We live in a day that people are not lost, seemingly they don’t care nor does the church care. It is sad that people do not see the seriousness of this day and time. It was not so with Naomi & Ruth. The mother-in-law would not allow Ruth to go much loner without a redeemer. I want us to consider what would have happened if Ruth were to die before being redeemed:

Ø Serious Thoughts of Ruth Dying before her Redemption

If Ruth were to die before being redeemed, it could have been much different in the history of this nation. Ruth should have been so thankful for Naomi being concerned for her redemption. I wonder how many of us display any kind of concern for the redemption of those that we know and say that we love.

Ø Significant Tragedy of Ruth Dying before her Redemption

If she would have died before redemption, the entire bloodline of her husband would have ended. It was a serious thing that Ruth found a redeemer and asked him to redeem her.

A) Someone was privately Preparing Ruth

Naomi was working behind the scenes to prepare Ruth for what was needed. If one does not help prepare the lost for salvation how can they ever be redeemed? It was the private preparation that allowed Ruth to realize that she needed to be redeemed. I was lost and on my way to hell until I got around some people that helped bring me to knowledge that I was lost and in need of salvation. One must see the need, without the need they cannot be saved.

B) Someone was personally Pushing Ruth

Naomi was pushing Ruth to the place that she would ask Boaz to redeem her. I hope that we can see the spiritual picture of this setting and story. It is the private and personal workings of the Holy Spirit that prepares and pushes us to the needfulness of salvation. The private and personal workings of the Holy Spirit; is a marvelous thing in the life of a lost person.

Ø The Eternal Reality of the Sinners Need - Sin

Ø The Effective Realization of the Sinners Need - Spirit

Ø The Evident Remedy of the Sinners Need - Saviour

II -The Name of her Redeemer (2a)

Naomi knew much about this man named Boaz; he was a possible kinsman redeemer. Naomi placed much value upon the name of this mighty man. Boaz was an honorable man that displayed much affection towards Ruth. Naomi knew that if Ruth would get to the right situation Boaz could possibly redeem her.

A) The Appeal of his Name

The appeal of his name was moving to the two ladies. The barley that lay before them was because of this man Boaz. The nourishment within their bodies was afforded to them because of Boaz. The very sound of his name may have stirred their emotions. I don’t know about you but the name of Jesus is of great appeal to me. I know who I was and where I was headed, but when I met Jesus he changed it all. The name of Jesus is soothing and satisfying to this preacher.

B) The Affluence of his Name

It was easy to understand the importance of Boaz. The man owned many fields in Bethlehem; he had many workmen at his beckoning call. I dare say that Boaz was a man of prestige and prominence in the city of Bethlehem. The name of Jesus Christ is a name that is above all names. At the uttering of his name, one of these days every knee will bow and every tongue shall confess that he is God. The song rightly say’s there is something about that name.

Ø The Name of Jesus brings Sinful Confession

Ø The Name of Jesus brings Sure Conversion

Ø The Name of Jesus brings Soothing Calmness

Ø The Name of Jesus brings satisfying Closeness

III - The Nearness of her Redeemer (2b)

Naomi tells Ruth that she knows where Boaz can be located. The man was down at the threshing floor. The workman would be threshing their wheat and Boaz would spend the night there to protect his barley. It is one thing to tell a sinner of their need of salvation but another to point them truthfully in the right direction. It is beneficial if we not only tell them about their sin, but we must point them to the saviour. The confession of ones need is good, but the confession of ones redeemer is another. Ruth was told the exact location of Boaz; he was down at the threshing floor. I will never forget the day that I got saved, the preacher made me come face to face with my sin. Then he told me how to be saved, that was the most important thing that I had ever heard.

A) The Place of Natural Access

It was time for harvesting the barley and time for threshing the barley. The logical idea for finding the workers would be to go to where the work was being done. It is not hard for one to find Jesus; if there is a lost soul he can be found. I dare say that he can be found in the house of God, but he can also be found where the lost souls are ready for harvest. The Holy Spirit will clear the path for the seeking sinner that needs personal redemption. The moment one realizes their spiritual need, the Holy Spirit will point them in the right direction.

B) The Person of Notable Availability

Naomi alerts Ruth to the fact that Boaz is down there working. It would not be long before should could have personal access to him. In seeking Jesus Christ for salvation one does not have to wait long, he is readily available to save a lost soul. The whereabouts of Boaz was not hard to figure out; he was down at the threshing floor doing the needful work. If a lost sinner needs to find Jesus all he has to do is acknowledge the need of his heart and the redeemer is readily available.

IV - The Necessities of her Redeemer (3 - 5)

It was near time for Ruth to go and see Boaz; there were some things that needed to be done. The moment we get saved there are certain things that happen. We do not get saved by works but once we do get saved certain things in our life should be evident.

A) The Change That Ruth Needed (3)

I like this passage because it shows us what happens as we believe in Jesus Christ. The moment we get saved we are washed afresh and anew by the precious blood of Jesus Christ. I don’t say that I understand all that salvation engulfs, but I know it to be true. The precious little pagan girl was going to the threshing floor to ask her majestic Boaz to redeem her. Naomi told her to go and wash herself, and then she was to anoint herself. I don’t know

about anyone else but the moment I got saved, I was washed and anointed with a fresh and fragrant filling of the Holy Spirit of God. The newness of my salvation was evident and it was forever and eternal. I am so thankful for the cleansing that God allows the sinner.

B) The Covering That Ruth Needed (4)

Ruth tenderly plodded her way down to the threshing floor. The girl done as directed by Naomi, she watched and waited for the right time. I dare say this because I believe it to be true, “One Cannot Be Saved Just Any Old Time”! I believe that we can only get saved when the time is right. If the Spirit is not directing us to salvation, then how can we be saved? I truly believe that conviction must precede confession and change must follow confession. If a man is truly saved then he will truly change, if not I would check on my salvation. I am not much into this easy believe-ism.

Ruth needed the covering that Boaz would offer her. In going down to the threshing floor she was not to do anything. All she was required to do was find Boaz pull back the covers at his feet and slide in next to his feet. The best place that a sinner can be found is to be hidden in Jesus Christ. I find this to be most alluring in portraying the majestic gospel of Christ. I can do nothing to enhance my salvation; all I can do is to hide myself in him. The beauty of the gospel is that when the world looks at us they should not see us but Christ.

C) The Commitment That Ruth Needed (5)

The only thing you and I can do is be truthful in our commitment to him. If we confess him and truly mean it in our heart then we can be saved. Ruth told Naomi all that she had instructed her she would do. I find this entire passage nothing but a symbolic portrait of a sinner being introduced to Jesus Christ, our Boaz. The commitment of Ruth would be enough to insure her redemption.

V - The Nudging of her Redeemer (6 - 9)

I want to make this clear; we can do nothing to afford us salvation. The only thing that is required of us is to ask for it. The salvation of Jesus Christ is freely given to every person in the world, but one must ask for this salvation. God will not override the desires of a man’s heart when it comes to salvation. The only thing that Ruth could do was go and lay at his feet and when the time came ask Boaz to redeem her. It was as simple as that. Boaz was willing to redeem, he was able to redeem, and he just needed to be asked by Ruth. If she would ask him he would do all that he could to redeem her.

A) The Path That Ruth Followed (6)

Boaz followed the advice of Naomi and she found her way to the threshing floor. If we listen to the Holy Spirit he will guide us to the place where we can find salvation. The path to

salvation is easy if we follow the directions.

B) The Place That Ruth Fell (7)

In going to the threshing floor, Ruth waited until all was quiet, then she found her place at the feet of Boaz. It should be noted that those willing to fall at the feet of Jesus can be raised as a new person.

C) The Person That Ruth Found (8)

The redeemer of Ruth was so close that she could touch him. In times past I had heard much of Jesus Christ, but the day I got saved I did not see him as a mere good man, I saw him as my Saviour. It was so different on that day.

D) The Plea That Ruth Fashioned (9)

It was on the tip of her tongue, Ruth told Boaz that she was his handmaiden and that he was her near kinsman. In that instance things changed for the better between these two people. Boaz would become her redeemer and she was to be his wife. It was a wonderful day when Ruth declared Boaz to be her saviour.

Conclusion: It should be noted here that the redemption that Ruth was receiving was not going to cost her anything. Boaz had all of the required resources to acquire her needed redemption. The vile lost sinner has nothing to offer Jesus Christ. It is wondrous love that allows us the opportunity of full and free salvation. I stood before him as a lost pagan deserving of hell, but walked away as a saved sinner with all of his mighty benefits and blessings.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “The Mighty Boaz That Supplied Redemption”

Theme: “Redemption Acceptably Being Wrought”

Text: “Ruth 3: 10 - 18”

Ruth 3:10-18 (KJV) 10 And he said, Blessed be thou of the LORD, my daughter: for thou hast shewed more kindness in the latter end than at the beginning, inasmuch as thou followedst not young men, whether poor or rich. 11 And now, my daughter, fear not; I will do to thee all that thou requirest: for all the city of my people doth know that thou art a virtuous woman. 12 And now it is true that I am thy near kinsman: howbeit there is a kinsman nearer than I. 13 Tarry this night, and it shall be in the morning, that if he will perform unto thee the part of a kinsman, well; let him do the kinsman's part: but if he will not do the part of a kinsman to thee, then will I do the part of a kinsman to thee, as the LORD liveth: lie down until the morning. 14 And she lay at his feet until the morning: and she rose up before one could know another. And he said, Let it not be known that a woman came into the floor. 15

Also he said, Bring the vail that thou hast upon thee, and hold it. And when she held it, he measured six measures of barley, and laid it on her: and she went into the city. 16 And when she came to her mother in law, she said, Who art thou, my daughter? And she told her all that the man had done to her. 17 And she said, These six measures of barley gave he me; for he said to me, Go not empty unto thy mother in law. 18 Then said she, Sit still, my daughter, until thou know how the matter will fall: for the man will not be in rest, until he have finished the thing this day.

Introduction: Boaz has finally been asked to redeem the girl that he has fallen in love with. It has been his desire to seek her redemption but it was up to Ruth to ask him to do so. The man is fully capable of fulfilling the role of her redeemer but he will not overstep his boundaries.

Ruth & her Pointed Request:

a. The loss of Ruth required a sufficient redeemer

b. The love of Ruth request a specific redeemer

Boaz and his Promising Response:

a. The promising words of Boaz

b. The promising work of Boaz

I - Boaz Verbally Adoring his Future Bride (10)

The man is so fond of how Ruth had carried herself in front of all of his workers. Ruth may have come from a pagan land but she displayed virtuous conduct in the way that she lived. Boaz adored this quality in this young lady. The girl was not loose or lascivious in her behavior. The reality of it is that many people lay aside their values and virtue when facing crisis.

A) Adored Due to her Dedication & Faithfulness

The woman was dedicated to remaining faithful and true to herself and her deceased husband. It was good that Boaz acknowledged this notable behavior. It is not always noticeable that people can carry themselves in a way that is becoming and honorable.

B) Adored Due to her Discretion & Chasteness

Boaz was in love with this girl not due to her outward beauty but also because of her inward beauty. It was noble behavior that Ruth refused to lower her standards because of her crisis situation.

II - Boaz Virtuously Acknowledging his Future Bride (11)

In this section we see that Boaz promises to fulfill the wishes of Ruth. The girl has established a virtuous reputation in the city of Bethlehem. Boaz acknowledges this reputation and verbally tells Ruth that she is pleasing to him.

A) The Public Knowledge of Ruth’s Stable Testimony

We should learn some lessons from the words of Boaz. If we love someone or like the attributes that we see in others, we should take the time to tell them. It is a tragedy that many times we regret not telling someone how we feel about them. The words that Boaz offered Ruth must have stirred her emotions.

B) The Pleasurable Knowledge of Ruth’s Satisfying Testimony

Boaz must have been overwhelmed in knowing that the one he loved was so virtuous and becoming in her character. I wonder how many women had tried to manipulate the kindness and goodness of Boaz. This girl had never displayed any mischievous behavior or any deceitful dealings. It was refreshing to be around someone that loved Boaz for who he was and not what he had.

III - Boaz Vibrantly Assuring his Future Bride (12 - 13)

Boaz immediately calms any fears that Ruth may have had concerning his part in redeeming her. The petition would be granted as soon as daylight hit the city of Bethlehem. The man had been waiting for this request and now he could fulfill the role of being her kinsman redeemer.

A) Boaz would do the Required Thing - Due to the Mosaic Law

The law specified that the closest of kin had to have the opportunity to redeem. If he passes on the request, then the next in line could be afforded the same option or

opportunity. Boaz would first have to seek out one other person that was nearer kin than he was.

1 - The Other Redeemer & His Restrictions (Deut. 23: 3)

The other redeemer may very well have a problem in redeeming Ruth because she was from the land of Moab. The law despised and rejected the people of Moab; it could possibly mar his inheritance. If the law coldly rejected Ruth and her redemption, grace would fervently provide one that allowed for her redemption.

2 - The Other Redeemer & His Rejection

In chapter four we will see the request being made to the nearer kinsman, but he firmly rejects any request of purchasing the redemption of this Moabitesh woman. If all he had to do was purchase the redemption of Naomi then he was open to this request. It was a much different case of him purchasing the redemption of someone from a pagan land.

B) Boaz would do the Right Thing - Due to his Mighty Love

In this we find that Boaz not only would do the required thing in following the law, he would also do the right thing in finding grace to redeem Ruth. If it was up to the law we would all die and go to hell. The law demands and expects human perfection. The law denies the wayward but grace delivers the wayward. The law refuses to extend love but the law gladly expresses love to those in need.

1 - The Favorable Words - Offered her Rest

Boaz shares some personal words of tender affection to his soon to be bride. The man will deliberately seek rest for her soul. The day that Jesus saved me he also afforded me the refuge of perfect rest and peace.

2 - The Finished Work - Offered her Redemption

Ruth was assured that he would not be found idle until he had provided the redemption for this girl. Boaz loved this woman and he would do all that he could possibly do to see that she was redeemed.

IV - Boaz Visually Adorning his Future Bride (14 - 18)

In finished his affectionate words of love he would now load her down with gifts from his resources. Ruth had done nothing to earn any of this, but because of the great love that Boaz had for her he would continue to load her down with mighty blessings and benefits. It would have been a sight to behold watching Ruth walking down the road carrying such an enormous load.

A) The Heavy Load of Ruth’s Barley - Ruth Carried It

On the journey home Ruth would be nearly overwhelmed trying to carry this entire heaping load of barley. It is one thing to be saved but another to receive all of the great and gracious gifts from the resources of heaven. In the book of Psalms we are told that he loadeth us down with benefits.

1 - Barley was for her Food

In loving Ruth this man failed not to forget her need. The reason that she ended up in his field was due to her need. Boaz never did forget that Ruth was still in need of daily food. The goodness of God has saved us but also sees that we are continually proved for from day to day. The girl had come to labor in his fields everyday during the barley season.

2 - Barley was for her Family (17)

Boaz did not forget about the mother-in-law that was back at home waiting for Ruth. The good grace of God is not only sufficient for my needs but he can also take care of our loved ones. The God that we serve is not oblivious to the human needs of his precious children or their family.

B) The Heightened Love of Ruth’s Boaz - Ruth Cherished Him

Boaz realized that Ruth was only found at his feet for the sake of requesting his help. The man would not allow for her testimony to be damaged or destroyed. The man made arrangements for her wellbeing and as soon as it was daylight she would be sent back to her house.

1 - Boaz Protected the Reputation of Ruth (14)

Boaz diligently protected his soon to be bride. Ruth was to remain at his feet until morning came then she would hastily head home and wait for him to do his redemptive work. It would not be said that Ruth has displayed any kind of immoral behavior. Boaz respected the virtuous life of Ruth and would protect her reputation at all cost.

2 - Boaz Proclaimed the Redemption of Ruth (18)

In the eyes of everyone involved the redemption of Ruth was as good as done. It is a wonderful thing to realize the finished work of our redemption. We can rest in this work and live with assurance that our redeemer has sufficiently acquired our redemption. I am so thankful of this finished work.

Conclusion: Boaz assures Ruth that he would do all that was within him to redeem her. It actually took the very life of Christ to redeem this sinful world, but he fulfilled all that was

required of him.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “The Big Finish of Boaz”

Theme: “Looking at the Redeemer - His Heart”

Text: “Ruth 4: 1 - 13”

Ruth 4:1-13 (KJV) 1 Then went Boaz up to the gate, and sat him down there: and, behold, the kinsman of whom Boaz spake came by; unto whom he said, Ho, such a one! turn aside, sit down here. And he turned aside, and sat down. 2 And he took ten men of the elders of the city, and said, Sit ye down here. And they sat down. 3 And he said unto the kinsman, Naomi, that is come again out of the country of Moab, selleth a parcel of land, which was our brother Elimelech's: 4 And I thought to advertise thee, saying, Buy it before the inhabitants, and before the elders of my people. If thou wilt redeem it, redeem it: but if thou wilt not redeem it, then tell me, that I may know: for there is none to redeem it beside thee; and I am after thee. And he said, I will redeem it. 5 Then said Boaz, What day thou buyest the field of the hand of Naomi, thou must buy it also of Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of the dead, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance. 6 And the kinsman said, I cannot redeem it for myself, lest I mar mine own inheritance: redeem thou my right to thyself; for I cannot redeem it. 7 Now this was the manner in former time in Israel concerning redeeming and concerning changing, for to confirm all things; a man plucked off his shoe, and gave it to his neighbour: and this was a testimony in Israel. 8 Therefore the kinsman said unto Boaz, Buy it for thee. So he drew off his shoe. 9 And Boaz said unto the elders, and unto all the people, Ye are witnesses this day, that I have bought all that was Elimelech's, and all that was Chilion's and Mahlon's, of the hand of Naomi. 10 Moreover Ruth the Moabitess, the wife of Mahlon, have I purchased to be my wife, to raise up the name of the dead upon his inheritance, that the name of the dead be not cut off from among his brethren, and from the gate of his place: ye are witnesses this day. 11 And all the people that were in the gate, and the elders, said, We are witnesses. The LORD make the woman that is come into thine house like Rachel and like Leah, which two did build the house of Israel: and do thou worthily in Ephratah, and be famous in

Bethlehem: 12 And let thy house be like the house of Pharez, whom Tamar bare unto Judah, of the seed which the LORD shall give thee of this young woman. 13 So Boaz took Ruth, and she was his wife: and when he went in unto her, the LORD gave her conception, and she bare a son.

Introduction: In this section we will see the redemptive work being done to redeem Ruth and Naomi. It is the only place in the scriptures that we see how the process was carried out. Boaz would not rest until had done all that he could to redeem the girl that he loved. In this setting we get to see the redemptive process up close and personal. I hope that we see the value of the workings of being a kinsman redeemer.

The Confident Intention of Boaz:

a. Boaz would intently seek

b. Boaz would intently speak

The Compelling Inspiration of Boaz:

a. Compelled inwardly - his affection

b, Compelled outwardly - his actions

I - Boaz Requiring his Redemptive Seat (1 - 2)

The town’s business transactions would be done at the main gate of the city. In biblical times the city gate was a place of prominence, the city elders would be found around the gate of the cities. It was in this situation that we find Boaz conducting the work of a redeemer. The leaders of the city sat about the gate of their respective cities.

A) The Gate of Bethlehem & its Relativity

It was time for Boaz to seek out the redemption of Ruth. In doing this he went down to the city of Bethlehem and took a seat and patiently waited for the other kinsman, one that was closer kin than he was.

Ø The City Gate Used for Marketing & Buying

Ø The City Gate Used for Meeting & Business

B) The Guest of Boaz & his Request

The other fellow finally shows up, it may have seemed to have been an eternity. The business is about to proceed and it was now or never for Boaz and Ruth. The bible does not say how closely related this man was to the husband of Ruth. It is believed that he would

have been the brother of Elimelech or the uncle of Ruth’s deceived husband. We really do not know his relation, but we do know that he was of closer relation than Ruth.

C) The Gathering of Businessmen & their Requirements

The 10 men would have been the judges of the city of Bethlehem. It was their role to settle the various cases that needed to be settled in court. In this case the men would be declared as witnesses of the process of redeeming the household of Ruth. The transaction would be authorized due to their personal witness.

II - Boaz Reporting his Reluctant Story (3 - 6)

In finding the other kinsman Boaz would now tell him the situation. In telling him, Boaz was probably hoping that this man would be unwilling to redeem Ruth.

A) The Pressing Problem & Need (3)

Boaz tells the tragic story of Naomi and Ruth, of all of their sorrows back in the country of Moab. The family is need of a redeemer, and it looked as if this man was the next closest of kin. The idea of redemption is that not only must there be a need for redemption, but there must be a willingness of the redeemer. The need of this hour was pressing and a decision must be made immediately.

B) The Public Proposal & Notice (4)

Boaz wastes no time in asking the nearer kinsman if he would redeem Naomi. The witnesses were on hand to approve of this public transaction. I hope that we can see the drama in this story.

Ø The Public Appeal

Ø The Prominent Answer

C) The Pagan Participant & Nullification (5 - 6)

At first we see the willingness of this kinsman to redeem Naomi. It seemed as if Boaz was going to lose out on redeeming Ruth. I believe that Boaz was giving bits and pieces of information. It would also cost him to purchase back the land that Elimelech lost in leaving for Moab.

The kinsman supposed that he could afford to make this transaction; he agrees to purchase the redemption of Naomi. Now Boaz throws a kink into the process, he reminds the man that

he must also take Ruth along in this transaction. The kicker was that in purchasing the redemption of Naomi he must also purchase the redemption of Ruth, the Moabitesh girl. The kinsman must take in Ruth and raise up some descendants to keep the family name around.

Upon receiving all of this information the kinsman declares that he cannot mar or damage his inheritance. The kinsman is not willing to redeem this stranger that was in Bethlehem. It was one thing to redeem one of his own countryman but another to redeem a foreigner and a stranger to the commonwealth of Israel. Is not this a wonderful picture of the “law” it dared not redeem those that were vile sinners. If we were saved by the law, either we had to become perfect or the law would have to become imperfect.

III - Boaz Removing his Relatives Shoe (7/10, Deut. 23: 6/10)

In this passage we will look at the meaning and motive for removing the shoe off of ones foot. The bible shows us a wonderful depiction of the redemptive process. The verification of business transactions was done by handing ones shoe to another. It was to verify that a personal transaction had taken place.

A) The Shoe off of his Foot - Denied his Heritage

The moment this man removed the shoe from his foot and handed it to Boaz, the transaction had been declared. This kinsman was not willing to redeem Naomi and Ruth. In denying his redemption of them, he immediately took his shoe off and handed it to Boaz. This declared that Boaz was now the next in line to redeem this family. The man had passed his right over to Boaz, and now Boaz had significant authority to redeem.

B) The Shame of his Family - Despised his Household

The moment he removed hi shoe and denied his role in redeeming these woman, he brought much shame upon himself and his family. This man declared that he would not carry on the bloodline of his relative’s name. It would have been a source of great dishonor upon the name of this man. In all reality he shamed the name of his deceased family member due to his lack of concern for his heritage.

C) The Spitting upon his Face - Disgraced his Honor

In another passage, the woman that was being denied redemption would have taken his shoe and spit openly upon his face. The witnesses would have seen this and the man would live in shame for the rest of his life. It is not clear if the woman would spit literally upon his face or upon the ground at his face. The significance was that he had rejected to marry her and therefore disgraced himself and the woman.

IV - Boaz Receiving his Rightful Signs (11 - 12)

The transaction was denied by one kinsman, but accepted by the other. Boaz acknowledged his role and right in redeeming the land, the mother-in-law, and marrying Ruth. It would have been a wonderful day in the heart of Boaz; he had persistently purchased the redemption of the one he loved. The gathered witnesses put their agreement upon this redemptive transaction.

A) The Witnesses Speak of Blessings

The witnesses agreed that the transaction was legal and finished. Then they propose many blessings upon the man Boaz and his new bride. The witnesses pronounced blessings upon Ruth in a mighty and meaningful manner.

B) The Welcomed Signs of Birth

The witnesses were asking God to greatly bless the woman and her womb so that she could continue the bloodline of the family of Naomi. The witnesses asked God to give fame to the house of Boaz and Ruth. The little town of Bethlehem would be used to touch the entire world. In the ages to come, one would be birthed in this little city that would ultimately offer salvation to the entire world. The Lord God of heaven heard their prayers and honored them through out the ages.

C) The Worthy Seed of Boaz

The bloodline of Boaz was going to be crucial in bringing the Messiah to Israel in the coming days. The seed that was to be born in his house would offer peace and comfort to the entire world. I dare say that no one knew the significance of that redemptive process that happened at the city gate of Bethlehem.

V - Boaz Reproducing his Regal Son (13)

The transaction was completed and Boaz goes to the house of his lovely bride. Ruth had been waiting back home patiently but eagerly awaiting the news of her redemption. Boaz declares that he has redeemed her and she was now his wife. It was a notable day in the life of this family.

A) The Lovely Bride of Boaz - His Helpmate (his wife)

The little Moabitesh woman was now his lovely bride. The God of Boaz was also the God of Ruth. The wealth of Boaz was also the wealth of Ruth. The moment the transaction was completed Ruth’s life was instantly changed for the better.

B) The Lord’s Blessing of Boaz - His Helper (the Lord gave)

Lest we forget God reminds us that all that had happened that day was due to his hand and his workings. The blessings of God must not be overlooked or taken for granted. It was the Lord that provided Boaz his lovely wife and it was the Lord that had blessed her womb to conceive a child. If not for the helping hand of God where would we be in this walk of life?

C) The Little Baby of Boaz - His Heritage (bare a son)

The baby that came from the womb of Ruth was a boy; God had given them a baby boy. The heritage of Naomi’s family would remain in the land of Israel. The blessings that the witnesses had pronounced upon Boaz and his wife went into effect immediately. Is this not how God works in blessing his children? The moment we get saved we begin to find the manifold blessings of God.

Conclusion: In this section hopefully we understand the mighty transaction that took place at the city gate of Bethlehem. In this portion of scriptures we see the wonderful process of someone redeeming another.

“Ruth - Flaming Hearts in Fields of Hope”

Title: “The Bright Future of Bethlehem”

Theme: “Looking at the Redeemed - Her Heritage”

Text: “Ruth 4: 14 - 22”

Ruth 4:14-22 (KJV) 14 And the women said unto Naomi, Blessed be the LORD, which hath not left thee this day without a kinsman, that his name may be famous in Israel. 15 And he shall be unto thee a restorer of thy life, and a nourisher of thine old age: for thy daughter in law, which loveth thee, which is better to thee than seven sons, hath born him. 16 And Naomi took the child, and laid it in her bosom, and became nurse unto it. 17 And the women her neighbours gave it a name, saying, There is a son born to Naomi; and they called his name Obed: he is the father of Jesse, the father of David. 18 Now these are the generations of Pharez: Pharez begat Hezron, 19 And Hezron begat Ram, and Ram begat Amminadab, 20 And Amminadab begat Nahshon, and Nahshon begat Salmon, 21 And Salmon begat Boaz, and Boaz begat Obed, 22 And Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse begat David.

Introduction: We are coming to the end of these studies on the book of Ruth. The scriptures end with the genealogy of this Hebrew family, in particular the tribe of Judah, concerning the line of David and eventually the line of Jesus. If not for the book of Ruth we would not be able to link the house of David to the house of Judah. The book of Ruth links the past to the future, it is very beneficial to the historical revelations of genealogy. In this section we will look deliberately at 3 people, Obed, David, and Jesus.

The Renowned Story of Ruth:

a. The beauty of her story

b. The benefits of her story

The Renowned Sons of Ruth:

a. The prominence of David

b. The perfection of Jesus

I - The Portrayed One & his Family Nurturing - Obed (14 - 16)

The family was wonderfully blessed with their first son, his name was Obed. I dare say that he was loved beyond human comprehension. It would have been a sight to behold watching this family loving this little boy.

A) Obed Reestablished Naomi - Her Heritage & Name

The moment that Obed was conceived; the curse was removed off of the life of Naomi. The family would reestablish their name among the nation of Israel. The odds seemed to be against them, but God was on their side. The name of this boy was Obed, and he would have been the light of this house. This baby would have been the talk of Bethlehem. It would have been great seeing this family make much ado concerning this newborn son.

B) Obed Reinvigorated Naomi - Her Helpfulness & Nursing

The birth of this boy would have reinvigorated his grandmother. Naomi would have a special place in helping to raise this boy. Naomi offered her services to Ruth and Boaz; she desired to nurture this baby.

II - The Prominent One & his Forthcoming Nobility - David (17, 22)

In the coming days Obed would get married and his child would be called Jesse. The name of Jesse may not mean much too many people, but his son would be very significant to the nation of Israel. Boaz begat Obed, Obed begat Jesse, and Jesse Begat David, whom would later on become King of Israel. The great- great grand son of Ruth was to be the future King. The pronounced blessings upon the seed of Ruth were to shine forth for 1000’s of years.

A) David the Last Seed of Jesse

Jesse had several sons and David was the least of these sons, he was born last. When it was tome to pick a King that would replace King Saul, the prophet was sent to Bethlehem, to the house of Jesse. The sons were all placed before the prophet, but to no avail none of them seemed to be the right man. The prophet asked Jesse if there were any other son’s in this family, and there was one more, but Jesse supposed he was not the right one. God spoke to the prophet and told him that he was looking for the wrong qualifications; God was looking upon the heart. David was the least of the son’s of Jesse, but not in the eyes of God.

B) David the Lifted Son of Jesse

God nudged the prophet and he anointed this red headed shepherd to be the next King of Israel. The boy’s great-great-grandmother had been a pagan girl form the distant country of Moab. God works in mysterious ways and normally picks the underdog to perform his noble and majestic work. The young man David goes from being the least of Jesse’s sons to the lifted one.

III - The Perfect One & his Famous Name - Jesus (Matt.1: 1, 5/6, 16)

In the coming years Israel would be looking for their coming Messiah. The future King; the one would deliver this nation from bondage and suffering. One night he was born in the little city of Bethlehem, in a lowly cave. The boy would grow up to ultimately be run out of the city of Jerusalem, there he would be crucified. The name of this man was Jesus Christ, the Saviour of this world.

A) Jesus is the Real Kinsman Redeemer - He Loved Me

I am so thankful that he chose to love me. The kinsman redeemer stood up for me and he spoke up for me. I owe all that I am and all that I will be to this majestic man, Jesus Christ.

B) Jesus is the Righteous Kinsman Redeemer - He Liberated Me

The Jews were looking for a general that would come in boldly and deliver them from Roman bondage. Jesus came into this world meekly and without publicity, and he sought to overcome the world with love. The love of God has graciously been extended towards all of mankind and for this we should be thankful.

Conclusion: The story of Ruth begins in a famine, displaying people that had no hope or help. It would end with much excitement and a divine revelation that help was on the way.

In this section I wanted to review the entire book of Ruth from her personal point of view. I believe it would do us good to see events through the eyes of the beholder.

• I - Ruth Permanently Leaving & Going - Ruth’s Bold Flight

4. The Circumstance that Touched Ruth - Her Husband

5. The Crisis that Troubled Ruth - Her Hardships

6. The Call that Took Ruth - Her Heart

• II - Ruth Probingly Looking & Gleaning - Ruth’s Barley Field

4. The Field of Boaz was Chosen - Haphazardly

5. The Focus of Boaz was Clear - Heartily

6. The Fervor of Boaz was Charming - Humorously

• III - Ruth Patiently Laying & Gleaming - Ruth’s Believing Faith

4. Ruth Preparing for Boaz - Anointing Herself

5. Ruth Professing to Boaz - Acknowledging Herself

6. Ruth Proposing to Boaz - Announcing Herself

• IV - Ruth Passionately Loving & Glowing - Ruth’s Beloved Family

4. The Thrilling Story of Ruth - The History

5. The Redeeming Saviour of Ruth - The Hero

6. The Exciting Son of Ruth - The Heritage