SERMON_of_Ruth_3___At_the_Feet_of_the_Redeemer.docx

of the Sermon:**

In this sermon on Ruth 3, we explored the story of Ruth’s bold and counter-cultural act of faith as she placed herself at the feet of Boaz, her kinsman-redeemer. We examined Naomi’s plan for Ruth, the significance of the kinsman-redeemer in Old Testament law, and the deep covenant love (chesed) that Ruth demonstrated toward Naomi. The sermon highlighted Ruth’s active faith, Boaz’s integrity and protection of purity, and ultimately pointed us to Christ, our true Redeemer. We were challenged to consider where God is calling us to act courageously in faith, to preserve integrity, and to wait actively at the feet of Jesus, trusting in His timing and sovereignty.

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Key Takeaways

• 1. Active Faith Requires Courage and Initiative: Ruth’s approach to Boaz was not passive or resigned; it was a bold, counter-cultural act of faith. Sometimes, God calls us to move beyond our comfort zones, to take risks that may seem unconventional or even misunderstood by others. True faith is not just waiting for God to act, but also stepping forward in obedience when prompted, trusting that He will meet us in our vulnerability.
• 2. Covenant Commitment is Rooted in Sacrificial Love: The Hebrew concept of chesed—steadfast, covenantal love—runs deeper than fleeting emotions or personal gain. Ruth’s loyalty to Naomi, even at great personal cost, reflects a love that endures hardship and prioritizes the well-being of others. In a world that often values convenience and self-interest, God calls us to relationships marked by enduring commitment and sacrificial kindness.
• 3. Integrity Shines Brightest in the Dark: Boaz’s refusal to take shortcuts or act in secrecy, even when he could have benefited, reveals the true nature of godly integrity. Integrity is not just about public actions, but about the choices we make when no one is watching. God honors those who choose what is right over what is easy, even when it means delaying personal desires or sacrificing opportunities.
• 4. Purity is Worth Protecting, Even When No One Sees: Boaz’s protection of Ruth’s purity—both her reputation and her person—demonstrates a deep respect for God’s standards and for Ruth herself. In a culture that often dismisses or trivializes purity, we are reminded that our private choices matter deeply to God. The call to holiness is not about legalism, but about honoring God and others with our bodies, minds, and hearts, even in the unseen moments.
• 5. Active Waiting is a Partnership of Faith and Trust: The story ends with Ruth waiting at the feet of her redeemer, having done all she could do. There is a tension in the Christian life between acting in faith and waiting on God’s sovereign timing. We are called to do our part—praying, seeking, obeying—but then to rest in the assurance that God will accomplish what only He can. Waiting at the feet of Jesus is not passive resignation, but a posture of hopeful expectation, trusting that our Redeemer will act on our behalf in His perfect time.

1. What specific instructions did Naomi give Ruth before she went to the threshing floor, and what was the purpose behind them?
2. How did Ruth’s actions at the threshing floor go against the cultural expectations of her time?
3. What steps did Boaz take to protect both Ruth’s reputation and her purity after she approached him?
4. According to the passage, what did Boaz say about Ruth’s “kindness” and why did he consider it greater than before?

1. Why was Ruth’s act of lying at Boaz’s feet considered an act of “active faith” rather than passivity or desperation?
2. The sermon described Ruth’s love for Naomi as “chesed”—steadfast, covenantal love. How does this kind of love differ from love based on feelings or personal benefit?
3. Boaz chose to follow the proper process for redemption, even though he could have secretly married Ruth. What does this reveal about the nature of true integrity?
4. The story ends with Ruth waiting for Boaz to act as her redeemer. What does it mean to “actively wait” at the feet of Jesus in our own lives?

1. Ruth took a bold, counter-cultural step of faith by approaching Boaz. Is there an area in your life where you sense God calling you to step out in faith, even if it feels risky or uncomfortable? What would it look like to take that step?
2. The sermon highlighted “chesed”—a love that is loyal, sacrificial, and committed even when it’s hard. Who in your life needs to experience this kind of love from you right now? What is one practical way you can show it this week?
3. Boaz’s integrity was shown by doing what was right, not just what was easy or beneficial for himself. Are there situations where you are tempted to take shortcuts or hide things because no one is watching? What would it look like to choose integrity in those moments?
4. Boaz protected Ruth’s purity and reputation, even when it would have been easy to compromise. In what areas of your life—whether in relationships, work, or private thoughts—do you need to be more intentional about protecting purity?
5. The sermon talked about “active waiting”—doing all you can in faith, then trusting God with the outcome. Is there something you are waiting on God for right now? How can you shift from anxious waiting to hopeful, active trust at the feet of Jesus?
6. When have you experienced a time where you had to wait for God’s timing after doing everything you could? How did that waiting shape your faith or character?
7. The story of Ruth and Boaz ultimately points to Jesus as our true Redeemer. What does it mean for you personally to “wait at the feet of Jesus”? How can you make space in your daily life to rest in His presence and trust His timing?