Ruth: A Journey of Redemption and Repentance

Summary

### Summary

Today, we reflected on the story of Ruth, a powerful narrative that underscores the significance of redemption and the transformative power of repentance. We began by celebrating the success of our recent back-to-school event, emphasizing the importance of community and the next generation. We then transitioned into the story of Ruth, highlighting how it is not a romance novel but a profound illustration of redemption.

The book of Ruth begins with Naomi and her family fleeing Bethlehem due to a famine, which was seen as a sign of God's judgment. Instead of repenting, they moved to Moab, a land of pagan worship. Naomi's husband and sons died there, leaving her with two Moabite daughters-in-law. Naomi decided to return to Bethlehem, and Ruth, one of her daughters-in-law, chose to go with her, committing herself to Naomi and her God.

In Bethlehem, Ruth met Boaz, a wealthy and godly man who allowed her to glean in his fields. Boaz's kindness and adherence to God's law of leaving margins in his fields for the needy highlighted the importance of generosity. Naomi recognized Boaz as a potential kinsman-redeemer, a relative who could marry Ruth and restore their family line. Ruth approached Boaz with humility, and he agreed to redeem her, but there was a closer relative who had the first right of refusal. When this relative declined, Boaz married Ruth, and they had a son named Obed, who became the grandfather of King David.

The story of Ruth points to the ultimate Redeemer, Jesus Christ, who redeems us regardless of our past. It teaches us that no matter how far we have strayed, repentance leads to redemption. We are encouraged to respond to God's call, make amends where necessary, and embrace the redemption offered through Jesus.

### Key Takeaways

1. The Power of Repentance: Naomi and her family fled Bethlehem during a famine instead of repenting. This decision led to significant loss. True repentance involves turning back to God and acknowledging our wrongs. It is a daily practice that brings us closer to God and His blessings. [46:05]

2. Generosity and Margin: Boaz's adherence to God's law of leaving margins in his fields for the needy teaches us the importance of creating space in our lives for generosity. By not consuming everything we have, we can bless others and fulfill God's command to care for the less fortunate. [59:37]

3. Commitment and Loyalty: Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her God, despite the potential for rejection and hardship, exemplifies true loyalty and faith. Her decision to leave her past behind and embrace a new life with Naomi's God led to her ultimate redemption. [53:20]

4. Humility and Submission: Naomi and Ruth approached Boaz with humility and submission, rather than demanding their rights. This approach opened the door for Boaz to act as their redeemer. Humility often paves the way for God's blessings and favor in our lives. [09:01]

5. Jesus as Our Ultimate Redeemer: The story of Ruth points to Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, Jesus redeems us from our sins and restores us to a right relationship with God. No matter our past, Jesus offers redemption and a new beginning. [14:40]

### YouTube Chapters

[0:00] - Welcome
[28:58] - Back to School Event Recap
[29:43] - Legacy Center Vision
[30:35] - Giving and Tithes
[32:13] - Prayer and Offering
[35:45] - Biscuit Story
[36:22] - OU Jersey Anecdote
[37:26] - Introduction to Ruth
[38:36] - Overview of Ruth
[39:14] - The Power of a Redeemer
[39:58] - All Scripture is God-Breathed
[41:19] - Background of Ruth
[43:13] - Chapter 1: Running and Returning
[49:57] - Backtracking to Moab
[53:20] - Ruth's Commitment
[57:33] - Chapter 2: Ruth Meets Boaz
[59:37] - The Law of Gleaning
[01:06:40] - Kinsman Redeemer Explained
[01:07:48] - Chapter 3: Boaz Proposes
[01:11:15] - Chapter 4: Boaz Redeems Ruth
[01:14:40] - Jesus Redeems
[01:17:37] - Responding to God's Call
[01:21:26] - Closing Prayer and Worship

Study Guide

### Bible Reading
1. Ruth 1:16-17 (ESV): "But Ruth said, 'Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you.'"
2. Leviticus 19:9-10 (ESV): "When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, neither shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest. And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the Lord your God."
3. 2 Timothy 3:16-17 (ESV): "All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, and for training in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, equipped for every good work."

### Observation Questions
1. What was Ruth's response to Naomi when Naomi urged her to return to her own people? ([53:20])
2. According to Leviticus 19:9-10, what were landowners instructed to do with the edges of their fields and the gleanings?
3. How does 2 Timothy 3:16-17 describe the purpose and value of all Scripture? ([39:58])
4. What was Boaz's initial reaction when he saw Ruth gleaning in his field? ([01:05:20])

### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Ruth chose to stay with Naomi and adopt her God, despite the potential hardships? ([53:20])
2. How does the law of gleaning in Leviticus 19:9-10 reflect God's heart for the poor and the sojourner?
3. In what ways does the story of Ruth and Boaz illustrate the concept of redemption as described in 2 Timothy 3:16-17? ([39:58])
4. How does Boaz's adherence to the law of gleaning demonstrate his character and faithfulness to God? ([59:37])

### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to make a difficult decision to stay loyal to someone or something. How did that decision impact your faith journey? ([53:20])
2. How can you create "margins" in your life to be more generous, similar to how Boaz left the edges of his fields for the needy? ([59:37])
3. In what areas of your life do you need to practice daily repentance to draw closer to God? ([46:05])
4. How can you demonstrate humility and submission in your relationships, following the example of Ruth and Naomi's approach to Boaz? ([09:01])
5. Think of a situation where you need to seek redemption or make amends. What steps can you take this week to address it? ([14:40])
6. How does the story of Ruth and Boaz inspire you to trust in God's provision and timing, even when circumstances seem bleak? ([01:14:40])
7. Identify one person in your life who might be in need of support or encouragement. How can you reach out to them this week in a meaningful way? ([59:37])

Devotional

Day 1: The Necessity of True Repentance
True repentance involves turning back to God and acknowledging our wrongs. Naomi and her family fled Bethlehem during a famine instead of repenting, which led to significant loss. This story teaches us that repentance is not just about feeling sorry for our sins but about making a conscious decision to turn back to God and seek His forgiveness. Repentance is a daily practice that brings us closer to God and His blessings. It is a transformative process that allows us to realign our lives with God's will and experience His grace and mercy. [46:05]

Joel 2:12-13 (ESV): "Yet even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments." Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.

Reflection: Think of a specific area in your life where you need to repent. What steps can you take today to turn back to God and seek His forgiveness in this area?

Day 2: Creating Space for Generosity
Boaz's adherence to God's law of leaving margins in his fields for the needy teaches us the importance of creating space in our lives for generosity. By not consuming everything we have, we can bless others and fulfill God's command to care for the less fortunate. This principle of leaving margins can be applied to our time, resources, and talents. It challenges us to be intentional about setting aside portions of what we have to help those in need. Generosity is not just about giving out of abundance but about making sacrifices to ensure that others are cared for and supported. [59:37]

Leviticus 19:9-10 (ESV): "When you reap the harvest of your land, you shall not reap your field right up to its edge, neither shall you gather the gleanings after your harvest. And you shall not strip your vineyard bare, neither shall you gather the fallen grapes of your vineyard. You shall leave them for the poor and for the sojourner: I am the Lord your God."

Reflection: Identify one way you can create a margin in your life to be more generous. How can you set aside time, resources, or talents to help someone in need this week?

Day 3: The Power of Commitment and Loyalty
Ruth's commitment to Naomi and her God, despite the potential for rejection and hardship, exemplifies true loyalty and faith. Her decision to leave her past behind and embrace a new life with Naomi's God led to her ultimate redemption. This story highlights the importance of steadfast commitment and loyalty in our relationships and faith journey. It encourages us to remain faithful even when faced with challenges and uncertainties, trusting that God will honor our commitment and lead us to redemption and blessings. [53:20]

Ruth 1:16-17 (ESV): But Ruth said, "Do not urge me to leave you or to return from following you. For where you go I will go, and where you lodge I will lodge. Your people shall be my people, and your God my God. Where you die I will die, and there will I be buried. May the Lord do so to me and more also if anything but death parts me from you."

Reflection: Reflect on a relationship or commitment in your life that requires renewed loyalty and faith. How can you demonstrate steadfast commitment in this area today?

Day 4: Embracing Humility and Submission
Naomi and Ruth approached Boaz with humility and submission, rather than demanding their rights. This approach opened the door for Boaz to act as their redeemer. Humility often paves the way for God's blessings and favor in our lives. It requires us to recognize our dependence on God and others, and to approach situations with a spirit of meekness and respect. By embracing humility and submission, we allow God to work through us and bring about His purposes in our lives. [09:01]

Philippians 2:3-4 (ESV): Do nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.

Reflection: Think of a situation where you need to approach with humility and submission. How can you practice humility in this situation and allow God to work through you?

Day 5: Jesus as Our Ultimate Redeemer
The story of Ruth points to Jesus, our ultimate Redeemer. Just as Boaz redeemed Ruth, Jesus redeems us from our sins and restores us to a right relationship with God. No matter our past, Jesus offers redemption and a new beginning. This powerful truth reminds us that we are never beyond the reach of God's grace. Jesus' sacrifice on the cross provides the ultimate redemption, offering us forgiveness, restoration, and eternal life. Embracing this redemption means accepting Jesus as our Savior and allowing His transformative power to work in our lives. [14:40]

Ephesians 1:7-8 (ESV): In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of his grace, which he lavished upon us, in all wisdom and insight.

Reflection: Reflect on the areas of your life where you need Jesus' redemption. How can you embrace His forgiveness and allow His transformative power to bring about a new beginning in your life today?

Quotes

1. "We believe in the next generation. That's why we did the outreach yesterday. That's why Pastor Caleb, Pastor Sean do everything that they do throughout the week. We believe in the next generation. And as we do, we have plans and we have visions. And to build right over here a legacy center that's going to be a state-of-the-art, amazing complex for our kids and our teens. And so we're asking you to consider maybe what God would speak to you." [30:35] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "God gives the vision, but we determine the pace. Come on. Come on. What we do with that vision determines how quickly we get to it or how slowly we get to it. Come on. So we get to determine the pace of the vision. So the vision is a legacy center. We believe in the next generation, and we are pushing towards that. And as you give towards that, it just brings us closer and closer to that." [31:24] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "We understand that all Scripture... Everybody say all. All Scripture is breathed out by God and profitable for teaching, for reproof, for correction, for training in righteousness. So, we understand that every word of this book, is God-breathed. The theological term for that is it is come under inspiration. Okay? It was inspired by God. It was God-breathed for us." [39:58] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "God responds to repentance, not retreat. Turning to God and repenting. And we'll talk about that later. Rather than running. Okay? Now, I want you to see this. There should be a map right there. So, on the left side of the map, you'll see Bethlehem. So they, to get back to Moab, Elimelech and Naomi and their sons left, went to Jerusalem, crossed back over through Jericho, crossed over the Jordan, and then came down to the land of Moab." [48:19] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "I don't care how far you've run. I don't care what you've done. You are never too far to come back home. Okay. Number two. The barley harvest was beginning. And so she had to find work and something to eat. Rounds us out to the end of chapter one. Our takeaway from chapter one is don't run. From. Repentance. Don't. Run. From. Repentance. You got it?" [56:07] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "We take repentance as a bad word. Or. In church. What happens is we'll get up and start talking. And we'll start talking about repentance. And all of those. Who have been in church for a long time. Immediately assume. That at that point. Pastors talking to the folks. Who are far from Christ in the room. Okay. Repentance is not a bad word. As a matter of fact. I practice repentance on the daily. Most days. Multiple times throughout the day. Hint. You should too." [57:06] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "What is he telling them? He's saying. I want you to leave margin in your life. To be generous to those who are in need. I want you to leave margin. I want you to create margin in your life. So that when there is an opportunity. For generosity. You're not robbed of it. Come on. Let's be real honest. We in America are not good. About leaving margin. Come on. I'm stepping on my own toes. I'm not just preaching to you. I'm preaching to me. None of us. We're not good at leaving margin." [01:00:15] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "Jesus redeems. So if you read the book of Ruth as a romance story, you're going to miss what the Bible is actually trying to teach you through that. Because it is not about marriage. It is not about dating. Please, do not show up at somebody's house and sneak in and lay down at their feet. It's going to be a bad day. Please do not do that. This is not about dating or marriage or relationships. This is about the power of a Redeemer pointing its finger towards the ultimate Redeemer, whose name is Jesus Christ." [01:15:15] (51 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "What we learn is that no matter where you're from, Jesus redeems us. No matter what you've done, Jesus redeems us. And that repentance met with redemption every single time. Come on. The fact is, I don't know what you've been going through. I don't know what you've been dealing with. I don't know anything going on in your life. But I do know this. That every one of us has moments we have glimpses of. Some of us have large glimpses of. But every one of us in the room, we have moments of rebellion." [01:16:26] (48 seconds) ( | | )

10. "Based on what you heard today, what's God speaking to you? For some of you it may be simply, you just need to ask for forgiveness. For others it may be, I need to go back and make a phone call and apologize. For some people it may be something else, like every one of us, but what's the Holy Spirit saying to you? Based on what you've heard, what is God saying to you in this moment? And then secondly, what are you going to do about it this week?" [01:18:11] (34 seconds) ( | | )

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Transcript

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