Ruth, Chapter three: The Story of our Redemption

1. Introduction to Chapter 3
   1. Naomi arranges Ruth to meet Boaz.1. Securemarriageforredemptiveprovision.2. Boazisthesourcetosolvealltheirproblems.
   2. Property
      1. NearestrelativeattainsthepropertyofNaomi’sdeceased husband.
      2. SeeDt25:5-10
2. Ruth 3: 1-4

(0ver)

1. Seeking a marriage is to seek a home-a place of security.
   1. Home:restingplace,security,stability.
   2. Naomigaveherstrictinstructions.a. Riskyandboldmove.b. Reputationsatstake.
   3. RepentanceiskeytoapproachingChrist.
      1. Symbolizedinwashing,anointingandbettersclothing.
      2. Repentance:metanoia-changeofdirection.
      3. See Mt. 11:25-29
   4. Marriageproposal 1. Uncoverfeetissignofservice 2. GarmentoverRuthisproposalofmarriage 3. Ruthis“loosing”herlife...seeMt.16:25
2. Ruth 3: 5-15
   1. Obedience is key1. Ruthneededtosay“yes”toNaomi’splan.2. ObedienceiskeytofollowingJesus.SeeMt.7:21.
   2. God tells us how to be redeemed.
      1. Cometohiminobedience.
      2. Cometohimwithrepentance.
      3. Cometothefootofthecross(symbolizedinRuthatfeetofBoaz)
   3. Marriage is a proposal.
      1. Rooted in the covenant of God with Israel.
      2. See Rm. 3:23-25.
      3. See Catechism #145, 148; 1611-1612; 2207-2208.

D. Ruth 3:16-18. 1. RuthsharesallthiswithNaomi.NaomiisawitnesstoLord’swork in Ruth. 2. RuthisatestimonytoGod’spromises.Reflection.

1. NaomiandRuthwereboldintheirplan.Whereis“boldness”neededinyour life?
2. HowisthenuptialcovenantofGodwithIsraelsymbolicofChristwiththechurch? How do the sacraments reflect this nuptial covenant?
3. Boaziskinsman-redeemerforRuth:rescuingheroutofdestitution.Howdoes Christ’s work at the cross rescue us? What is our true destitution?
4. NaomiwitnessestotheLord’spromisesinRuth’slife.Whatkindofwitnesscan you give to the Lord working in your life, fulfilling His promises in your life?