Sharon Reformed Presbyterian Church · Sermon study sheet
A Redeemer! - Ruth 4
Bryan Schneider · May 18, 2019
Ruth 4
sharonrpc.org/sermons/a-redeemer-ruth-4
Summary
- Boaz brings redemption into Bethlehem's public gate, gathers witnesses, and follows the lawful order rather than arranging a private shortcut.
- The nearer relative initially wants the land but withdraws when redemption requires Ruth, family responsibility, and cost to his inheritance.
- Boaz accepts the full obligation, publicly purchasing the family property and taking Ruth so the dead man's name will continue.
- The town blesses Ruth as a mother in Israel, and God gives Boaz and Ruth a son who restores Naomi's hope.
- Obed becomes the father of Jesse and grandfather of David, placing the Moabite Ruth inside the royal line that leads to Jesus.
- The historical redemption by Boaz points to the living Christ, who pays the blood price sinners cannot pay and is their only righteous Redeemer.
Reflection and discussion
- Do I want the benefits of redemption while shrinking from its obligations or cost?
- What does Boaz's public, lawful action teach about integrity when private shortcuts are possible?
- How does Ruth's inclusion challenge contempt toward outsiders whom God receives among his people?
- Can I recognize God's restorative work even when it arrives differently from the life I originally expected?
- Am I relying on family, moral effort, or religious history instead of the Redeemer who paid with his blood?
Key terms
- Redemption at the gate
- A public and witnessed legal act by which family property and obligation are transferred to a qualified redeemer.
- Costly redemption
- Rescue that requires the redeemer to bear obligation and price rather than taking only the profitable benefit.
- Family name
- The continuing identity and inheritance of the deceased preserved through covenant family responsibility.
- Davidic line
- The family line from Obed to Jesse and David through which the promised royal Redeemer ultimately comes.