Ruth 3:1-9

< Back to Ruth Index

TALKS FOR GROWING CHRISTIANS

Naomi Suggests a Plan for Boaz to Marry Ruth

Printed Version

BACKGROUND NOTES

DOCTRINAL POINT(S)

Generation gaps are not biblical.

PRACTICAL APPLICATION

Have you found rest at the feet of Jesus?

QUESTIONS

Under Old Testament law, what were the responsibilities of a kinsman redeemer?

How does this apply to the story of Ruth?

Was Naomi’s plan to bring about the marriage of Boaz and Ruth a bit risque?

We have experienced generation gaps in our time. Is this biblical?

How is Boaz a picture of the Lord as he sleeps by the grain?

ANSWERS

If a man died with no children, then the closest eligible relative was to marry the widow and raise up an heir for the man who had died. Also, he was to buy back or redeem the property of any extended family members who were impoverished or poor.

Boaz was the kinsman redeemer. The property of Naomi was in jeopardy, and Boaz had a responsibility to redeem it and keep it in the family of Elimelech. Furthermore, there was no heir in the family. Naomi and Ruth were both widows, and Naomi was past child bearing age, but Boaz might be able to marry Ruth.

Not according to the culture of their time.

No, as is evidenced by the mutual trust and respect between Naomi and Ruth.

Boaz made sure that the grain was threshed, winnowed and guarded. Grain from the field of Boaz could represent the word of God, food for our souls. As Boaz guarded the grain, our Lord guards His word and gives it to believers pure and without chaff.

DISCUSS/CONSIDER

Are you sensing a generation gap in your family? If so, what can you do to help bridge the gap?

Ruth found security and rest at the feet of Boaz. Mary of Bethany found rest at the feet of Jesus. Have you found rest at the feet of Jesus?

CHALLENGE

Are you eating from the pure grain, the word of the Lord? Are you satisfied?

KEY VERSES

“Shall I not seek security for you, that it may be well with you?” Ruth 3:1

“All that you say to me, I will do.” Ruth 3:5

“Take your maidservant under your wing.” Ruth 3:9