Christianity is not a code, conduct, etc. It is Christ. It is important to know Jesus Christ closely.

1. Be freshly cleansed (vs. 3) – “Wash yourself”

This is what we must do if we must do if we want to draw closer to Jesus. See James 4:8; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Isaiah 1:15,16. If you do not then God will not hear your prayers. See Isaiah 52:11. Imagine having an intimate relationship with someone who is dirty, sweaty and smelly. See Ephesians 5:26-27. We are cleansed by the word of God. See Psalm 119:9. The bible is like a mirror. It shows us the way we really are. See 1 John 1:7-9. We are also cleansed by the blood of Jesus Christ. What God calls clean – do not call unclean.

2. It is sovereign grace (vs. 2-3)

Boaz just happens upon the field of Boaz. And Boaz just happens to come along at the particular moment. The hand of God can be seen. When Boaz sees Ruth, he likes what he sees! Do you feel like a nail getting pummelled by a hammer? There is a reason for everything. Look and see the bigger picture.

3. It is seeking grace (vs. 4-8)

Boaz came from Bethlehem. Boaz takes upon himself the form of a servant. Ruth does not know that Boaz is looking at her. God loves us before we love him. It is Boaz who takes the initiative. Ruth could not take the initiative. Ruth had nothing unless Boaz takes an interest in her. It is the Lord who takes the initiative.

4. It is satisfying grace (vs. 9-16)

Boaz will meet her needs. She is to satisfy herself with the food and drink of Boaz’s house. Even extra gleanings of grain are to be purposely left for her. She is going to carry a load of grain back to Naomi. Soon Ruth is going to own that field when she marries Boaz. It is the meek who will inherit the earth. We shall inherit what the Lord has for us.

5. It is securing grace (vs. 9, 12, 21)

Boaz is concerned that Ruth be protected. The young men were not to touch her and were charged to protect her. Ruth the pagan is under the protection of the Lord because she has a kinsman redeemer. She has a kinsman redeemer because she first had faith. See Jude 24-25; 1 Timothy 1:12 & 2 Timothy 4:18.

Categories: Ruth