Ruth: A Woman of Great Faith

Minister:
Date: AM
Text: Ruth 1:16,17
Psalters: 308, 2, 292, 293
Sacrament of Baptism
  1. The sad setting.
    1. This history takes place during the time of the judges when everyone did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25).
    2. During a time of trial (famine), Elimelech severed himself and his family from the church and from his inheritance.
    3. In Moab his troubles continued.
  2. Ruth revealed her great faith in several ways over a good period of time.
    1. First, she was determined to return with Naomi to Judah, even swearing an oath (17b).
    2. She evidenced her faith in many ways after arriving in Judah.
      1. Though she knew that Moabites were cursed (Deut. 23:3,4) she trusted God concerning every physical need.
      2. Her faith is evidenced in her humility when she initiates the idea of gleaning, which was only for the very poor (2:2).
      3. Her faith is evidenced in her work ethic and industry (2:12,23).
      4. Her faith is seen in her love of Naomi (4:15) and her willingness to obey Naomi’s suggestions (2:22,23; 3:6).
      5. Her faith is evidenced in her approaching Boas as a potential redeemer of Elimelech’s and Mahlon’s inheritance (4:10).
    3. God rewards her faith.
  3. Lessons.
    1. Concerning her marriage, it was not her beauty or work ethic but her faith which Boaz saw.
    2. Boaz’s love of his neighbor made him willing to sacrifice and to redeem Mahlon’s land.
    3. God accomplishes His purposes and promises by the power of His unconditional and sovereign grace.