The book of Ruth has fascinated me all of my Christian life.
As a young Christian I felt called to immerse myself in this little book and it shaped who I am as a woman, friend, writer, and speaker. It led to my book, “The Friendships of Women,” and then to a study guide on Ruth called “A Woman of Love.”
Yet, still, fifty years later, I am uncovering new wonders in this ocean of depth,
for indeed, that is what God’s Word is:
unfathomable depth with wonder upon wonder,
needing the light of His Spirit to see those wonders.
So, during this 3rd week in Advent, I’d like you to look at some of those wonders with me, for the book is extremely relevant to what, indeed, Christmas is truly all about. God sent a Savior, not just to rescue us from the penalty of sin, but also from the power of sin. God has a reason for allowing Ruth to be in the genealogy of Christ.
Ellen Davis, a professor at Duke Seminary, challenges us to look at Scripture deeply, and uncovers more wonders in the book of Ruth.
It was Dr. Davis who really unlocked The Song of Songs for me — I love how her deep knowledge of Hebrew and the whole of Scripture helps her to see patterns and meaning. Davis explains that the book of Ruth is the perfect counterpart to Judges, which took place at the same time. Judges is extremely relevant to North Americans today who need to be rescued from violence, arrogance, and the abuse of the vulnerable. Judges escalates down into enormous depravity with people using and destroying each other.
Then we have the book of Ruth, which happened in the days of Judges, but is like a city on a hill, its light shining in the darkness. Ruth, by faith, cleaves to the Lord and impacts all who come across her path. The four chapters of Ruth develop her character, for indeed she overcame so many strikes against her by moving out on faith again and again. I know God chose her, but oh, how she cooperated with His Spirit!
Sunday:
- What stands out to you from the above and why?
- The Christ who delivered Ruth can deliver each of us — you don’t have to write it here unless you choose to, but what sinful pattern would you love to be delivered from?
O holy child of Bethlehem,
descend to us we pray,
cast out our sin, and enter in,
be born in us today.
Listen alone or with your children.
3. Any reflections on the podcast?
Monday: And in Despair I Hung My Head
And in despair I hung my head,
there is no peace on earth, I said.
For hate is strong and mocks the song,
of peace on earth, good will to men.
Probably the darkest book in all of Scripture is the book of Judges, which precedes the little book of light, the book of Ruth. Though they were Israelites, they were far from God, and the book escalates downwards, to a macabre act of violence against a concubine and then, finally, to the mass slaughter of fellow Israelites so that they could kidnap 400 of their young girls (virgins) to take as their wives. How relevant to today. Terrorist groups kidnap young girls (virgins) for their evil purposes, and the “Me-Too” movement has revealed great depravity against women. I’ve just finished reading Rachael Denhollander’s riveting story of overcoming the cover-up of the serial abuser of hundreds of girls in the Olympics, Larry Nassar. (Title: “What is a Girl Worth?”)
Davis writes “When we scratch the surface of this book, the relevance of Judges is startling.”
4. What was the seed that led to depravity in this time of Judges according to Judges 2:10?
Repeatedly God hands the rebellious Israelites over to their enemies, and they call out, enjoy relief, and then repeat their sin. They did not truly mourn their sin and turn from it.
5. Where is God calling you to truly mourn your sin? Do it privately now — telling him how it hurts Him, others, and yourself. Ask for strength to turn from it.
Davis sees a “Hosea-like” parallel with Samson. The only woman he truly loved was Delilah, yet she destroyed him. She asks, “Is the narrator in Judges hinting to us that YHWH may be similarly troubled by the beloved “He” has chosen?
6. Find the pattern of violence against women:
A. The Judge Jephthah makes a foolish vow to sacrifice whatever comes out of his barn first when he returns from victory. He daughter runs out. Davis notes how he blames the victim for the abomination he is about to do in Judges 11:35. Do you see it?
B. How would you say Samson viewed women according to the dialogue in Judges 14:1-3? (In the Hebrew, it is she ‘pleases’ me, which has a sexual connotation. (See same word in Esther 2:4.)
C. The scene in Judges 19 of the Levite and his concubine is so grotesque it is hard to read but God put it there to show the depravity of which we are capable. Summarize what happened in Judges 19:22-29.
Davis writes: “Her torn body is a symbol of the torn shreds of the social fabric.”
D. What justification do the Israelites give in Judges 21 was for their planned slaughter?
Listen alone or with your children.
7. Any reflections on the podcast?
Tuesday: God is Not Dead Nor Doth He Sleep
Then rang the bells more loud and deep
God is not dead, nor does he sleep (peace on earth, peace on earth)
The wrong shall fail, the right prevail
With peace on earth, good will to men.
8. According to Ruth 1, when did Ruth live, and what was happening in Bethlehem?
Perhaps, and to me it seems likely considering Judges, that God sent a famine to bring His people to repentance. And there is a certain irony in that the shining light in this story is Ruth: a Moabite, an immigrant, a woman of no means. Naomi, I believe, was a victim of her family’s choices — God told His people to separate from the Moabites, and that if they intermarried with them, he would cut their days off early.
9. What has Naomi lost by the end of verse 5 in chapter 1?
When Naomi decides to return to Bethlehem, she urges her daughters-in-law not to come with her, urging them to return 4 times. She may, for good reason, have been concerned at how they would be treated in Bethlehem as Moabites. But Ruth, I believe, not only could not bear to be separated from her, but feared Naomi, whom she loved, might not survive the journey alone.
10. Describe Ruth’s commitment in Ruth 1:16-17. How is this also instructive for how we should
live as believers in order to stay in the light?
Listen alone or with your children.
11. Any reflections on the podcast?
Wednesday: Ruth Embraces Her Vulnerability
The Beatitudes show us the very first step toward becoming holy is embracing our vulnerability, admitting we are poor in Spirit, that we can do nothing without God. We should not be afraid to confess our weaknesses to God or one another. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of God.
12. How do you see Ruth embracing her vulnerability in:
A. Ruth 2:2
B. Ruth 2:7
C. Ruth 2:10
D. Ruth 2:13
13. How can you see noble character in Boaz?
Ellen Davis points out that artists tend to make Ruth physically beautiful, yet the text never praises her physical appearance, as it does often with other biblical women. And yet, she was indeed so lovely to others. Davis says “Ruth stands for countless women throughout history who, thrown by circumstance into precarious situations, take on the additional risk and struggle of caring for the old or the young, the sick or frail.”
14. How could you better embrace your vulnerability — with God, with others?
Listen alone or with your children.
15.. Any reflections on the podcast?
Thursday: Ruth Takes Risks, Based on Faith
What can I give Him, poor as I am?
If I were shepherd I would bring a lamb;
If I were a wiseman, I would do my part;
Yet what can I give Him?
Give Him my heart.
Christina Rossetti
I nearly go crazy with the comment in some study Bibles and commentaries that Ruth was uncovering Boaz’ genitals rather than his feet and then they were intimate. I was so happy to see what Davis wrote: “While it is well know that the ordinary Hebrew word for “feet” is sometimes a circumlocution for “genitals” the Hebrew word here is not that — it is “margelot” which means feet.”
Just had to clear that up!
16. How can you see restoration and a return to God in Naomi when Ruth returns from the field of Boaz and tells her all that has happened? See Ruth 2:17-3:4?
17. How is Ruth again going to take a risk? See Ruth 3:5-9.
Many of you know that Boaz is a picture of Christ, who covers us. Ruth is convinced he will cover her in marriage and rescue both herself and Naomi. Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer — related to Ruth’s late husband, and willing to pay the price to redeem her.
18. How is Jesus our kinsman? How is He our Redeemer?
19. How do you see Naomi’s faith restored in Ruth 3:16-18? What part did Ruth have in that?
20. Is there a risk God might be asking you to take this Advent?
Listen alone or with your children.
21.. Any reflections on the podcast?
Friday: Better Than Seven Sons
22. Seven sons was considered a perfect family in Israel. What do the women of Bethlehem now say about Ruth in Ruth 4:15?
23. In what ways is the book of Ruth an opposite to the book of Judges? Think of several ways.
Listen alone or with your children.
24. Any reflections on the podcast?
Saturday: Reflect
Listen alone or with your children.
25. Any reflections on the podcast?
26. What do you think you will remember about this week’s study? Any application to your life?
79 comments
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
Dee’s powerful opening! “Yet, still, fifty years later, I am uncovering new wonders in this ocean of depth, for indeed, that is what God’s Word is: unfathomable depth with wonder upon wonder, needing the light of His Spirit to see those wonders.” Dee’s gift of writing can put into words truths most of us find hard to express.
Awww, Rebecca, you are an encourager.
1. what stands out to you from the above and why? One – the depth of God’s word. It seems silly to say it aloud but every advent I TRY to find some book or devotional or something to *make* me feel closer to God… to better realize what it is all about. This year I simply came desperate and thirsty to my Bible and the words which are so familiar wash over me in unanticipated newness and freshness. His Spirit is there. Two – I want to be like Ellen Davis when I grow up – knowing scripture and the meaning therein. I want to understand as much as I can on this green earth.
2. …what sinful pattern would you love to be delivered from ? Selfishness. All the things I do that I despise stem from selfishness…fear, cowardice, laziness, giving into weakness …. many more … they come from self-preservation and a desire forself-satisfaction. I wish my desires were for God satisfaction. Christ HAS delivered me but have I let the truth transform my deepest beliefs?
Love your vulnerability — over and over, Jill. And how I loved this:every advent I TRY to find some book or devotional or something to *make* me feel closer to God… to better realize what it is all about. This year I simply came desperate and thirsty to my Bible and the words which are so familiar wash over me in unanticipated newness and freshness.
Jill, I so resonate with your sinful pattern you describe here….selfishness, cowardice, giving in to weakness, and the desire for self-preservation. Thank you for being vulnerable and honest here.
Jill-I loved, “I want to be like Ellen Davis when I grow up.” – So cool for I thought the same thing and started thinking, well I could go back to college but go to Bible College-maybe even online. Ah..dreaming..:-)
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
I think I mentioned that I am reading a historical fiction on the 5 women in the lineage of Christ (Lineage of Grace)…I absolutely loved the story of Ruth in the book.
I haven’t studied Judges much so I am interested in how these two books correlate. Should be interesting.
Is that liz Higg’s book?
No it’s Francine Rivers. I’ve been so blessed by it!
Love her books.
I realize this isn’t the point of your message, however my brain can’t get beyond giving credit to the far left leaning “Me Too” movement….sorry Dee, you know I love you. I’m not sure I understand why you are taking on this topic at this time of year. Am I missing something?
I’m skeptical of the “Me Too” movement’s purpose, especially with so many far left leaning celebrities backing it up. I understand real abuses occur (like the one you refer to with the Olympic coach), however just as some people go to jail who don’t belong there (didn’t commit the crime), I am fairly certain there are men who have been accused of “abuse” by women just because they brushed up against them by accident. Women aren’t always telling the truth. I’m very disturbed that Brett Kavanaugh (SCJ) was put through such accusations by Christine Blasey-Ford, who has later been found to have not been truthful. I also am curious as to why some of these women wait 10-30 years to speak up? Also, aren’t these the women who wore obscene “hats” at the Presidential inauguration? I was pretty offended by them myself. Okay, off my bandwagon and back to the real topic.
4. What was the seed that led to depravity in this time of Judges according to Judges 2:10?
There was a generation who did not know the Lord.
What is YHWH?
6. Find the pattern of violence against women:
A. The Judge Jephthah makes a foolish vow to sacrifice whatever comes out of his barn first when he returns from victory. He daughter runs out. Davis notes how he blames the victim for the abomination he is about to do in Judges 11:35. Do you see it?
I see that he blamed his daughter for whatever happened.
B. How would you say Samson viewed women according to the dialogue in Judges 14:1-3? (In the Hebrew, it is she ‘pleases’ me, which has a sexual connotation. (See same word in Esther 2:4.)
I think this is a bit harsh; I checked 4 versions and each said “…she is right for me.” One said, in parentheses (paraphrased), “…his parents didn’t know this came from the Lord, who was trying to infiltrate the Philistines.” NIV Maybe he just liked her (God put this on his heart?)
C. The scene in Judges 19 of the Levite and his concubine is so grotesque it is hard to read but God put it there to show the depravity of which we are capable. Summarize what happened in Judges 19:22-29.
Pretty speechless with this one….ugh. The townspeople (for some reason) wanted to have sex with a man visiting another. The host says no, but you can have my daughter and his concubine. They rape them all night long and in the morning the traveler finds the concubine dead. He takes her home and cuts her body into 12 pieces which represent the 12 tribes of Judah. I’m sure there must be some sort of analogy being made here that I am not seeing? Some metaphor I’m missing?
Laura, the abbreviation YHWH stands for Yahweh, God’s name. If I’m correct here, the Jewish people considered God’s name too holy to even write it.
Oh wow! That’s interesting. Thanks Susan!
I do know you love me, Laura — and you absolutely should feel free to disagree. I agree the Me-Too movement has had abuse. I also know there is much legitimacy. My point was the in the book of Judges the sexual violence against women escalates as happens in a culture that does not fear God. I do think there are parallels, but I love it when you take a different side. Helps us all to ponder.
Laura, as I read your opening, I thought I was reading my thoughts. I have to agree with you in what you said above, and especially the part of “Dee you know I love you”. You wrote my thoughts out Laura.
1. What stands out to you from the above and why?
How the book of Ruth had such an impact on you, Dee, from your early beginnings in the faith and has continued to reveal new things to you in the present. I am also eager to learn more and new things.
2. The Christ who delivered Ruth can deliver each of us – you don’t have to write it here unless you choose to, but what sinful pattern would you love to be delivered from?
My critical and judgmental thinking, for one. I don’t say a thing out loud, but in my thoughts, I can be so critical, so judgmental of others, and play the comparison game, coming out either feeling superior, or self-pity as in not as good as the other. Also, the love of my own comfort and selfishness, and wanting the approval of others so that I can be kind of chameleon-like, wanting to fit in with someone so they will like me. And this one is hard to admit, but I tend to lie to get myself out of trouble or a sticky situation, where admitting the truth will make me look bad.
3. Any reflections on the podcast?
I’ve often wondered just how God spoke or made known His will to the prophets, like Samuel. Did they hear an audible voice? Or was it a voice in their minds? It was so clear how God guided Samuel to choose the least likely son of Jesse; the little brother who was out tending the sheep. It shows that one is never too young to be noticed and used by God. My friend and I went to an Advent Labyrinth Walk on Saturday. We were in the church’s gym, and on the floor was a large spiral path made out of pine roping and lit by candles. There were stations at which to stop; small tables with a photo of artwork and a Scripture reading and then a reflection card to take with you. You went through at your own pace, and there were folding chairs along the way so you could sit and read the reflection cards and pray. One of the cards from one station was about Mary and Elizabeth, and this from the card: “Two women on the very edge of things, unnoticed and unknown to men of power. But in their flesh the hidden Spirit sings and in their lives the buds of blessing flower. And Mary stands with all we call ‘too young’, Elizabeth with all called ‘past their prime’. They sing today for all the great unsung women who turned eternity to time; favoured of heaven, outcast on the earth; prophets who bring the best in us to birth.”
So too, David was unnoticed and unknown to men of power, but God noticed him.
I too have negative thoughts about people — and am asking God to help me with that!
Love the Mary and Elizabeth thoughts in your labyrinth.
Susan–thank you for your honesty in #2. It convicted me and reminded me of my own critical heart and my idol of approval. love you friend
Susan, I was thinking of my own sinfulness and wondering where to go with it… As I read your paragraph, I thought, oh yes, each of these resonates with me. Selfishness, judgmental and critical thinking about others, comfort and even “telling the story to make me look innocent”, yes that is lying.
You describe so well!
4. What was the seed that led to depravity in this time of Judges according to Judges 2:10?
A whole generation after Joshua must not have been taught about the Lord and what He did for Israel for they didn’t know the Lord or of His redeeming work.
Davis writes: “Her torn body is a symbol of the torn shreds of the social fabric.”
D. What justification do the Israelites give in Judges 21 was for their planned slaughter?
They felt sorry for the men of Benjamin so they thought it was okay to do this. I’m kind of confused though…were the new wives (the ones that they found at the celebration from the tribe of Benjamin or another? Also, were the people who didn’t attend (Jabesh gilead) the original meeting at Mizpah from the Benjamin tribe? They tried to justify their actions with excuses that some took an oath and couldn’t give their daughters or they would break the oath. This was all to make sure the tribe of Benjamin had inheritors. All is kind of confusing to me…and why are we studying this at Christmas? I’m not sure….
Always delight in your questions. The reason we are studying this at Christmas is because the Bible is all one story — of a great Prince who came to rescue His unfaithful bride. The book of Judges surely shows her infidelity, and in contrast, the book of Ruth shows us how we can be transformed into a faithful Bride. And perhaps that is part of the reason God lists Ruth in the genealogy of Christ.
There is enormous deceit in the hearts of the Israelites who justified a mass slaughter of their own men in order to get wives that were also Israelites.
It shows our capacity to deceive ourselves so that we can go our own way. We too are unfaithful brides and need to continually ask the Lord to search us and know our hearts and show us if there is any sin in our hearts that we might turn, in true repentance. This is all part of Advent.
I love you, Laura! Your are like Nathaniel, an Israelite in whom there is no guile.
Laura -I so appreciate your questions, you often voice what I’m sure many of us think but don’t say out loud! and Dee–this is such a beautiful answer, wow–it made my eyes tear “The reason we are studying this at Christmas is because the Bible is all one story — of a great Prince who came to rescue His unfaithful bride. The book of Judges surely shows her infidelity, and in contrast, the book of Ruth shows us how we can be transformed into a faithful Bride.”
Thank you Lizzy — I call Ron Barnabus so perhaps you are Barnabella!
I second this!
What stands out for me? The book of Ruth is so wonderful, and I always look forward to returning to it. This woman of Moab had such a deep love for Naomi and the God of Israel. She was a faithful daughter in law and so unselfish to cling to her and assist her.
Yes, the times were very bleak in Judges, where they did “what was good in their own eyes” — such sinful ways, just like now.
what was the sin that led to depravity?
Another generation grew up who did not know the Lord or what He had done for Israel…I believe they took it for granted. Their parents must have shared the stories, and each generation became more disobedient. That is also true today, as we attempt to teach our children, but they are more intrigued with the culture and the ease and pleasures. Yet sin is in our hearts, starting with selfish and disobedient ways.
Mourning my sin takes me into communion with God. Father, forgive me for my selfish ways. Make my heart tender to the needs of others, to love more deeply and to be like clay in your hands. My hardness of heart takes me away from your will. My desire today is to honor you in all of my ways. thank you for reminding me to seek You first. In the name of Jesus, and with the power of your Holy Spirit, I pray.
4. What was the seed that led to depravity in this time of Judges according to Judges 2:10? The generation after Joshua’s generation did not know the Lord or what He had done. I can’t help but wonder why…didn’t their fathers tell the stories and follow the traditions that serve as reminders? Or perhaps this is a few generations removed, tho the wording seems that it is the next generation…
6. Find the pattern of violence against women.
A. Do you see it? Sort of. I had not ever read it as accusation against the daughter, especially in light of his deep grief, but I suppose it is a speculation that may be considered. I always found it amazing that she was loyal to her father and her God to allow it to be done to her.
B. How would you say Samson viewed women according to the dialogue in Judges 14:1-3? Samson did not esteem women. It always bothered me that he pursued marriage off of looks alone…which supports the theory that he did not esteem women. This was a wide-spread attitude though..
C. Summarize what happened in Judges 19:22-29. This concubine (grievous she has no name, but none of the characters do) was actually the man’s wife for he is referred to as her husband and the girl’s father is referred to as the Levite’s Father-in-law. I will not summarize the traumatic events. What occurred to me was two things: 1 – to sin sexually against a man was seen as wicked and awful but to sin sexually against a woman was just a part of every day because it seems that women were not viewed as human (we already know they were denied citizenship) as so what was done to them “didn’t count” and indeed could be used as a safe substitute for other sinful acts. 2- This unacknowledgement of women’s value and status as human is perpetuated in the Levite’s reaction to her trauma and tragic demise. He did not mourn her, nor was he concerned about her. I don’t know if the fact that she had been unfaithful had an effect on how she was treated or not.
D. What justification do the Israelites give in Judges 21 was for their planned slaughter? I think they justified it by saying Benjamin needed an inheritance… but none of them could give daughters or they would be cursed … so they found a loop hole in taking others’ daughters for them …
8. According to Ruth 1. When did Ruth live, and what was happening in Bethlehem? Ruth lived in Moab during the time of the judges and there was a severe famine in Bethlehem.
9. What has Naomi lost by the end of verse 5 in chapter 1? Naomi lost her husband and two sons and with them any hope of financial security or safety.
10. Describe Ruth’s commitment in Ruth 1:16-17. How is this also instructive for how we should live as believers in order to stay in the light? Ruth is the definition of unconditional commitment. So many of our commitments have an unspoken “till it gets hard.“ Tim keller made the comment that many weddings use Ruth‘s words but will leave off the “where you die I will die“ perhaps because it is too difficult to think of commitment that deep and painful. This should be how I cling to Jesus and the Father. Wanting so badly to be by their side and do their work, to just be with them despite hard (or easy) circumstances. To forsake all for the love of my Lord.
Sunday:
1. What stands out to you from the above and why? – I love how if we allow the Holy Spirit to guide us, he will open up the scriptures to be more clear to us. How his Word, all falls in line for us today. There are times I’ve read a verse, a book or chapter and was like what did I just read. It came across like it was in a foreign language, but as I grow my relationship with the Lord and dig deeper, things I’ve read before that were unclear have become clear and my amazement me excites me.
The Christ who delivered Ruth can deliver each of us — you don’t have to write it here unless you choose to, but what sinful pattern would you love to be delivered from? O holy child of Bethlehem, descend to us we pray, cast out our sin, and enter in, be born in us today. – Lord I love growing closer to you, to understand you more. Help me Lord to have an open mind at all times. Help me to see what you see in others that at times may aggravate me to the point that I’m done trying to deal with them. I don’t want to be unpleasant Lord, so help me have the love you have toward me. I know I am undeserving of your love, yet you love me anyway and unconditionally. Help me to be that way toward those who try my patience. Let me be the peace they may be looking for. Thank you Lord for cleansing my heart. In Jesus Name I pray. Amen
4. What was the seed that led to depravity in this time of Judges according to Judges 2:10? – the new generation didn’t know the Lord or what he had done for their ancestors. Oh my goodness Dee you are right…this is the world today.
Repeatedly God hands the rebellious Israelites over to their enemies, and they call out, enjoy relief, and then repeat their sin. They did not truly mourn their sin and turn from it.
5. Where is God calling you to truly mourn your sin? Do it privately now — telling him how it hurts Him, others, and yourself. Ask for strength to turn from it. – thank you Lord for turning me away from what is not pleasing to you.
Davis sees a “Hosea-like” parallel with Samson. The only woman he truly loved was Delilah, yet she destroyed him. She asks, “Is the narrator in Judges hinting to us that YHWH may be similarly troubled by the beloved “He” has chosen? – Ouch!!!! That hits you straight on!
Isn’t it, Julie? Our world today!
4. What was the seed that led to depravity in this time of Judges according to Judges 2:10?
The generation after Joshua did not acknowledge the Lord nor did they remember the mighty things He had done for Israel. A bad case of forgetfulness. It reminds me of Joseph, how after he died, along came a pharaoh who knew nothing about Joseph or what he had done in Egypt, and that amazes me because you’d think Joseph would be remembered forever since he saved everyone from starvation during the famine. So how could the Israelites, a few generations later, forget all about how God rescued their people out of Egypt and worked all those miracles?
6. Find the pattern of violence against women:
A. The judge Jephthah makes a foolish vow to sacrifice whatever comes out of his barn first when he returns from victory. His daughter runs out. Davis notes how he blames the victim for the abomination he is about to do in Judges 11:35. Do you see it?
Well, kind of. It says that Jephthah tore his clothes in anguish and said to her, “You have completely destroyed me; you’ve brought disaster on me! For I have made a vow to the Lord, and I cannot take it back.” I continued reading, and it appears that his daughter agreed with her father that he must not break his vow to the Lord, even if it means her death. She only asks to go and mourn with her friends first, that she will die a virgin. I guess he never expected that his own daughter would be the first to run out to greet him. But, nowhere does it say that God did not want him to do this thing. Where is God in all of this? In the prior verses, God has guided him and given him victory over their enemies. So why didn’t God Himself stay his hand and prevent him from killing his daughter (like He prevented Abraham from killing Isaac?) It’s kind of presented here as a noble thing he did.
B. How would you say Samson viewed women according to the dialogue in Judges 14:1-3? (In the Hebrew, it is she ‘pleases’ me, which has a sexual connotation. (See same word in Esther 2:4)
My translation says that Samson saw her and said that a Philistine woman “caught my eye”. He also said “she looks good to me”. I guess he judged a woman and found her desirable for marriage because of her pleasing physical appearance. He didn’t seem to care to get to know her first and determine her character.
C. The scene in Judges 19 of the Levite and his concubine is so grotesque it is hard to read but God put it there to show the depravity of which we are capable. Summarize what happened in Judges 19:22-29.
This sounds a lot like the story of Lot. Some evil men surrounded an old man’s house and demanded he bring out the man who was staying with him so that they could have sex with him. The old man thought that was a terrible evil thing to do, so he offered to hand over his virgin daughter and the visitor’s concubine instead. (I guess that was a lesser evil. What kind of father would hand over his daughter to a gang of men to be raped and abused?) The poor concubine ends up getting pushed out the door, raped and abused all night and dies at the doorstep, is found by her husband in the morning who, not knowing she’s dead yet, tells her to get up, let’s go. When he sees that she’s dead, he puts her on his donkey, returns home, cuts her up into 12 pieces and sends one piece of her to each tribe throughout Israel. The people think a horrible crime has been committed. This whole story makes me sick. Women had absolutely no value compared to men.
D. What justification do the Israelites give in Judges 21 for their planned slaughter?
They had an assembly in God’s presence, and no one from Jabesh-gilead had attended the assembly. So they sent 12,000 men to Jabesh-gilead to kill everyone there, including women and children.
I would love to hear peoples’ responses to Susan’s good question concerning the story of Jephthah
So why didn’t God Himself stay his hand and prevent him from killing his daughter (like He prevented Abraham from killing Isaac?) It’s kind of presented here as a noble thing he did.
Sunday
1.What stands out to you from the above and why? The picture of scripture being a deep ocean for which we need the light of the Holy Spirit to understand. The patterns and relationship of one book of scripture to another. Praying the Lord would open my mind to see these things more and more.
2.The Christ who delivered Ruth can deliver each of us — you don’t have to write it here unless you choose to, but what sinful pattern would you love to be delivered from? I admit I didn’t want to answer this question and have put it off, but the Lord is working in my heart. A similar question is found in this weeks study I am leading at church—so thank you, Dee, for allowing me to think this through here first. I’ve been working hard these last months at changing destructive patterns of behavior in my marriage. Recognizing that my response to my husband’s wrong actions was contributing to the problem has been a huge turning point. It’s so easy to point out the wrong in others and excuse it for myself. Pride is certainly my worst enemy. It causes me to be offended easily and justify my response. The Holy Spirit is guiding me to look at my world in a different light. I’m seeking to view my world from a wider lens. Instead of responding to others immediately, I’m striving to go to prayer and weigh my response more carefully. Admittedly, this is a process and a challenge for me, but the Lord is working to help me gain small victories. Thank you, Lord, for this.
Chris — this has to be so hard not to do, but so great that you are open to His Spirit. Makes me think of the Beatitude “Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you, and accuse you of all kinds of evil because of me. Rejoice and be glad for great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets before you.”
Recognizing that my response to my husband’s wrong actions was contributing to the problem has been a huge turning point
Thank you for the encouragement. I struggle still but have definitely gained a new view of relationships. I love the study and your description of the bride.
3. Any reflections on the podcast?I’m enjoying the podcast and love the slow quiet wondering. I’ve recommended it to several families at church through our Children’s Worship program which also has a ‘wondering’ time built in as a response to scripture. This is great training for all at applying scripture to our lives and allowing the Spirit to work in our hearts. My teenagers are listening in the room sometimes. I think her voice is captivating.
I love the hymn I Heard the Bells on Christmas Day…
8. According to Ruth 1, when did Ruth live, and what was happening in Bethlehem?
Ruth lives when their were Judges in Israel. There was a famine in the land.
9. What has Naomi lost by the end of verse 5 in chapter 1?
Naomi has lost her husband and two sons.
10. Describe Ruth’s commitment in Ruth 1:16-17. How is this also instructive for how we should live as believers in order to stay in the light?
Ruth would not leave Naomi. She claimed Naomi’s people and God hers no matter what happened to her in doing so.
I believe we should not ever falter in our faith if we are Christians.
12. How do you see Ruth embracing her vulnerability in:
A. Ruth 2:2 She was willing to go out as a Moabite woman and forage for food. This was huge and unsafe but her words show that she was hopeful she might find a haven to glean (“after him in whose sight I shall find favor.”)
B. Ruth 2:7 She asked permission to glean from the servant in charge of the reapers. Going hungry often leads people to immoral means of obtaining bread (Jean Valjean) but Ruth was vulnerable (and must haven hopeful!) to ask.
C. Ruth 2:10 She gave sincere thanks, which is always vulnerable because you are admitting a need or deficit that someone filled. But then she goes deeper in her vulnerability reminding Boaz that he ‘shouldn’t ‘ really be nice to her because she is a foreigner and she asks, “why?”
D. Ruth 2:13 Again she gives thanks in the context that she does not deserve Boaz’s favor for she is not one of his servants.
13. How can you see noble character in Boaz? He has concern for those in need, the vulnerable, and he is impressed by Ruth’s compassionate loyalty to Naomi, indicating that he resonates with compassion. Even the way he treats his servants (greeting them with a blessing, providing water, allowing for a meal break…) speaks of a heart concerned with humans and not self.
14. How could you better embrace your vulnerability – with God, with others? I see Ruth admitting who she is, accepting how people would likely treat her, and hopeful for an exception. I am a hot mess. Constantly falling to my idols, wanting so bad to be the perfect older brother…. but I am not, a severe mercy to bring me to Grace. I deserve exile, grudges, and punishment for my mistakes (willful and non-willful). But I have hope realized…I have found favor in the eyes of a Prince who not only provides, protects, and has compassion but loves and receives me. If I did not acknowledge who I am and what I deserve this would not be so beautiful. I must be vulnerable if I want to see the whole truth and the beauty of my savior.
with others… this is harder… the words that come to mind are humility and service. I must not be a consumer friend but a Christ service friend. My vulnerability is ultimately before God even though others would seek to crucify me I serve because I love Him and His people. If they hurt me it should point me to the cross again and again…
Beautiful from Jill:
I have found favor in the eyes of a Prince who not only provides, protects, and has compassion but loves and receives me. If I did not acknowledge who I am and what I deserve this would not be so beautiful. I must be vulnerable if I want to see the whole truth and the beauty of my savior.
4. What was the seed that led to depravity in this time of Judges according to Judges 2:10?
A new generation who did not know the Lord nor what He had done for Israel.
6. Find the pattern of violence against women:
A. The Judge Jephthah makes a foolish vow to sacrifice whatever comes out of his barn first when he returns from victory. He daughter runs out. Davis notes how he blames the victim for the abomination he is about to do in Judges 11:35. Do you see it?
He says “YOU have brought me down and I am devastated”.
B. How would you say Samson viewed women according to the dialogue in Judges 14:1-3? (In the Hebrew, it is she ‘pleases’ me, which has a sexual connotation. (See same word in Esther 2:4.)
He seemed to view women as property to own, something he had power or control over. He had no care of what her feelings were.
C. The scene in Judges 19 of the Levite and his concubine is so grotesque it is hard to read but God put it there to show the depravity of which we are capable. Summarize what happened in Judges 19:22-29.
This was so hard to read and I have to confess I really have not read much of Judges. And yet, I am thankful for the Bible’s truth. There is no hiding of sin under a carpet. Passages like this add to the proof that the Bible is fact, because this is certainly not a feel good Hallmark story.
I’m going to cheat here and post part of what Jared Wilson (Gospel Coalition) said on this passage as I thought it was really good: “When there was no king in Israel, a man betrays his women. A woman is unprotected and given over to the enemy to have his way with her, and then she is made an example of in a murderous way to the twelve tribes. But when Jesus is King over Israel, he protects his bride; he won’t give her over to the enemy to have his way with her. And Jesus leaves the house himself and offers his own body, going in his bride’s stead to be torn apart for the twelve tribes of Israel. Instead of giving us up in some evil bargain, he gives himself up. And his battered body is the sign to his people that he won’t sell them out.”
Beautiful quote from Jared Wilson:
“When there was no king in Israel, a man betrays his women. A woman is unprotected and given over to the enemy to have his way with her, and then she is made an example of in a murderous way to the twelve tribes. But when Jesus is King over Israel, he protects his bride; he won’t give her over to the enemy to have his way with her. And Jesus leaves the house himself and offers his own body, going in his bride’s stead to be torn apart for the twelve tribes of Israel. Instead of giving us up in some evil bargain, he gives himself up. And his battered body is the sign to his people that he won’t sell them out.”
8. According to Ruth 1, when did Ruth live, and what was happening in Bethlehem?
Ruth lived “when the judges ruled in Israel”. There was a severe famine in Bethlehem.
9. What has Naomi lost by the end of verse 5 in chapter 1?
Her husband Elimelech died, and about ten years later, both of her sons, Mahlon and Kilion died.
10. Describe Ruth’s commitment in Ruth 1:16-17. How is this also instructive for how we should live as believers in order to stay in the light?
Ruth made a life long commitment to Naomi. She promised not to let anything but death separate them from one another. She was acknowledging that things could try to separate them, but she was vowing not to let that happen.
12. How do you see Ruth embracing her vulnerability in:
A. Ruth 2:2-she was willing to try to pick up left over grain where she could find favor.
B. Ruth 2:7-she humbly asked Boaz if he would let her glean and gather among the sheaves behind the harvesters.
C. Ruth 2:10- in response to Boaz’ kindness to her, “she bowed down with her face to the ground”.
D. Ruth 2:13-She speaks respectfully to Boaz, recognizing his kindness towards her and recognizing her unworthiness of such favor.
13. How can you see noble character in Boaz?
He used his power for good. He was kind, gentle, not domineering or unjust.
14. How could you better embrace your vulnerability — with God, with others?
I’ve had some trials over the last several years that have stripped me of the things I used to find my identity, security in, other than Christ. My tendency to want to project a certain ideal image I have, isn’t even possible in the same way anymore. I cannot hide. I cannot cover up the brokenness in my family…I’m sure I could try another way, but I am thankful He has led me to just be vulnerable, rest in His covering. It is a daily challenge, as I hear others make comments about things that I thought I had or wished I could have…but I know in my heart I want to only want Him. I want Him to be my only security, my true identity, naked and unashamed.
6. Find the pattern of violence against women:
A. The Judge Jephthah makes a foolish vow to sacrifice whatever comes out of his barn first when he returns from victory. He daughter runs out. Davis notes how he blames the victim for the abomination he is about to do in Judges 11:35. Do you see it? – He’ blaming her for bringing him down and being devastated. He doesn’t seem to remember the vow that he made that put him in that spot. Making a promise at the time to suit yourself and later doesn’t want to take the blame for the wrong request.
B. How would you say Samson viewed women according to the dialogue in Judges 14:1-3? (In the Hebrew, it is she ‘pleases’ me, which has a sexual connotation. (See same word in Esther 2:4.) Placing demands on his parents to ‘get’ him the Philistine woman. Like women are something sitting on a shelf waiting to be taken.
C. The scene in Judges 19 of the Levite and his concubine is so grotesque it is hard to read but God put it there to show the depravity of which we are capable. Summarize what happened in Judges 19:22-29. – It is a very grotesque outcome for the man’s concubine. There was no respect for her as a person. She was used a plaything to satisfy others urges. No thought of her feelings were shone at all. They only cared about themselves. She had no worth to the men at that time.
Davis writes: “Her torn body is a symbol of the torn shreds of the social fabric.”
D. What justification do the Israelites give in Judges 21 was for their planned slaughter? – Because they had given an oath to not give any of their wives or daughters to the Benjamite tribe, they felt it was ok to take what wasn’t theirs to take and do as they pleased just so their oath wouldn’t be broken.
11. Any reflections on the podcast?
I have always loved the story of Esther! I love how brave she was. I wonder why God is nor ever mentioned in the book of Esther, but He is always present? I also wonder how scared she was visiting the king? She has always seemed like a very wise woman to me.
12. How do you see Ruth embracing her vulnerability in:
A. Ruth 2:2
She is willing to go and pick the harvest when she might not be welcomed to do so.
B. Ruth 2:7
She was a hard worker who barely rested.
C. Ruth 2:10
She admits her foreign status and thanks her provider.
D. Ruth 2:13
She wants to continue to be pleasing to Boaz in her work.
13. How can you see noble character in Boaz?
He is rewarding Ruth for her sacrifice of helping her MIL, by remaining her provider by working so hard and bringing home grain for food. He takes charge of the situation by allowing her to work and by telling his people to leave her alone (especially the young men).
8. Ruth, a Moabite, was married to Naomi’s son.The family came from Bethlehem when there was a famine in the land,
but Naomi’s husband and both sons died in Moab. When Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem because the famine was over,
Ruth chose to stay with her. She said ” where you go I will go, where you lodge I will lodge, your people will be my people and your God will be my God.”
10. As believers this is also true for us: to be wholly committed to following the Lord and to trust his guidance in our lives. He knows where we are even when in a foreign place that is not supportive to our beliefs. I so admire Christians who live in lands where persecution is taking place.
I wonder how they can endure, but I also feel vulnerable even in my own situation. I feel the spiritual forces of darkness hovering over and taunting me. As a woman and a Christian I need to take steps of faith daily, and pray for more faith when I feel weak.
So good, Shirley: I wonder how they can endure, but I also feel vulnerable even in my own situation. I feel the spiritual forces of darkness hovering over and taunting me. As a woman and a Christian I need to take steps of faith daily, and pray for more faith when I feel weak.
12. Naomi went to the field of Boaz to glean, believing that “in his eyes I will find favor.” She worked all day even without resting.
Boaz was kind to her and told her to stay in his field, to drink from his vessels that his men had drawn, and he said she would be protected from harm.
Ruth responded to him and said, “You are most gracious to me, for you have comforted me and shown kindness when I am not your maidservant.
Boaz was indeed a noble man as he showed kindness and generosity to Ruth in her need because of her devotion to Naomi.
How could I embrace my vulnerability as a Christian and to others? Well, I need to take more opportunity to share my faith and to trust God’s hand in my own life. I do pray for boldness, yet have a hard time to speak of my weakness- that is my poverty of spirit. I am not yet able to come to understand this concept. My footnote refers to Isaiah 66:2 “this is the man to whom I will look, he that is humble and contrite in spirit, and trembles at my word.” Yes, I am awed by the word.
14. How could you better embrace your vulnerability — with God, with others?
One thing I really struggle with is admitting when I am wrong or accepting constructive criticism. It all revolves on a “perfectionist” attitude; that I will do everything to perfection or at least try to, so there’s no room for criticism. Ugh. One thing I have learned over time is that this is an unrealistic outlook because I am human. It is hard. As I get older I realize that I am ridiculous with this idea! So, I am embracing my AGE….and hoping that I become better at admitting that I am wrong and sometimes do things incorrectly.
8. According to Ruth 1, when did Ruth live, and what was happening in Bethlehem? – She lived in the days when the judges were ruling and there was a famine in the land.
9. What has Naomi lost by the end of verse 5 in chapter 1? – She has lost her husband and two sons.
10. Describe Ruth’s commitment in Ruth 1:16-17. How is this also instructive for how we should live as believers in order to stay in the light? – She was dedicated to Naomi and determined to stay with her no matter what the cost to herself. She was willing to take the outbursts for being a Moabite and sacrifice herself to be with Naomi. She was willing to follow the God that was with Naomi. We need to do what we know is right no matter the cost that may come. When we do that God will always be with us and His Glory will shine.
12. How do you see Ruth embracing her vulnerability in:
A. Ruth 2:2 – she is putting herself out there, letting others know she is in need, willing to take what ever is left so they have something to live off of.
B. Ruth 2:7 – she is not afraid to work hard for what she needs. She will do what is needed to survive.
C. Ruth 2:10 – She is humble, thinking she is not worthy to be seen by someone like Boaz. She was respectful to his status, his authority over her.
D. Ruth 2:13 – She is asking for continued favor from Boaz, remembering who he is and where she is from, that in those times would not be worthy of what has been given to her.
13. How can you see noble character in Boaz? – though he is a man of status and wealth he does not look down on Ruth, he respects her as a person.
14. How could you better embrace your vulnerability — with God, with others? – I should remember I am nothing without God in my life. I need to always remember I need to seek him first in all things. For others, I need to stand strong in my beliefs of God, but not to be rude or disrespectful to them. I need to know that we are all on the same level no matter what status I hold.
It has been so good today to read all the comments here after I have been “gone” for almost 2 weeks. I just couldn’t keep up with school and church responsibilities. I always have loved the Book of Ruth for so many reasons. The most important of which is how it reminds me of God’s faithfulness, provision, and guidance for me as I have journeyed thousands of miles from my homeland.
I do not like reading the stories in Judges and often would skip through the gory details. It helped to read some clarifications, like the demise of the concubine after being raped and how it points to human depravity. And how we have parallel situations nowadays. Sin is universal and is no respecter of a person nor a generation. Oh, how we need Jesus to save us from sin and its power!
I have been listening to Sarah Dahl before I start class-it has really put me in an anticipatory mood for the birthday of the King! I love the voices of the children and their honest prayers. I can almost imagine myself being in the same room as Sarah and the children and listening and wondering with them. Lord, come!
It helped me too to see the parallels in Judges.
16. How can you see restoration and a return to God in Naomi when Ruth returns from the field of Boaz and tells her all that has happened? See Ruth 2:17-3:4?
She praises God when Ruth comes with the grain. She asks for a blessing for Boaz. She somehow (knows?) that God will bless her by making the request of Boaz to marry Ruth. She knows that another man is next in line to marry Ruth, not Boaz. But, she somehow has faith that it will work out the way she wants.
17. How is Ruth again going to take a risk? See Ruth 3:5-9.
She accepts Naomi’s request even though she knows it’s risky. She does everything Naomi asks. She spruces herself up, waits until night time when Boaz goes to sleep, and lays at his feet. When he notices her she reveals who she is and asks him to be her redeemer.
22. Seven sons was considered a perfect family in Israel. What do the women of Bethlehem now say about Ruth in Ruth 4:15? She is more to Naomi than seven sons and she loves her.
23. In what ways is the book of Ruth an opposite to the book of Judges? Think of several ways. Judges shows God’s people in rebellion chasing after other gods, despite His efforts to send deliverance. Ruth shows one who is not a part of God’s family seeking after Him and fellowship with His people, despite discrimination and exclusion of her own people. Against all odds Ruth joins the family of God that His own people reject in Judges.
Love your answer t0 23.
16. Naomi was so touched that there was a kind man who gave Ruth the permission to glean from the grain, saying, “Blessed by the Lord, the man whose kindness has not forsaken the living or the dead.” When she told Naomi his name, she was pleased and encouraged her to continue in his field until the end of the harvest, for she would be safe.
17. Ruth’s risk: She did as Naomi directed her to go to the threshing floor where Boaz, the kinsman was sleeping. Even to washing and anointing herself, uncovering his feet and lying down there.
18. Jesus, is our kinsman, who took human form and lived among people to accomplish his purpose. Then Jesus became our Redeemer, paying for all of our sins by giving His life.
19. Naomi’s faith was restored as she assured Ruth that Boaz would make sure to follow through and be a redeemer for her. Ruth ‘s part was her obedience to do as Naomi advised.
The podcast, the lion, is always a delight to me. As Daniel prayed and trusted God, he was safe from harm. I love that the king was delighted that Daniel was safe and that he had fasted, too. I want to remember to trust God in difficult circumstances and keep my focus on Him and not on my circumstances that are part of the spiritual warfare.
18. How is Jesus our kinsman? How is He our Redeemer?
We are His because He came to earth for us; He was one of us in flesh. We are related.
He is our redeemer because by giving His life for us, He wipes our sin clean.
19. How do you see Naomi’s faith restored in Ruth 3:16-18? What part did Ruth have in that?
Ruth brings gifts from Boaz to Naomi as a sign of acceptance. Ruth followed both Boaz and Naomi’s instructions and had faith that it was right.
Susan and Dee: I have been thinking on Jephthah … why didn’t God rescue the daughter (or the concubine or anyone else in horrible situations throughout history…)? When Jephthah asked for victory he made his promise, then God gave the victory knowing the outcome of that oath. God surely wasn’t swayed by a human’s promise of a sacrifice, was he? What really strikes me about this story is that the daughter was considered sacrifice-able. I know in that culture child sacrifice was prevalent in surrounding civilizations but if I promised God a sacrifice in my head it would automatically be grain, or animal, or wine… my children would not be an option even if they did come out of the barn first I would assume the first animal to walk out was really the sacrifice. But the daughter was an option…Jephthah obviously cherished her but maybe there was an unspoken belief that he operated off of: women weren’t fully human or valuable to man so neither were they valuable to God. They were grouped into the category of animals…it didn’t matter what happened to them. Maybe God put women in Christ’s genealogy to prove that He DOES (and always has) valued and loved women. And it occurs to me that this is what most women today struggle with: knowing they are loved and valuable.
Yes, but surely all the people knew the Scriptures from Genesis where it says that God created them, male and female He created them, and then that He gave them dominion over all the earth. I don’t know how it was that women would be counted as if they were animals.
Great reflections, Jill. Whenever you have a narrative passage, you must be cautious about making the person a role model, for you are always dealing with a sinner. We know that God’s Spirit never goes against His Word, and God prohibited child sacrifice in His Word, so we know Jephthah’s vow was sin. I think you may be right about Jephthah’s unspoken belief, or his attempt to bargain with God to get a victory. When the consequences of our sin are hard, the solution is to repent of our sin, not to add another sin to it. Jephthah should have repented of his sinful vow. And yes, it is very clear Jesus valued women, and the women in the genealogy had an interesting thing in common — they all were part of the rescue of the line in some way that involved their faith. That’s my thought. The exception would be Bathsheba, but as Keller believes, the mention of Bathsheba is really not about Bathsheba but about David’s sin, for she is simply called Uriah’s wife.
The lineage is biblically accounted for with some writers’ embellishment in the book “Lineage of Grace” by Francine Rivers. In the book, Bathsheba does have faith, she does repent of her sin (bearing herself on the rooftop), and she is remorseful of Uriah’s death. Not sure how much is true and how much author’s liberty but she does back up each of the five books (5 women) with bible facts. I would need the book to comment on her faith, but alas, I am not quite near it right now!
When I wrote this, I don’t think I explained myself well. I know that there is only a small account of who Bathsheba is in the text (2 Samuel 11) of the Bible, however, Francine Rivers gives an account at the end of each of her short books about how she came to the writing that she authored. She uses biblical references to confirm. Some of these are from different places in the Bible that I would not have known to look for because I am not so well versed. Now I want to go back and read those “seeking” addendums to the Bathsheba story. If I find anything interesting there I will come back and post here.
I’ve returned here….thank you for your explanation and it makes sense! Jephthah should have repented to God for making such a foolish vow, not added on even more sin by carrying it out. And, I also like how you cleared-up the “rumor” that something might have been going on under the covers between Ruth and Boaz! Anita Lustrea had Rob Bell on her podcast once as a guest, and to be fair, I tried listening to a few episodes of his podcast. I was excited to listen to a couple in particular that he did on “You, Me, and Ruth”. Well….he brought it up that Ruth might have been engaged in something like that and it kind of turned me off! I thought, that’s not the story of Ruth I know!
So interesting about Rob Bell and Ruth.
16. How can you see restoration and a return to God in Naomi when Ruth returns from the field of Boaz and tells her all that has happened? Ruth coming back with food is Naomi’s “Psalm turn”…she has endured much hardship and been questioning where God is in her suffering but she remembers God IS good and does SEE His children….she becomes hopeful.
17. How is Ruth going to take a risk? The first risk is going out alone at night. The second risk was being vulnerable to a Jewish man as a Moabite woman. Third, just being vulnerable as a woman to a man. Fourth, engaging in customs she is not familiar with.
18. How is Jesus our kinsman? How is He our Redeemer? He is our kinsman because He became fully human walked this earth and suffered the trials of man, He is our kin. He is our Redeemer because He paid the price to have us become His bride, He paid the price to adopt us into His security.
19. How do you see Naomi’s faith restored in Ruth 3:16-18? What part did Ruth have in that? Naomi is content to wait and see how the matter turns out (as she instructs Ruth to do so). I don’t know why Naomi pursued traveling back to her homeland but she may have been restless and trying to solve problems (or was depressed enough that she didn’t care if she survived the journey). But now she is restful, almost confident, but definitely hopeful in the prospect of a redeemer.
Ruth was merely the obedient vessel. She, assumedly, didn’t know of Israel’s redeemer laws or customs. She just loved Naomi and served her, trusted her. But because she was humbly obedient and vulnerable God was able to work His plan. Ruth never lectures or advises Naomi, only implores Naomi to allow her to serve, love, and be loyal. If only I could be that vessel between God and His people….humbly obedient, content in His love for Him to work His plan in others’ lives.
20. Is there a risk God might be asking you to take this Advent? I did take a risk!! There is a new gal at one of my jobs and she has nowhere to go for Christmas so I invited her to join her us at my in-laws for dinner. Huge on so many levels but really felt the Holy Spirit nudge. Don’t know anything about her!
The other risk I am taking is to let go of ideals and just enjoy each moment given regardless of who is (or isn’t) there.
22. Seven sons was considered a perfect family in Israel. What do the women of Bethlehem now say about Ruth in Ruth 4:15? The women say that Ruth was better than a perfect family.
23. In what ways is the book of Ruth an opposite to the book of Judges? Think of several ways. The most prominent is the value placed on Ruth, a woman. Ruth also focuses on God coming to the rescue. Ruth has a happy ending. Naomi, while unsure if God remembers her, seems to remember God. In Judges the Israelites constantly ‘forget’ God.
8. According to Ruth 1, when did Ruth live, and what was happening in Bethlehem?
Ruth lived in the days when the judges ruled in Israel, and a severe famine was in the land and so it involved the city of Bethlehem.
9. What has Naomi lost by the end of verse 5 in chapter 1?
Her two sons and her husband.
10. Describe Ruth’s commitment in Ruth 1:16-17. How is this also instructive for how we should live as believers in order to stay in the light?
Ruth makes a commitment to never leave Naomi for any reason but death, and even says that God may punish her severely if anything but death separates them. She vows to “become” one of Naomi’s people and also to serve Naomi’s God. I’m not sure how this is instructive to us as believers? We usually don’t make such commitments to our parents or in-laws, promising that we will never leave them. Or is it to always honor them? Hah…if that was the case, my two boys wouldn’t live so far away! Or, perhaps it is doing our best to help and protect the vulnerable ones?
I think your last sentence is getting to the heart — I think Ruth may have thought Naomi would not make it without her. But also, she had become convinced that Naomi’s God was the real God.
22. Seven sons was considered a perfect family in Israel. What do the women of Bethlehem now say about Ruth in Ruth 4:15?
They say that Naomi has been blessed by Ruth better than “seven sons.”
23. In what ways is the book of Ruth an opposite to the book of Judges? Think of several ways.
In Ruth, the women are taken care of. In Judges they are not.
In Ruth, the laws are followed. In Judges they are not.
26. What do you think you will remember about this week’s study? Any application to your life?
I love the story of Ruth. I had never considered the content of Judges, mainly because I don’t know of many times pastors have preached on this book. I have read through it before. I think it’s awful how the women were treated and will consider that from now on.
I’m not sure about the application though. At least in my life. I am treated well. My husband loves me and covers me. I am not discriminated against as far as I can tell, as a woman. I suppose the faith part is where I can really apply the scripture. Such faith Ruth and Naomi had!! With respect to the Judges and Jill’s comment of where God was for those women, isn’t it like today, where bad things happen to good people? We live in this awful fallen world where bad people get away with many things and people are hurt all the time; men and women. Don’t you think God may have allowed the bad things (of the past and now) to happen to remind us of just how sinful we are and how much we need Him? Just thinking…
Interesting thought about allowing sin — a mystery, to be sure!
16. How can you see restoration and a return to God in Naomi when Ruth returns from the field of Boaz and tells her all that has happened? See Ruth 2:17-3:4? – She seems to have more faith that things will work out for her and Ruth, her joy has come back.
17. How is Ruth again going to take a risk? See Ruth 3:5-9. – By sneaking in to where Boaz was lying. Taking a chance that he might be mad for what she did, for her boldness toward him.
Many of you know that Boaz is a picture of Christ, who covers us. Ruth is convinced he will cover her in marriage and rescue both herself and Naomi. Boaz is a kinsman-redeemer — related to Ruth’s late husband, and willing to pay the price to redeem her.
18. How is Jesus our kinsman? How is He our Redeemer? – He is our Father we are his children. He is there to rescue us from ourselves. From our sinful ways. Unconditional love is given by him to us.
19. How do you see Naomi’s faith restored in Ruth 3:16-18? What part did Ruth have in that? – By the kindness that Boaz has showed her and Ruth. The risks that Ruth took to follow Naomi were high, but she did it for the love of Naomi and now the love and kindness that Boaz was showing her was a blessing back to her. Ruth did as Naomi told her to do and that was a risk, but she loved Naomi enough to follow her leading. She stepped out in faith that all would be ok.
20. Is there a risk God might be asking you to take this Advent? – I am not a confrontational person, but I feel strongly that I need to step out and talk to my ex-daughter-in-law about what she is doing to my son, but I need to make sure that it is God leading me to do it and not my motherly heart. I don’t want to make things worse.
22. Seven sons was considered a perfect family in Israel. What do the women of Bethlehem now say about Ruth in Ruth 4:15? – They said that the baby Ruth had would renew Naomi’s life and sustain her in her old age. That he would become Naomi’s kinsman-redeemer and the love that Ruth showed Naomi is better then seven sons.
23. In what ways is the book of Ruth an opposite to the book of Judges? Think of several ways. – Ruth shows loyalty, love, faith and hope. It shows respect toward women and those that are different then the norm. It shows acceptance of everyone and status does not matter. Ruth shows love and reverence toward our heavenly Father. Judges, doesn’t care about human life, it shows disrepect toward lower class, woman and those that don’t fit the mold. It shows a disrepteful attitude toward our heavenly Father. And yet, Judges shows our heavenly Father still forgiving and loving once you find it in yourself to repent.
26. What do you think you will remember about this week’s study? Any application to your life? – For me I think the biggest impact I had, that I never noticed before until Dee brought it up, was how the Bible is so true to our life today. If we really stop, read, dwell and think about what we are reading, we will see real life stories. I don’t believe I am a disrespected woman currently, but I know I have been in the past. Nowhere near as bad as the women in Judges who the men had no care for. In Ruth, she was an outcast in the way of being a foreigner but still pursued God and his ways. I would like to hope I can give grace to others who may not be as familiar with God, but are trying to learn about him. To help them along like Naomi did with Ruth. To respect ALL PEOPLE, not just those who are like me. I think it is ok for me to step out of my comfort zone and learn the ways of others and still be faithful to the ways of God.
Great take-a-way, Julie.