Ruth: A Woman of Great Faith
Minister: |
Rev. Ronald Van Overloop |
Date: |
1/18/2015 AM
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Text:
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Ruth 1:16,17
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Psalters: |
308, 2, 292, 293 |
Sacrament of Baptism |
- The sad setting.
- This history takes place during the time of the judges when everyone did what was right in their own eyes (Judges 21:25).
- During a time of trial (famine), Elimelech severed himself and his family from the church and from his inheritance.
- In Moab his troubles continued.
- Ruth revealed her great faith in several ways over a good period of time.
- First, she was determined to return with Naomi to Judah, even swearing an oath (17b).
- She evidenced her faith in many ways after arriving in Judah.
- Though she knew that Moabites were cursed (Deut. 23:3,4) she trusted God concerning every physical need.
- Her faith is evidenced in her humility when she initiates the idea of gleaning, which was only for the very poor (2:2).
- Her faith is evidenced in her work ethic and industry (2:12,23).
- Her faith is seen in her love of Naomi (4:15) and her willingness to obey Naomi’s suggestions (2:22,23; 3:6).
- Her faith is evidenced in her approaching Boas as a potential redeemer of Elimelech’s and Mahlon’s inheritance (4:10).
- God rewards her faith.
- Lessons.
- Concerning her marriage, it was not her beauty or work ethic but her faith which Boaz saw.
- Boaz’s love of his neighbor made him willing to sacrifice and to redeem Mahlon’s land.
- God accomplishes His purposes and promises by the power of His unconditional and sovereign grace.