Redemption's Journey: From Ruth to Christ
Summary
In our journey through the Scriptures today, we explored the profound narrative of redemption woven through the stories of Genesis and Ruth, culminating in the birth of Christ. We began by reflecting on the expulsion from Eden, a moment that set humanity on a path of separation from God. This separation is mirrored in the story of Ruth, where Naomi's life is marked by loss and bitterness, yet it is through this narrative of despair that we see the glimmer of hope in the form of a redeemer, Boaz. This story is not just about Ruth or Naomi, but about God's providence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan.
The book of Ruth, set in the time of the judges, a period of spiritual and moral decline, introduces us to a world where famine and desperation drive people to make difficult choices. Naomi's return to Bethlehem with Ruth, a Moabite widow, sets the stage for a divine intervention. The narrative shifts from despair to hope with the introduction of Boaz, a kinsman-redeemer, who embodies the grace and provision of God. This story is a precursor to the ultimate redemption found in Christ, the true Redeemer.
We then transitioned to the New Testament, where the birth of Christ is announced to shepherds, the marginalized of society, echoing the themes of Ruth. The irony of salvation resting on a helpless infant underscores the mystery of the incarnation. Christ, the God-man, came to fulfill what no other could—He lived a sinless life, died a sacrificial death, and rose again, conquering sin and death. This is the heart of the gospel: that through Christ, we are reconciled to God, and the paradise lost is regained.
The sermon also addressed the theological significance of Christ's dual nature as both fully God and fully man. This doctrine is crucial for understanding the sufficiency of Christ's atonement. The early church faced heresies that challenged this truth, but through the steadfastness of theologians like Athanasius, the church upheld the doctrine of the God-man. This truth is foundational to our faith and must be diligently taught to future generations.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Story of Redemption: The narrative of Ruth is a microcosm of God's redemptive plan. Despite the bleakness of Naomi's situation, God's providence is at work, foreshadowing the ultimate redemption through Christ. This reminds us that even in our darkest moments, God is orchestrating His purposes for our good and His glory. [06:24]
2. The Irony of Salvation: The birth of Christ as a helpless infant is a profound irony. It challenges our understanding of power and salvation, showing that true strength is found in humility and vulnerability. This infant, seemingly powerless, is the Savior of the world, highlighting the mystery and majesty of the incarnation. [13:49]
3. The Necessity of the God-Man: Christ's dual nature is essential for our salvation. As fully God, He satisfies divine justice; as fully man, He identifies with our humanity. This union is the only means by which the infinite debt of sin can be paid, offering us reconciliation with God. [25:35]
4. The Weight of Sin: Anselm's dialogue with Boso emphasizes the gravity of sin and the necessity of a divine solution. Sin is cosmic treason, and only an infinite sacrifice can atone for it. This understanding deepens our appreciation for the cross and the magnitude of Christ's sacrifice. [24:42]
5. The Importance of Doctrine: The early church's defense of Christ's nature underscores the importance of sound doctrine. Understanding Jesus as the God-man is not merely theological minutiae; it is central to the gospel. We must diligently teach this truth to ensure the integrity of our faith and witness. [46:20]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Personal Reflections
- [01:44] - Genesis and the Fall
- [02:35] - Introduction to Ruth
- [03:18] - The Time of the Judges
- [04:04] - Famine and Desperation
- [05:29] - Naomi's Return
- [06:24] - Hope in the Harvest
- [07:15] - The Role of the Redeemer
- [08:04] - Boaz and Ruth's Story
- [09:00] - Naomi's Restoration
- [12:59] - The Birth of Christ
- [13:49] - The Irony of the Savior
- [16:14] - Simeon's Revelation
- [18:43] - Why the God-Man?
- [21:14] - The Need for a Redeemer
- [24:42] - Anselm's Argument
- [30:57] - The Problem of Disobedience
- [33:25] - The Lion and the Serpent
- [35:36] - Early Church Heresies
- [39:34] - The Debate of Essence
- [45:00] - Modern Misunderstandings
- [46:20] - Teaching the Next Generation
- [47:08] - The Mission of Christ
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
Bible Reading:
1. Genesis 3:23-24
2. Ruth 1:1-22
3. Luke 2:8-14
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Observation Questions:
1. What circumstances led to Naomi and Ruth's return to Bethlehem, and how does this reflect the theme of separation from God? ([05:29])
2. How does the introduction of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer change the narrative of Ruth and Naomi's story? ([07:15])
3. In what ways does the announcement of Christ's birth to the shepherds in Luke 2 mirror the themes found in the book of Ruth? ([13:49])
4. What is the significance of the genealogy at the end of the book of Ruth, and how does it connect to the broader narrative of redemption? ([12:01])
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Interpretation Questions:
1. How does the story of Ruth and Naomi illustrate the concept of God's providence and redemption in the midst of despair? ([06:24])
2. What does the irony of Christ's birth as a helpless infant reveal about God's approach to power and salvation? ([13:49])
3. Why is the doctrine of Christ's dual nature as fully God and fully man essential for understanding the sufficiency of His atonement? ([25:35])
4. How did the early church's defense of Christ's nature against heresies shape the understanding of the gospel? ([38:42])
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Application Questions:
1. Reflect on a time when you felt separated from God. How can the story of Ruth and Naomi encourage you to trust in God's providence during difficult times? ([06:24])
2. The birth of Christ challenges our understanding of power. How can you embrace humility and vulnerability in your own life to reflect Christ's example? ([13:49])
3. Consider the importance of sound doctrine in your faith journey. How can you ensure that you are grounded in the truth of Christ's dual nature? ([46:20])
4. In what ways can you actively participate in God's redemptive plan in your community, similar to how Boaz acted as a redeemer for Ruth and Naomi? ([07:15])
5. How can the story of Christ's birth inspire you to reach out to the marginalized and outcasts in your society, as the shepherds were the first to hear the good news? ([14:34])
6. Reflect on the weight of sin in your life. How does understanding the necessity of a divine solution change your perspective on repentance and forgiveness? ([25:35])
7. How can you teach the next generation about the foundational truths of the gospel, ensuring they understand the significance of Christ as the God-man? ([46:20])
Devotional
Day 1: God's Redemption in Our Darkest Moments
In the story of Ruth, we see a powerful illustration of God's redemptive plan. Naomi's life, marked by loss and bitterness, mirrors the separation from God that humanity experienced after the expulsion from Eden. Yet, even in the midst of despair, God's providence is at work. The introduction of Boaz as a kinsman-redeemer in Ruth's story foreshadows the ultimate redemption through Christ. This narrative reminds us that God is orchestrating His purposes for our good and His glory, even in our darkest moments. [06:24]
Isaiah 43:1-2 (ESV): "But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.'"
Reflection: Think of a time when you felt distant from God. How can you see His hand at work in that situation now, and how might you trust Him more in your current circumstances?
Day 2: The Paradox of Power in Weakness
The birth of Christ as a helpless infant is a profound irony that challenges our understanding of power and salvation. In a world that often equates strength with dominance, the incarnation reveals that true strength is found in humility and vulnerability. This infant, seemingly powerless, is the Savior of the world, highlighting the mystery and majesty of the incarnation. The story of Christ's birth echoes the themes of Ruth, where the marginalized and the humble are central to God's redemptive plan. [13:49]
1 Corinthians 1:27-29 (ESV): "But God chose what is foolish in the world to shame the wise; God chose what is weak in the world to shame the strong; God chose what is low and despised in the world, even things that are not, to bring to nothing things that are, so that no human being might boast in the presence of God."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you rely on your own strength rather than embracing humility and vulnerability? How can you invite God to work through your weaknesses today?
Day 3: The Essential Union of Divinity and Humanity
Christ's dual nature as both fully God and fully man is essential for our salvation. As fully God, He satisfies divine justice; as fully man, He identifies with our humanity. This union is the only means by which the infinite debt of sin can be paid, offering us reconciliation with God. The early church faced heresies that challenged this truth, but through the steadfastness of theologians like Athanasius, the church upheld the doctrine of the God-man. This truth is foundational to our faith and must be diligently taught to future generations. [25:35]
Hebrews 2:14-17 (ESV): "Since therefore the children share in flesh and blood, he himself likewise partook of the same things, that through death he might destroy the one who has the power of death, that is, the devil, and deliver all those who through fear of death were subject to lifelong slavery. For surely it is not angels that he helps, but he helps the offspring of Abraham. Therefore he had to be made like his brothers in every respect, so that he might become a merciful and faithful high priest in the service of God, to make propitiation for the sins of the people."
Reflection: How does understanding Christ's dual nature deepen your appreciation for His sacrifice? What steps can you take to share this truth with others?
Day 4: The Gravity of Sin and the Magnitude of the Cross
Anselm's dialogue with Boso emphasizes the gravity of sin and the necessity of a divine solution. Sin is cosmic treason, and only an infinite sacrifice can atone for it. This understanding deepens our appreciation for the cross and the magnitude of Christ's sacrifice. Recognizing the weight of sin helps us grasp the depth of God's love and the lengths He went to for our redemption. [24:42]
Romans 5:20-21 (ESV): "Now the law came in to increase the trespass, but where sin increased, grace abounded all the more, so that, as sin reigned in death, grace also might reign through righteousness leading to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
Reflection: Reflect on an area of your life where you struggle with sin. How can you invite God's grace to abound in that area, and what practical steps can you take to align with His righteousness?
Day 5: Upholding Sound Doctrine for Future Generations
The early church's defense of Christ's nature underscores the importance of sound doctrine. Understanding Jesus as the God-man is not merely theological minutiae; it is central to the gospel. We must diligently teach this truth to ensure the integrity of our faith and witness. The steadfastness of theologians like Athanasius serves as a reminder of the importance of defending and passing on sound doctrine to future generations. [46:20]
2 Timothy 1:13-14 (ESV): "Follow the pattern of the sound words that you have heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. By the Holy Spirit who dwells within us, guard the good deposit entrusted to you."
Reflection: How can you actively engage in learning and teaching sound doctrine within your community? What steps can you take to ensure that the truth of the gospel is preserved for future generations?
Quotes
"So Boaz," the alpha male. He had it all – looks, money, grace – "So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife. And he went into her, and the Lord gave her conception, and she bore a son." "Then the women," remember, they were back in chapter 1. They’re like the chorus of a Greek play. They show up to move the narrative along, and here they come. "Then the women said to Naomi..." [00:08:35]
"And so, our attention is back to Naomi. "Blessed be the Lord, who has not left you this day without a redeemer. And may his name be renowned in Israel! He shall be to you a restorer of life." Now if we knew our Hebrew well, we would know that this is a poetic rhyming with the word, "I went away full, and the Lord has brought me back empty." [00:09:37]
"That what she has lost has now been restored. That the paradise lost is now the paradise regained. "A restorer of life and a nourisher of your old age. For your daughter-in-law who loves you, who is more to you than seven sons," we need to understand this in its cultural context, and we can understand the weight of that statement, "has given birth to him." [00:10:00]
"Now these are the generations of Perez – Perez fathered Hezron, Hezron fathered Ram, Ram fathered Amminadab, Amminadab fathered Nahshon, Nahshon fathered Salmon, Salmon fathered Boaz, Boaz fathered Obed, Obed fathered Jesse." And repeated for the second time in the last word of this book, "Jesse fathered David." Yes, it’s the time of the judges, but there is a seed who will come. [00:11:49]
"I don’t know if you see the irony in this or not. We have Naomi, a widow. We have Ruth, a foreigner. We have Boaz, the alpha male. But it’s all hinging upon an infant. Can you imagine saying to Naomi, this aged widow, "Do you see that little, helpless infant?" But it is upon this infant that you may pin all of your hopes." [00:13:06]
"Do you see the pattern – widows, foreigners, outcasts, the lowest of the profession, and the lowest of the low, because these guys have the night shift. "And an angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were filled with fear. And the angel said to them, 'Fear not, for behold, I bring you good news of a great joy that will be for all the people.'" [00:14:18]
"And this will be a sign for you," you will not find a mighty king in some grand robe with a crown, "you will find a baby wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger." We could go across the column if you’re using the same Bible as mine. And you will see here Simeon the righteous man, the devout man, the faithful man showing up in the temple." [00:15:18]
"And on one day, among the day after day after day, as he had been there in the temple, in comes a young couple and a baby. And the spirit of Simeon is stirred. And the Holy Spirit has revealed to him this truth. And so, Simeon comes up to this young mother and he takes the baby out of her arms, and he says, "Lord, now you are letting your servant depart in peace, according to your word." [00:15:58]
"And it is a helpless infant that he is holding up, and it is through this infant that salvation will come to the world. What we see here is the culmination of a biblical promise that stretches prior to Genesis chapter 3 verse 23. It’s a promise that we heard about last night as "the seed of the woman who will come." [00:16:49]
"And so, we have a young bishop by the name of Athanasius, and he had a motto, "Athanasius contra mundum," "Athanasius against the world." By now, we have a Christianized empire, Constantine, not much of a theologian himself, and his son Constantius, even less of a theologian. He will favor the Arian bishops, even though Arianism was repudiated in 325 at the Council of Nicaea in the Nicene Creed." [00:37:56]
"And so, Athanasius, this sole bishop, who stands with the words of the Nicene Creed, was against not only his church, but against the emperor, "Athanasius contra mundum." And over the next decades of his career, he spends more time in exile than he does in his post as bishop. And again, we can be thankful for these exiles because it is during these exiles that he writes his great books On the Incarnation." [00:38:28]
"And he labored over a letter. Have you ever heard folks complain about theologians debating minutiae? And let’s be honest, sometimes they do. But in this case, I’m grateful for a theologian by the name of Athanasius because he labored for decades over the minutiae of a single letter. And on that letter was all the difference in the world." [00:39:06]
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